CNN is pushing back against demands to make its journalistic standards public as part of a defamation case. The cable network is facing a $1 billion lawsuit from Navy veteran Zachary Young, who claims CNN falsely accused him of illegal profiteering during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Unlike other major outlets, CNN has asked the court to keep its internal guidelines sealed. This request comes after the court ordered the network to turn over its standards. In response, CNN argued that the documents were commercially sensitive and that the discovery process had already closed.
Young claims that CNN’s coverage in 2021 destroyed his reputation and hurt his security consulting business, Nemex Enterprises Inc. His lawsuit focuses on a segment aired on CNN’s “The Lead with Jake Tapper,” which he says falsely implied he took advantage of desperate Afghans.
While CNN has been forced to release redacted versions of its guidelines, Young’s attorney, Vel Freedman, argues that even the partial information suggests CNN broke its own rules. Freedman claims that CNN reporters had a predetermined goal to damage Young’s reputation.
The lawsuit could have significant consequences for CNN, as Young’s legal team insists the network acted with “actual malice.” If the court sides with Young, it may result in the public gaining access to CNN’s journalistic standards, which the network is eager to keep private.
The trial continues as CNN fights to protect its internal practices from becoming public knowledge.
