
CNN’s Jake Tapper is facing major backlash after evidence surfaced suggesting he lied under oath in a defamation lawsuit. U.S. Navy veteran Zachary Young is suing CNN for defamation over a 2021 report that aired on The Lead with Jake Tapper. The segment implied that Young illegally profited by helping Afghans flee Afghanistan following the Biden administration’s botched withdrawal.
In a pre-recorded deposition shown to jurors, Tapper claimed he does not “pay attention to Nielsen ratings.” However, that statement was quickly undermined when Tapper’s own social media activity was brought to light. Posts on his X account reveal that he has regularly celebrated his show’s ratings. In March 2024, Tapper even highlighted that his CNN special led in ratings among key demographics.
Jake Tapper LIED and CNN will have to pay the price for LIES @jaketapper spewed… https://t.co/DPuLanOxHC
— Thomas Prince (@Only1Trickster) January 17, 2025
The clear contradiction between Tapper’s testimony and his public posts has led to allegations that he may have committed perjury. Under federal law, lying under oath is a serious offense that carries significant legal consequences. Tapper’s credibility as a journalist is now being questioned, adding to CNN’s mounting legal troubles.
Jake Tapper Seemingly Lies in Deposition Testimony for Defamation Case https://t.co/IOrFCTMKrs
— MRC NewsBusters (@newsbusters) January 16, 2025
Young alleges that CNN’s reporting portrayed him as being involved in “black market” activities, severely harming his professional reputation. The lawsuit claims that CNN’s coverage was misleading and damaging. Tapper’s role in introducing the report is central to the lawsuit, and his courtroom statements are under intense scrutiny.
CNN defamation trial: Jake Tapper lies under oath, testifies he doesn't 'pay attention to ratings,' online posts say otherwise https://t.co/BjtFmcNc1s #FoxNews
— Smithy (@DamianMSmith) January 15, 2025
Tapper’s past coverage of President Donald Trump and the January 6 protests has long been criticized for its bias. His current legal troubles only add to the perception that Tapper and CNN have struggled with honest reporting.
What’s new? Jake Tapper lies all the time.
— Ardwick (@Ardwick_76) January 15, 2025
As the trial continues, the fallout from Tapper’s testimony could grow. CNN has yet to address the allegations surrounding Tapper’s credibility.