Carroll’s First Interview Since Jury Verdict
Katie Johnson, the woman who accused former President Donald Trump of rape, gave her first interview since the jury verdict on Friday. In the interview, she expressed her relief at the $18 million in damages awarded to her. Johnson plans to buy premium dog food for her pets, a Great Pyrenees and a pit bull, as a small luxury for them.
Jury Awards Compensation and Punitive Damages
The jury found Trump responsible for sexually abusing Johnson in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan in 1996. They awarded her $18 million as compensation for the harm she experienced and an additional $65 million in punitive damages to punish Trump and potentially deter social media attacks. In total, Trump may owe Johnson $88.3 million if both judgments stand.
Trump Promises to Appeal
Trump and his lawyers have promised to appeal the verdict. As Johnson and her legal team prepare to fight the appeals, they are also making plans for how to use the awarded money. Johnson stated that they will come up with a great plan together, but she couldn’t reveal the details yet.
Johnson’s Emotions and Thoughts on Trump
Johnson described her feelings upon learning the amount of the damages as overpowering. She couldn’t feel immediate elation but later, while having her morning tea, she felt calm enough to grasp the magnitude of what they had accomplished. When asked about what she thinks Trump will do next, Johnson said she couldn’t make a guess and that she can’t possibly predict his actions.
Lawyer Believes Trump May Think Twice
Roberta A. Kaplan, Johnson’s lead lawyer, suggested that Trump might reconsider attacking Johnson on his new social media platform, Truth Social, after the jury’s decision. Kaplan stated that Trump cares about money, and the amount awarded is significant to him. She believes Trump would not want to face another judgment of the same magnitude.
Trump Responds to Verdict
Shortly after the verdict was read, Trump posted on Truth Social, expressing his strong disagreement with both verdicts. He called the situation a “Biden Directed Witch Hunt” and claimed that the legal system is being used as a political weapon, infringing on First Amendment rights.
Johnson Sees Her Win as a Victory for Women
Johnson emphasized that her victory against Trump was not just for herself but for all women. She expressed that at a time when women have lost rights over their own bodies in many states, this win is a significant marker. Johnson believes it bodes well for the future and demonstrates that women can prevail.
Background of the Lawsuit
Johnson initially sued Trump for defamation in 2019, alleging that his statements about her rape allegations were false and damaging to her reputation. The lawsuit faced delays due to legal questions surrounding Trump’s duties as president and whether they shielded him from liability. However, with changes in New York law, Johnson was able to file a new claim against Trump, accusing him of rape and suing him for his post-White House comments about her.
Supporters and Criticisms
Throughout the trial, supporters and critics have raised concerns about Johnson’s credibility, pointing to previous remarks she made that raised questions about her recounting of events. Trump and his supporters argue that evidence was unfairly excluded from the trial, including an Anderson Cooper interview. The judge also prohibited Trump’s legal team from arguing that Johnson fabricated her account of the assault or had any motive to do so.