New Trial Date Set in Sarah Palin NYT Libel Case

Sarah Palin’s long-standing libel case against The New York Times sees a new development with an April 2025 retrial date now set.

At a Glance

A federal judge has set a new trial date for April 14, 2025.
The 2017 editorial falsely linking Palin to a shooting is central to the case.
The appeals court reinstated the case after finding trial errors in 2022.
Both parties are exploring settlement possibilities before the trial date.

Trial Date Set for April 2025

A federal judge has scheduled the retrial of Sarah Palin’s lawsuit against The New York Times for April 14, 2025. The case stands as a significant legal battle where Palin claims the newspaper defamed her in a 2017 editorial. This editorial inaccurately connected her political rhetoric to a tragic shooting incident, according to the sources.

Initially, the case was dismissed by Judge Jed S. Rakoff in 2022, yet the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals revived Palin’s claims, ruling that the dismissal had ignored evidence supporting her case.

A federal judge has set an April retrial date for Sarah Palin's libel case against The New York Times, even as lawyers on both sides for the first time said they hope they can settle the case. https://t.co/WyX33dBqRr

— 2 News Nevada (@KTVN) November 13, 2024

Background on the Case

The lawsuit originates from a New York Times editorial that falsely suggested Palin’s 2011 campaign rhetoric was linked to a shooting targeting Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Although the newspaper later corrected and apologized for the editorial, they maintained it was an “honest mistake” and argued there was no intentional harm towards Palin. Nonetheless, Palin argues that her reputation was significantly harmed.

The appeals court determined Judge Rakoff’s actions, such as dismissing the case mid-trial and problematic trial instructions, could have influenced the outcome. This incompetence and a questionable dismissal have now led the court to order a retrial.

Potential Settlement and Implications

The prospect of settling the case before the trial has been highlighted by both sides. “I’m all for that if you’re seriously interested in settling. You can settle it in a matter of days,” Judge Rakoff mentioned, indicating a magistrate judge could facilitate discussions.

Meanwhile, Palin’s lawyer, Shane Vogt, expressed their satisfaction with the decision to hold a retrial. He emphasized the significance of holding news outlets accountable when they disseminate content that misleads readers.

The trial’s ultimate outcome looms as a defining moment for libel laws concerning public figures and media accountability, taking into consideration previous judicial errors and potentially restoring public trust in journalistic integrity.