In the picture, yes his arm is behind her back and near her butt. She has enough to handle already! Tours, fans, MUSIC. She doesn't deserve to go through this! He didn't let go after grabbing it. That's just wrong! Taylor Swift does have the right to call this! Mr. Mueller should not have done that! Because of his actions, he was/is going to be publicly humiliated and ect. I can't imagine how Ms. Swift felt when she was told that her daughter was groped. Fans support Taylor Swift and they have a reason too! I believe her! She's gone through a lot and this doesn't need to be another problem,
1
Don't grope. Pretty simple. Do. Not. Grope.
2
As of 5:05 PST, (Variety) Judge just threw out the case. Oh well..she could have won $1.00 and he doesn't get his $3MM...and has lost bigly in the court of public opinion.
2
Taylor Swift has all the publicity she needs. She does not need and/or want this ridiculous situation.She tours frequently and internationally. She has more attention and fans than one could imagine. She has ZERO motivation to single out this "intentional groping" as if it were just a publicity stunt. I mean really, ZERO reason to push this if it weren't bizarrely abusive. For the record: I believe Taylor Swift and I'm not even a fan but I am simply a reasonable person.
11
You do not rule the world Taylor.
1
Bravo girl. Tired of so-called "small" things being pushed aside. It is so important that this sort of behavior is called out, not just ignored or laughed off. Need consequences.
10
I’ve had many conversations with her as I walk her to school,” Mr. Lee said. “I tell her: ‘You’re an alpha. I want you to know how to pull the claws out when you need them. Because you’re going to need them.’”
What a wonderful and empowering lesson to teach his 10 year old daughter.
A superb tag ending.
What a wonderful and empowering lesson to teach his 10 year old daughter.
A superb tag ending.
10
The lesson here is that when this happens there must be consequences. Most often there aren't any, and they do it again.
15
We must teach "gropers" a lesson. And doing it publicly is the best way!
Kudos for you Taylor!
Kudos for you Taylor!
15
You can see the angle of his arm and hand - no doubt about where it is.
Any attempt to deny it is spin and lie.
Any attempt to deny it is spin and lie.
10
It didn't happen the way she says it did. I do not believe her. This is another form of publicity for Taylor Swift, that is all. This case has reasonable doubt it over it.
3
It's not a criminal trial, reasonable doubt has nothing to do with it. Try more likely to be true than not true (which indeed seems to be the case).
7
The photo tells the whole story no matter how his atty tries to spin it. The shocked look on her face, her body language of pulling away form him, and his self-satisfied grin that seems to say "Hey guys...I'm grabbing Taylor Swift's A** right now...look at ME".
And to think he could have just accepted having made a huge mistake (while under the influence) that cost him his job, being fired and moved on...but no he wants to bring the total destruction of his reputation and character by trying to claim that HE is the victim in this encounter. I suspect the jury won't deliberate past lunchtime.
And to think he could have just accepted having made a huge mistake (while under the influence) that cost him his job, being fired and moved on...but no he wants to bring the total destruction of his reputation and character by trying to claim that HE is the victim in this encounter. I suspect the jury won't deliberate past lunchtime.
19
Mueller should have recalled that Swift took on Apple and got them to back down.
He is no match for her.
He is no match for her.
15
Good for you, Taylor Swift, for speaking up! If a woman of Swift's renown can be groped at a photo shoot , then sued for speaking up, what chance do ordinary women have to get justice when they are groped?
This case needs to finish with a strict sentence for the man who is suing for mercenary motives.
This case needs to finish with a strict sentence for the man who is suing for mercenary motives.
19
I'm officially a Swiftie.
I've been groped, flashed, and had reprehensible things shouted at me in both crowded public spaces, and on the street, by myself, with no else as a witness.
It's not just someone "grabbing your ass" and they aren't "just words". These things are traumatic and have long-term psychosocial consequences for the victim. It is a tremendous violation and a threat to a person's agency as a human being.
I don't want to have to look over my shoulder fearful and anxious as I walk home at night; I don't want to have to grip my keys in-between my fingers and prepare myself to react to a possible assailant, but I'm forced to, and it's all because a handful of terrible guys couldn't keep their god-damned hands and words to themselves.
Get him, Taylor.
I've been groped, flashed, and had reprehensible things shouted at me in both crowded public spaces, and on the street, by myself, with no else as a witness.
It's not just someone "grabbing your ass" and they aren't "just words". These things are traumatic and have long-term psychosocial consequences for the victim. It is a tremendous violation and a threat to a person's agency as a human being.
I don't want to have to look over my shoulder fearful and anxious as I walk home at night; I don't want to have to grip my keys in-between my fingers and prepare myself to react to a possible assailant, but I'm forced to, and it's all because a handful of terrible guys couldn't keep their god-damned hands and words to themselves.
Get him, Taylor.
35
Yes! It's harassment at place of work. It prevents us from making a living. All of us, if it's not stopped. A photo shoot is part of a singer's job. Incredibly arrogant man! Who does he think he is?
7
Every woman has been there. Some men just don't realize what it is like to be harassed and sometimes inappropriately touched by a person you don't even know, or would ever want to know. What despicable human beings these slimy predators are. Thank you, Ms. Swift for standing up for women everywhere.
6
President Trump needs to hire Taylor Swift for his legal team as she appears to the only capable of making mincemeat out of someone named Mueller.
She is most definitely a nightmare dressed as a daydream.
She is most definitely a nightmare dressed as a daydream.
7
What a GREAT sign outside the courthouse! Line forms at 6AM! It seems to me that EVERYBODY wants to "profit" from this--except Ms.Swift. She has behaved perfectly throughout this and escalated only in response to the perpetrator's actions. As a sexual assault survivor's advocate I applaud Ms. Swift unreservedly. She lays the blame at the feet of the perpetrator--where it belongs! She did nothing to deserve this and should not have been subjected to it in the first place. When will we teach our sons that this behavior is NOT acceptable?
