FBI Director Kash Patel’s defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic, seeking $250 million, highlights the magazine’s alleged “actual malice” and disregard for journalistic standards. However, the 19-page complaint itself contains notable spelling and copy-editing errors, including “feable” for “feeble” and “politices” for “policies.” While these oversights do not alter the substance of the allegations—which claim The Atlantic published false assertions about Patel based on anonymous sources despite denials—they are particularly striking in a filing that centers on journalistic negligence and editorial rigor, especially given the prominence of the parties involved and the typical legal review process.
Read More
FBI Director Kash Patel has filed a defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic and reporter Sarah Fitzpatrick, labeling her report as a “sweeping, malicious, and defamatory hit piece.” The article, citing unnamed sources, alleged Patel’s job was in jeopardy due to concerns including bouts of excessive drinking. Patel publicly stated he views the “actual malice” standard, required for public figures in defamation cases, as a “legal lay up,” despite its historically high burden of proof. This lawsuit emerges as part of a broader conservative effort to challenge or overturn the Supreme Court’s precedent on the actual malice standard.
Read More
FBI Director Kash Patel has reportedly filed a lawsuit against The Atlantic, alleging that the magazine published false reporting regarding his alleged drinking habits and unexplained absences. This legal action stems from an article published by The Atlantic, which cited numerous anonymous sources expressing concerns about Patel’s behavior. The core of Patel’s claim appears to be that the reporting is defamatory and has caused him harm.
The Atlantic’s article, which initially carried a title hinting at erratic behavior potentially jeopardizing his job, detailed concerns from over two dozen anonymous sources. These individuals, reportedly within the FBI and Department of Justice, voiced alarm over what they described as “conspicuous inebriation and unexplained absences.”… Continue reading
FBI Director Kash Patel has threatened to sue The Atlantic for a report alleging his leadership has been negatively impacted by “bouts of excessive drinking.” Patel’s legal team asserts that the claims, including a sensationalized account of his security detail needing “breaching equipment,” are “categorically false and defamatory.” The attorney highlighted that the article relies heavily on unattributed sources and argues that a reasonable investigation would have disproven these allegations. Despite the accusations of fabricated stories and a lack of verifiable witnesses, the journalist behind the piece maintains she stands by her reporting.
Read More
FBI Director Kash Patel has threatened legal action against The Atlantic, calling its article alleging erratic behavior and intoxication “categorically false and defamatory.” Patel and his legal team assert the accusations are unfounded, with an FBI official deeming them “absurd.” The magazine’s report, based on interviews with numerous current and former officials, suggests Patel’s conduct could pose national security risks, while the White House and Justice Department have publicly defended his performance. Despite the controversy, senior Trump administration figures are reportedly discussing potential replacements for Patel.
Read More
It seems a significant chunk of Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni has been dismissed by a judge, though not entirely. The core of the legal battle, at least as it’s being discussed, has shifted, leaving behind a much narrower focus.
The initial claims, particularly those related to sexual harassment, seem to have been thrown out. The reasoning appears to hinge on Blake Lively’s status as an independent contractor rather than a direct employee. This technicality, unfortunately, means that the protections afforded by certain laws against harassment might not apply in this specific context. It’s a rather disheartening aspect, as the idea that sexual harassment is somehow less of a concern if someone is a 1099 recipient rather than a W2 employee feels quite wrong.… Continue reading
During a live interview at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas, MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell was served with legal documents by an unidentified woman. Despite Lindell’s attempts to avoid the interaction, the woman insisted he accept the papers, which he eventually grabbed and discarded. This event occurred one day after a judge denied Lindell’s motion to overturn a defamation lawsuit verdict against him and his company, Frankspeech, brought by Dominion Voting Systems’ Eric Coomer.
Read More
E. Jean Carroll, a woman whom Donald Trump was found liable for sexually abusing and defaming, recently received a Valentine’s Day fundraising email from “Secret Admirer Donald J. Trump.” The unsolicited message, part of an automated campaign, expressed love and asked if everything was okay, while also soliciting donations. This communication follows a federal jury’s decision in May 2023 that found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, ordering him to pay Carroll $88.3 million, a ruling he continues to appeal. The email’s tone has been described as that of a “clingy ex,” pressing recipients to reassure Trump of their continued support with financial contributions.
Read More
Donald Trump has threatened to sue Grammy’s host Trevor Noah for allegedly making “false and defamatory” comments regarding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Trump denies ever visiting “Epstein Island” and states that he has never been accused of doing so until Noah’s remarks. This legal threat arises amidst the ongoing release of previously sealed documents linked to Epstein, which reference Trump hundreds of times.
Read More
Regarding the BBC, the article highlights a defamation lawsuit filed by Trump in Miami, alleging the broadcaster maliciously spliced his comments to falsely portray him encouraging violence. Despite an apology from the BBC, the lawsuit proceeds, sparking controversy and prompting calls for action from British political figures. Internal concerns about the editing were raised, leading to the resignations of key BBC officials. Notably, the BBC’s funding comes from a mandatory license fee in the UK, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood