US Media Prepares for Trump’s Legal Retaliation

As Donald Trump gears up for a potential return to the White House, US media outlets are preparing for legal battles and possible retaliation from the famously vindictive former president. News organizations are on edge, bracing for both personal lawsuits from Trump and potential federal actions that could disrupt their operations, such as challenging broadcast licenses or scrutinizing tax records.

Adam Penenberg, a journalism professor at New York University, explained that media outlets, typically fierce competitors, will need to unite in facing Trump’s anticipated attacks. "Trump's second term promises to be less of a reality show and more of a revenge tour for the press," Penenberg said. "The real question is whether the media can withstand the pressure and avoid bending under his attacks."

Early signs suggest that some outlets may adopt a more conciliatory approach. For example, ABC recently opted to settle a defamation lawsuit brought by Trump rather than contest it in court.

As the media landscape evolves, with more Americans turning to social media for news, major shifts are underway. Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg announced the end of Facebook’s US fact-checking program, which had previously drawn criticism from Trump. Meanwhile, The Washington Post, owned by Jeff Bezos, refrained from endorsing a presidential candidate and recently removed a cartoon critical of wealthy Republicans.

Penenberg suggested that news outlets can prepare by strengthening legal defenses, forming alliances, and bolstering cybersecurity to protect against hacks and leaks. He also warned that smaller, financially vulnerable outlets may struggle to defend themselves in the face of costly legal challenges from Trump.

The financial strain of such lawsuits has already started to take a toll. Trump recently sued the Des Moines Register and an Iowa pollster for a survey predicting a victory for Kamala Harris in a state Trump won. The Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University described the lawsuit as a move to intimidate other media organizations.

In a similar vein, ABC settled a $15 million defamation case with Trump, while CBS is reportedly considering settling lawsuits regarding its coverage of Trump and Kamala Harris.

Some outlets are also reassessing their insurance coverage for libel and other legal threats. One non-profit news organization is reviewing its compliance with labor regulations in preparation for potential whistleblower investigations.

While Trump’s relationship with the media has always been antagonistic, his administration took media hostility to new heights. "Trump has made clear how vindictive he will be toward those who oppose him," said Mark Feldstein, a journalism professor at the University of Maryland. He compared some media outlets’ attempts to placate Trump to the practices of Russian oligarchs with President Vladimir Putin.

Feldstein added, "But a free press is crucial to keeping government officials honest." As Trump’s second term looms, news organizations will face one of their toughest tests yet.