25
It seems like people want to convict Mueller because Trump is the president. Most of the comments are about Trump and not the Swift/Muller case.
What I ant to know is how Trump managed to land so many gorgeous women. He seems repugnant, but he's slept with more models than I have.
To me the, the Swift/Muller photo is very inconclusive. The main evidence against Mueller seems to be that Trump is president.
I have no idea why Swift would fabricate this. Therefore, I am inclined to believe her, but the photo shows me nothing, and it seems strange that a man would grope a young woman with his wife two feet away.
What I ant to know is how Trump managed to land so many gorgeous women. He seems repugnant, but he's slept with more models than I have.
To me the, the Swift/Muller photo is very inconclusive. The main evidence against Mueller seems to be that Trump is president.
I have no idea why Swift would fabricate this. Therefore, I am inclined to believe her, but the photo shows me nothing, and it seems strange that a man would grope a young woman with his wife two feet away.
Yea, it does seem strange and unfathomable.
It was also strange to me when some guy on a bike rode up behind me, squeezed my butt, and liscentiously whispered in my ear "nice ass baby...", and then turned around and winked. All in front of a school courtyard filled with middle school children. Unbelievable that somebody would do something so awful, right? Alas, they did.
It was also strange to me when some guy on a bike rode up behind me, squeezed my butt, and liscentiously whispered in my ear "nice ass baby...", and then turned around and winked. All in front of a school courtyard filled with middle school children. Unbelievable that somebody would do something so awful, right? Alas, they did.
15
It happens. A car load of young men drove within inches of my bicycle and the passenger reached out and slapped my backside, nearly knocking me off. At a nighttime, outdoor country-Western dance near Yosemite decades ago, a man old enough to be my grandfather asked me to dance; end of the dance, he said not a word, but grabbed and squeezed my breast and then walked away. It happens, yes it does.
8
I'll admit as a baby boomer I know little about her music, but I'm now a fan for her being an excellent example on how to not take abuse!
13
Mr. Mueller refuses to accept the consequences of his actions. Those bad choices got him fired, which he deserved, but it still did not stop him. The fact that Ms. Swift had to pay attorneys to defend her against an act committed by Mr. Mueller is just plain wrong. Court costs and attorneys fees should be awarded to Ms. Swift.
32
I love that Taylor Swift is so adamant that this is all on the perpetrator, not on her. He made the choice to assault her, he made the choice to then sue her for defamation of character and now he'll have to (hopefully) face consequences for the choices he made. I am so glad that we live in an era where increasingly, little by little, we are accepting that blame for sexual assault lies entirely at the feet of the assailant, not the target of his assault.
39
I'm interested to know what evidence was on the three different devices that were "accidentally" destroyed by Mr. Mueller. There is no motivation for Swift to lie about what happened. She didn't make a big stink about it, and just told her mother and security detail what happened. They did the responsible thing and forwarded the information to the guy's employer. It sound like she just wanted to forget it and move on. Mr. Mueller, apparently, changed his version of the story to his employer multiple times, destroyed evidence, and was fired. He then sued her for reporting the incident. Her counter suit is only in response to his frivolous attempt to shake down her down.
22
All this in federal court. What a circus our justice system has become.
3
Loved Mr. Lee's comment to his daughter "You're an alpha"
10
This DJ thought he would be a celebrity and now he is. Just not in the way he had hoped to be.
6
I find it very difficult to believe that a man, with his girlfriend in the same room, would commit such a offense against another woman; especially a well known celebrity. It doesn't make sense. I'm not insinuating that it did not happen, but one has to admit that it is a very bizarre thing to do. I do think too much credit is given to Ms. Swift for speaking out. Had Mr. Mueller not brought suit against Ms. Swift, I highly doubt that you would have heard anything from her.
1
Let me tell you that most of the women I know, including me, have been groped in what you would consider bizarre circumstances—possibly because nothing like it has ever happened to you—and we have, to a one, reacted exactly as Ms. Swift did here. Playing tennis and a guy I barely know smacks me on the butt and makes a sly crack about how he could give me the balls in his pocket, which I am holding out my hand for, or wouldn't I like to go into his pants myself? I am 65 years old the day this happens, and just as I would have done at 15, I decide that I don't want the drama and distraction of making a scene over this. I say nothing, put my anger into my game and whip him that way. Then I give him the stink eye whenever he looks at me for the rest of the season so that he is afraid to speak to me at all.
25
You're "not insinuating"? No, you stated it flat out. Perhaps that's why people like you assume the victims is lying; the scenario doesn't fit with what you've watched on some television crime drama. You need to get educated about sexual assault.
5
"I find it very difficult to believe that a man, with his girlfriend in the same room, would commit such a offense against another woman"
If you had seen all the guys making eyes at you while walking by their wives that I have, you would not think so. Some guys are just sleazebags and will try with you, even if your boyfriend is in the room.
Trying to grope a celebrity may be an attempt to bring her down a notch, especially when it happens in work environment.
If you had seen all the guys making eyes at you while walking by their wives that I have, you would not think so. Some guys are just sleazebags and will try with you, even if your boyfriend is in the room.
Trying to grope a celebrity may be an attempt to bring her down a notch, especially when it happens in work environment.
10
Assume Ms Swift is lying.
Assume Mr. Mueller's hand is behind her, but not touching her.
Would she know where his hand was?
What provoked her to accuse him?
Assume Mr. Mueller's hand is behind her, but not touching her.
Would she know where his hand was?
What provoked her to accuse him?
3
Oh, clearly she's a man-hating social justice warrior who refuses to let men who justly embody the patriarchy to follow their natural instincts.
6
Ridiculous. Social justice warriors rarely get groped. We are too intimidating. :D
I'm laughing, but I'm part serious. If you let your opinions be known loudly about this it has a certain effect. ( I by no means suggest it would be some kind of antidote to all sexual predators) Or like Willian Blake put it: "Always be sure to speak you mind and the base man will avoid you."
