New York Times CEO Vows ’We Will Not Be Cowed’ as Trump Files Massive $15 Billion Lawsuit

Media giant stands firm against unprecedented legal assault from former president.

The $15 billion lawsuit—roughly equivalent to the market cap of three mid-tier crypto exchanges—represents the largest defamation claim in US history. NYT CEO Meredith Kopit Levien immediately fired back, declaring the organization's commitment to journalistic integrity won't be shaken by legal intimidation tactics.

Legal experts call the suit 'legally dubious' but acknowledge it could drain resources through prolonged litigation. Meanwhile, Trump's legal team claims the Times published 'knowingly false' statements about his business dealings.

The case highlights growing tensions between press freedom and powerful figures using lawsuits as censorship tools—because nothing says 'free speech' like threatening media outlets with bankruptcy-level damages.

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Since beginning his second term, Trump has repeatedly targeted news publications, alleging that they were spreading misinformation and publishing damaging reports about him, his family, and his businesses. In July, he also filed a $10 billion lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal on similar grounds, linked to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

NYT’s Stance on the Lawsuit

In her first public statements since the lawsuit, Levien said, “The lawsuit has no merit. It lacks any legitimate legal claims.” She argued that the goal was to silence independent journalism and prevent the kind of fact-based reporting the Times is known for. Nonetheless, she emphasized that the paper WOULD not be pressured by such tactics.

Levien also drew parallels with authoritarian tactics in countries such as Turkey and Hungary, where leaders are elected but still “work to quash opposition to the regime.” She concluded by stating, “The Times will continue to follow the facts wherever they may lead, even when that is to uncomfortable places.”

The clash between Trump and a major US newspaper highlights his growing legal campaign against the media and raises questions about press freedom. This is his fourth multibillion-dollar defamation suit since March 2024. Earlier this year, Disney’s (DIS) ABC News and Paramount’s (PSKY) CBS settled for $15 million and $16 million, respectively.

Is NYT Stock a Buy, Hold, or Sell?

Analysts remain divided on New York Times’ long-term outlook. On TipRanks, NYT stock has a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on three Buys and three Hold ratings. The average New York Times price target of $61 implies 4.3% upside potential from current levels. Year-to-date, NYT stock has gained 13.4%.