Who is E. Jean Carroll? Writer at the center of Trump’s $83.3M defamation case
Writer E. Jean Carroll. Image Credit: Adam Gray/REUTERS
E. Jean Carroll is an American journalist, author, and longtime advice columnist for Elle magazine. Born in 1943, she built a reputation in media for her witty, straightforward style, particularly in her “Ask E. Jean” column, which ran for nearly three decades. Beyond advice writing, Carroll has authored several books, including What Do We Need Men For? and contributed to television and cultural commentary.
Carroll’s career took a dramatic turn in 2019 when she publicly accused President, Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in a department store dressing room in the 1990s. Trump denied the allegation, calling her claims false and disparaging her publicly. These denials prompted to file defamation lawsuits that would later become some of the most closely watched legal battles of Trump.
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What the $83.3M Verdict Means
In January 2024, a federal jury awarded Carroll $83.3 million in damages, $18.3 million compensatory and $65 million punitive, finding Trump’s denials and insults had seriously damaged her reputation. This week, a federal appeals court upheld the ruling, rejecting Trump’s argument that presidential immunity shielded him from liability.
The verdict is more than just a financial penalty. For Carroll, it represents validation after years of being dismissed and attacked. It underscores the principle that no one, not even a President, is above accountability in civil court. For Trump, it sets a binding legal obligation: he cannot escape the judgment, and the ruling stands as a public rebuke of his conduct. Legal analysts say the size of the award sends a broader message about the consequences of defamation, especially when it involves powerful figures targeting private citizens.
Why E. Jean. Carroll’s Case Resonates
E. Jean Carroll, now 81, has said she intends to use the awarded money for causes that uplift women and fight injustice. Her case has become symbolic, not only for survivors of sexual misconduct but also for those battling reputational harm in the public eye.
The verdict also highlights the judiciary’s role in balancing free speech with personal accountability. Carroll’s persistence in pursuing justice, despite threats and political backlash, has positioned her as both a symbol of resilience and a central figure in one of the most significant legal challenges faced by Trump.