On the other hand, I've been asked to solve quite few other people's dilemmas relating to this.
I'm laughing, but I'm part serious. If you let your opinions be known loudly about this it has a certain effect. ( I by no means suggest it would be some kind of antidote to all sexual predators) Or like Willian Blake put it: "Always be sure to speak you mind and the base man will avoid you."
On the other hand, I've been asked to solve quite few other people's dilemmas relating to this.
Based on what I've read so far, logic dictates that he did grope her. There's no reason for her to accuse him of such and for her friends to get him fired otherwise.
That being said, I would also say that he has a decent case for slander. According to the way the law is written in most states, if you're going to defame someone's character, you need concrete proof. The case isn't whether one believes she was groped, but whether one believes there is proof that she was groped. People regularly get away with crimes, sexual and otherwise, because there is no proof that they committed them. While the law may often seem cold and unforgiving to victims of these crimes, this is a vital protection against wrongful imprisonment and civil penalties. As there was no proof to take to the authorities, Taylor's entourage used their clout to seek out vigilante justice, something often done by people of power who feel they have been wronged by those "beneath" them. However, the defendant's lawyer seems to be a bit thick, and appears intent on proving her claims to be false; where he only needs to show that the groping can't be proven true and that her colleagues acted in a vindictive and defamatory manner (whether it would be justified by the groping or not).
The decision by her and her attorneys to file a counter-suit seems especially bold, as the burden of proof will be even higher for her as the plaintiff in an assault and battery case.
That being said, I would also say that he has a decent case for slander. According to the way the law is written in most states, if you're going to defame someone's character, you need concrete proof. The case isn't whether one believes she was groped, but whether one believes there is proof that she was groped. People regularly get away with crimes, sexual and otherwise, because there is no proof that they committed them. While the law may often seem cold and unforgiving to victims of these crimes, this is a vital protection against wrongful imprisonment and civil penalties. As there was no proof to take to the authorities, Taylor's entourage used their clout to seek out vigilante justice, something often done by people of power who feel they have been wronged by those "beneath" them. However, the defendant's lawyer seems to be a bit thick, and appears intent on proving her claims to be false; where he only needs to show that the groping can't be proven true and that her colleagues acted in a vindictive and defamatory manner (whether it would be justified by the groping or not).
The decision by her and her attorneys to file a counter-suit seems especially bold, as the burden of proof will be even higher for her as the plaintiff in an assault and battery case.
3
Did you see the photo? One can easily believe there is proof when one follows the trajectory of that arm.
2
I have no comment about the merits if the case. My comment is about the fawning over a singer, one person suggesting that she should be the president. Swift would be a improvement but come on!
3
She's not 35 yet.
3
What could seem more exotic in Trump's America than a powerful woman who will not wither upon request and who seems to feel that her body belongs to her alone? Kudos to Swift for doing this. This is what feminist looks like.
21
I don't like Taylor Swift or her music. From what I do know - she seems to make a public spectacle or every romantic relationship and its subsequent demise ....even writing songs about the poor guys when she's done with them - how's that for public humiliation that lives on forever ?. While I don't defend the DJ - I hope it's not another overdramatic episode by Ms Swift
4
She obviously has a great publicist. Publicity generates money in the entertainment business. The more time in the tabloids and gossip websites, the greater the bucks that roll in. That's business
2
If someone of Ms Swift's celebrity is not safe from groping, what woman is? Kudos to her for fighting back.
54
It seems when most people testify in their own defense, the deck is stacked against them. Either the opposing lawyer will badger someone into submission, or the judge will tamp down some animated responses by saying, "just answer the question."
This story is refreshing in that Taylor Swift gave no quarter to this often demeaning process.
This story is refreshing in that Taylor Swift gave no quarter to this often demeaning process.
41
Not sure why other women have not stepped forward to also say they were groped by Mueller. Was this just a one time grope?
1
Good for her, no matter what the jury's decision, she will have provided a very valuable lesson to many women to stand up for themselves. However, why is it that it seems so easy to believe her story and yet vilify 15 other women with similar claims and, instead, believe a pathalogical liar President when he denies being a sexual predator after bragging about it?
11
I don't believe Trump. I believe his accusers, including the woman who says he raped her when she was 13 years old. IMO he should be sitting in jail, not the Oval office.
9
Mueller admitted to having touched Swift's ribs; why would that be OK? What was his hand doing inside her dress?
1
Most likely for the rest of this pathetic guy's life he will blame Ms. Swift for the poor life he will lead.
These men certainly don't think much about how their destructive, unwanted sexual actions affect and destroy women's lives.
He must face the music here. What a complete, selfish moron.
These men certainly don't think much about how their destructive, unwanted sexual actions affect and destroy women's lives.
He must face the music here. What a complete, selfish moron.
15
i was on a bus once when a man touched me inappropriately. Right after it happened i spun around and came face to face with him. he was smirking and as i looked around i realized that the only person who might be able to help me was another woman next to me who saw what happened. ultimately i decided to take a photo of him and when i did, he covered his face and got off at the next stop. looking back now, i wish i did more. i wish i screamed until my lungs gave out, no matter who stared. i wished the woman said something, anything. i wish i was scared and shamed because some one sexually assaulted me.
12
I just hope that now all the young women who have been groped in the past by 'our dear leader' DJT, will come forward after seeing the good example Ms Swift has sent to young women everywhere. Brava Taylor!!
8
I wonder what the reaction would have been if he had accused her of groping him. Probably laughter because people think this can't happen to men.
Ms. Swift continues to be a role model. I love how she is using her confidence and her words to handle this. That man clearly thinks he was entitled to grope Ms. Swift and get away with it. Let this be a lesson to all. Do not touch women without their consent. Women, don't let men get away with it.
