A federal judge has dismissed journalist Michael Wolff’s preemptive lawsuit against First Lady Melania Trump, ruling his attempt to block a potential defamation claim before it was filed violated proper legal procedures.
U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil issued the 45-page ruling Friday, describing Wolff’s filing as a “contorted” legal maneuver and “inappropriate level of tactical gamesmanship.” The dispute stems from comments Wolff made linking Melania Trump to deceased financier Jeffrey Epstein.
What Led to the Lawsuit
Wolff’s remarks about Melania Trump and Epstein prompted her attorney, Alejandro Brito, to send a demand letter in October requiring a retraction and warning of potential defamation litigation. The alleged comments caused “overwhelming reputational and financial harm,” according to the letter.
Rather than wait for formal litigation, Wolff filed suit in New York state court, asking the court to declare his statements were protected speech and to prevent any future defamation claim. The case was later moved to federal court.
The Judge’s Decision
“While Plaintiff and the First Lady have a real dispute, they must litigate it according to the same procedures as everyone else,” Vyskocil wrote. “Plaintiff asks for a declaration that, if the First Lady sues him, he deserves to win. That is not how the federal courts work.”
The ruling does not determine whether Wolff’s statements were defamatory, leaving the underlying dispute unresolved and open for Melania Trump to pursue separate legal action if she chooses.
Melania Trump’s Response
A spokesperson for the first lady welcomed the decision, saying Melania Trump “is proud to continue standing up to, and fighting against, those who spread malicious and defamatory falsehoods as they desperately try to get undeserved attention and money from their unlawful conduct.”
During an April White House press conference, Melania Trump publicly denied any connection to Epstein, stating, “The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today.” She said she never visited his private island, never flew on his aircraft, and had no knowledge of his criminal activities.
What Comes Next
The dismissal clears the path for Melania Trump to file her own defamation lawsuit if she pursues the matter through normal legal procedures. Wolff has maintained he never accused the first lady of criminal conduct involving Epstein.
The Daily Beast previously retracted an article based on Wolff’s interview following legal objections from Brito, and the controversy drew bipartisan congressional attention regarding victims’ rights and deepfakes.
This story has been updated. CNN’s legal affairs unit contributed to this report.
