The Daily The $2.7 Billion Case Against Fox News
Feb 5, 2021
Erik Connelly, a defamation law expert, represents Smartmatic in their landmark $2.7 billion lawsuit against Fox News. He discusses the astonishing claims of misinformation that have damaged Smartmatic's reputation. Connelly details how false narratives surrounding the 2020 election turned the company into a scapegoat. The conversation highlights the broader implications of disinformation in media, the financial toll of reputational damage, and the urgent need for accountability in journalism.
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Smartmatic's Origin
- Antonio Mugica, Smartmatic's CEO, founded the company after witnessing the 2000 Bush v. Gore recount in Florida.
- Initially focused on digital security for banks, Smartmatic pivoted to election technology, becoming a leading provider by 2005.
False Accusations Emerge
- Following the 2020 US election, Rudy Giuliani publicly accused Smartmatic of involvement in election fraud.
- These claims, amplified by Fox News, linked Smartmatic to vote-flipping and foreign interference, despite the company's limited role in the election.
Misinformation Spreads
- Despite Smartmatic's minimal involvement in the 2020 election (only L.A. County), Fox News continued to spread misinformation.
- Anchors and guests like Sidney Powell echoed Giuliani's accusations, escalating the conspiracy theories.