NEW YORK — A federal judge on Friday dismissed author Michael Wolff’s lawsuit against first lady Melania Trump, ruling that his effort to block a potential defamation suit over comments linking her to Jeffrey Epstein was not a proper use of the courts.
U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil in Manhattan threw out the case, describing Wolff’s action as a “contorted” attempt to prevent Melania Trump from suing him for $1 billion.
The judge, appointed by President Donald Trump, said both sides had engaged in an “inappropriate level of tactical gamesmanship” and that she would not oversee what she called an “abusively presented spat.”
Wolff had filed the preemptive lawsuit after Melania Trump’s lawyers sent a cease-and-desist letter threatening legal action. The dispute stems from statements Wolff made in 2025 discussing Melania Trump’s past social connections to Epstein. Wolff has maintained he never accused her of involvement in any crimes.
Melania Trump’s representatives welcomed the ruling. The first lady has denied any improper ties to Epstein and previously called for congressional hearings on the matter.
Details of the exact comments that prompted the threat remain a point of contention between the parties. The dismissal was issued without prejudice, meaning Wolff could potentially refile in another jurisdiction.
Legal observers noted the case involved complex procedural questions, including anti-SLAPP considerations, though the judge ruled the matter should proceed through standard litigation channels if either party chooses to pursue it further.
In her ruling, Judge Vyskocil acknowledged that a real dispute exists between the parties but emphasized they “must litigate it according to the same procedures as everyone else.”
The decision came after months of legal maneuvering in federal court in the Southern District of New York. Wolff’s team has indicated the legal battle is not over.
As of Saturday, no immediate appeal or new filing had been announced by either side.
