Paramount will pay $16 million to settle Donald Trump's lawsuit over CBS's edited Kamala Harris interview, a significant media settlement. The deal, announced in July, comes as Paramount seeks merger approval. Trump claimed CBS favored Democrats by editing the "60 Minutes" interview.
Paramount stated the money goes to Trump's library, without an apology. Shares dropped after the news. The FCC criticized the settlement, raising concerns about the merger and First Amendment.
CBS aired two interview versions, with edits the network defended as routine. Trump had threatened to revoke CBS's licenses. The case entered mediation amid scrutiny of media concessions to Trump. Senators called the settlement a bribe and warned of its impact on press freedom.
Trump's legal team welcomed the outcome. Paramount will release future "60 Minutes" interview transcripts. The settlement aimed to avoid legal costs and reputational damage. Trump argued CBS violated a Texas consumer protection act.
This settlement follows others with media outlets. Trump has vowed to continue lawsuits. He refiled a suit against the Des Moines Register over polling data. The Register stands by its reporting.
5 Comments
Coccinella
Trump's library. A good use of the cash.
Muchacho
This keeps Paramount clear from being at war with Trump.
ZmeeLove
Trump’s legal team wins again! Glad to see a positive outcome.
Habibi
A great business move. The company can now move on!
Bermudez
We're watching the slow death of a free press, one compromised settlement at a time.