Federal judge allows defamation lawsuit against California attorney general over ExxonMobil remarks

A federal judge in Texas has permitted ExxonMobil to proceed with a defamation lawsuit against California Attorney General Rob Bonta concerning his public statements about the company’s plastic recycling initiatives. Judge Michael J. Truncale ruled that Bonta could not claim official immunity, particularly regarding a campaign email sent to Texas residents. The lawsuit stems from Bonta’s September 2024 suit against Exxon, alleging the company misled consumers about plastic recycling rates, claiming less than 5% of plastic is effectively recycled. Exxon counters that the issue lies with California’s recycling infrastructure and that Bonta’s statements harmed their business prospects.

The judge dismissed the lawsuit against environmental groups but allowed it to continue against Bonta individually, citing a campaign contribution link within the email as evidence it was a campaign promotion, not an official communication. The email stated, “Exxon Mobil knew, and Exxon Mobil lied,” which the judge found actionable. Bonta’s office has filed a notice of appeal, stating he will “vigorously litigate this case” and continue his lawsuit against ExxonMobil. ExxonMobil responded by stating that the “campaign of lies designed to derail our advanced recycling business must stop.”

(Source：East Bay Times)