Key Takeaways
- Smartmatic’s $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News centers on allegations that the network knowingly spread false claims about the 2020 U.S. presidential election, damaging Smartmatic’s reputation and business.
- The case has seen significant legal maneuvers, including spoliation motions, dueling summary judgment requests, and disputes over evidence, with both sides accusing each other of destroying or withholding crucial information.
- The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for media organizations, defamation law, and the standards governing election-related reporting in the United States.
Overview of the Smartmatic Lawsuit
Background
Smartmatic is a global voting technology company that provided election technology and services during the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Following the election, Smartmatic became the subject of conspiracy theories and false claims, particularly on certain media outlets. The company alleges that Fox News, along with several of its hosts and guests, knowingly promoted false narratives suggesting Smartmatic’s involvement in rigging the election results.
In February 2021, Smartmatic filed a $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News, several of its anchors, and two high-profile guests: Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell. The lawsuit claims that Fox News broadcasted and amplified baseless allegations that Smartmatic’s technology was used to manipulate votes, despite knowing these claims were false. Smartmatic argues that this coverage caused significant harm to its reputation and business interests. For ongoing updates, see Smartmatic Lawsuit Updates.
Legal Claims and Defenses
Smartmatic’s complaint asserts that Fox News and its guests engaged in a deliberate campaign to spread misinformation. The company contends that Fox News acted with actual malice—a key standard in U.S. defamation law for cases involving public figures—by airing claims they allegedly knew were untrue or recklessly disregarded the truth.
Fox News, in response, has vigorously denied the allegations. The network argues that its coverage was protected under the First Amendment, asserting that it was reporting on newsworthy allegations made by public figures about a matter of public concern. Fox News has filed motions for summary judgment, seeking to dismiss the claims on the grounds that its reporting was constitutionally protected and did not meet the legal threshold for defamation.
Key Developments in the Case
Spoliation Motions and Evidence Disputes
A significant aspect of the litigation has involved disputes over evidence. In 2024, Smartmatic filed a spoliation motion against Fox News, alleging that the network destroyed or failed to preserve evidence crucial to the case. Spoliation refers to the destruction or alteration of evidence that may be relevant to ongoing or anticipated litigation. Smartmatic claims that Fox News’s actions have hindered its ability to prove its case.
Fox News has countered by accusing Smartmatic executives of deleting evidence themselves, characterizing this as a “brazen and purposeful” act. These mutual accusations have led to contentious legal arguments over the integrity of the discovery process. For more on Fox News’s claims, see ABC News coverage.
Summary Judgment Motions
Both parties have filed motions for summary judgment, asking the court to rule in their favor without a full trial. Smartmatic argues that the evidence overwhelmingly shows Fox News acted with actual malice and that the network’s statements were not protected by the First Amendment. Fox News, on the other hand, maintains that its reporting was fair and constitutionally protected, and that Smartmatic cannot meet the high bar required for a defamation claim involving a public figure.
The court has not yet ruled on these motions, and the case remains active. For further details on these legal maneuvers, see The Wall Street Journal’s report.
Related Settlements and Broader Context
The Smartmatic lawsuit is not the only defamation case arising from the 2020 election. In a related development, Newsmax, another conservative media outlet, settled a similar lawsuit with Smartmatic for $40 million. This settlement demonstrates the potential financial and reputational risks media organizations face when reporting on contentious election issues. For more, see NBC News’s coverage.
Despite these settlements, the case against Fox News continues. In January 2025, a New York state appellate court ruled that Smartmatic’s defamation claims against Fox Corp could proceed, rejecting Fox’s attempts to dismiss the lawsuit. This decision underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the willingness of courts to scrutinize media conduct in high-profile defamation cases. For the appellate court’s decision, see Reuters and The New York Times.
Access to Disputed Documents
Another recent development involves Fox News’s efforts to obtain access to certain disputed documents that could support its defense. In May 2025, an appeals court granted Fox News’s lawyers access to these documents, which may play a significant role in the network’s legal strategy. For more information, see CNN Business.
First Amendment and Reporting Privileges
A central issue in the lawsuit is whether Fox News’s reporting is protected by the First Amendment. Smartmatic argues that Fox News’s actions went beyond legitimate reporting and amounted to the intentional spread of falsehoods. The company contends that the network’s conduct is not shielded by constitutional protections because it involved knowing or reckless disregard for the truth. For Smartmatic’s position, see Courthouse News Service.
Fox News maintains that its coverage was newsworthy and that it provided a platform for public figures to express their views on a matter of national importance. The outcome of this argument could have significant implications for how courts interpret the boundaries of protected speech in the context of media reporting on elections.
Broader Implications
Media Responsibility and Defamation Law
The Smartmatic lawsuit highlights the tension between freedom of the press and the need to protect individuals and companies from harmful falsehoods. If Smartmatic prevails, the case could set a precedent for holding media organizations accountable for amplifying unsubstantiated claims, especially in the context of elections and public trust.
Conversely, a ruling in favor of Fox News could reinforce strong First Amendment protections for media outlets, even when reporting on controversial or disputed topics. The case is being closely watched by legal experts, journalists, and policymakers, as it may influence future defamation litigation and media practices.
Impact on Election Technology Companies
For companies like Smartmatic, the lawsuit underscores the reputational risks associated with being drawn into political controversies. The case has already had a significant impact on Smartmatic’s business and public image, regardless of the eventual outcome. It also raises questions about the responsibilities of media organizations when reporting on technical subjects like election technology.
Public Trust in Elections
The broader context of the lawsuit is the ongoing debate over the integrity of U.S. elections. False claims about election technology can erode public confidence in the democratic process. The outcome of the Smartmatic lawsuit may influence how future claims about election integrity are reported and litigated.
Conclusion
The Smartmatic lawsuit against Fox News is a complex and evolving legal battle with significant implications for media law, corporate reputation, and public trust in elections. Both sides have presented strong arguments, and the case has generated substantial public and legal interest. As the proceedings continue, the legal standards governing defamation, media responsibility, and First Amendment protections will be tested and potentially reshaped.
For attorneys and legal professionals seeking in-depth research and updates on this and related cases, visit Counsel Stack.
Disclaimer: This guide provides a general overview of the Smartmatic lawsuit based on publicly available information as of June 2024. The case is ongoing, and all descriptions of allegations and legal arguments are subject to change as new facts emerge and court decisions are issued. For specific legal advice or the most current developments, consult official court documents or a qualified attorney.
