The Grill Room Paramount’s Settlement Math & Murdoch’s Trump-Era Journal
Jul 8, 2025
Josh Dawsey, a Wall Street Journal reporter focusing on the White House and co-author of a book on the 2024 election, joins the discussion. He unpacks the surprising $16 million settlement between Trump and Paramount, a significant shift from Trump's initial $100 million demand. Dawsey also explores the Democrats' strategic challenges as they face Trump's looming influence, and delves into the contrasting media dynamics surrounding the Biden campaign versus Trump. It's a revealing look at the intertwining of politics and media as the 2024 election approaches.
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Paramount-Trump Settlement Dynamics
- The Paramount-Trump settlement was driven by Paramount's desire to get a merger approved by the government.
- Trump leveraged his control over regulatory approvals to extract a significant settlement despite shaky legal grounds.
Changing Corporate Pushback on Trump
- Trump's influence in corporate America has waned, but many still fear retaliation and avoid provocation.
- Over time, companies became less willing to meet his initial high monetary demands in settlements.
Dispute Over Deal Details
- Trump settled for $16 million but claims additional advertising commitments are part of the deal.
- Paramount denies any agreement about public service announcements favoring Trump.