After ABC settles defamation suit, CNN's Jim Acosta urges journalists to remain resolute.

In response to the ABC defamation lawsuit settlement with President-elect Donald Trump, CNN's Jim Acosta and Brian Stelter urged journalists to remain steadfast in their reporting.

The host of CNN stated that the agreement of ABC to pay a $15 million settlement to the incoming president was a "disturbing" and "unusual" situation for the media.

Acosta stated that it is almost a rhetorical question because the answer is yes, and there will likely be a chilling effect on the news industry as Trump comes into office due to this.

"Stelter responded, "Yes, media lawyers are concerned about this and are preparing for it. They are readying their newsrooms for an increase in lawsuits, leak investigations, and subpoenas in the future. The AP has a story this morning about the press's balancing act between being fearful and just doing our jobs, while being aware of the climate. Perhaps, this is what ABC was doing here.""

Stelter stated that there is a climate where more litigation against media outlets is expected, with some viewing settlements as a way to curry favor with the president. Acosta concurred and expressed disappointment about the "bending the knee" happening.

"I'm sure ABC will argue that it's not true, but I'm curious about your thoughts on this aspect of the situation. To me, it seems like our industry should take a strong stance," he said.

"Trump is not going to change his ways when he gets back in the Oval Office, and we have a very important job to do because he will continue to say things that need to be fact-checked. We cannot have the news industry worrying about this when they are simply doing their jobs."

"Stelter stated that while some may bend their knees, others must stand up straighter. However, the broader issue of self-censorship is a concern that many viewers and readers share. Ultimately, as a journalist, their primary responsibility is to serve the viewers, not anyone else."

Trump sued ABC News and anchor George Stephanopoulos for defamation after he stated that Trump was found guilty of rape, even though a jury found him guilty of sexual abuse, which has a different meaning under New York law.

ABC News and George Stephanopoulos issued a statement of regret for reading statements regarding President Donald J. Trump during an interview with Rep. Nancy Mace on ABC’s This Week on March 10, 2024, in addition to the $15 million payment.