Gavin Newsom $787 Million Defamation Lawsuit: Why did California Governor sue Fox News? Details here

California Governor Gavin Newsom has filed a lawsuit against Fox News for defamation. The lawsuit demands $787 million in damages. Newsom alleges that the network, through its coverage, misrepresented facts about a phone conversation with President Donald Trump. The case centers around coverage by Fox anchors Jesse Watters and John Roberts.

Background of the Dispute

The dispute began earlier in June when protests broke out in Los Angeles. The protests were in response to mass deportations in the area. President Trump responded by activating the California National Guard. He also deployed Marines to control the protests.

According to Newsom, he and Trump spoke on the phone on June 6. This call took place before the deployment of military forces. Newsom confirmed this timeline publicly.


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Allegations in the Lawsuit

On June 10, Trump claimed in a statement that he had spoken with Newsom "a day ago." Newsom stated that this claim was false. He said that no such phone call occurred on June 9.

Fox News anchors reported on Trump’s claim. Jesse Watters' program used a headline that said, “Gavin lied about Trump’s call.” Newsom’s lawsuit argues that this statement defamed him. The lawsuit says Fox News chose not to verify facts.

It claims the network misled viewers by supporting Trump’s inaccurate statement. It also says that Fox News distorted the truth to remain favorable to the president.

Claims Against Jesse Watters and John Roberts

The lawsuit states that Jesse Watters’ program used edited video clips. According to Newsom, the program removed the part where Trump mentioned speaking to him “a day ago.”

By doing this, the show allegedly changed the timeline. It made it appear that Newsom lied about the call. The lawsuit argues that Watters showed phone records after removing Trump’s statement. This was done to support the claim that Newsom was not being truthful.

John Roberts also repeated Trump’s statement in his reporting. The lawsuit does not specify how Roberts’ actions were misleading but includes him for repeating what Newsom considers a false timeline.

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Newsom’s Statement on the Lawsuit

In a public statement, Newsom explained the reason for the lawsuit. He said Fox News was spreading misinformation. He said the network was supporting Trump’s claims despite having access to facts.

Newsom stated that news outlets have a responsibility to provide accurate information. He added that when a major news company distorts facts, it should face legal consequences. He promised to keep fighting until he sees accountability from Fox News.

Fox News Has Not Responded

As of now, Fox News has not made any official statement about the lawsuit. The network has not responded to Newsom’s allegations or commented on the lawsuit’s details. The legal case is expected to move forward in California.

FAQs

Why did Governor Newsom sue Fox News?
Governor Newsom sued Fox News for defamation, claiming they misrepresented facts about a phone call with Trump and wrongly labeled him a liar on national television.

What is the main issue in Newsom’s lawsuit?
The main issue is a Fox News broadcast that removed part of Trump’s statement, making it seem like Newsom lied about the date of their phone conversation.