Podcasts > Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News > 'Fired as a billionaire'? Trump owes bombshell $83 million payout but might be broke Sharpton says

'Fired as a billionaire'? Trump owes bombshell $83 million payout but might be broke Sharpton says

By Rachel Maddow

Dive deep into the latest revelations as "Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News" brings together a powerful ensemble including Joy Reid, Glenn Kirschner, and Al Sharpton to unpack explosive developments that could reshape public perceptions. In this compelling episode, the team meticulously parses through the fallout of a New York jury's decision that orders Donald Trump to pay a staggering $83.3 million in defamation damages to E. Jean Carroll. Listen as they explore the impact of this verdict on Trump's reputation, his staunch denial, and the role of the groundbreaking Adult Survivors Act in enabling survivors like Carroll to confront their abusers.

The political landscape shifts as Congresswoman Nancy Mace's pivot towards endorsing Trump reflects broader trends of Republican alignment with the former President's agenda. Amid spirited discussions, the episode also casts a global eye on the International Court of Justice, issuing a command to Israel to prevent potential acts of genocide against Palestinians, marking a contentious moment in international affairs. This episode of "Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News" leaves no stone unturned, offering listeners a poignant analysis of geopolitical dynamics, compelling court battles, and the intricate dance of party politics.

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'Fired as a billionaire'? Trump owes bombshell $83 million payout but might be broke Sharpton says

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jan 27, 2024 episode of the Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News

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'Fired as a billionaire'? Trump owes bombshell $83 million payout but might be broke Sharpton says

1-Page Summary

Trump ordered to pay $83 million in defamation trial

A New York jury unanimously decides that Donald Trump must pay $83.3 million to E. Jean Carroll for damages to her reputation and emotional distress, including punitive damages. Trump criticizes the decision as "absolutely ridiculous" and mistakenly asserts that it strips away all First Amendment rights. His lawyer, Alina Hava, receives correction from the judge for misinterpreting First Amendment protections. Commentators speculate on the implications of collecting the damages and the potential impact on Trump's image and political trajectory.

The Adult Survivors Act, highlighted by Glenn Kirschner during a talk with Joy Reid, paved the way for the ruling, by temporarily suspending statutes of limitations, thus enabling over 2,500 lawsuits including Carroll's. This law allows survivors of sexual abuse to seek legal action where they previously could not due to time limitations.

Republican Party capitulating to Trump

Congresswoman Nancy Mace of South Carolina reverses her critical stance on Trump and endorses him over Nikki Haley. Her change in position from a vocal anti-Trump figure to a supporter suggests strategic alignment as noted by political analysts including Miller, who recognize a pattern of Republicans eventually supporting Trump to secure political benefits.

Trump urges Republican-led states to deploy National Guard units to the southern border, essentially bypassing federal authority. The endorsement from the Texas governor and 25 other Republican governors signals a concerted effort to back Trump's border security agenda. The "Take Our Border Back" convoy, echoing the January 6th events' demographic, is set to protest and evokes concerns over maintaining peace due to its potentially contentious nature.

UN court rules Israel must prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza

The International Court of Justice commands Israel to enact measures to avert acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. This ruling receives a dismissive reaction from Israel's right-wing security minister and skepticism around Israel’s promise, by Prime Minister Netanyahu, to follow international law. The U.S. recognizes the ruling but refutes genocide claims against Israel, showing a complex, and by some accounts, contradictory stance.

