Reeher Quoted in BBC Article on Trump’s Defamation Defeat

February 6, 2024

BBC

Grant Reeher

Political Science Department

Campbell Public Affairs Institute

Federal

Law

Media & Journalism

U.S. Elections

United States

BBC

Grant Reeher

Former President Donald Trump must pay $83.3 million in damages for defamatory statements he made denying he sexually assaulted the writer E. Jean Carroll, a federal jury ruled recently.

In terms of his election campaign, his mounting legal woes have been both a boon and a bane for him, says Grant Reeher, professor of political science and director of the Campbell Public Affairs Institute. "It's hurt the general population's views of him, but it's fueled and strengthened his base, and even driven some Republicans on the fence to 'stay loyal' to the cause," he says.

"Trump has been trying to wear these legal troubles as a badge of honor for his victimization, and of his commitment to his supporters," says Reeher.

Read more in the BBC article, "Defamation defeat a double-edged sword for Trump."