WASHINGTON: In a legal bombshell that’s rocking the American media and political landscape, U.S. President Donald Trump has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal, its parent companies, and top executives, accusing them of defamation over a report linking him to a sexually suggestive birthday greeting for Jeffrey Epstein.
The lawsuit, filed in Miami federal court, also names Rupert Murdoch, News Corp, Dow Jones, and Wall Street Journal reporters. It alleges the story was “false, malicious, and defamatory,” designed to sabotage Trump’s reputation ahead of the 2026 election season.
Trump Slams Report, Labels WSJ a ‘Useless Rag’
“We have just filed a POWERHOUSE Lawsuit against everyone involved in publishing the false, malicious, defamatory, FAKE NEWS article,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The Journal’s report, which Reuters has not independently verified, claimed Trump’s name was attached to a 2003 birthday note included in Epstein’s infamous leather-bound book. The note allegedly contained typewritten text framed by a nude drawing and ended with:
“Happy Birthday – and may every day be another wonderful secret,” signed “Donald.”
Trump’s legal team argues the article lacked any substantiation and failed to confirm whether the original letter even exists.
WSJ Stands Firm, Vows to Fight Lawsuit
Dow Jones, the publisher of the Wall Street Journal, responded swiftly:
“We have full confidence in the rigor and accuracy of our reporting and will vigorously defend against any lawsuit,” a spokesperson said.
Legal analysts note that Trump faces a steep challenge, as defamation lawsuits filed by public figures require proof of “actual malice.”
“$10 billion is a ridiculously high number,” said Jesse Gessin, a lawyer specializing in defamation cases. “It would be the largest defamation verdict in U.S. history.”
Epstein Case Still Roils the White House
The Epstein scandal continues to trouble the Trump White House, despite a Justice Department report released on July 7, concluding that Epstein died by suicide and that there is no incriminating client list.
Despite that, Trump’s base remains deeply suspicious, especially after his administration appeared to reverse course on declassifying Epstein-related files.
On Thursday, Trump announced he had instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek court permission to release grand jury documents in the Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell cases.
“Public officials, lawmakers, pundits, and ordinary citizens remain deeply interested and concerned about the Epstein matter,” said Deputy AG Todd Blanche, adding that victim identities will be redacted if the transcripts are unsealed.
Background: Trump’s Long History With Epstein
Trump had long-standing social ties with Epstein in the 1990s and early 2000s and was even photographed at social events with him. In a 2002 interview with New York Magazine, Trump famously said:
“I’ve known Jeff for 15 years. Terrific guy… He likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side.”
In 2019, Trump distanced himself from Epstein, telling reporters:
“I had a falling out with him 15 years ago. I haven’t spoken to him since. I was not a fan.”
What Happens Next?
If Trump’s lawsuit proceeds, it could result in major depositions, possibly including Murdoch, WSJ editors, and even former Trump aides. However, the legal bar is high, and courts may move to dismiss or reduce the $10 billion claim unless compelling evidence is provided.
This comes as Trump faces increasing legal scrutiny, even as he gears up for the 2026 presidential campaign. The outcome of this lawsuit could impact media credibility, presidential transparency, and First Amendment boundaries.
The lawsuit comes just a day after Trump made headlines by claiming five fighter jets were downed during the India-Pakistan conflict—another statement lacking clear verification.
