Federal Appeals Court Upholds 5 Million Judgment Against Trump

What Happened

E. Jean Carroll, a former magazine columnist, has been at the center of a legal battle against former President Donald Trump, stemming from her allegations of sexual assault and subsequent defamation. In her memoir, “Not My Type,” Carroll recounts her experiences during the trials, where she accused Trump of raping her in a Bergdorf Goodman department store in the 1990s and later defaming her when he denied the allegations. The trials have garnered significant media attention, particularly due to the high-profile nature of the defendant and the implications of the case for discussions around sexual assault and accountability.

In June 2025, a federal appeals court denied Trump’s request to review a $5 million judgment against him, which was awarded to Carroll after a jury found him liable for battery and defamation. The jury concluded that Trump had sexually abused Carroll, although they did not find sufficient evidence to support the claim of rape. The court’s decision to uphold the judgment marks a significant moment in the ongoing legal saga, as Trump has consistently denied the allegations and labeled the verdict a “total disgrace.”

Key Details

1. Judgment Amount: The jury awarded Carroll approximately $2 million for civil battery and nearly $3 million for defamation, totaling $5 million.

2. Court Rulings: The 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the jury’s decision, rejecting Trump’s plea for a full court review. Trump’s legal team has indicated that they may pursue the case further to the Supreme Court.

3. Allegations: Carroll alleges that Trump raped her in the 1990s and later defamed her by claiming she was not his type and suggesting that her allegations were fabricated to promote her book.

4. Public Reaction: Carroll has expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling, while Trump’s representatives have characterized the legal proceedings as politically motivated.

5. Dissenting Opinions: In the appeals court ruling, two judges dissented, arguing that certain evidence presented during the trial was prejudicial and could have influenced the jury’s decision.

Multiple Perspectives

The case has elicited a range of responses from various stakeholders:

• E. Jean Carroll and Supporters: Carroll has framed her legal battles as part of a broader fight against the culture of silence surrounding sexual assault. She has expressed relief and vindication following the court’s ruling, viewing it as a validation of her claims and a step towards accountability for powerful figures.

• Donald Trump and His Supporters: Trump has consistently denied the allegations, labeling the legal actions as a “witch hunt” and politically motivated. His supporters echo this sentiment, arguing that the judicial system is being weaponized against him. Trump’s legal team has indicated plans to continue appealing the verdict, emphasizing their belief that the trial was unfair.

• Legal Experts: Some legal analysts have pointed out the complexities of the case, noting that while Carroll was awarded damages for battery, the jury’s decision not to find Trump liable for rape indicates a nuanced interpretation of the evidence presented. The dissenting judges have raised concerns about the admissibility of certain evidence, suggesting that it may have unfairly influenced the jury.

Context & Background

E. Jean Carroll’s allegations against Donald Trump first came to public attention in 2019 when she accused him of sexual assault in her book, “What Do We Need Men For?” This claim was particularly significant given Trump’s status as a former president and the broader societal discussions around sexual violence and accountability. The legal proceedings that followed were marked by intense media scrutiny and public interest, reflecting ongoing debates about gender, power, and the treatment of sexual assault survivors.

The trials have also occurred against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement, which has brought increased attention to issues of sexual harassment and assault, particularly in relation to powerful men. Carroll’s case has been viewed by many as emblematic of the challenges faced by survivors seeking justice in a legal system that often favors the accused.

What We Don’t Know Yet

As the legal battle continues, several uncertainties remain:

1. Future Legal Actions: It is unclear whether Trump will pursue further appeals to the Supreme Court, and if so, what legal arguments will be presented.

2. Public Reaction: The long-term impact of the case on public opinion regarding Trump and the broader implications for sexual assault survivors in the legal system are still unfolding.

3. Further Evidence: Carroll’s memoir includes details not presented in court, raising questions about what additional information might emerge and how it could affect public perception or future legal proceedings.

4. Political Ramifications: Given Trump’s ongoing influence in American politics, the case may have implications for his political future and the Republican Party, especially as he prepares for potential future elections.

In summary, E. Jean Carroll’s legal battles against Donald Trump have highlighted significant issues related to sexual assault, defamation, and the complexities of the judicial system. As the case continues to evolve, it remains a focal point for discussions about accountability and the treatment of survivors in society.