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NewsReutersMay 7, 2026United States

Trump Seeks to Pause $83 Million Defamation Judgment Pending Supreme Court Appeal

Donald Trump has requested that a federal appeals court pause its ruling in the E. Jean Carroll defamation case to allow him to petition the Supreme Court. The request centers on arguments regarding presidential immunity and the Westfall Act, which could potentially shift legal liability to the federal government.

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Why It Matters

The outcome determines whether Donald Trump must pay an $83 million judgment to E. Jean Carroll or if the case will be reviewed by the Supreme Court, potentially shifting the liability to the U.S. government.

Key Facts

  • Donald Trump requested the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to pause its ruling on his $83 million defamation judgment.
  • The pause is intended to allow Trump to petition the Supreme Court regarding presidential immunity and the Westfall Act.
  • The Westfall Act, if applied, would replace Trump as the defendant with the United States, which cannot be sued for defamation.
  • E. Jean Carroll’s legal team does not oppose the pause, provided Trump increases his bond by $7.46 million to cover interest.
  • The Justice Department filed a statement supporting Trump's request to pause the ruling.
  • The 2nd Circuit recently denied Trump's request for an 'en banc' hearing by the full bench of judges.
  • A separate $5 million lawsuit involving Carroll is also currently being appealed by Trump to the Supreme Court.
  • The $83 million judgment stems from comments Trump made while president; the $5 million judgment stems from comments made after his term.

Who's Mentioned

organizationJustice Department“Federal agency supporting the request to pause the ruling.”personE. Jean Carroll“Writer and plaintiff who won defamation damages.”personBrett Shumate“Assistant Attorney General representing the Justice Department.”organization2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals“Federal court currently handling the appeal.”personDonald Trump“Former President and defendant in defamation cases.”organizationSupreme Court“Highest court where Trump intends to file an appeal.”