3 Million Verdict

In a significant blow to former President Donald Trump, a federal judge has dismissed his latest bid for a new trial and upheld the verdict and $83.3 million award in the defamation case filed against him by writer E. Jean Carroll.

U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan, in a written opinion, firmly stated that Trump's arguments for a new trial were "without merit." The judge went on to highlight the far-reaching impact of Trump's actions, stating that his "malicious and unceasing attacks" on Carroll reached more than 100 million people. These attacks included public threats and personal denigrations, which posed a serious threat to Carroll's health and safety.

The defamation case stems from Carroll's accusation that Trump sexually assaulted her in the 1990s, which prompted Trump's subsequent statements. Following a trial in January, a jury found Trump liable for defamation and ordered him to pay Carroll $83.3 million in damages.

Last month, Trump demanded a new trial, but Judge Kaplan firmly rejected this request. In his opinion, the judge emphasized that the jury was justified in finding Trump's social media actions to be highly reprehensible. Additionally, Kaplan noted Trump's behavior during the trial, including walking out of Carroll's closing arguments, as evidence that he would continue defaming her unless there was a "significant deterrent" such as a fine.

Judge Kaplan further highlighted Trump's use of the office of the presidency to issue multiple statements, aggressively attacking Carroll as a politically and financially motivated liar and even insinuating that she was not attractive enough to assault. Such actions, the judge concluded, demonstrated Trump's "hatred and disdain" for Carroll.

Roberta Kaplan, Carroll's attorney, expressed satisfaction with the judge's decision. She noted that the court had acknowledged the reasonableness of the jury's hefty damages award, considering Trump's ongoing defamation during the trial and the display of his animosity in the courtroom.

This development puts the spotlight on Trump's legal team, as The Hill reached out for their comment but received no response. With the court rejecting Trump's attempt for a new trial, the $83.3 million verdict in favor of E. Jean Carroll stands as a significant legal setback for the former president.