Lawsuit Against Selzer and Des Moines Register Dismissed
Trump’s Lawsuits which accused the Des Moines Register of fraudulently publishing inaccurate poll results to damage him and pollster Ann Selzer’s inaccurate pre-election amounted to consumer fraud were dismissed.
“Today is a victory for the First Amendment—and for the essential role of a free press in American democracy. We are gratified that the Court recognized what this meritless lawsuit sought to obscure: that claims of “fake news” are little more than an attempt to punish news outlets for coverage those in power do not like,” said Polly Grunfeld Sack, USA TODAY Co. chief legal counsel.
“A free press is fundamental to an informed public and a vibrant democracy. This decision reaffirms the enduring First Amendment principles that empower journalists and sends a message to those who think they can intimidate the press through legal action.”