The ruling has broad implications, implying possible legal ramifications for officials in countries like the U.S., Britain, and France, for their inaction on the issue. With a UN Security Council vote on the horizon, there is increased pressure on U.S. foreign policy. The ICJ's decision mandates Israel to prevent genocide, halt incitement, foster humanitarian aid access, prevent evidence destruction, and compile a compliance report, amplifying the global repercussions of the court's verdict.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • E. Jean Carroll accused Donald Trump of sexual assault in 2019. Trump denied the allegations and called Carroll a liar. Carroll then sued Trump for defamation after he claimed she was lying about the assault. The recent trial resulted in a jury awarding Carroll $83.3 million in damages for harm to her reputation and emotional distress.
  • The Adult Survivors Act temporarily suspends statutes of limitations, enabling survivors of sexual abuse to file lawsuits. This law allows individuals like E. Jean Carroll to seek legal action even if time limitations had previously prevented it. Carroll's lawsuit against Donald Trump was made possible by this act, along with over 2,500 other lawsuits. The Act has broad implications for survivors seeking justice for past abuse.
  • Congresswoman Nancy Mace of South Carolina, who was previously critical of Donald Trump, changed her stance and endorsed him over Nikki Haley. This shift in position is seen as a strategic move by political analysts to align with Trump for potential political advantages. Mace's endorsement of Trump reflects a broader trend among some Republicans who have shifted their views to support him in order to gain political benefits.
  • Trump's call for National Guard deployment to the southern border was a move to enhance border security. By urging Republican-led states to deploy National Guard units, Trump aimed to address perceived security concerns at the border. This action bypassed federal authority and was supported by several Republican governors. The deployment was part of Trump's broader agenda to strengthen border security measures.
  • The "Take Our Border Back" convoy is a demonstration organized to protest and support Trump's border security policies. It involves a group of individuals traveling to the southern border to show solidarity with Trump's stance on immigration. The convoy's actions have raised concerns about potential conflicts due to its alignment with past contentious events. The convoy's endorsement by multiple Republican governors indicates a significant level of support for Trump's border security agenda.
  • The International Court of Justice ruled that Israel must take steps to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. This decision was met with skepticism from Israel's right-wing security minister and concerns about Israel's commitment to following international law. The ruling also prompted the U.S. to recognize it while refuting claims of genocide against Israel, leading to complex diplomatic dynamics. The ICJ's decision includes mandates for Israel to prevent genocide, ensure humanitarian aid access, and compile compliance reports, with potential global implications.
  • Israel's right-wing security minister reacted dismissively to the International Court of Justice's ruling commanding Israel to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu promised to follow international law but faced skepticism regarding Israel's commitment. The U.S. recognized the ruling but disputed the genocide claims against Israel, showcasing a nuanced stance on the issue. The ruling has implications for various countries' officials and puts pressure on U.S. foreign policy with an upcoming UN Security Council vote.
  • The U.S. recognized the ICJ ruling but refuted genocide claims against Israel, showcasing a nuanced stance. This position reflects a complex diplomatic balancing act in the context of international relations. The U.S. response aims to acknowledge the court's decision while also addressing concerns related to the sensitive geopolitical dynamics in the region. The U.S.'s stance underscores the intricate nature of navigating issues related to international law, human rights, and political alliances.
  • The UN Security Council vote on U.S. foreign policy holds significance as it can influence the U.S.'s stance on international issues. The outcome of such a vote can impact diplomatic relations, sanctions, peacekeeping efforts, and global perceptions of the U.S.'s foreign policy decisions. The U.S.'s response to the vote can shape its alliances, international standing, and adherence to international norms and agreements. The Security Council's decisions often carry weight in shaping global responses to conflicts, human rights violations, and other critical international matters.