10
I'm grateful to Taylor Swift for pursuing this, and for her strength and courage in court. I was once groped while sitting in a corporate meeting. I was the only woman and we were sitting around a table. The man on my right reached under the table and slid his hand up my skirt. I was shocked and moved away while keeping a sense of normality. Somehow I had always thought if anything like that happened to me I would scream bloody murder right then and there. In my shock, I did not. I never mentioned it to anyone at work. That night I realized I truly needed this job, so I kept silent. Bless you Taylor Swift for doing this. I am grateful, and I'm glad you are showing young girls and women the way to do things!
19
Reach down, grab his hand, DO NOT LET GO OR LET HIM LOOSE, hold it up, and announce, ":Who's hand is this?" or "Why is this under my dress?"
Explain why if you are asked. Most won't need to be told.
Or break his nose. A man would, why not a woman?
Explain why if you are asked. Most won't need to be told.
Or break his nose. A man would, why not a woman?
7
So sorry that you went through that in silence, but hope your letter will convince some other female to scream out if put in a similar situation. Every encouraging voice helps
5
Judging from the photo, if Mueller was touching Swift's ribs, she must be the only human whose ribcage extends below her hips.
7
Surprise - Swift's photographer and support team all testify in her behalf. Not a good idea to testify against your money person & the boss. In our extremely over sexualized society & the entertainment field we have very intelligent, attractive, talented, and "sexy" young lady who claims she was touched inappropriately.
She claims radio host was behaving like he was drinking - he says hadn't drank at all... any bar tenders serve him booze?
Women have been treated terribly by men & overly sexualized in our society & in history. Swift has exploited her looks and sexuality (& singing skills) to make a fortune). Heck... a sticky wicket
She claims radio host was behaving like he was drinking - he says hadn't drank at all... any bar tenders serve him booze?
Women have been treated terribly by men & overly sexualized in our society & in history. Swift has exploited her looks and sexuality (& singing skills) to make a fortune). Heck... a sticky wicket
1
Whatta waste of time. Ms. Swift, when this man groped your rear end, if you didn't enjoy it, you should have slapped or kicked him then and there. But you didn't, so you lost your chance. And you haven't been harmed, have you? No bruises, scratches. Move on.
She tried to move on but then he sued her. She's supposed to pay damages to him???admire her for testifying in court
9
Hang on, you do realize that this went to trial because HE is suing HER? She told her mom, her security detail, and his employer, and then the creep got fired. And it's also explained that she didn't make a scene because she didn't want to ruin her fans' experience. Plus, a lot of women are so shocked when something like this happens that they completely freeze up--I don't think this means that creeps should get away with groping people.
I totally agree that this is a waste of time, but put the blame where it belongs. This is a guy who groped a celebrity's ass because he thought he could get away with it, and when he didn't he threw a hissy fit and tried to sue to get a pay out. This is 10000% on Mueller.
I totally agree that this is a waste of time, but put the blame where it belongs. This is a guy who groped a celebrity's ass because he thought he could get away with it, and when he didn't he threw a hissy fit and tried to sue to get a pay out. This is 10000% on Mueller.
6
Very bad advice to tell a person to assault another. The way things are going, the man will feign innocense and sue you for it!
Screaming or removing from yourself from the place is better advice.
I sure would not take the chance of slapping a man twice my size. This is what is wrong with Trump's "they let you" line of thinking. The woman cannot in clear thinking initiate a fysical altercation with a man. Not unless she's the wonder woman or can expect help from someone else. Therefore she doesn't "let you" ; she has no choice.
Screaming or removing from yourself from the place is better advice.
I sure would not take the chance of slapping a man twice my size. This is what is wrong with Trump's "they let you" line of thinking. The woman cannot in clear thinking initiate a fysical altercation with a man. Not unless she's the wonder woman or can expect help from someone else. Therefore she doesn't "let you" ; she has no choice.
2
Taylor Swift has a history of speaking the truth with remarkable force.
Remember, it was Swift who called out Apple on their ridiculous proposal that musicians should give their music away during the early weeks of Apple's new download service. She wrote: "We don't ask you for free iPhones, why would you ask us for free music?" Apple withdrew their idea within a day.
I'm loving this woman's intelligence and courage. Taylor Swift for president!
Remember, it was Swift who called out Apple on their ridiculous proposal that musicians should give their music away during the early weeks of Apple's new download service. She wrote: "We don't ask you for free iPhones, why would you ask us for free music?" Apple withdrew their idea within a day.
I'm loving this woman's intelligence and courage. Taylor Swift for president!
40
She is smart, no doubt, but the Apple and YouTube strategies were thought up by her Label Boss, Scott B. He did a whole interview with Billboard that clarified he called her about it and had her release a statement the next day condemning Apple. I think her strategies thought up by a team are overlooked because their payday is carried on the public persona that she is God-like in business issues, women's issues, and music.
4
We should all keep our hands off of anyone else's bottoms unless explicitly invited to touch. Well done, Ms. Swift. Go get him.
21
Exactly.
We should teach men (and everybody else, too) to ask nicely and take no for an answer.
We should teach men (and everybody else, too) to ask nicely and take no for an answer.
5
The groper would have us believe that Ms. Swift is making the whole thing up? Why would she do that? She's probably worth 100 times his net worth, so it's not about money. She surely doesn't need the publicity. How can there really be any doubt about this? He's guilty, and he's stupid to think that he can make a reasonable argument to rehabilitate his reputation. She's making a statement to young women that they don't have to put up with this, and he's making himself look like a sleazy fool. I expect justice to prevail here.
34
He grabs Taylor's rear. She kicks his. You go, girl. You're sending a powerful, positive message to young women.
37
While Ms Swift has taught young women a valuable lesson, I would have preferred if she had shown her assertiveness right then and there rather in court. I can appreciate her professionalism and respect for her fans but things like that are better resolved in public.
