President Donald Trump and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) have jointly asked the Supreme Court to overturn an $83.3 million defamation verdict awarded to writer E. Jean Carroll. The case stems from comments Trump made as president denying Carroll’s allegations of sexual assault and defamation.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The DOJ and Trump’s private attorneys filed separate petitions on July 28, 2026, urging the Supreme Court to intervene. The DOJ argues Trump’s 2019 White House statements were official acts protected by the Westfall Act, which shields federal employees from personal liability. Trump’s legal team contends the verdict violates presidential immunity, setting a dangerous precedent for future presidents.
Deeper Dive & Context
The Westfall Act allows the federal government to substitute itself as the defendant in lawsuits against federal employees acting in their official capacity. The DOJ certified Trump’s statements as official acts in 2020, which would nullify Carroll’s case if applied. Trump’s lawyers argue the $83.3 million award is "exorbitant" and threatens the ability of presidents to perform their duties without fear of legal repercussions.
Legal and Political Implications
The Supreme Court previously declined to hear Trump’s appeal of a separate $5 million verdict against him in the same case. Legal experts note this case could clarify the boundaries of presidential immunity and the scope of the Westfall Act. Carroll’s legal team has not yet responded to the petitions.