Trump sues New York Times for libel over Russia 'conspiracy' op-ed

Additionally, the campaign pointed out, the author of the disputed piece, Max Frankel, previously "described himself in an interview as 'a Democrat with a vengeance.'" Frankel was the executive editor of the Times from 1986 to 1994."The Times thus published the statements at issue knowing that they were false at the time of publication, or at the very least, published them with reckless disregard for the truth," the lawsuit states.NEW ANTI-TRUMP RUSSIAN 'BOMBSHELL' FIZZLES -- NOW THEY'RE SAYING RUSSIA WANTS BERNIE TO WINThe lawsuit came as fears of Russian intervention have gripped the 2020 presidential race following an unverified report by The Times and CNN that Russia wanted to help Trump, which CNN has since walked back.Contrary to those and recent media reports, there is no evidence to suggest that Russia is making a specific "play" to boost Trump's reelection bid, a U.S. intelligence official told Fox News on Sunday.In addition, top U.S. election official Shelby Pierson, who briefed Congress on Russian election interference efforts, may have overstated intelligence regarding the issue when speaking to the House Intelligence Committee earlier this month, the source added.The Wall Street Journal reported last week, citing people familiar with her work, that Pierson "has a reputation for being injudicious with her words and not appreciating the delicate work of corralling federal agencies, technology firms and state election officials to collaborate on election security."Get all the stories you need-to-know from the most powerful name in news delivered first thing every morning to your inboxSubscribedYou've successfully subscribed to this newsletter!This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.