Judge Dismisses Trump’s $15 Billion Defamation Lawsuit Against The New York Times
Court Rejects Trump’s 85-Page Complaint
A U.S. federal judge has dismissed former President Donald Trump’s defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, calling the lengthy 85-page filing improper and disorganized. Judge Steven D. Merryday of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida ruled on Friday that the complaint failed to meet federal requirements for civil cases.
According to the judge, Rule 8 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure requires a “short and plain statement of facts.” Instead, Trump’s lawsuit was filled with political rhetoric and lengthy arguments that went far beyond what the law allows.
Judge’s Sharp Criticism
In his ruling, Judge Merryday emphasized that legal filings should not be used as a “megaphone for public relations” or a “forum for invective.” He gave Trump’s team four weeks to refile the case but limited any new complaint to no more than 40 pages.
Details of Trump’s Lawsuit
Trump’s lawsuit, filed earlier this week, demanded $15 billion in damages. It accused The New York Times of being a partisan “mouthpiece” for Democrats and also named Penguin Random House and four Times journalists as defendants.
The complaint made repeated references to lawsuits Trump has filed against other media outlets and praised the former president extensively. It also cited the book “Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father’s Fortune and Created the Illusion of Success”, written by two of the Times reporters.
Experts Dismiss Legal Merit
Legal scholars quickly criticized the case, saying it lacked credibility. First Amendment experts told CNN that the lawsuit had little chance of success and looked more like a political statement than a legitimate legal action.
Responses From Both Sides
Despite the setback, Trump’s legal team pledged to move forward. A spokesperson said:
“President Trump will continue to hold the Fake News accountable through this lawsuit against The New York Times, its reporters, and Penguin Random House, in accordance with the judge’s directions.”
Meanwhile, The New York Times welcomed the dismissal. A company spokesperson said the court correctly recognized the complaint as a political document rather than a serious legal filing.
Executive editor Joe Kahn also commented at an Axios event, stating that Trump was “wrong on the facts and wrong on the law” when it comes to defamation.
What Lies Ahead
Trump now has four weeks to refile the complaint in a shorter, legally acceptable format. However, legal experts say he faces a steep uphill battle given the First Amendment’s strong protections for journalists and publishers.
The case highlights Trump’s continuing battle with the media, underscoring the political and legal drama that continues to surround him as the 2025 political climate intensifies.