Newsom Files $787 Million Lawsuit Against Fox News Over False Trump Call Claims
California Governor Gavin Newsom is pursuing legal action against Fox News, alleging the network knowingly broadcast false statements regarding a conversation with former President Donald Trump. The lawsuit, filed Friday in delaware Superior court and seeking damages exceeding $787 million, centers on claims made by Fox News host Jesse Watters that Newsom lied about whether Trump contacted him during a dispute over the deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles.
The legal challenge escalates the ongoing tension between Newsom and the conservative media outlet, mirroring a similar case brought against Fox News by Dominion Voting Systems. That prior suit, settled for nearly $800 million in 2023, concerned the network’s coverage of the 2020 presidential election and accusations of widespread voter fraud.
According to the lawsuit, Fox News “operates as a propaganda machine for President Trump’s radical right-wing agenda.” The complaint argues that the network prioritized “malicious propaganda” over basic journalistic ethics, contributing to the “erosion of the bedrock principles of informed representative government.” Newsom’s legal team asserts that “setting the record straight and confronting Fox’s dishonest practices are critical to protecting democracy from being overrun by disinformation and lies.”
the dispute originated on June 10, when a reporter questioned Trump about his recent dialog with Newsom. Trump responded that he had spoken with the governor “a day ago,” stating he “called him to tell him, got to do a better job.” newsom swiftly refuted this claim on X, formerly known as Twitter, writing, “There was no call.Not even a voicemail.” He had previously told MSNBC on June 8 that the two had spoken late on the night of June 6, and accused Trump of being a “stone-cold liar” regarding the conversation’s content.
Watters then claimed on air that Newsom had fabricated his account. “Why would Newsom lie and claim Trump never called him? Why would he do that?” Watters questioned, while an on-screen graphic declared: “Gavin Lied About trump’s Call.”
Newsom’s lawyers, Michael Teter and Mark Bankson, issued a demand letter to Fox news, requesting a formal retraction and on-air apology. The letter warned that if these demands are not met,the lawsuit will proceed to allow a jury to determine the network’s “culpability and assign a monetary value to its ‘blatantly unethical’ conduct.” Politico was the first to report on the lawsuit.Fox News has not yet issued a public response to the legal action.
The move by Newsom is widely viewed as a strategic challenge to the Trump camp, which has frequently utilized legal action against media organizations, law firms, universities, and other institutions. This case appears to be a purposeful test of the limits of Newsom’s office’s powers.
The back-and-forth between Trump and newsom unfolded against the backdrop of escalating tensions in Los Angeles, where Trump authorized the activation of U.S. marines and the federalization of the National Guard in response to protests surrounding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. Newsom criticized Trump’s deployment of troops as unnecessarily escalatory, arguing that local law enforcement was capable of managing any potential violence or unrest without federal intervention. He maintained that the move was “purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions” and that “currently no unmet need” existed.
Natasha Korecki of NBC News is a senior national political reporter. Ryan J. Reilly,a justice reporter for NBC News,also contributed to this report. Austin Mullen provided additional support.
Newsom’s Strategy: examining His Role in Challenging Trump and Fox News
Governor Gavin Newsom’s lawsuit against Fox News over claims about a phone call with Donald Trump is a meaningful development. Legal analysts are watching to see how this case plays out, especially given the prior settlement between Fox News and Dominion Voting Systems [[1]]. This legal action highlights Newsom’s increasingly active role in challenging what he perceives as disinformation and unethical behavior within the media landscape.
Newsom’s political maneuvers and legal challenges are drawing attention to his broader strategy.While the immediate focus is on the Fox News lawsuit, this case is viewed by many as part of Newsom’s attempt to shape the narrative and hold media accountable. according to a report from *The Hill*, Newsom is “meeting the moment,” with Democrats cheering his moves [[2]].
Newsom’s Role in Challenging Trump and the Media
newsom’s actions go beyond this specific lawsuit. He has been vocal in criticizing what he views as false or misleading details disseminated by conservative media outlets. his willingness to directly confront Trump and challenge the media’s portrayal of events signals a calculated approach to influence the political conversation. This is particularly evident in his response to the claims made by Fox news regarding the alleged phone call, where he immediately refuted the statement and initiated legal proceedings.
Newsom’s strategy also involves pushing back against Trump’s policy decisions and rhetoric.The dispute over the deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles offered a platform for Newsom to criticize Trump’s approach and advocate for local control.he has been seen as a potential Democratic presidential contender, and this type of high-profile confrontation allows him to solidify his image as a leader who is not afraid to challenge powerful figures [[3]].
Benefits of Newsom’s Approach
- Accountability: Holding media outlets accountable for their statements can deter the spread of misinformation.
- Public Awareness: Highlighting factual inaccuracies raises awareness among the public.
- Political Positioning: This strategy positions Newsom as a defender of truth and a challenger of misinformation.
Whether lawsuits can effectively combat misinformation remains debated [[2]]. Some argue that it is an effective means to hold media accountable while others believe it’s only a short-term solution, with other tools needed. This is why the legal angle is drawing so much attention, and analysts will continue to examine the effects of Newsom’s approach.
Gavin Newsom is strategically using lawsuits and public commentary to challenge what he perceives as misinformation. He is also positioning himself as a strong leader and shaping the political debate. This strategy is a key factor when evaluating his current role battling potential deception.
Myths vs. Facts: Newsom and the Media
Let’s clarify some common misconceptions:
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Lawsuits are primarily a political stunt. | While politically charged, Newsom’s lawsuit has a basis in legal claims and damages. |
| Newsom is just trying to silence opposition. | Newsom’s actions are intended to expose and oppose the spread of disinformation, not simply stifle dissent. |
Newsom’s actions are focused on challenging the media and holding powerful institutions accountable. His actions reflect his dedication to protecting the bedrock principles of informed representative government.
frequently Asked Questions
Why is Newsom pursuing this legal action?
Newsom is pursuing the legal action to address the supposed false statements made by Fox News and to correct the public record. This aims to call out what he sees as disinformation.
What are the potential outcomes of the lawsuit?
The lawsuit could result in financial damages, retractions, and apologies. The outcome also has the potential for more impact, like shaping future media coverage of him, and setting precedents for defamation involving influential political figures.
What is the role of “actual malice” in this case?
To win the case, Newsom must prove that Fox News knew their statements about the call were false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth. Actual malice is a high legal standard.
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