Judge tosses Trump's lawsuit against Des Moines Register

A district judge dismissed an election interference lawsuit filed by President Trump against the Des Moines Register, USA Today Co., and pollster Ann Selzer, ruling that the claims of consumer fraud in a pre-election poll were not a valid legal argument. The judge noted that the First Amendment protects political speech, and thus, the lawsuit's attempt to extend fraud law to shield speech from criticism was beyond the scope of the law.

USA Today Co.'s Chief Legal Counsel praised the decision as a victory for the First Amendment and the role of a free press in American democracy. The case is part of a broader effort by Trump and his administration to sue media outlets for what they believe is unfair coverage, but the courts have generally supported media companies, citing the strength of the First Amendment.