Federal Judge Dismisses Michael Wolff’s Lawsuit Against Melania Trump

A federal judge has dismissed journalist Michael Wolff’s lawsuit against First Lady Melania Trump, describing it as a “distorted” attempt that doesn’t align with how federal courts function.

Wolff initiated the lawsuit to block the Trumps from pursuing a $1 billion claim against him, which hinges on supposed defamatory remarks related to his connections with Jeffrey Epstein.

Judge Mary Kay Viscocil, appointed by President Trump and based in Manhattan, noted that both Wolff and Trump engaged in “an inappropriate level of tactical maneuvering.” While she acknowledged a genuine conflict exists between the parties, she stated she wouldn’t be involved in what she deemed an “abusive altercation.”

Last year, lawyers representing the first lady reached out to Wolff, urging him to retract his statements about Trump. They warned that if he didn’t comply, they would have “no choice” but to file a lawsuit.

In response, Wolff filed a state lawsuit against her in October. However, Trump’s attorney, Alejandro Brito, moved the case to federal court, alleging that Viscocil has the relevant jurisdiction but is reluctant to act, suggesting she would dismiss the case just like any other.

The first lady’s press secretary stated that Melania Trump is “proud to continue to stand up and fight against those who spread malicious, defamatory falsehoods in a desperate attempt to gain unwarranted attention and money from illegal activities.”

Her legal team previously claimed that Wolff’s comments resulted in “overwhelming reputational and financial harm.” Melania Trump has firmly denied any involvement with Epstein, who passed away in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on charges of child sex trafficking.

During a press conference in April, the first lady stated, “The lies linking me to the disgraced Jeffrey Epstein need to end today.” She criticized those spreading rumors about her, saying they lack “ethical standards, humility, and respect,” and remarked on their spiteful attempts to tarnish her reputation.

Wolff’s lawsuit accuses the Trumps of routinely threatening critics with costly lawsuits to stifle dissent, intimidate opponents, and extract unmerited admissions and apologies.

He argued that some of his comments, including one characterizing the Trumps’ marriage as a “sham, trophy marriage,” were taken out of context and represented protected speech, which he believes was fair and justified.

Wolff, in his complaint, also asserted he never accused the first lady of any criminal activity involving Epstein.

Notably, the Daily Beast retracted a story titled “Melania Trump ‘Very Involved’ in Epstein Scandal: Author” last summer, following a letter from Brito. Wolff mentioned that Melania claimed she was managing the situation “behind the scenes” at the White House but did not engage criminally.

Wolff is the author of several bestsellers about the president, including “Fire and Fury,” “The Siege,” “Landslide,” and “All or Nothing.”