President Trump has requested the Supreme Court to overturn an $83.3 million defamation judgment awarded to writer E. Jean Carroll. This comes after his previous unsuccessful attempt to avoid a $5 million payout for sexual abuse and defamation.
The legal troubles for Trump began after two federal trials in 2023 and 2024. In the first trial, a jury found sufficient evidence of Trump sexually abusing Carroll during an incident in the 1990s. They also concluded he defamed her when she publicized the encounter in 2019.
The second trial revolved around Trump’s repeated denials, including disparaging remarks about Carroll, made while he was in office. These statements were a focal point for Carroll’s attorney during the proceedings. Carroll’s legal team sought a financial award significant enough to deter further defamation.
Trump’s current legal appeal highlights an alleged oversight by an appeals panel, claiming they neglected to address whether Trump maintained presidential immunity for his statements. His attorneys argue, “This is the first instance where a court has imposed liability on a President for conduct in office.”
The Justice Department, led by Trump’s former criminal defense attorney Todd Blanche, backs this appeal. They cite the Westfall Act, arguing Trump’s statements occurred during his official duties at the White House, in response to press inquiries questioning his suitability for office.
Carroll described the event as beginning with friendly conversation at Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan in 1996, escalating to an assault in a dressing room. Trump consistently denies any misconduct, maintaining he never met Carroll.
Lower courts have repeatedly dismissed Trump’s efforts to overturn these verdicts. He’s also petitioned the Supreme Court regarding the earlier $5 million judgment, with Carroll receiving $5.6 million, including accrued interest.
The interest accrued on the $83.3 million judgment remains undisclosed, with the amount held in a court-controlled account since 2024.