
Trump files libel lawsuit against Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones, Murdoch
U.S. President Donald Trump has filed a libel lawsuit against several media entities, including the Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones, News Corp, and media tycoon Rupert Murdoch, over a report linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to court records, the lawsuit was filed in Miami, Florida, and also names two Wall Street Journal reporters as defendants. The complaint stems from a recent article that alleged Trump sent Epstein a birthday greeting in 2003 that included a sexually suggestive drawing.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the note featured a cartoon-like sketch with “a pair of small arcs denoting the woman’s breasts,” and Trump’s signature below her waist, “mimicking pubic hair.” The message reportedly read: “Happy Birthday – and may every day be another wonderful secret.”
Trump has vehemently denied the authenticity of the letter and labeled the report as “false, malicious, and defamatory.” In a Truth Social post, Trump claimed the letter was fabricated and warned he would take legal action.
He also mentioned that Murdoch had previously assured him that the article would not be published. “Mr. Murdoch stated that he would take care of it but, obviously, did not have the power to do so,” Trump said.
The lawsuit is part of Trump’s broader campaign against what he calls “fake news” and media bias, especially as he intensifies his bid for re-election in 2024.
This is not Trump’s first defamation suit against the media. He has previously sued CNN and other outlets over coverage he deemed unfair or inaccurate.
Legal experts suggest the case may face significant First Amendment hurdles, but it underscores Trump’s combative stance toward mainstream media.