Trump’s Arguments and the Appeals Court’s Rejection
In his most recent appeal, Trump argued that the Supreme Court’s July 2024 decision granting him substantial criminal immunity should also protect him from civil liability in Carroll’s case. He maintained that his statements in 2019 were made in his official capacity as president, and therefore, immunity should apply. He further suggested that denying immunity could threaten the independence of the executive branch of the United States government.
Trump also challenged several rulings by US District Judge Lewis Kaplan, who oversaw both of Carroll’s trials. Among these objections was Kaplan’s decision to strike Trump’s testimony where he claimed, “I just wanted to defend myself, my family, and frankly the presidency.” Trump’s team argued that these exclusions unfairly limited his defense.
However, the appeals court did not accept these arguments. By affirming the lower court’s rulings and upholding the jury’s award, the court left Trump responsible for the full $83.3 million judgment.
Carroll’s Continuing Legal and Public Fight
E Jean Carroll has remained a public figure throughout her legal battles with Trump. In June 2024, she released another memoir titled Not My Type: One Woman vs a President, which reflects on her experiences taking the former president to court and the broader implications of her case. The book adds to her long career as a journalist and writer while also documenting the challenges she faced in her pursuit of accountability.
Conclusion of the Court’s Decision
The Second Circuit’s decision to uphold the $83.3 million jury verdict against Donald Trump further solidifies the outcomes of E Jean Carroll’s legal cases. Despite Trump’s arguments for presidential immunity and claims of judicial errors, the court found the damages reasonable and the rulings appropriate. This marks another significant chapter in Carroll’s pursuit of justice and highlights the courts’ continued rejection of Trump’s defenses in these defamation suits.
