New York Times Co. Faces $15 billion Defamation Lawsuit Claim

Date: 16 September 2025
Source: Multiple international news outlets

The New York Times Company (NYSE: NYT), a mass‑media firm headquartered in New York that publishes the daily newspaper The New York Times and operates a global news website, has become the subject of a high‑profile lawsuit announced by former U.S. President Donald J. Trump.

On 16 September 2025, Trump publicly declared his intention to file a defamation and libel suit against the New York Times, demanding US $15 billion in damages. In statements posted on his social‑media platform Truth Social, Trump accused the newspaper of acting as a “mouthpiece” for the Democratic Party, alleging that it had disseminated false statements about him, his family and his political activities over many years. The suit is to be filed in Florida, according to reports from The Guardian and Financial Times.

Context and Timing

The lawsuit announcement follows a period of intense scrutiny of media coverage by political figures. Trump’s claim that the New York Times has become a “virtual mouthpiece” for the “radical left” is consistent with the language used in his public statements. The New York Times has previously reported on various political issues, including the political implications of mortgage practices among Washington officials and the financial activities of pro‑crypto PACs, as noted in its own reporting on 15 September 2025.

Market Reaction

The New York Times’ share price, which closed at US $59.24 on 14 September 2025, has experienced volatility in the wake of the lawsuit announcement. The company’s market capitalization stands at approximately US 9.6 billion, with a price‑to‑earnings ratio of 28.56. The 52‑week trading range for the stock was US $44.83 to US $62.24. Market analysts are monitoring the potential impact of the litigation on the company’s financial performance and reputation.

Company Position

The New York Times has not yet issued an official statement regarding the lawsuit. The company’s board has not commented on the allegations, and no press release has been made to address the claims or the legal strategy that may be pursued in response.

If the lawsuit proceeds, it will test the limits of defamation law as it applies to journalistic reporting. The case could set a precedent for how media organizations defend against accusations of bias or misinformation. The outcome may also influence how political figures engage with news outlets in future disputes.

This article summarizes publicly available information regarding the lawsuit announced by former President Donald J. Trump against the New York Times Company as of 16 September 2025.