Jean Carroll, former Elle magazine writer, declared her victory in the defamation case against Donald Trump, emphasizing that the $83.3 million awarded to her illustrates that the former president is not to be feared.
Carroll, appearing on MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow show, shared her thoughts on the verdict, likening Trump to various animals and asserting that he can be brought down.
Unveiling Trump’s True Nature
Carroll expressed her astonishment at the outcome of the case, stating, “It was an astonishing discovery for me – he’s nothing.”
Drawing colorful comparisons, she described Trump as “a walrus snorting” and “a rhino flopping his hands,” emphasizing that the legal ruling demonstrates his vulnerability and fallibility.
Carroll’s defamation case focused on Trump’s derogatory statements in response to her allegations of sexual abuse.
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Legal Triumph and Financial Pledge
The federal court in New York ruled in favor of Carroll, awarding her $65 million in punitive damages and $18.3 million in compensatory damages.
This followed a previous award of about $10 million in May from another jury that found Trump liable for the alleged sexual abuse.
Carroll, during her media appearances, pledged to allocate funds from her judgment to causes disliked by Trump, such as supporting a fund for women who claim to have been sexually assaulted by him.
Confronting the Emperor Without Clothes
Carroll recounted her emotional journey throughout the trial, admitting to moments of fear and anxiety. She disclosed a breakdown just days before the trial, where she felt unable to speak. However, her perception shifted during the proceedings, realizing that Trump was, metaphorically, “an emperor without clothes.”
Carroll emphasized that Trump’s power was derived from those around him, and he, himself, was nothing.
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Trump’s Reaction and Ongoing Legal Challenges
Following the court’s decision, Trump expressed discontent on Truth Social, criticizing the U.S. court system as “out of control” and indicating his intention to appeal.
Concurrently, Trump faces multiple legal challenges, including civil litigation in New York probing his business practices and over 90 criminal charges across various jurisdictions.
These charges encompass attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, retaining government secrets illegally, and allegations of hush-money payments.
Carroll’s Confidence in Legal Victory
Carroll, alongside her lead attorney Roberta Kaplan, exuded confidence in collecting the judgment against Trump.
On MSNBC, she asserted, “I think we planted our flag… There is going to be a new way of doing this in this country.”
The legal victory is perceived as a significant statement against powerful figures facing accusations of misconduct.
- Jean Carroll’s triumph not only highlights the impact of defamation cases but also emphasizes the potential for change in addressing allegations against influential individuals.
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