Counterarguments

  • The size of the damages awarded to E. Jean Carroll could be seen as excessive or disproportionate to the harm suffered, and some may argue that such high punitive damages could have a chilling effect on free speech.
  • There may be a debate over whether Trump's First Amendment rights are being infringed upon, with some legal experts possibly arguing that defamation law and First Amendment rights have been historically balanced in U.S. jurisprudence.
  • The Adult Survivors Act, while providing a necessary legal remedy for survivors, could be criticized for potentially undermining the principle of legal finality if statutes of limitations are viewed as an important part of the justice system.
  • Nancy Mace's endorsement of Trump could be defended as a pragmatic political decision reflecting the will of her constituents rather than a capitulation to Trump.
  • The deployment of National Guard units to the southern border by Republican-led states could be argued as a legitimate exercise of state rights to address local concerns about border security.
  • The "Take Our Border Back" convoy's right to protest could be defended as a fundamental part of democratic expression, even if the protest raises concerns about potential unrest.
  • The International Court of Justice's ruling on Israel could be criticized for overstepping its jurisdiction or for making a determination on genocide that some argue is not supported by the evidence.
  • The U.S. refutation of genocide claims against Israel could be seen as a valid interpretation of international law and the facts on the ground, rather than a contradictory stance.
  • The potential legal ramifications for officials in the U.S., Britain, and France could be viewed as an overreach of the ICJ's authority, and these countries might argue that their actions or inactions have been in line with their own legal and policy frameworks.
  • The ICJ's mandates for Israel could be seen as impractical or infringing on national sovereignty, with some arguing that Israel has the right to self-defense and security measures that may conflict with the court's orders.

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'Fired as a billionaire'? Trump owes bombshell $83 million payout but might be broke Sharpton says

Trump ordered to pay $83 million in defamation trial

A jury in New York has unanimously ruled that Donald Trump must pay $83.3 million in damages to E. Jean Carroll for harm to her reputation, emotional harm, and other damages, along with punitive damages.

Trump's reaction and misinformation from lawyer about First Amendment rights

Following the verdict, Donald Trump labeled the decision as "absolutely ridiculous" on social media and falsely claimed that all First Amendment rights have been stripped away by the courts. During the proceedings, Trump's lawyer, Alina Hava, was corrected by the judge for misrepresenting what the First Amendment protects. Joy Reid reflects on how Carroll collecting the damages from Trump might unfold, and April Ryan considers how Trump's mockery of the trial and the substantial payout might influence his brand and political path.

Adult Survivors Act allowing victims to file lawsuits even if past statute of limitations

Glenn Kirshner, in discussion with Joy Reid, touches on t ...

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Trump ordered to pay $83 million in defamation trial

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • E. Jean Carroll filed a lawsuit against Donald Trump for defamation and sexual battery. The lawsuit stemmed from Carroll's allegations that Trump sexually assaulted her in the 1990s. The court ruled in Carroll's favor, awarding her significant damages and holding Trump accountable for his actions. This case was significant due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the legal implications surrounding defamation and sexual assault allegations.
  • Donald Trump was ordered to pay $83.3 million in damages to E. Jean Carroll for harm to her reputation and emotional distress in a defamation trial. The jury unanimously ruled in favor of Carroll, finding Trump accountable for sexual battery and defamation against her. Trump's reaction to the verdict was negative, with him labeling it as "absolutely ridiculous" and making false claims about First Amendment rights being stripped away. The ruling marked a significant legal outcome, with implications for Trump's brand and potential political future.
  • Donald Trump's lawyer, Alina Hava, was corrected by the judge for misrepresenting what the First Amendment protects. The First Amendment guarantees freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition. It does not protect individuals from facing legal consequences for defamatory statements. Trump's false claim that all First Amendment rights were stripped away by the courts was inaccurate and misleading. The judge's correction highlighted the importance of understanding the limitations and scope of constitutional rights ...

Counterarguments

  • The size of the damages awarded to E. Jean Carroll could be seen as excessive or punitive beyond what is necessary to compensate for the alleged harm.
  • The claim that all First Amendment rights have been stripped away might be hyperbolic, but it could be argued that defamation laws need to be carefully balanced with free speech rights.
  • The effectiveness and fairness of the Adult Survivors Act could be debated, with some arguing that suspending the statute of limitations could lead to legal challenges and concerns about the reliability of evidence in long-past cases.
  • There could be concerns about the potential for the Adult Survivors Act to be abused or for it to result in unintended consequences, such as an overwhelming number of lawsuits that the legal system is not equipped to handle fairly and efficiently.
  • The impact of the trial and its outcome on Trump's brand and political path could be seen differently by his supporters, who might view the trial as politically motivated and the verdict as unju ...

