Fox News Challenges Smartmatic Defamation Lawsuit Over 2020 Election

Fox News Pushes Back Against $2.7 Billion Defamation Lawsuit

Amid allegations of falsely accusing Smartmatic, a voting systems company, of rigging the 2020 U.S. presidential election, Fox News has filed an appeal against a judge’s decision allowing Smartmatic to pursue a $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit. The network, owned by Rupert Murdoch’s Fox Corp, has also countersued to recover legal expenses, asserting its right to inform viewers about newsworthy events.

Legal Battle Escalates Over Election Rigging Claims

A recent court ruling by Justice David Cohen highlighted Fox News’ alleged disregard for the truth in its coverage of Smartmatic, prompting the network’s appeal. Smartmatic’s legal representative, J. Erik Connolly, emphasized the widespread acknowledgment of the lawsuit’s validity, contrasting Fox News’ position.

Fox News Accused of Deliberately Damaging Smartmatic’s Reputation

Smartmatic’s lawsuit contends that Fox News deliberately tarnished its reputation by perpetuating false claims that its software facilitated Election fraud. The company alleges that Fox News aimed to cater to Trump supporters, boost ratings, and deter viewers from switching to rival networks.

Fox News Challenges Damages Claim and Cites Financial Report

In its response, Fox News dismissed Smartmatic’s $2.7 billion damages claim as baseless, referencing a financial report showing the company’s declining revenue and substantial losses. The network also invoked New York’s anti-SLAPP law to protect journalistic freedom.

Legal Implications for Fox News and Similar Cases

The legal battle extends beyond Fox News, as other individuals and entities, including Maria Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs, and Rudy Giuliani, face potential legal repercussions. Separate lawsuits involving Dominion Voting Systems and former President Trump highlight the broader implications of defamation claims in the media landscape.

Conclusion

As the legal showdown between Fox News and Smartmatic unfolds, the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the media industry’s coverage of elections and public figures. The complexities of defamation lawsuits and the protection of free speech continue to shape the legal landscape surrounding journalistic integrity.

Reference: Reuters

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