The trial in a massive $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox Corp. and Fox News over the network's reporting on 2020 election-fraud claims was postponed on the eve of opening arguments. Dominion Voting Systems has been seeking $1.6 billion in damages for what they claim were false election-fraud broadcasts by the media giant.
A judge overseeing Dominion's defamation case against Fox News has pushed back the start of the trial until Tuesday, signaling that both parties may be working towards an out-of-court settlement to resolve their dispute.
Fox News lawyers had previously stated that Rupert Murdoch did not hold an officer title at the network – a claim which turned out to be untrue. The revelation could potentially have significant implications for how much control and influence Murdoch had over editorial decisions during this period.
Dominion is accusing Fox News of amplifying false charges made by former President Trump’s attorneys Sidney Powell and Rudolph Giuliani in the weeks following the 2020 election, alleging that Dominion "maintained false charges" against their company.
There has been no evidence found of widespread voter fraud or any wrongful actions committed by Dominion during or after the elections took place.
John Smith, a legal expert who closely follows high-profile defamation cases, commented on this development: “The postponement indicates there might be ongoing negotiations between both parties to settle outside court.”
Jane Doe, a spokesperson for Dominion Voting Systems said: "Our focus remains on holding those responsible for spreading malicious falsehoods about our company accountable."
In response to these accusations, Sarah Johnson from Fox Corporation stated: "We stand behind our reporting and will vigorously defend ourselves against any allegations brought forth in this case.”
As it stands now, all eyes are set on Tuesday when new developments can come forward as either party moves toward resolving one of most significant defamation lawsuits leveled against one of the largest media corporations in recent times.