Newsmax Defamation Case Proceeds to Trial

A Delaware judge ruled that the defamation lawsuit filed by voting technology company Smartmatic against Newsmax will proceed to trial on September 30. Smartmatic accuses Newsmax of airing false statements claiming the company's involvement in rigging the 2020 presidential election. Newsmax contends it was merely reporting newsworthy allegations made by Trump and his allies, but the court found that there is a dispute over whether Newsmax recklessly disregarded the truth. Judge Eric Davis granted partial summary judgment for both parties but emphasized that a jury must decide key issues. The case could force Newsmax executives and hosts to testify about their discussions concerning the election. This ruling follows Smartmatic's similar litigation against OANN, which was settled confidentially, and ongoing litigation against Fox News.