Newsom Accuses Fox News and Host Jesse Watters of Defamation Over 2020 Trump Call During LA Riots
In a stunning legal move that could shake up the political landscape, California Governor Gavin Newsom has launched an $800 million defamation lawsuit against Fox News.
He claims the network has been deliberately spreading lies about an important phone call he had with then-President Donald Trump during the Los Angeles riots in 2020.
What the Trump Call Controversy Is About
At the heart of this legal whirlwind is a phone call from 2020 between Governor Newsom and President Trump.
This call was reportedly made to align federal and state efforts during the chaotic unrest in Los Angeles.
Fox News, through Wattersâ program, has accused Newsom of twisting the facts about that callâsuggesting he misled the public regarding what was actually discussed.
Newsom firmly denies these claims, arguing that they are false and aimed at damaging his political reputation, especially as chatter about his potential national ambitions heats up.
Inside the $800 Million Lawsuit Against Fox News
Filed through his legal team, Newsomâs lawsuit alleges:
Deliberate defamation and mischaracterization of facts
Harm to Newsomâs reputation and future electoral viability
Manipulation of public trust through false narratives
Violation of journalistic ethics and responsible broadcasting
Filed through his legal team, Newsomâs lawsuit claims :
Intentional defamation and misrepresentation of facts
Damage to Newsomâs reputation and future chances in elections
Erosion of public trust through misleading narratives
Breach of journalistic ethics and responsible reporting
Sources indicate that Newsomâs legal team has officially requested a public retraction and apology from Jesse Watters on-air.
The governor has mentioned that he will drop the lawsuit if Fox News meets these demands.
First Amendment Battle or Media Reckoning?
This case is shaping up to be a major legal showdown that could really test the boundaries of media freedom and the impact of misinformation.
Legal experts suggest that if the court determines that Fox acted with âactual malice,â it might put longstanding First Amendment protections to the testâthis is a crucial legal standard in defamation cases involving public figures.
People are already drawing parallels between this situation and the Dominion Voting Systems lawsuit, which led Fox News to shell out a whopping $787 million in damages and triggered some major changes within the network.
Newsom: âThey Lied. They Knew It. And They Hurt Public Trust.â
âThis isnât just about me. Itâs about setting a line in the sand against political propaganda disguised as news.â
He emphasized that free speech must not be a shield for lies, particularly when itâs âcalculated to destroy reputations and mislead millions.â
Why This Matters: Politics, Media & 2024
This lawsuit goes beyond just one segment or host; it touches on the delicate balance between politics and media during an election year.
With Newsom being considered as a possible future presidential candidate, this case could have significant implications.
Letâs explore the legal limits surrounding media accountability.
We need to boost the public conversation about how news networks influence political narratives.
This could set a standard for how public officials address what they see as media slander.
In the meantime, Donald Trump, who is already facing several legal challenges, might view this as part of a larger political story, especially as the GOP ramps up its criticism of Democratic governors.
Fox News Yet to Respond
Right now, Fox News hasnât made any official comments. Experts are speculating that the network might try to file a motion to dismiss, but if the case moves forward, it could lead to the release of internal emails, editorial choices, and behind-the-scenes strategiesâturning it into one of the most closely followed legal battles in media history.