Paramount, CBS Dismiss Trump's $20B Lawsuit

Paramount Global and CBS have filed motions to dismiss former President Donald Trump's $20 billion lawsuit, which claims deceptive editing of a '60 Minutes' interview with Kamala Harris constituted election interference. The media companies argue the lawsuit is an 'affront to the First Amendment,' lacking legal basis and threatening press freedoms. Trump's suit, filed in Texas, adds Rep. Ronny Jackson to establish jurisdiction, despite CBS being headquartered in New York, leading to claims of forum shopping. Paramount contends that editorial decisions are protected under free speech rights, and they have released full transcripts refuting allegations of deceit. This legal battle affects CBS's planned merger with Skydance, with concerns that Trump appointees at the FCC could influence the process. Despite pressures to settle, CBS maintains its stance against the merit of Trump's claims.