E. Jean Carroll recently had a million reasons to celebrate. Not only did she emerge victorious in her legal battle against former President Donald Trump, but she also secured a historic $83 million win. To mark this momentous occasion, Carroll was seen toasting her success at a trendy Lower East Side bar, Flower Shop, during a media party. The event was hosted by prominent MSNBC journalist Molly Jong-Fast and Noah Shachtman, the editor-in-chief of Rolling Stone. It was a star-studded affair, with notable personalities like Lawrence O’Donnell and Kurt Andersen in attendance.
While the gathering was predominantly a media event, Carroll undeniably stole the spotlight. Guests flocked around her, eager to snap selfies and show their admiration for her as an “icon.” The former “Ask E. Jean” columnist, accompanied by her longtime friend Lisa Birnbach, author of the ’80s bestseller “The Official Preppy Handbook,” basked in the revelry. Carroll’s presence exuded jubilation and vindication, as she reveled in the jury’s award of $83 million. Witnesses recount her wearing a bold green khaki flight suit, giving her a heroic aura. The triumph of women was palpable in the air, with Carroll’s victory further symbolizing empowerment and success.
Carroll’s monumental win not only delivered financial compensation but also gave her a platform to share her plans for the future. During an interview on MSNBC with Rachel Maddow, Carroll humorously mentioned splurging on a new wardrobe and inviting Maddow along for an extravagant shopping spree. In jest, she even extended offers of penthouses and fishing trips to Maddow, playfully teasing about how the newfound fortune could change their lives. Despite the lighthearted moment, Carroll’s lawyer, Shawn Crowley, quickly clarified it as a joke, dampening any potential misconceptions.
Lisa Birnbach, who accompanied Carroll to the media party, played an essential role in Carroll’s civil action against Trump. Birnbach testified about a phone call she received from Carroll in 1996, where Carroll disclosed Trump’s alleged rape in the changing room of Bergdorf Goodman. Her testimony further reinforced Carroll’s claims and provided crucial evidence for the case. In the recent trial, Carroll was awarded a staggering $83 million for defamation, while Trump was ordered to pay $65 million in punitive damages, $11 million in reputational damages, and $7.3 million in emotional damages, according to the jury’s ruling. Although the jury had previously cleared Trump of a rape claim, Judge Lewis Kaplan deemed Carroll’s testimony that Trump “raped” her as “substantially true” in the context of contemporary understanding of rape.
The verdict in Carroll’s favor represents more than just a personal triumph. She views it as a triumph for all women who find the strength to rise after being knocked down and a resounding defeat for bullies who try to suppress them. The colossal sum awarded to Carroll sends a clear message that defamatory actions will not go unpunished. However, Trump remained defiant, expressing his complete disagreement with both verdicts and announcing his intention to appeal. His social media post referred to the legal proceedings as a “Biden Directed Witch Hunt.”
As news of Carroll’s plans to share her windfall emerged, it garnered varied reactions from public figures. Former Fox News anchor and NBC host Megyn Kelly criticized Carroll’s decision, predicting that it could potentially benefit Trump’s reelection campaign. Kelly expressed her concerns on her X account, suggesting that Carroll’s actions might inadvertently work in favor of Trump.
E. Jean Carroll’s $83 million victory against Donald Trump marks a significant milestone in her legal battle. The celebratory atmosphere at the media party, attended by notable personalities, reflected the recognition of Carroll’s courage and determination. This historic win not only provides financial restitution but also serves as an inspiration for women who refuse to be silenced. With the appeal process ahead, the impact of Carroll’s triumph resonates far beyond her individual case, reinforcing the importance of justice and accountability.