Fox News is resolving a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit brought by Dominion Voting Systems over its coverage of claims the 2020 presidential election was stolen.
On Tuesday, it was revealed the network agreed to pay $787.5 million to settle the lawsuit.
The New York Times notes, “The settlement, one of the largest ever in a defamation case, was the latest extraordinary twist in a case that has been full of remarkable disclosures that exposed the inner workings of the most powerful voice in conservative news.”
“In addition to the huge financial price, Dominion exacted a difficult admission from Fox News, which acknowledged in a statement that ‘certain claims’ it made about Dominion were false,” it added.
However, the network does not have to make an on-air apology.
Justin Nelson, a lawyer for Dominion, said, “The truth matters. Lies have consequences. Over two years ago, a torrent of lies swept Dominion and election officials across America into an alternative universe of conspiracy theories, causing grievous harm to Dominion and the country.”
“Today’s settlement of $787.5 million represents vindication and accountability,” he added.
BREAKING: Dominion’s lawyers announce they reached a $787 million settlement with Fox News. They were seeking $1.6 billion.
— Aidan McLaughlin (@aidnmclaughlin) April 18, 2023
“The truth matters. Lies have consequences,” their lawyer said.
“Fox has admitted to telling lies about Dominion,” said CEO John Poulos. pic.twitter.com/npRZyvacb5
Meanwhile, Dominion’s CEO John Poulos said Fox News “admitted to telling lies about Dominion that caused enormous damage to my company, our employees, and the customers that we serve.”
“Nothing can ever make up for that,” he insisted.
He continued, “Throughout this process, we have sought accountability and believe the evidence brought to light through this case underscores the consequences of spreading lies.”
Poulos added, “Truthful reporting in the media is essential to our democracy.”
In a statement, Fox News said, “We are pleased to have reached a settlement of our dispute with Dominion Voting Systems. We acknowledge the Court’s rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false.”
“This settlement reflects FOX’s continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards,” it continued.
It added, “We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues.”
Fox statement: “We acknowledge the Court’s rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false.” pic.twitter.com/YeUMkdUEVU
— Oliver Darcy (@oliverdarcy) April 18, 2023
Fox News is also facing a $2.7 billion lawsuit from voting machine company Smartmatic USA involving similar claims.
