E. Jean Carroll, the writer who accused former President Donald Trump of sexual assault, was present at the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals as Trump sought to overturn a $5 million jury verdict that found him liable for both assaulting and defaming her. This case dates back to nearly three decades ago and has garnered significant attention. On December 6, 2024, a three-judge panel upheld a ruling by a Manhattan federal jury, confirming the damages owed to Carroll.
In a recent decision, the majority of judges on the 2nd Circuit rejected Trump’s request for an en banc rehearing of his challenge. On Friday, Trump’s attempt to overturn the civil jury verdict that held him responsible for the sexual abuse of Carroll in the mid-1990s and subsequent defamation when she made her allegations public was unsuccessful.
Notably, two judges on the 2nd Circuit dissented from the decision not to grant the rehearing. Their dissent criticized the panel for allowing “striking departures” from legal precedent to support the controversial ruling.
The dissenting judges, Steven Menashi and Michael Park, were both appointed by Trump in 2019 during his initial term in office. Following the court’s decision, Carroll’s attorney, Roberta Kaplan, expressed her client’s satisfaction, stating, “E. Jean Carroll is very pleased with today’s decision.” Kaplan emphasized that despite Trump’s ongoing legal maneuvers, he remains liable for his actions.
Looking ahead, Trump’s legal team hinted at an appeal to the Supreme Court, branding the case a “Democrat-funded Carroll Hoax.” A spokesman conveyed that Trump will continue to pursue the matter, asserting, “President Trump will keep winning against Liberal Lawfare, as he is focusing on his mission to Make America Great Again.”
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.