In a significant legal move, California Governor Gavin Newsom has now reportedly filed a lawsuit against Fox News, seeking damages of at least $787 million.
The lawsuit, lodged in Delaware—where the network is incorporated—centers on allegations of defamation related to a phone call between Newsom and President Donald Trump.
The governor’s legal action arises from Fox News’s reporting on the nature of this conversation, which Newsom claims misrepresented his remarks and intentions.
Announcing the lawsuit on social media, Newsom stated, “No more lies,” underscoring his determination to hold the network accountable for what he describes as false narratives.
The amount sought in damages closely mirrors the settlement Fox Corp. reached with Dominion Voting Systems in April 2023, which totaled $787 million.
In that case, Dominion accused Fox of defaming the company by promoting unfounded claims that its voting machines had influenced the results of the 2020 presidential election.
In a statement discussing his lawsuit, Newsom emphasized the need for accountability in media reporting, particularly when it involves significant political figures.
“If Fox News wants to lie to the American people on Donald Trump’s behalf, it should face consequences—just like it did in the Dominion case,” he asserted. This stance reflects a broader criticism of media practices that Newsom and others argue contribute to misinformation.
The lawsuit adds to the ongoing tensions between the Democratic governor and the conservative network, which has often been critical of Newsom’s policies and governance.
As the political landscape evolves, this legal confrontation highlights the increasing interplay between media accountability and political discourse.
Newsom’s legal team contends that the misrepresentation of his comments during the call with Trump not only harmed his reputation but also misled the public regarding his positions and actions as governor.
The lawsuit seeks to address these grievances through the courts, potentially setting a precedent for similar cases in the future.
As of now, Fox News has not publicly commented on the lawsuit.
The outcome of this case could have implications not only for Newsom but also for the media landscape, particularly regarding how political narratives are shaped and contested in the public sphere.
With the stakes high in both the legal arena and the court of public opinion, this lawsuit underscores the ongoing battle over truth and accountability in American media.
As Newsom seeks redress, the case will likely draw attention and scrutiny as it unfolds in the coming months.
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