5
much easier said than done to say something in the moment. virtually impossible
10
No. Just no. You cannot put the onus on Ms. Swift or any female to behave in a certain way when groped or assaulted. That's called victim-blaming. Men need to stop feeling entitled to treat women like meat -- and getting away with it.
4
Tell you what: You have an incident right before you go out to entertain 20,000 people, and then you tell us all how you reacted.
16
I have been on a campaign to add a high quality study of self defense in our elementary school curriculum, unfortunately it has been a frustrating experience, but I am sure if Taylor Swift became an advocate and spokesperson for this very long overdue idea, very popular and simple solution, she would be successful and as a result change the notion that girls and women are here for "the taking, or groping or grabbing."
7
I hear about improper sexual advances by bosses that result in great pain for the young women who have to settle for a few months salary and a non disclosure agreement rather than suffer years of trials by viscous legals teams who discredit and humiliate. I know if at least one advertising company in Toronto where the female Human Resources employee, who should be acting as a non partial representative of both sides, told one woman that it wasn't the company's problem and she should "deal with it and move on". Then you fond out that this employee has dated the boss. Heart rending.
Thank you Ms. Swift for sticking to your guns. It may empower those that don't have the means to at least feel there is someone visible who can stand up to this kind of assault.
Thank you Ms. Swift for sticking to your guns. It may empower those that don't have the means to at least feel there is someone visible who can stand up to this kind of assault.
17
Yes, the man was just trying to emulate his idol, Donald Trump.
23
And I am sure he has bragged about it to others, I hope they come forward.
4
I have two daughters in their twenties. Ms. Swift is most certainly a hero and budding feminist icon for taking control of this situation with her smart lawsuit and clever/real testimony. Bodily autonomy is everyone's right and hopefully this case is decided in that direction.
82
This whole thing could've been avoided if only Mr. Mueller acted more presidential around Ms. Swift. Wait a second, he was acting presidential? I'm confused.
83
Good one! Sad...
3
The image clearly shows TS's averse reaction to this idiot's hand (which should not be located where it is to begin with). And he sues her? Lock him up.
47
It's a civil suit, brought by the perpetrator. Swift is counter-suing for one dollar.
11
I saw the photo. Looks like he was groping her to me.
28
I just love the complete failure of the plaintiff's attorney, a Colorado local named Gabriel McFarland, to anticipate that Ms. Swift would have been prepared for his dull-witted questioning by a Washington attorney who, among other distinctions, is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court. Not to mention Ms. Swift's own keen intelligence and spirited readiness to combat McFarland's lowbrow insinuations with disarming candor and wit. The plaintiff and his attorney deserve each other. Losers both.
114
Don't know much about Taylor the artist; but Taylor the woman is mighty. Good work, Taylor! You didn't back down, you weren't intimidated; you were perfect.
107
Taylor Swift has a very young fan base. By testifying before her attacker she's sending a very powerful message to the young girls who adore her. As a woman you are entitled to autonomy over your body and you not men determine what appropriate and inappropriate touching is. If someone crosses the line, don't blame yourself for not fighting back in the moment but do stand up for yourself as soon as you are able to do so even if that means you have to testify against them.
Everyone always tries to victim blame or minimize groping incidents. Taylor Swift is empowering women to say enough is enough we're not going to take it anymore.
Everyone always tries to victim blame or minimize groping incidents. Taylor Swift is empowering women to say enough is enough we're not going to take it anymore.
264
Amen!
3
Well said!
3
Why on earth would the woman go through this nightmare trial if nothing happened?
58
To defend her accusation that he sexually assaulted her and the revenge her entourage took Afterwards? Then there is the three million dollar judgment she could face if she doesn't prevail.
9
I can't believe it. You call such a totally inappropriate groping "nothing". What else do you call "nothing" ?
4
Brigette, You completely misunderstood the point. It was a rhetorical question. He was implying that she wouldn't go through this is nothing had happened.
6
*sigh*
These people questioning Swift because she didn't immediately speak up: Oh, I'm sure you have reacted immediately and appropriately in every embarrassing situation, RIGHT?
She thought of her fans first. And, she reported it to Mueller's employer FIRST. She wasn't thinking in terms of lawsuit. She never would have counter-sued if he hadn't sued her.
These people questioning Swift because she didn't immediately speak up: Oh, I'm sure you have reacted immediately and appropriately in every embarrassing situation, RIGHT?
She thought of her fans first. And, she reported it to Mueller's employer FIRST. She wasn't thinking in terms of lawsuit. She never would have counter-sued if he hadn't sued her.
101
Another pertinent question to ask would be, if Mr. Mueller got fired for this 3 years ago, why did he wait 3 years to sue if he DIDN'T grab her? Wouldn't you think he would want to clear his name a lot sooner?
First he grabs her backside, then he makes a grab for her money. Not very nice!
First he grabs her backside, then he makes a grab for her money. Not very nice!
8
Her career is moving at 10000 mph, 100000s of fans waiting.
Contrary to the lifetime political gas-bags, she has to work and deliver results. And she has.
Thank you, Ms. Swift.
Contrary to the lifetime political gas-bags, she has to work and deliver results. And she has.
Thank you, Ms. Swift.
2
Why are we surprised when we have a so-called president who bragged about grabbing women without permission simply because he's a TV star.
As for the evidence of the photo, at the very least it certainly does not exonerate the radio star. The jury will have to decide the credibility of the witnesses. So far, it doesn't look like Ms Swift is losing.
As for the evidence of the photo, at the very least it certainly does not exonerate the radio star. The jury will have to decide the credibility of the witnesses. So far, it doesn't look like Ms Swift is losing.
31
Bragging is nor groping. Trump is not Bill.
The photo is clear about where his hand is. Maybe he grabbed firmly enough through the back of the skirt that it only felt like it was a bare hand on bare skin?
