ABC News could face serious repercussions as 1789 Capital, a venture capital firm, considers legal action over a disputed report concerning the Trump family. We still have our attorneys completely plugged into this
, said Alexa Henning, 1789 Capital spokesperson, highlighting the firm’s determination to pursue potential legal avenues. We’re gonna keep calling them out and make sure that people know the truth
, Henning emphasized.
Legal Considerations and Claims
The potential lawsuit stems from ABC News’ decision to retract and later amend an investigative report on investments allegedly linked to Donald Trump’s sons, Eric and Donald Jr. The original piece, which faced backlash, wrongly stated that 1789 Capital, where Trump Jr. is a partner, invested $2.5 billion in defense contractor Anduril Industries. In reality, 1789 Capital’s investment was closer to $50 million, aligning with Anduril’s larger fundraising goals.
Media Industry Reaction
ABC News faced criticism after it quietly republished the revised article, correcting multiple errors regarding investments and government contracts. The revised story did not include an explicit apology or detail the original mistakes, prompting Henning to argue for a more honest clarification from ABC to its audience. The initial incorrect report gained traction online, shared by notable figures such as California Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Historical Context and Ongoing Issues
Henning highlighted a history of perceived bias against the Trump family in ABC’s reporting, citing a prior $16 million settlement Trump agreed to in 2024 relating to defamation claims. ABC News did not seek 1789 Capital’s input before publishing the original report, and the journalist responsible defended the report until its abrupt removal.
Calls for Investigation and Internal Acknowledgment
Sen. Bernie Moreno has urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding ABC’s reporting error. Henning attributes the mistake to a mix of carelessness and a desire to criticize the Trump family. She noted feedback from ABC insiders who privately acknowledged the severity of the error.
Legal communication between 1789 Capital’s lawyers and ABC, including ABC’s parent company Disney, is ongoing as the firm considers its options. ABC News has yet to respond to requests for comment.