Trump defamation lawsuit news
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The gist
Trump wins court permission to amend his $10B defamation lawsuit against the BBC. The amendment may shield his financial records but family members face subpoenas.
Background
President Trump filed a $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the BBC in December, alleging the broadcaster doctored his speech to interfere in the 2024 election. The case is part of his broader legal actions against media outlets. A federal judge recently allowed Trump to amend his complaint to drop business-damage claims, potentially avoiding disclosure of his financial information, while the BBC seeks to subpoena Trump's family members for testimony.
How it unfolded
- Dec 2025Trump filed a $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the BBC, claiming defamation and violation of Florida's Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
- May 2026BBC attempted to serve subpoenas to Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner at their Miami home, but police blocked the attempt.
- Aug 6, 2026Judge Roy Altman temporarily paused an order requiring Trump to disclose financial information about his family trust's businesses.
- Aug 10, 2026Judge ruled Trump can amend his complaint to drop business-damage claims, potentially avoiding financial disclosure; Trump's legal team called it a 'major win.'
- Aug 14, 2026BBC seeks to subpoena Donald Trump Jr., Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner, arguing they have personal knowledge about Trump's speech at the heart of the case.
Who’s saying what
- Trump's team
- Trump's spokesman called the ruling a 'major win' against a 'disgraced' BBC that defamed the president.
- BBC's lawyers
- BBC lawyers argue Trump family members have personal knowledge about his intentions in the speech, making them relevant witnesses.
- Legal experts
- Experts say family members could be 'fair game' for depositions even if Trump shields his business records, as they may hold relevant information.
Still unverified
The BBC's alleged doctoring of Trump's speech is disputed; the court has not ruled on the merits.