Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Melania Trump Seeks Sanctions Against Michael Wolff

7/22/2026

24 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On July 21, 2026, Melania Trump asked a court to sanction journalist Michael Wolff and award his attorney’s fees.
A judge dismissed Wolff’s suit in May 2026, labeling his conduct forum-shopping.
Wolff claimed his remarks, including calling the Trumps’ marriage a “sham marriage, trophy marriage,” were protected opinion, not criminal accusations.

History

Historical Context

The 1964 Supreme Court ruling New York Times v. Sullivan, authored by Justice William J. Brennan Jr., overturned a $500,000 verdict against the Times for a civil-rights ad and created the “actual-malice” test for public officials. That standard, later extended to public figures, now underpins Melania Trump’s effort to sanction journalist Michael Wolff for his “sham marriage” remark.

1 of 2

Story summary

On July 21, 2026, Melania Trump asked a court to sanction journalist Michael Wolff and award his attorney’s fees.
A judge dismissed Wolff’s suit in May 2026, labeling his conduct forum-shopping.
Wolff claimed his remarks, including calling the Trumps’ marriage a “sham marriage, trophy marriage,” were protected opinion, not criminal accusations.

1 / 2