Supreme Court Declines to Hear Challenge to Landmark Defamation Ruling
The Supreme Court has denied a request by Steve Wynn to challenge the 1964 ruling that protects news outlets from defamation suits by public figures.
Summary
The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a challenge by casino mogul Steve Wynn to the 1964 ruling in New York Times v. Sullivan, which requires public figures to prove 'actual malice' in defamation suits. This decision reaffirms journalistic protections against unfounded libel claims. Wynn's lawsuit against the Associated Press related to misconduct allegations he denied. While some justices have expressed interest in revisiting this precedent, there appears to be insufficient support to reconsider it at this time.
Sources (4)
- The Supreme Court's decision to maintain the Sullivan standard is a victory for press freedom, protecting the media from unwarranted defamation lawsuits as public figures like Steve Wynn attempt to undermine these protections.
- The Sullivan ruling, established in 1964, remains critical in ensuring that public figures face a higher bar for defamation claims, helping prevent chilling effects on journalistic expression.
- With recent challenges from conservative figures to reconsider this precedent, maintaining the Sullivan decision is essential for upholding First Amendment rights.
MSNBC·2M· "…But Wynn’s rejection is the latest evidence that it isn’t immediately at risk at the high court."