ABC Settles Defamation Case with Trump

ABC News and anchor George Stephanopoulos have settled a defamation lawsuit with President-elect Donald Trump by agreeing to pay $15 million to fund Trump's future presidential library and $1 million for his legal fees. The lawsuit stemmed from claims made by Stephanopoulos during a broadcast in which he incorrectly stated that Trump had been found 'liable for rape' in a civil case involving E. Jean Carroll. The jury had actually found Trump liable for 'sexual abuse' and defamation, but not rape as per the narrow legal definition under New York law. As part of the settlement, ABC will also publish a statement expressing regret for the inaccurate statements. This settlement allows both parties to avoid further legal proceedings, including depositions. Trump continues to appeal the nearly $90 million in judgments awarded to Carroll in the defamation cases against him.