Demonstrators Sue Media Personality for Defamation

Demonstrators gathered within a designated “free speech zone” near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility on October 31, 2025, in Broadview, Illinois. The focus is now on a defamation lawsuit filed against Benny Johnson, a pro-Trump media figure. Protesters claim Johnson falsely accused them of being “left-wing terrorists” who assaulted federal officers.

One of the plaintiffs, Kyle Frankovich, was unfamiliar with Johnson until the podcaster posted a video depicting Frankovich and others detained outside the ICE facility. Johnson’s video stated, “These individuals assaulted ICE officers as they were trying to clear out the area.” However, the lawsuit maintains that Johnson knew these claims were false.

Frankovich, a data scientist with Harvard University, was in a designated protest area, observing and recording the ICE agents when he was arrested. His co-plaintiff, Maureen Foody, a court reporter, was also detained and later released without charges. Images of Frankovich with zip-tied hands became part of U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement recruiting materials.

The lawsuit explains the impact of being labeled as terrorists in Johnson’s videos. Frankovich and Foody live with fears of violent attacks and potential professional repercussions. Frankovich has taken precautions like making his social media private and using a Google service to monitor personal information leaks online.

Johnson, who has millions of social media followers, filmed the videos while embedded with then-Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Border Patrol Commander-at-Large Gregory Bovino. Despite requests for comment, Johnson has not responded.

Rachel Goodman, special counsel with Protect Democracy, comments on this pattern of controlling the information environment. While not directly involved in the lawsuit, she notes that federal officials often work with influencers to spread propaganda aligned with administration goals. Goodman highlights the impact such strategies have on undermining nonpartisan journalism and controlling narratives.