Trump's Appeal Denied in E. Jean Carroll Civil Case
Former President Donald Trump has suffered a setback in his ongoing legal battle as the 2nd Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in New York refused to rehear his case involving writer E. Jean Carroll. The court rejected his request for the full bench to consider overturning a civil jury verdict that found him liable for sexually assaulting and defaming Carroll decades ago.
Background of the Case
The case dates back to allegations from the mid-1990s, when Carroll accused Trump of sexually abusing her. After Carroll went public with her claims years later, Trump faced a defamation lawsuit in response to his statements denying the allegations. In December, a three-judge panel upheld the original verdict, which also imposed a $5 million damages award against Trump.
Appeals Court Decision and Dissenting Opinions
While a majority of judges declined to revisit the case en banc, two Trump-appointed judges Steven Menashi and Michael Park dissented. They criticized the panel for what they described as significant departures from legal precedent that led to what they deemed an irregular judgment.
Reactions from Parties Involved
Carroll’s legal team expressed satisfaction with the ruling. Her attorney emphasized that despite multiple legal attempts by Trump to contest the decisions of two separate juries, the verdicts stand firm. Carroll remains recognized as a victim of sexual assault and defamation under the law.
Trump’s legal representatives indicated plans to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court, calling the case a "Democrat-funded Carroll Hoax" and promising to continue appealing. They framed the president’s fight as part of his commitment to political goals, including his slogan to "Make America Great Again."
What Comes Next?
With the appeals court refusing further review, Trump’s final option lies with the United States Supreme Court, which may decide whether to hear his challenge. Until then, the existing verdict holding him liable remains in place, along with the substantial damages awarded to Carroll.
Note: This is an ongoing legal matter subject to updates as proceedings advance.
