YouTube Settles Landmark Trump Account Lawsuit for $24.5 Million

YouTube has agreed to a $24.5 million settlement with former President Donald Trump. The lawsuit challenged the platform’s decision to suspend his account. This resolution was filed in court on Monday.

The settlement ends a major legal dispute over content moderation. It follows similar agreements Trump reached with other tech giants. According to Reuters, this is part of a broader pattern.

Breaking Down the Financial Terms of the Deal

The majority of the funds, $22 million, will be directed to a trust. This trust supports the National Mall and a White House ballroom project. The remaining $2.5 million is allocated to other plaintiffs in the case.

These co-plaintiffs include several conservative groups and individuals. The list features the American Conservative Union and commentator Naomi Wolf. The settlement avoids a protracted and potentially risky court battle for both sides.

A Growing Trend in Tech Litigation

This agreement mirrors settlements Trump secured with Meta and X earlier this year. Combined with deals from media companies like Disney and Paramount, the total recovered now approaches $90 million. A significant portion of these funds is reportedly designated for his presidential library.

The lawsuits argued that the account suspensions violated First Amendment rights. However, legal experts note that private companies generally have the right to moderate content. The motivation to settle was likely influenced by Trump’s return to the political forefront.

YouTube initially suspended Trump citing policies against inciting violence. The platform reinstated his account in 2023 ahead of the election cycle. Meta and X also eventually restored his access to their services.

The $24.5 million YouTube settlement concludes a major chapter in the debate over online speech and power. It underscores the complex relationship between political figures and social media platforms. This case will likely influence future content moderation policies for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know

Why was Trump’s YouTube account originally suspended?

YouTube suspended the account citing a violation of its policies against inciting violence. This action occurred after the January 6th U.S. Capitol attack. The platform deemed his content a risk for encouraging further violence.

How much has Trump received from all social media settlements?

Combined with settlements from Meta, X, and other media companies, the total is nearly $90 million. The YouTube agreement is a major part of this sum. These funds are largely directed toward a trust and his presidential library.

Did YouTube admit it was wrong in this settlement?

No, the court filing explicitly states the settlement is not an admission of liability. YouTube maintained its actions were consistent with its policies. The company resolved the case to avoid the cost and distraction of litigation.

What is the significance of the Section 230 argument?

Trump’s legal team sought to challenge Section 230, a law that protects tech companies from liability for user posts. A successful challenge could have drastically altered how social media platforms operate. The settlement prevented a potential ruling on this issue.

When was Trump’s YouTube account reinstated?

YouTube reinstated the account in 2023. The platform stated the timing was to allow voters to hear from major national candidates before an election. This move aligned with similar reinstatements by other major platforms.