A US federal judge has dismissed Donald Trump’s $15bn defamation lawsuit against the New York Times, calling it “superfluous” and improperly written.
Ruling From Judge Merryday
US District Judge Steven Merryday said the complaint failed to meet basic legal standards. He noted that Trump had ignored a rule requiring a “short and plain statement” of claims. Instead, the filing was described as “repetitive,” “florid,” and “decidedly improper.”
The 85-page document also named Penguin Random House, publisher of a book by Times journalists, accusing both of acting as a “mouthpiece” for Democrats. Judge Merryday ruled that even if Trump’s allegations were true, the complaint still violated court procedure.
Trump has been given 28 days to refile a revised version.
Trump’s Response
Earlier this week, Trump signalled on Truth Social that he intended to sue the newspaper, accusing it of lying and defaming him. After the ruling, a spokesperson insisted he would “continue to hold the Fake News accountable” and confirmed plans to amend the lawsuit.
The Times Welcomes Ruling
The New York Times said it welcomed the court’s “quick ruling, which recognised that the complaint was a political document rather than a serious legal filing.” The paper has repeatedly stated the lawsuit “has no merit” and represents an attempt to discourage independent reporting.
Wider Context
The dismissal comes amid heightened tensions between Trump and US media outlets. Critics accuse his administration of targeting unfavourable coverage.
On Thursday, Trump suggested some TV networks should have their licences revoked after ABC suspended late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. The move followed remarks Kimmel made linking Trump supporters to a murder suspect. Fellow comedians Stephen Colbert and others condemned the suspension as “blatant censorship.”
