Key takeaways

• Judge rejects Mike Lindell’s bid to dismiss Smartmatic defamation case
• Court finds Lindell’s claims about election machines false
• Trial will determine if Lindell acted with malice and what damages apply
• Lindell is also weighing a run against Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz

Mike Lindell faces a major setback in court. A judge denied his attempt to end Smartmatic’s defamation lawsuit. Now, Lindell will go to trial over his claims that voting machines stole the 2020 election. Meanwhile, he teases a possible run against Minnesota’s governor.

Court Blocks Mike Lindell’s Dismissal Attempt

U.S. District Judge Jeffrey M. Bryan delivered the ruling. Bryan is a Biden appointee. He wrote that Lindell’s statements about Smartmatic are “sufficiently factual” to support a defamation claim. In other words, the court sees those claims as more than mere opinion.

The judge ruled that no reasonable person could see Lindell’s claims as true. Therefore, Smartmatic’s motion for partial summary judgment succeeds. Only the issues of actual malice and damages remain for trial. Lindell must now defend his statements in open court.

Trial Will Focus on Malice and Damages

Even though the court found Lindell’s statements false, trial won’t be just a formality. Smartmatic must still prove Lindell acted with actual malice. That means the company must show Lindell knew the claims were false or showed reckless disregard for the truth.

Next, the jury will decide what damages Lindell should pay if Smartmatic wins. Damages could cover harm to Smartmatic’s reputation and any financial losses. Lindell may point to his belief in the claims and his lack of intent to harm. Yet, proving absence of malice is a high hurdle.

Understanding the Defamation Claim

Defamation law protects people and companies from false statements that injure their reputation. For public figures, like Mike Lindell, plaintiffs must prove actual malice. In this case, Smartmatic says Lindell spread lies about its voting machines.

Smartmatic’s lawyers argued that Lindell built his claims on shaky evidence and conspiracy theories. The court agreed they were not just opinions. Instead, the statements made factual assertions. Consequently, those assertions are legally “actionable” and can support a defamation suit.

Judge Bryan noted that Lindell offered no proof for his broad claims. He also pointed to Lindell’s own public statements, videos, and interviews. The judge found them inconsistent and unsupported by facts. Thus, he ruled Smartmatic met the key elements for partial summary judgment.

Lindell’s Next Moves

Despite this loss, Mike Lindell remains defiant. He said he will keep fighting to clear his name. Moreover, Lindell floats a challenge to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. In a recent interview, Lindell told a local paper he is “about 99%” ready to run.

Lindell hopes his legal fight will boost his political profile. He often frames himself as a truth-teller battling powerful interests. Yet, the defamation case could hamper those ambitions. Ongoing litigation and possible financial penalties may distract him from campaign efforts.

In addition, Lindell has hinted at new evidence supporting his claims about election fraud. However, he has yet to produce such proof in court. As a result, his legal team faces a tough road ahead to counter Smartmatic’s allegations.

What This Means for Lindell’s Business

MyPillow, Mike Lindell’s company, could feel the backlash too. Negative headlines may hurt sales and partnerships. Some retailers have already distanced themselves from Lindell after his post-election claims.

On the other hand, Lindell’s supporters may rally around him. They see the lawsuit as part of a broader attack on free speech. If Lindell spins this narrative well, he might turn legal trouble into a rallying cry for his base.

Still, any damage award could strain MyPillow’s finances. High legal bills and potential payouts could hit the bottom line. Therefore, the company must weigh its next steps carefully.

The Road Ahead

Eventually, Lindell’s case will go before a jury. Both sides will present evidence on whether he acted maliciously. Then, jurors will decide on any damages. That process could take months or longer, depending on court schedules.

In the meantime, Smartmatic will keep preparing its case. The company aims to show Lindell’s claims harmed its business. Meanwhile, Lindell will push back by claiming he believed in his own research and expert testimony.

As this legal saga unfolds, it will attract national attention. The outcome could shape how courts handle high-profile defamation cases. It may also influence future lawsuits against political commentators and media personalities.

Key Takeaways for Readers

If you follow this case, watch for new evidence from both sides. Notice how the court defines “actual malice” in practical terms. Also, keep an eye on Lindell’s possible campaign against Gov. Walz. His political plans and legal fight could intertwine.

Overall, this ruling marks a major hurdle for Mike Lindell. He must now defend his statements in court or face financial risks. Yet, Lindell’s determination suggests this battle is far from over.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the court decide in Lindell’s case?

The court granted Smartmatic’s motion for partial summary judgment. It found Lindell’s statements false and actionable. Only malice and damages remain for trial.

What does “actual malice” mean here?

Actual malice means Lindell must have known his claims were false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth.

How could this trial affect Lindell’s business?

Negative publicity could hurt MyPillow sales. Legal costs and damages might also strain the company’s finances.

Is Lindell still planning to challenge Gov. Walz?

Yes. Lindell told a local paper he is almost ready to run against Minnesota’s governor. However, his pending trial could complicate those plans.