Idaho Blogger Appeals Defamation Verdict Against Drag Performer

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A conservative Idaho blogger named Samantha Bushnell, who owns the far-right blog 'The Bushnell Report', is asking the Idaho Supreme Court to overturn a defamation verdict against her. In 2022, Bushnell had accused local drag performer Eric Posey of exposing his genitals to children during Coeur d'Alene's Pride in the Park event, but Bushnell claims she 'did not have any malice' and that the damages awarded to Posey were 'inflated' and the jury's findings were 'faulty'.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between conservative activists and LGBTQ+ communities, especially around issues of drag performance and children. It also raises questions about the limits of free speech, the responsibilities of online publishers, and the ability of marginalized groups to seek legal recourse for defamation.

The details

In 2022, Bushnell published a video of Posey performing at the Pride in the Park event in Coeur d'Alene and implied that he had exposed himself to children. Posey subsequently sued Bushnell for defamation, and a jury awarded him damages. Now, Bushnell is appealing the verdict, claiming the damages were excessive and the jury's findings were flawed.

• In 2022, Bushnell published a video of Posey performing at the Pride in the Park event in Coeur d'Alene and made defamatory claims.
• Later in 2022, Posey sued Bushnell for defamation.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Idaho Supreme Court will decide whether to uphold or overturn the defamation verdict against Bushnell.