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'Fired as a billionaire'? Trump owes bombshell $83 million payout but might be broke Sharpton says

Republican Party capitulating to Trump

Congresswoman Nancy Mace flip from anti-Trump to endorsing him

Congresswoman Nancy Mace of South Carolina, once an anti-Trump voice within the party and vocal about Trump’s role in the January 6th events, has shifted her position to endorse Donald Trump over Nikki Haley. This pivot represents a significant change from her initial reaction, where Mace was outspoken in her anger toward Trump and even discussed being a symbol for anti-Trump Republicans.

Political analysts like Miller observe a trend where candidates like Mace assess the political landscape and opt to align with Trump rather than resist him, which they perceive as a losing endeavor. This strategy follows the example of others who have tried to hold back Trump's influence but have ultimately joined forces with him, perhaps with the hopes of securing favorable outcomes or appointments in the future. Joy Reid and Miller suggest that Mace's endorsement could be influenced by such expectations.

Trump calling for Republican states to send National Guard troops to the border

"Take Our Border Back" convoy with similarities to January 6th rioters

Donald Trump calls upon states willing to support his stance on border security to send National Guard soldiers to Texas. This move is backed by the governor of Texas and 25 Republican governors who rally behind Texas, choosin ...

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Republican Party capitulating to Trump

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Congresswoman Nancy Mace of South Carolina, previously critical of Donald Trump, has changed her stance to endorse him over Nikki Haley. This shift reflects a broader trend where some Republicans are choosing to align with Trump rather than oppose him due to perceived political advantages. Analysts suggest that Mace's endorsement may be influenced by expectations of favorable outcomes or appointments in the future.
  • Trump's role in the January 6th events is related to the storming of the U.S. Capitol by a mob of his supporters following a rally where he spoke. Critics accused Trump of inciting the violence through his rhetoric and false claims of election fraud. The events led to his second impeachment by the House of Representatives on charges of incitement of insurrection. Trump was later acquitted by the Senate.
  • Candidates like Congresswoman Nancy Mace are aligning with Trump despite initial resistance because they perceive aligning with him as a strategic move to secure favorable outcomes or appointments in the future. This shift in position reflects a trend where politicians assess the political landscape and choose to align with Trump rather than resist him, as resisting him is seen as a losing endeavor. Joy Reid and other analysts suggest that endorsements like Mace's could be influenced by expectations of benefits from aligning with Trump.
  • Candidates aligning with Trump may hope to secure favorable outcomes such as increased support from Trump's loyal base, access to his fundraising network, and potential endorsements in future elections. Additionally, aligning with Trump could lead to favorable policy outcomes or appointments in government positions if Trump or his allies regain power. This strategic alignment may also offer protection from potential primary challenges within the party, as Trump's endorsement can carry significant weight among Republican voters.
  • Donald Trump called on Republican states to send National Guard troops to the border to support his stance on border security. This move was supported by the governor of Texas and 25 other Republican governors, who aimed to enforce federal laws themselves in collaboration with Texas, bypassing federal authority. The "Take Our Border Back" convoy, a peaceful protest, was organized to demonstrate this support, with participants including truckers, bikers, law enforcement, and veterans. However, concerns were raised about the composition of the invitees, as it resembled the demographics of those involved in the January 6th events, leading to worries about the potential for t ...

Counterarguments

  • Congresswoman Nancy Mace's endorsement of Trump may reflect her constituents' preferences rather than personal political ambitions.
  • Political analysts might be oversimplifying the situation; candidates could align with Trump due to shared policy goals or ideological alignment rather than strategic considerations.
  • Aligning with Trump does not necessarily guarantee favorable outcomes or appointments, as political dynamics are complex and unpredictable.
  • Mace's endorsement could be a result of a genuine change in perspective or new information that has come to light since her initial stance.
  • The call for National Guard troops at the border by Trump and Republican governors could be seen as a state-level initiative to address border security concerns, rather than a bypass of federal authority.
  • The support from 25 Republican governors might reflect a broader consensus on the need for additional border security measures wi ...

