Favre’s Defamation Lawsuit Against Mississippi Auditor Advances
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre’s defamation lawsuit against Mississippi Auditor Shad White will proceed, following the Mississippi Supreme Court’s recent denial of White’s request for dismissal. This ruling stems from statements made during White’s commentary on a welfare scandal involving Favre.
In March, White sought to overturn a decision by Hinds County Circuit Judge Debra Gibbs, who rejected his initial dismissal plea. White’s office released a statement declaring the lawsuit "ridiculous and frivolous," asserting that it threatens crucial First Amendment rights and may deter public officials from performing their duties.
Favre filed the lawsuit in 2023, claiming White falsely accused him of misappropriating taxpayer funds during media interviews and in his forthcoming book, Mississippi Swindle: Brett Favre and the Welfare Scandal that Shocked America. The case centers around allegations related to misused funds from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, with Favre among over three dozen individuals being sued by the state to reclaim misallocated welfare money. A significant portion of these funds was allegedly used to finance a $5 million volleyball facility at the University of Southern Mississippi, Favre’s alma mater, where his daughter competed.
Although Favre has repaid $1.1 million, White maintains that Favre still owes approximately $730,000 in interest. Favre, who has not faced any criminal charges regarding the scandal, denies any wrongdoing, asserting he was unaware the funds were intended for welfare recipients.
With the lawsuit now returning to Hinds County Circuit Court, the focus remains on the implications for both Favre and White as the case unfolds. The Associated Press has reached out for further comment from White’s office.
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