A federal judge has dismissed a $3.8 billion defamation lawsuit filed by President Donald Trump’s social media company, Trump Media and Technology Group, against The Washington Post.
U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber in Tampa ruled Thursday that Trump Media failed to present sufficient evidence that The Post published the allegedly defamatory statements with “actual malice” — the high legal standard required for public figures in defamation cases. Barber granted The Post’s motion for summary judgment and denied the plaintiff’s motion. A full written opinion is forthcoming.
Under the landmark 1964 Supreme Court precedent New York Times Co. v. Sullivan, public figures must prove that a defendant knew the information was false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth.
Trump Media’s complaint described the article as the culmination of a “years-long crusade” and an “egregious hit piece.” After the discovery phase, The Post published a correction to the story on May 22, 2026.
“We are pleased with the court’s decision and look forward to reviewing its written order upon release,” a Washington Post spokeswoman said.