She was 23 years old and couldn't actually see what he was doing, but she knows what she felt. I'll give her a pass for (possibly) getting the technical details wrong. It doesn't matter. Either way it was sexual assault.
I give her an A+ for sticking up for herself. (and her mom too, for raising her right, and supporting/guiding her towards the decision to not let it slide.)
Dude gets an F for being a creep and displaying appallingly bad judgement.
I do feel a tiny bit sorry for him that he was made an example of, when we know many others (Trump included) act similarly, get away with it, and even get away with *bragging* about getting away with it.
Life isn't fair, poor little dude-bro. Your old career is over now. Deal with it.
Best you could do is reinvent yourself as a motivational speaker on the diversity/sexual harassment training circuit. Your story of career suicide actually has significant value. It's worth retelling many many times to all the other horny little dudes out there. (You could sing a duet with the Google or Uber dude-bros who also committed career suicide)
But if you continue to blame a 23 year old woman for your bad judgement, when you were older and should have been wiser, you had better get used to asking if people want fries with that!
She was 23 years old and couldn't actually see what he was doing, but she knows what she felt. I'll give her a pass for (possibly) getting the technical details wrong. It doesn't matter. Either way it was sexual assault.
I give her an A+ for sticking up for herself. (and her mom too, for raising her right, and supporting/guiding her towards the decision to not let it slide.)
Dude gets an F for being a creep and displaying appallingly bad judgement.
I do feel a tiny bit sorry for him that he was made an example of, when we know many others (Trump included) act similarly, get away with it, and even get away with *bragging* about getting away with it.
Life isn't fair, poor little dude-bro. Your old career is over now. Deal with it.
Best you could do is reinvent yourself as a motivational speaker on the diversity/sexual harassment training circuit. Your story of career suicide actually has significant value. It's worth retelling many many times to all the other horny little dudes out there. (You could sing a duet with the Google or Uber dude-bros who also committed career suicide)
But if you continue to blame a 23 year old woman for your bad judgement, when you were older and should have been wiser, you had better get used to asking if people want fries with that!
64
He sued her and you feel sorry for him?
2
He was made an example of because his victim is a powerful woman and refused to be quiet about it. I see no reason to feel bad for him, just for the less powerful women who weren't in a position to make their own gropers pay.
4
Nah, she's mocking him...
If only the women groped or molested by Donald Trump could have gone to trial against him and spoken as assertively as Ms. Swift has done....
75
Katherine,
Agreed, however Trump's victims were not in a position of power as Ms. Swift is. They would have been buried under lawyer fees, counter suits and further abuse in Trump's playground, the legal system. Nonetheless, it took courage by Ms. Swift to not let her abuser get away with his actions.
The sad part is that Trump's voters knew he is a habitual liar, a bully, emotionally unstable and a serial sexual predator with virtually no redeeming qualities as a human being when they voted for him. I few additional sexual assaults would not have changed their votes.
Agreed, however Trump's victims were not in a position of power as Ms. Swift is. They would have been buried under lawyer fees, counter suits and further abuse in Trump's playground, the legal system. Nonetheless, it took courage by Ms. Swift to not let her abuser get away with his actions.
The sad part is that Trump's voters knew he is a habitual liar, a bully, emotionally unstable and a serial sexual predator with virtually no redeeming qualities as a human being when they voted for him. I few additional sexual assaults would not have changed their votes.
8
It should not be about how assertively women speak. It should be about law giving justice to women who are victims.
3
Swift sounds like she was great on the stand and this guy brought it on himself, including bringing a lawsuit against Swift. I wonder if he hoped she would settle. But I have to admit that Swift's mom seems a little over the top in her reaction.
5
Mueller's counsel must be very hungry, because Taylor Swift ate her lunch.
8
Groping women? Lawsuit? Sounds like he is angling to be president.
16
Smart, tough, and bold. I underestimated her. Think I'll go buy an album - from iTunes, whom I believe she also schooled.
41
Why did you underestimate her? Because she is pretty?
1
That's your assumption, AM. Not fair to put it on him.
4
Nope, that had nothing to do with it. Check your assumptions.
For those asking why she didn't confront him at the time: She gave the response in her testimony. She was momentarily in shock and, as she says went on "autopilot," a normal reaction when something like that happens to a woman out of the blue.
64
Not buying it. Then again, if my daughter reads my comment.....never mind.
2
A surprising sexual assault, especially when you are in public, is shocking and leaves you stunned and speechless, plus extremely embarrassed. It is called the freeze reaction. Perpetrators rely on it to get away with what they are doing.
6
Excuse me? You are not a woman who has been in this situation so you have no right to say what a woman would or should do. The shock that occurs with this behavior is very real. I was never able to respond when it happened to me when I was young either. She was very appropriate. HE WAS NOT!
5
I was once fired from a job for telling my boss in the open office to keep his hands off me. This was back in the late 70's. I later learned he was physically abusive to his girlfriend. Some men think they can get away with anything.
75
The one thing I think women should learn from this is when you are violated in a wrongful way SPEAK UP about it Immediately and pursue justice without hesitation!
22
Way to oversimplify, dude.
2
Ok, let me tell you my experience of being grabbed in a crowded concert where I was escorting my teenage daughter with her friend whose father was also present. Someone stuck his hand between my legs in the crowd, I did not see who, he was behind my back. I tried to turn but by the time I was free to move ( the crowd was quite packed) there was no one and I managed to see no one. I said nothing, just moved away, partly because I was not sure if it was the friend's father, a married man, or some stranger. The girls were enjoying the concert and it would have been quite a shock for the young girl to see her father do such a thing. Also I hesitated myself on who it had been. What if I accused him and he didn't do it? In view to his character I never would have believed it was him. In your opinion should I have started a ruckus ?
You men are so keen to mansplain to us how we should act in each situation. But you know nothing of our lives. These types of groper guys are often sly about it and even plan it carefully in advance, how they can get away and such. There is a specific type of guy who preys in crowds, for example.
