Trump’s “Access Hollywood” Tape Excluded from Carroll’s Defamation Trial
In a stunning turn of events, the infamous “Access Hollywood” tape, where Donald Trump made lewd remarks about women, will not be presented to the jury in the defamation trial brought against him by writer E. Jean Carroll. Furthermore, two additional women who have accused Trump of abuse will also be barred from testifying.
This revelation means that Trump’s testimony in the case is likely to occur sooner than expected, possibly on Monday, the day before the Republican primary in New Hampshire. Carroll’s attorney, Roberta Kaplan, emphasized her desire to keep the trial focused solely on Carroll’s accusations, excluding Trump’s other alleged sex crimes.
Background of the Case
This decision follows a previous federal jury verdict in New York City, which found Trump not liable for rape but liable for sexual abuse and defamation. Consequently, Trump was ordered to pay Carroll $5 million.
Carroll’s Allegations
Carroll, now 80 years old, alleges that Trump raped her at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in Manhattan in 1996. She claims that they had a chance encounter at the store, where Trump sought her advice while shopping for a gift. According to Carroll, Trump then pushed her into a dressing room and assaulted her.
Trump’s Denial and Carroll’s Defamation Lawsuit
Trump has repeatedly denied Carroll’s allegations, prompting her to file a defamation lawsuit against him. Carroll argued that Trump’s denial damaged her reputation.
Carroll’s Testimony and Compensation Claims
During the trial, Carroll intends to testify about the damage to her career and reputation caused by Trump’s public statements. She seeks $10 million in compensatory damages and millions more in punitive damages.
Trump’s Response and Testimony Plans
Trump has announced his intention to testify in the case through a social media post. He expressed dissatisfaction with the timing of the trial, which coincides with the New Hampshire primary and follows the Iowa caucus. Trump labeled the case a “politically biased WITCH HUNT” and criticized the judge.
Trump’s Legal Challenges
Carroll’s defamation case is one of several legal challenges Trump faces ahead of the 2024 election. He also faces four indictments on charges stemming from Florida, New York City, Georgia, and Washington, D.C.
The exclusion of the “Access Hollywood” tape and the testimony of other accusers is a significant development in the Carroll defamation trial. It remains to be seen how this will impact the outcome of the case and Trump’s political future.
Stay tuned for updates as this trial unfolds.