
CNN anchor Jake Tapper is facing serious allegations after being caught contradicting his own sworn testimony during a billion-dollar defamation lawsuit. The lawsuit, brought by U.S. Navy veteran Zachary Young, accuses CNN of falsely portraying him as profiting illegally from helping Afghans escape the country following the Biden administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. The damaging report aired on The Lead with Jake Tapper in November 2021.
During his deposition, Tapper claimed, “I do not pay attention to the Nielsen ratings.” However, Tapper’s own social media history paints a very different picture. Multiple posts on his X account, formerly Twitter, show Tapper celebrating his show’s ratings. In March 2024, Tapper publicly boasted about his CNN special having the highest ratings in its key demographic, directly contradicting his sworn statement.
The contradiction has sparked accusations that Tapper committed perjury, a federal crime that involves knowingly making false statements under oath. According to the Department of Justice, perjury carries severe penalties, and Tapper’s conflicting statements are drawing significant legal attention.
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
Young’s lawsuit claims that CNN falsely implied he was involved in black market dealings, severely damaging his professional reputation. The report, aired during Tapper’s show, suggested Young profited from Afghans seeking safety after the chaotic military exit. Tapper introduced the segment by warning viewers about people “preying” on desperate Afghans.
Jake Tapper Seemingly Lies in Deposition Testimony for Defamation Case https://t.co/IOrFCTMKrs
— MRC NewsBusters (@newsbusters) January 16, 2025
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
Adding to CNN’s troubles, evidence has surfaced showing that Tapper frequently engages with ratings data despite his denial. Tapper’s public criticism of President Donald Trump and the January 6 protests has long cast doubts on his objectivity, and now his own honesty is being questioned.
What’s new? Jake Tapper lies all the time.
— Ardwick (@Ardwick_76) January 15, 2025
Neither Tapper nor CNN has publicly responded to the growing controversy. The trial is ongoing, and Tapper’s credibility is under intense scrutiny as more evidence emerges.