You men are so keen to mansplain to us how we should act in each situation. But you know nothing of our lives. These types of groper guys are often sly about it and even plan it carefully in advance, how they can get away and such. There is a specific type of guy who preys in crowds, for example.
5
I would stick with the physical evidence. an inconclusive photo. Aren't there photos or videos of what must have been a change of expression if this had occurred? She doesn't seem like the shy and reticent type, so it's a stretch understanding why she didn't react immediately. As a professional performer, certainly a range of reactions were available and it's hard to believe she hasn't found herself iin similar situations over her career with experience responding quickly. This may be nothing more than a carefully planned event to elevate her public profile. Let the evidence, not the testimony of a professional performance, rule.
12
I don't think she would choose this avenue as a way to "boost" her career. It's a pretty tortured scenario don't you think. Accuse the guy of groping and then hope he sues you back so you can get a lot of publicity? I don't remember hearing anything about the original groping allegation, did you? I don't think that boosted her career. It wasn't until the guy sued that it got so bit.
24
Really? Taylor Swift needs to pull a stunt to elevate her profile? I'm not sure a profile can soar much higher than Ms. Swift's.
21
Actually, when Kanye interrupted her speech so unexpectedly, I remember her initially reacting reticently as well. I've never been a huge fan of hers. But I believe her.
29
Ms. Swift may be a multimillionaire celebrity, but she faces the same legal challenge as the woman on the street. No one else saw what happened. So it's basically a he said, she said case. Ms. Swift has the burden of proof. She must convince the jury that "the facts are "more likely than not" what she claims to be." In short, a tie goes to Mr. Mueller. That stacks the deck against Ms. Swift. The jury will hear two contradictory accounts and will be instructed that Ms. Swift is the one who must prove the case. Tough odds for her and most other women.
14
This is backwards.
Meuller sued Swift and he carries the burden of proof to prove his case or not. It is not up to her.
Meuller sued Swift and he carries the burden of proof to prove his case or not. It is not up to her.
13
Mueller is suing Swift for $3,000,000. Swift is counter suing for $1.
I think the onus is on Mueller to prove Swift lied. I'm not convinced "a tie" benefits him.
I think the onus is on Mueller to prove Swift lied. I'm not convinced "a tie" benefits him.
16
Isn't this case for Mueller suing Swift?
If so, doesn't Mueller need to prove his case, i.e. he doesn't win with a tie?
The photographer seems believable.
If so, doesn't Mueller need to prove his case, i.e. he doesn't win with a tie?
The photographer seems believable.
12
I seriously doubt Swift wd spend all this money and take so much time off work if she weren't innocent and angry.
49
He sued her for $3,000,000.
She's responding, and only asking for damages of $1.00.
My guess is, his atty is on a contingency retainer, and sweating bullets about losing time and $$$, right now. Thank you, God.
She's responding, and only asking for damages of $1.00.
My guess is, his atty is on a contingency retainer, and sweating bullets about losing time and $$$, right now. Thank you, God.
22
@ Bing Ding:
Swift's attorney agreed to the $1.00 ad damnum in her counter suit.
He is not concerned with a 33 cent contingent fee.
He will have clients forever, because he is the guy who won Taylor Swift's case.
Swift's attorney agreed to the $1.00 ad damnum in her counter suit.
He is not concerned with a 33 cent contingent fee.
He will have clients forever, because he is the guy who won Taylor Swift's case.
6
Mueller is clearly is not grasping air in the photo. Good on Swift for taking a stand.
43
Lots of unsucessful musicians love to put her down, but i like her more all the time. I really don't care about her music, i just think she may grow up to be Dolly Parton or even Peggy Lee. Good for her.
19
I'm afraid she may also burn out. It's happened too many times to people with real talent. But she may also make a comeback.
The part I don't understand about women is how come Trump is recorded describing his sexual assault of women and yet 52% (The majority) of women voted for him. What is there to learn from that? that women think it's okay to get groped if they like the guy? I mean no offense, I am only asking someone to give me a clear and straight explanation to this clearly gross contradiction.
21
If you ask them, they will change the subject and talk about Bill Clinton's indiscretions . It is called "denial".....
14
I have a friend, a born again Christian who voted for Trump because he is a scoundrel, but was not going to take away Medicare, Medicaid, SS, or any of his benefits.
5
I think you have the facts wrong. Clinton won the majority of the popular vote, both men and women. Trump is only president due to the electoral college and gerrymandering making some popular votes worth more than others.
There is NO WAY that Clinton lost the popular vote of women only. I don't even have to look it up!
There is NO WAY that Clinton lost the popular vote of women only. I don't even have to look it up!
10
David Mueller picked the wrong lady to harass, and then to sue. He should have quit while he was behind. Good on You Taylor Swift!!!! You are a role model celebrity!
72
Way to go sister! That's a powerful message to send to the young women who are her fans.
54
If it is true that she was molested (I have some doubt) but if it is true then why is it you say she sending a message just to the young women who are her fans? What about all women (there's an assumption in your comment that middle age and older women won't be groped or molested in anyway?)....and, more to that point, what about all men of all ages getting a message?
"Taylor Swift Says Man Groped Her in 'Devious and Sneaky Act'" by Donna Bryson
I think that Taylor Swift did a very good job during the trial. For years females and males(mostly females) have been inappropriately touched and been too afraid to speak up because they were scared of what could happen to them or because the person who did the touching made the victim feel as if it was their fault. Taylor Swift did a great job of telling the man and his lawyer that the attempt to pin the situation on her was absurd, because it was. Taylor Swift did not ruin the man's life, he ruined it on his own when he decided that it was okay to inappropriately grope her. This trial has is a great example to men and women, boys and girls all over the world that when you are harassed or assaulted it is not your fault, and it teaches them that you should speak up. Victims should not feel like he situation was their fault and think if all the things they could have done differently, they should immediately report it. The man who groped Taylor Swift is definitely in the wrong, and I think it is absurd that he would inappropriately touch a women, refuse to let go, and then sue her for 'ruining his life'. However while I completely believe that Taylor Swift is the victim of the situation, I agree with Mr. McFarland was right that Taylor Swift should have reported Mr. Mueller right after it happened and then continued meeting the rest of the fans in line.