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'Fired as a billionaire'? Trump owes bombshell $83 million payout but might be broke Sharpton says

UN court rules Israel must prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza

The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to take several measures to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Reactions from Israel, U.S. State Department and analysis of implications

The court’s ruling has led Israel and the U.S. to respond often in dismissive tones. Israel's right-wing security minister, Itamar Ben-Gavir, reacted to the ruling by dismissively stating "Hague schmage." Despite Prime Minister Netanyahu asserting that Israel respects and will abide by international law, there remains skepticism about real change in behavior, particularly regarding actions in Gaza.

The U.S. State Department acknowledged the ICJ ruling, claiming it aligns with U.S. calls for Israel to minimize harm to civilians and address dehumanizing rhetoric. However, the U.S. continues to label accusations of genocide against Israel as unfounded, demonstrating a complex stance that has been criticized as hypocritical since U.S. support for Israel does not vary in light of its own expressed desire to see fewer civilian casualties.

The ruling indicates that the global South sees this moment as defining for its presence on the world stage. It has ramifications for the international community, as Israel and the U.S. are both publicly and legally associated with charges of genocide, potentially for years to come.

From a legal standpoint, the ICJ ruling implies serious obligations. It suggests that officials from countries such as the US, Britain, and France could face personal consequences for their inaction regarding the matter. This implication comes as the international community, including Arab and European states, expresses growing frustration with the situation. ...

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UN court rules Israel must prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The United States has consistently supported Israel politically, economically, and militarily for decades. This support remains steadfast even when the U.S. expresses concerns about civilian casualties in conflicts involving Israel. The U.S. government's stance on supporting Israel is deeply entrenched in strategic alliances, shared democratic values, and historical ties, which often take precedence over specific criticisms related to civilian casualties.
  • The term "global South" typically refers to countries in the Southern Hemisphere, often characterized by lower income levels and less political power compared to countries in the Northern Hemisphere. In this context, the statement suggests that countries from the global South view this situation as a crucial moment that could significantly impact their influence and standing in international affairs. It implies that the outcome of this case involving Israel and the allegations of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza could shape how these countries are perceived and their role in global diplomacy and decision-making.
  • France holding the presidency of the Security Council means that France is leading the discussions and decision-making processes within the United Nations Security Council for a specific period. The presidency rotates monthly among the Council's members in alphabetical order. When a country holds the presidency, it has the responsibility of organizing meetings, setting the agenda, and facilitating negotiations on various internation ...

Counterarguments

  • The term "genocide" is legally specific and its application to the situation in Gaza may be contested by some legal experts and states, arguing that the conflict does not meet the strict criteria set out in the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
  • Israel may argue that its actions in Gaza are self-defense against threats posed by militant groups and not aimed at the destruction of the Palestinian people.
  • Some may argue that the ICJ's jurisdiction is limited and that it does not have the enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with its rulings, questioning the practical impact of the court's decision.
  • Critics might suggest that the ICJ ruling could be seen as one-sided if it does not equally address the actions of Palestinian militant groups alongside those of Israel.
  • There could be an argument that international courts and bodies should not interfere in what some perceive as a bilateral conflict, where direct negotiations between the parties involved are the preferred method for resolution.
  • The U.S. and other allies of Israel might argue that their support for Israel is based on shared democratic values and strategic interests, and that they work with Israel to improve its conduct in conflict situations rather than condone any alleged wrongdoing.
  • Some may argue that the term "genocide" is being used politically in this context to exert pressure on Israel rather than to reflect the legal reality of the situation.
  • It could be arg ...

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