A federal judge has dismissed a preemptive lawsuit filed by journalist Michael Wolff seeking to block Melania Trump’s $1 billion defamation case over claims linking her to Jeffrey Epstein.
Manhattan Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil ruled on the case Tuesday, finding that Wolff’s filing represented an “inappropriate level of tactical gamesmanship.” The judge declined to exercise jurisdiction, allowing the case to proceed through standard litigation channels.
The Judge’s Decision
Vyskocil stated she would not oversee what she characterized as “an abusively presented spat” between the two parties. The judge acknowledged both sides have “a real dispute” but determined federal courts should not intervene in the manner Wolff’s lawsuit was structured.
“It’s not how federal courts work,” Vyskocil said from the bench. She dismissed the case so it could “be litigated like any other.”
Background on the Dispute
Melania Trump’s legal team sent Wolff a demand letter last year requesting he delete statements about her. Wolff responded by filing the preemptive lawsuit before Trump could pursue her defamation claim.
The First Lady has denied any association with Jeffrey Epstein and has called for the false claims to cease. “The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today,” Melania Trump said during an April press conference.
Broader Context
The ruling allows Melania Trump’s $1 billion defamation suit to proceed in court. Her legal team described the decision as a victory for truth and accountability.
This story has been updated. CNN’s legal affairs team contributed to this report.
