Florida judge dismisses Trump Media defamation suit against Washington Post

A federal judge in Florida has dismissed a $3.8 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Trump Media and Technology Group against the Washington Post. The suit challenged a 2023 article that reported the company received funding from an entity linked to a Caribbean bank serving adult entertainment sites.

In a brief order granting summary judgment, the judge stated that Trump Media had not presented evidence allowing a jury to find by clear and convincing evidence that the Post acted with actual malice. A full written opinion is expected later. The case stems from the Post's reporting that Trump Media paid a $240,000 finder's fee to arrange an $8 million loan and did not disclose the payment to shareholders or regulators.

The Post later issued a correction stating that discovery showed no such payment occurred.

Background of the litigation The lawsuit is one of several defamation actions Trump Media has pursued against media outlets. In April, the company dropped a similar claim against the Guardian. Earlier cases against the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times were also dismissed by Florida judges.

" The judge rejected that argument, finding the absence of malice required dismissal.

Statements from both sides A Washington Post spokesperson welcomed the ruling, saying the newspaper was pleased with the court's decision. Trump Media stated that the Post's correction showed the original story was false and indicated it would evaluate whether to appeal.