Gavin Newsom Sues Fox News for $787 Million Defamation Lawsuit: A Stand Against Misinformation and Media Manipulation

In a bold and unprecedented move, California Governor Gavin Newsom has filed a $787 million defamation lawsuit against Fox News, accusing the network of spreading falsehoods and damaging his reputation. This lawsuit stems from a single, controversial claim made by Fox News host Jesse Watters regarding a phone conversation between Newsom and former President Donald Trump about the deployment of the National Guard. What started as a political disagreement has quickly escalated into a legal battle that could have significant implications for media accountability in America.

The Tweet That Sparked the Collapse

It all started with a tweet.

On June 8, 2025, Terry Moran, a veteran ABC News correspondent with nearly three decades at the network, posted a scorching message on X (formerly Twitter). Moran called Trump advisor Stephen Miller “a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred,” and accused both Miller and Trump of being “world-class haters.” His comments were aimed at exposing what he saw as the dark undercurrent of Trump’s rhetoric. But the firestorm that followed was ignited not just by Moran’s words, but by the media’s handling of them.

The tweet quickly caught the attention of the Trump camp, which retaliated with an avalanche of criticism. Vice President JD Vance condemned the tweet as a “vile smear,” and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called it “unhinged and unacceptable.” ABC News, under intense pressure, suspended Moran, claiming the matter was “under review.” However, within 48 hours, the network decided not to renew his contract, effectively sidelining one of its most respected correspondents.

Jon Stewart’s Scathing Response

Jon Stewart wasted no time weighing in. Known for his fearless commentary, Stewart ripped into ABC for what he perceived as an unjust firing. On his podcast, Stewart unleashed a torrent of criticism, calling the decision an act of corporate cowardice. “They sold out,” Stewart said, accusing ABC of sacrificing journalistic integrity to appease political pressure from Trump and his allies.

Stewart’s remarks were pointed and unrelenting. He compared Moran’s tweet to the daily vitriol on Fox News, where attacks on Democratic politicians are regularly aired without consequence. “Literally, every day on Fox News, they’re taking things out of context or saying vicious things about Democrats, and they’re not getting fired. So why is ABC pretending to be some pillar of balance here?”

But Stewart’s critique didn’t stop there. He accused ABC of being a part of a broader media machine that prioritizes profit over truth, stating that the network had become complicit in Trump’s political game. “They paid the $15 million, and they fired him. Because this is a f***ing protection racket,” Stewart said, referring to a prior settlement ABC reached with Trump. His impassioned words sparked a conversation about the power dynamics between media corporations and political figures.

The Fallout: A Broader Crisis of Media Integrity

Newsom’s defamation lawsuit is not just about clearing his name—it’s about sending a message to Fox News and the broader media industry that misinformation and political manipulation must come with consequences. In a public statement, Newsom expressed his outrage, saying, “If Fox News wants to lie to the American people on behalf of Donald Trump, it should face consequences—just like it did in the Dominion case. Until Fox is willing to be truthful, I will keep fighting against their propaganda machine.”

The lawsuit, which mirrors the $787.5 million settlement Fox News paid to Dominion Voting Systems over false claims about the 2020 election, is a direct challenge to Fox News’ political bias and its role in spreading misleading narratives. Newsom’s legal team argues that the network’s manipulation of facts not only undermines political discourse but also risks eroding public trust in the media.

The Larger Context: MAGA Media and Its Influence

Newsom’s lawsuit also shines a light on the growing influence of MAGA-aligned media outlets like Fox News, which have been accused of distorting facts and fueling political polarization. These outlets, often catering to a conservative audience, have been accused of creating a “parallel truth” that distorts the public’s understanding of reality.

Jesse Watters, one of Fox News’ most prominent hosts, plays a central role in this media ecosystem. Known for his combative and often provocative style, Watters has made a name for himself by attacking left-wing politicians, institutions, and the mainstream media. His role in spreading misinformation about Newsom, particularly through the manipulation of facts surrounding the phone call with Trump, serves as a prime example of how media figures within the MAGA ecosystem continue to amplify false narratives.

The $787 Million Lawsuit: A Message to Fox News

The $787 million lawsuit Newsom filed is significant not only for its size but for the broader message it sends about holding media companies accountable. Newsom’s legal team has made it clear that this lawsuit is not just about seeking financial compensation, but about ensuring that lies and misinformation have real consequences. “We are not here to profit from this lawsuit,” Newsom’s attorneys stated. “This is about ensuring that lies have consequences. It’s about protecting the integrity of our democracy and ensuring that elected officials, no matter their political affiliation, are not subjected to baseless attacks from a media empire.”

If Newsom succeeds in his lawsuit, it could set a legal precedent for how media companies are held accountable for spreading false narratives. It could also pave the way for further legal challenges against other media outlets that engage in misleading or malicious behavior, making it clear that journalists and news organizations must be held to a higher standard.

A Personal Commitment to Justice

Newsom’s commitment to this legal battle is personal. Unlike many politicians who might shy away from confronting powerful media conglomerates, Newsom is using his own campaign funds to cover any legal fees or penalties, underscoring his dedication to fighting for truth and transparency.

“I won’t let them get away with it,” Newsom said. “This is about more than just me—it’s about ensuring that our government remains accountable to the people, and that the media is held responsible for spreading lies.”

The Bigger Picture: Restoring Integrity in American Media

This lawsuit also highlights the urgent need to restore integrity and trust in American media. As misinformation spreads and the influence of right-wing media grows, the public’s faith in the news is at an all-time low. As figures like Newsom take legal action to combat media manipulation, it’s clear that the fight for a free and fair press is far from over.

In the coming weeks, the lawsuit will likely continue to make headlines, as the case unfolds and more details emerge. Whether or not Newsom wins, his decision to take action sends a clear message: no one—no matter how powerful—should be above the law.

Conclusion: Holding Power to Account

As the battle between Governor Gavin Newsom and Fox News intensifies, the outcome of this lawsuit will have far-reaching implications for the relationship between politicians and the media. Newsom’s bold move to hold Fox News accountable for its role in spreading misinformation and tarnishing his reputation could serve as a blueprint for future legal actions against the media.

At a time when truth is under siege and political polarization is at an all-time high, Newsom’s stand is a reminder that the fight for integrity, transparency, and justice must continue—no matter the cost. Whether he wins or loses, Newsom’s decision to confront Fox News marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle to protect the integrity of American journalism and democracy.