Why Court Dismissed Trump’s NYT Lawsuit

A Florida judge dismissed Donald Trump‘s defamation lawsuit against The New York Times. The ruling came just days after the former president filed the $15 million claim. US District Judge Steven Merryday issued the order on Friday.

The court found the initial 85-page filing violated procedural rules. Judge Merryday called the complaint “decidedly improper and impermissible.” He granted Trump’s legal team 28 days to refile a corrected version.

Judge Criticizes “Florid” Language and “Superfluous” Allegations in Filing

The court order highlighted significant flaws in the lawsuit’s construction. Judge Merryday stated the document featured “repetitive” and “florid” allegations. He noted it unmistakably violated rules requiring “short, plain, direct” claims.

The judge specifically criticized laudatory statements about Trump. These included references to his “historic” election win and “singular brilliance.” The lawsuit also contained negative descriptions of the Times’ coverage, calling it a “new journalistic low.”

According to the ruling, the complaint was an inappropriate place for evidence aggregation. Judge Merryday said it should not contain tendentious arguments or legal explanations. The new refiled version must be limited to 40 pages.

Lawsuit Centers on Book and Articles Alleging Financial Misrepresentation

Trump’s original lawsuit targeted a 2024 book and three related articles. It claimed the publications harmed his reputation ahead of the election. The book, “Lucky Loser,” examines Trump’s business history and finances.

The suit alleged a “decades-long pattern” of malicious defamation by the Times. It also raised unrelated disputes, including the paper’s endorsement of Kamala Harris. This broader scope contributed to the judge’s decision to dismiss the filing.

A New York Times spokesperson welcomed the quick ruling. They stated the complaint was recognized as a political document rather than a serious legal filing. This case continues Trump’s ongoing legal battles with major media organizations.

The dismissal represents a procedural setback for Trump’s defamation claim. The revised lawsuit against The New York Times must now meet stricter judicial standards for proceeding.

Info at your fingertips

Why was Trump’s lawsuit against the New York Times dismissed?

The judge dismissed it for violating court rules. The initial filing was too long and contained improper language. It featured repetitive and superfluous allegations beyond legal requirements.

Can Trump refile the lawsuit against the New York Times?

Yes, the judge granted permission to refile. Trump’s legal team has 28 days to submit a new version. The corrected complaint must be limited to 40 pages.

What was the lawsuit against the New York Times about?

It centered on a 2024 book and three articles. Trump claimed they defamed him and harmed his reputation. The publications examined his business history and finances.

How much damages was Trump seeking from the New York Times?

The lawsuit sought $15 million in damages. Trump alleged a decades-long pattern of defamation by the newspaper. This case is part of his ongoing legal battles with media organizations.

Has Trump filed similar lawsuits against other news organizations?

Yes, he has filed several similar cases. In July, he sued Dow Jones and News Corp. He also recently settled cases with Paramount Global and ABC.