In a resounding decision, a Fourth Circuit panel has upheld Donald Trump Jr.‘s triumph in a defamation suit brought by former coal company CEO and U.S. Senate candidate Don Blankenship. The ruling, delivered on Monday, dispels any doubts regarding Trump Jr.’s assertion that he did not act with malicious intent when he labeled Blankenship a “felon” on social media.
Appeals court sides with Donald Trump Jr in defamation suit : No Evidence of Malice
The three-judge panel, in an unpublished opinion, determined that there was no substantiated evidence to suggest that Trump Jr. acted with actual malice in his characterization of Blankenship. Despite the incorrect depiction of Blankenship as a felon, the panel highlighted the speculative nature of Blankenship’s claims against Trump Jr. The judges underscored Trump Jr.’s reliance on various news sources that had similarly labeled Blankenship, thus corroborating his statement.
Correct Application of Law
U.S. District Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr.’s decision to grant summary judgment in favor of Trump Jr. was deemed appropriate by the panel. Blankenship’s efforts to revive his claims under West Virginia defamation law, false light invasion of privacy, and civil conspiracy were soundly rejected.
Lack of Concrete Evidence
Blankenship’s argument that Trump Jr. knowingly made false statements was met with skepticism by the panel. They noted Blankenship’s failure to present any concrete evidence indicating that Trump Jr. had read the CNN article, which supposedly clarified Blankenship’s legal status.
Appeals court sides with Donald Trump Jr in defamation suit : Background and Context
Blankenship, the former CEO of Massey Energy Co., faced legal scrutiny following a mining disaster in 2010. Despite being indicted on multiple felony charges, Blankenship was ultimately convicted of a misdemeanor offense related to federal mine safety standards. Trump Jr.’s characterization of Blankenship as a “felon” stemmed from his 2018 U.S. Senate campaign announcement.
Legal Precedent and Future Implications
The Fourth Circuit’s decision adds to a series of legal victories for media outlets and public figures accused of defamation by Blankenship. While the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the case, Justice Clarence Thomas expressed a need to revisit the standard for proving actual malice in defamation cases involving public figures.
Appeals court sides with Donald Trump Jr in defamation suit : Counsel’s Response
Representatives for both parties were unavailable for immediate comment following the court’s decision.
Judicial Panel and Representation
The Fourth Circuit panel comprised U.S. Circuit Judges G. Steven Agee, Allison Jones Rushing, and Barbara Milano Keenan. Blankenship is represented by Jeffrey S. Simpkins of Simpkins Law Office PLLC, while Trump Jr. is represented by J. Mark Adkins and Lindsay M. Gainer of Bowles Rice LLP.
