Murdoch is “widely known for having a hands-on approach over editorial decisions related to News Corp’s periodicals”, it says.
It goes on to say that Murdoch’s direct involvement “further underscores [the] defendants’ actual malice and intent behind the decision to publish the false, defamatory, disparaging, and inflammatory statements about President Trump”.
The lawyers also note Murdoch’s age and reported health issues. They cite a story by the UK Telegraph that reported he collapsed during a breakfast with News UK chief executive Rebekah Brooks in London in 2023 – among other recent ailments.
“Murdoch’s age and health warrant conducting his deposition on an expedited basis,” the lawyers argue. “[He] recently turned 94 years old and has suffered, but thankfully overcome, multiple health issues throughout his life.
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“Moreover, upon information and belief, Murdoch resides in New York, New York, which is well over 100 miles from this district. Thus, it is presumable, both because of his age and health and/or his distance from this court, that Murdoch will be unavailable for trial.”
Dow Jones, the News Corp subsidiary that publishes the Journal, was contacted for comment. The company has previously said it has full confidence in the rigour and accuracy of the story and will vigorously defend any lawsuit.
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