The latest investigation into Donald Trump reignites old allegations while he maintains a firm stance of denial.
At a Glance
- At least 18 women have accused Donald Trump of inappropriate behavior, including sexual harassment or assault.
- Trump denies the allegations, calling them “lies” and “textbook fake news.”
- Trump was found liable for sexual abuse and defamation against writer E. Jean Carroll, with damages totaling over $88 million.
- Democrats allege new instances of misconduct, accused of reviving past political disputes.
Democrats Renew Allegations Against Trump
Democrats have launched a fresh investigation into former President Donald Trump, focusing on new allegations of his misconduct. At the center of the inquiry are claims that have come to light through media reports, some recounting instances that occurred well before or during Trump’s first presidential campaign.
Trump has categorically denied these new allegations, branding them “textbook fake news”. The former President and his allies argue that these accusations are merely attempts to damage his public image and political influence.
Trump’s denials are consistent with his previous responses to such accusations. At least 18 women have accused him of inappropriate behavior, ranging from sexual harassment to assault. Most of these accusations surfaced before or during his first presidential campaign.
NEW: President Trump responds to sexual assault allegations by E. Jean Carroll, saying `I've never met this person in my life' pic.twitter.com/qAyFStIYzq
— Laura Litvan (@LauraLitvan) June 21, 2019
High-Profile Allegations and Court Findings
Among the accusers is Amy Dorris, a former model who alleges Trump forcibly kissed and groped her at the 1997 U.S. Open. However, Trump’s legal teams have consistently labeled the women making these claims as liars.
“False accusations” he has faced, stating, “I mean, they made false statements about me, knowing they were false. I never met them. I never met these people. And, what did they do? What did they do? They took money in order to say bad things,” Trump said in a press conference.
In June 2019, writer E. Jean Carroll alleged Trump raped her in a department store dressing room in the mid-1990s. On May 9, 2023, a New York jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation against Carroll, ordering him to pay $5 million in damages. Judge Kaplan clarified in July 2023 that the jury found Trump had raped Carroll according to the common definition, and in September 2023, a partial summary judgment again found Trump liable for defaming Carroll. On January 26, 2024, he was ordered to pay Carroll an additional $83.3 million.
NEW: President Trump responds to sexual assault allegations by E. Jean Carroll, saying `I've never met this person in my life' pic.twitter.com/qAyFStIYzq
— Laura Litvan (@LauraLitvan) June 21, 2019
Broader Implications
The investigation does not only revamp past accusations but also scrutinizes more recent alleged behavior. A leaked 2005 tape revealed Trump bragging about grabbing women’s genitals. This tape, dubbed the Access Hollywood tape, initially drew condemnation from many Republican politicians, but several later continued to support Trump.
These revived accusations come amid a time when Trump remains embroiled in multiple legal issues. In addition to new charges, he faces accusations of mishandling classified materials and obstruction of justice. Notwithstanding, he continues to lead the Republican presidential nomination race and has vowed to continue his 2024 campaign, even if found guilty and sentenced. Trump’s denials and claims of conspiracy continue to keep his base rallied.
Sources
1. List of Trump’s accusers and their allegations of sexual misconduct
