Story perspectives

Trump's Defamation Lawsuit Dismissed; Plans to Amend

4/17/2026

Center

Trump's Lawsuit Dismissed

U.S. District Judge Darrin Gayles dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump's defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal over a letter he sent to Jeffrey Epstein, ruling Trump did not prove actual malice.
Trump denies writing the letter and says it was fabricated.
The Journal maintains its reporting is accurate.
Trump plans to amend his lawsuit.
First Lady Melania Trump denies ties to Epstein and criticizes those spreading falsehoods about her.

Left

Trump Faces Scrutiny

U.S. President Donald Trump faces intensified scrutiny after Melania Trump’s speech linking her to Jeffrey Epstein.
Analysts say her public frustrations may undermine the White House's efforts to downplay Epstein's relevance.
Newly released Justice Department documents reference Trump extensively, though many claims remain unverified and do not prove misconduct.
Democrats could press Melania for testimony if they gain Congress, a step that complicates Trump’s standing with supporters.

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Trump's Lawsuit Dismissed

U.S. District Judge Darrin Gayles dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump's defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal over a letter he sent to Jeffrey Epstein, ruling Trump did not prove actual malice.
Trump denies writing the letter and says it was fabricated.
The Journal maintains its reporting is accurate.
Trump plans to amend his lawsuit.
First Lady Melania Trump denies ties to Epstein and criticizes those spreading falsehoods about her.

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