Stephanopoulos does not mention Trump settlement terms on program

ABC News and host George Stephanopoulos have settled a defamation lawsuit with President-elect Donald Trump, stemming from a disputed statement about Trump's legal liabilities.

According to FoxNews, Settlement terms, including a financial payout and public apologies, were notably absent from Stephanopoulos' program “This Week.”

The lawsuit originated from a statement made by Stephanopoulos on March 10, 2024, during an interview on ABC’s "This Week." He inaccurately claimed Donald Trump was "liable for rape," although Trump had only been found liable for "sexual abuse."

Initial Reporting and Media Response

When the news of the settlement first broke by Fox News Digital on a Saturday, it quickly garnered attention. Coinciding with the news, Stephanopoulos also deactivated his X account, intensifying media and public scrutiny.

In the lawsuit's early stages, Stephanopoulos was defiant, asserting his journalistic integrity. He stated on Stephen Colbert's show, "Trump sued me because I used the word ‘rape,’ even though a judge said that’s in fact what did happen. We filed a motion to dismiss."

Settlement Details Revealed

Part of the resolution included ABC News compensating $15 million towards a "Presidential foundation and museum," and $1 million for Trump's attorney fees. Both ABC and Stephanopoulos expressed regret over the false statements made during the March interview.

ABC News relayed satisfaction with their decision to settle, quoting via Fox News Digital, "We are pleased that the parties have reached an agreement to dismiss the lawsuit on the terms in the court filing."

Formal Apologies and Retractions

In an effort to correct the public record, both ABC News and Stephanopoulos released a joint editor's note: "ABC News and George Stephanopoulos regret statements regarding President Donald J. Trump made during an interview by George Stephanopoulos with Rep. Nancy Mace on ABC’s This Week on March 10, 2024."

This case is pivotal, emphasizing the significant consequences media personnel can face for journalistic errors, particularly involving high-profile subjects and serious allegations. It spotlights the critical importance of accuracy in journalism.

Non-Coverage on Stephanopoulos' Program

The decision not to address the settlement on Stephanopoulos’ own show, where the original comment was made, has sparked discussions on editorial choices and conflict of interest in media reporting.

The ramifications of this settlement extend beyond the individuals directly involved, potentially influencing journalism ethics and legal practices regarding media discourse. For ABC News and Stephanopoulos, moving past this episode involves critical reassessments and adjustments to ensure such errors are not repeated.

Conclusion and Future Media Practices

The resolution explicitly demands the media community’s attention towards maintaining a balance between freedom of speech and rigorous adherence to facts, ensuring responsible journalism prevails in a legally complicated media landscape.