Trump Call Dispute Sparks Lawsuit: California Governor Gavin Newsom has filed a $787 million defamation lawsuit against Fox News, accusing the network of spreading false information about a phone call he had with Donald Trump, aiming to damage his reputation ahead of a possible presidential run.
Newsom’s lawsuit isn’t just about personal reputation, it’s a calculated challenge to partisan media narratives. By echoing the Dominion case, he’s sending a message that misinformation targeting public figures won’t go unchecked. Whether this goes to trial or ends in a settlement, the case could redefine boundaries for political speech in the media. It also positions Newsom as a defender of accountability in journalism, a move that may benefit his national image.
Miler Michel
Summary
- Gov. Newsom filed a $787 million defamation suit against Fox News.
- The case centers on a disputed call with Donald Trump.
- Newsom claims Fox acted with actual malice by knowingly airing falsehoods.
- He demands a retraction and on-air apology.
- Fox News has dismissed the case as “frivolous.”
- The suit mirrors the Dominion Voting Systems case against Fox.
- According to legal analysts, Newsom must meet a significant burden of proof.
- Newsom said he’d drop the case if Fox apologizes publicly.
- The controversy may impact Newsom’s national political standing.
- Case could set precedent for future defamation claims in media.
Newsom Demands $787M Over Alleged Lie
California Governor Gavin Newsom filed a defamation suit against Fox News on June 27, demanding $787 million in damages. The lawsuit claims that Fox knowingly aired false information about the timing and existence of a phone call between Newsom and Donald Trump, intending to harm Newsom’s public image. Newsom says these claims were part of a pattern of political smear.
Disputed Trump Call at Center of Lawsuit
Fox host Jesse Watters alleged that Newsom had not spoken with Trump as claimed. Newsom contends he spoke to Trump on June 6 or early June 7. On June 10, Trump stated publicly that he spoke to Newsom “a day ago,” creating a media stir. Newsom accuses Fox of manipulating the timeline to accuse him of dishonesty (Reuters).
High Stakes for Media and Politics
The $787 million damages claimed in the lawsuit equal the sum Fox paid to Dominion Voting Systems in their 2023 settlement. Legal observers note that to win, Newsom must prove the network acted with “actual malice,” a legal standard requiring that Fox either knew the claims were false or aired them recklessly (NY Times).
Fox News Dismisses Claim
In response, Fox News called the lawsuit a “frivolous and politically motivated stunt.” The network said it would vigorously defend itself. However, Newsom offered to drop the lawsuit if Fox issues a formal retraction and Watters delivers a public apology.
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