Judge strikes down 'superfluous' Trump lawsuit against the New York Times

September 19, 2025

A federal judge has dismissed Donald Trump's $15 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, ruling that the 85-page filing violated court rules by failing to provide a "short and plain statement" of the claim. Judge Steven Merryday described the lawsuit as "repetitive," "superfluous," and containing "florid" allegations, giving Trump 28 days to file an amended complaint. Trump's spokesperson indicated they will file a revised version of the lawsuit to meet the judge's requirements, while The New York Times welcomed the ruling, characterizing the original complaint as "a political document rather than a serious legal filing.

Who is affected

Donald Trump
The New York Times
Penguin Random House LLC
Federal Judge Steven Merryday
Media outlets perceived as unfavorable to Trump
Late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel
Other late-night hosts including Stephen Colbert

What action is being taken

Judge Merryday is giving Trump 28 days to file an amended complaint
Trump's legal team is planning to file an amended version of the lawsuit to meet the judge's requirements
The Trump administration is facing criticism for what opponents describe as a crackdown on unfavorable media

Why it matters

The case represents a significant legal battle between a former president and a major news organization
The judge's ruling emphasizes proper legal procedure and limits on using court filings as platforms for political statements
The lawsuit is part of a broader context of tension between Trump and media outlets he perceives as hostile
It occurs amid concerns about press freedom and potential censorship, as highlighted by the Jimmy Kimmel suspension situation

What's next

Trump has 28 days to file an amended complaint that meets the court's requirements for a "short and plain statement"

Read full article from source: BBC