A federal judge in New York has rejected former President Trump's appeal to pay E. Jean Carroll $83.3 million after a jury found him liable for damages in a defamation case. The case stems from Carroll's allegations that Trump raped her in the 1990s, which he has denied.
In January, a federal jury ruled that Trump must pay $18.3 million in compensatory damages and $65 million in punitive damages to Carroll. Following this decision, Trump and his legal team filed a motion requesting a new trial, citing concerns about the limitations placed on his testimony during the initial trial.
Trump's lawyers argued that the court's restrictions on his testimony had a significant impact on the jury's verdict. They contended that Trump's statements regarding Carroll were made in an effort to defend his reputation, protect his family, and uphold the integrity of his presidency.
Despite these arguments, the federal judge overseeing the case denied Trump's request for a new trial and upheld the jury's decision regarding the damages owed to Carroll. Additionally, Trump's attorneys filed a stay on the $83.3 million judgment, seeking to delay the payment pending further legal proceedings.
The ongoing legal battle between Trump and Carroll highlights the complexities of defamation cases involving public figures and the challenges of balancing free speech rights with the protection of individuals' reputations. As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the former president will navigate the legal ramifications of the jury's ruling and whether any further appeals or legal actions will be pursued.