ABC News Revises Report on Trump Sons’ Business Dealings

ABC News republished a modified version of a report on Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump’s business investments that faced accuracy criticism. Originally, the report had scrutinized the financial activities linked to the Trump sons and was removed shortly after its initial release.

The first report was published under the headline “Trump sons’ investments have won billions in Pentagon contracts since his election.” It was removed within 24 hours, lacking a public explanation. The revised article returned to ABC News’ website with an updated headline: “New shipyard announced amid earlier Democratic concerns about potential conflicts of interest.”

The editor’s note addressed inaccuracies in the report regarding company investments, government contracts, and event chronology. It stated, Editor’s Note: CORRECTION: A version of this story published on Oct. 7 contained errors in the description of certain company investments, government contracts and event chronologies. After subsequent reporting, this version contains corrected information and additional context regarding some of those investments, contracts and events.

Public criticism regarding the premature removal of the report included voices from media figures demanding accountability. Among them was Alexa Henning, spokesperson for 1789 Capital, disputing the original report’s portrayal of investment stakes. Henning clarified that 1789 Capital does not have a ‘major stake’ in Anduril and elaborated on the distinction between raising funds and investment.

The initial article misattributed a $2.5 billion investment in Anduril to 1789 Capital; the corrected version clarified this sum as the total funding Anduril raised last year. It also adjusted the assertion that Trump Jr. was part of a committee managing investments.

Trump Jr.’s response included social media posts mocking certain public figures and challenging the article’s veracity. Additionally, Bill Ackman from Pershing Square Capital Management took to social media to insist on journalistic accountability.

Both ABC News and relevant parties like Trump Jr. and 1789 Capital were contacted by Fox News Digital for comments on the situation.

Julia Bonavita, a media writer for Fox News Digital, encouraged public engagement through her social media platforms and email.