ABC News has agreed to a $15 million settlement with former President Donald Trump, resolving a defamation lawsuit stemming from comments made by George Stephanopoulos on "This Week." The settlement, filed publicly on Saturday, stipulates that the payment will be a charitable contribution to a future Presidential foundation and museum established by or for Trump. ABC News will also cover $1 million in Trump's legal fees.

The lawsuit originated from Stephanopoulos' repeated assertion that Trump was found "liable for rape" during an interview with Rep. Nancy Mace. The jury's verdict, however, found Trump liable for "sexual abuse," a legally distinct term under New York law.

The settlement has drawn criticism from various sources, including liberals who disapprove of ABC's concession and a former ABC News staffer who questions Stephanopoulos' continued high salary amidst declining ratings for "Good Morning America" and his exclusion from moderating ABC's presidential debate. The former staffer criticized Disney CEO Bob Iger for what they perceived as "self-debasing cronyism."

MSNBC’s Jen Psaki commented on the settlement, arguing that Trump uses threats and intimidation tactics to achieve his goals, potentially creating a chilling effect on journalists and public officials. Washington Post media critic Erik Wemple also condemned ABC News' decision, calling it a "low point" and a significant win for Trump.

Puck founding partner Matthew Belloni speculated that Disney CEO Bob Iger might have settled to avoid a contentious public trial with a sitting president or to prevent the release of potentially damaging information during the discovery process. He also noted that some believe ABC News is perceived as biased by Trump and his allies due to aggressive fact-checking during debates and ABC executive Dana Walden's friendship with Vice President Kamala Harris.

NBC News’ Chuck Todd expressed concern about the precedent set by the settlement, suggesting it could embolden future lawsuits against media companies. Despite differing opinions on the potential outcome of the lawsuit had it gone to trial, legal experts have suggested that ABC News likely settled to avoid a potentially embarrassing discovery process. An ABC spokesperson stated they were "pleased" with the agreement.