I think that Taylor Swift did a very good job during the trial. For years females and males(mostly females) have been inappropriately touched and been too afraid to speak up because they were scared of what could happen to them or because the person who did the touching made the victim feel as if it was their fault. Taylor Swift did a great job of telling the man and his lawyer that the attempt to pin the situation on her was absurd, because it was. Taylor Swift did not ruin the man's life, he ruined it on his own when he decided that it was okay to inappropriately grope her. This trial has is a great example to men and women, boys and girls all over the world that when you are harassed or assaulted it is not your fault, and it teaches them that you should speak up. Victims should not feel like he situation was their fault and think if all the things they could have done differently, they should immediately report it. The man who groped Taylor Swift is definitely in the wrong, and I think it is absurd that he would inappropriately touch a women, refuse to let go, and then sue her for 'ruining his life'. However while I completely believe that Taylor Swift is the victim of the situation, I agree with Mr. McFarland was right that Taylor Swift should have reported Mr. Mueller right after it happened and then continued meeting the rest of the fans in line.
15
As a performer, she is trained not to call attention to any malfunctions in the show and to keep the show moving. That instinct kicked in.
Once the show (in this case the photo/fan event) was over, she brought up the problem with her team and they discussed what to do to keep them from happening again. She handled it as soon as she could, on her terms.
Like you said, we shouldn't try to find fault in how the victim handled it. She could have screamed and slapped him, or anything in between, and it would have been fine too. The details of how she reacts are entirely up to her.
It's not like she "remembered" the assault months or years later. That is harder to explain. Her story is totally credible. That's all that matters. here.
Once the show (in this case the photo/fan event) was over, she brought up the problem with her team and they discussed what to do to keep them from happening again. She handled it as soon as she could, on her terms.
Like you said, we shouldn't try to find fault in how the victim handled it. She could have screamed and slapped him, or anything in between, and it would have been fine too. The details of how she reacts are entirely up to her.
It's not like she "remembered" the assault months or years later. That is harder to explain. Her story is totally credible. That's all that matters. here.
20
What people think she should have done is typically not the normal reaction of an assault victim. How she reacted in no way diminishes what he did.
17
If she had immediately spun around I'd agree with you, whether she slapped him or just stepped back. Instead I saw the photo, read that she claimed the photo shows him putting his hand up her skirt and grabbing her bare ass. So I viewed the photo again. And if she sees that, I sure don't. It is possible he touched her but it is also possible he didn't. If she is that distraught years later though and believes it was sexual assault she faces a lot of challenges in life and best avoid vacationing in Italy and a lot of other countries too. I don't condone it. I'd love for that to be the worst sexual assault any woman would ever face. Sadly it's not.
1
The photo shows a happy Taylor Swift. I'd note that her hand is in like position as is his.
3
Nope. The angle of her arm is nowhere near grabbing his bottom. And he's also fully clothed, unlike Ms. Swift who was wearing a short dress.
8
If I were an executive at UnderArmour I'd be talking to Ms.Swift's people right now ....
If I were a fan I'd rather have seen her clock him than her to be polite and professional for the meet and greet.
It's ok girls to defend yourself anytime, anywhere and from anyone.
If I were a fan I'd rather have seen her clock him than her to be polite and professional for the meet and greet.
It's ok girls to defend yourself anytime, anywhere and from anyone.
5
Thanks for saying that but we don't know what other people think and how they'd react.
Good for her. Hopefully this will send a message to the public about "accidental jostlings" like this. I think this type of stuff occurs far too often and many women don't speak up about this stuff cause it's embarrassing or they think it's normal. No one has the right to touch you in an inappropriate way like that.
30
I agree with you. That is the best thing to take away from this. But if this becomes the new legal standard for sexual assault, a photo that is far from conclusive along with a woman's traumatic memory of something that was over quite literally in a flash of a camera, there will be a huge impact on a lot of lives, won't there? Will the days of hoop skirts and a woman's bare ankles viewed as obscene be coming back?
That's not so much a slippery slope as a vertical plunge. Impressive!!
It's not how much it lasts that counts. And what do hoops skirts being viewed obscene have to do with the fact that some men think it their right to grope women?
1
I have never listened to her music, nor do I have any interest in it. I think she is a savvy businesswoman and I respect that. I do not doubt for an instant that this boor groped her and is looking to enrich himself. Her counter suit for $1 damages is another savvy move. When the plaintiff loses his case, he will be liable for her legal fees which will be financially punishing. Frankly I wish that she had turned around and punched him in the face mid-grope and announced why; however, she only had a split second to decide and did not want a crude act to become a part of her brand. In fact it's good this happened to her because it happens to other women and girls without her clout every day. Let them know that no matter how rich, how famous, how powerful, that there is still some moronic groper out there waiting to get one over.
48
I am not a fan of Ms. Swift, actually--only one song have I liked much. But I am very very impressed with her testimony and her fight against this disgusting act. That man should have been fired. She should win a lawsuit against him. He should do something different which does not bring him in contact with women.
Not sure what that could be, actually. Maybe he should be arrested for assault and serve some time.
Not sure what that could be, actually. Maybe he should be arrested for assault and serve some time.
13
Not gonna lie, I want to sue him just for the look on his face. Every woman out there can tell a story, perhaps countless stories, of such encounters -- and I feel infuriated just seeing the picture. If you’ve been groped, you know the feeling, made so much more acute when they are so smugly arrogant. I love Swift for doing this. Her testimony is bold and beautiful! Go Taylor!!
101
I am a 50 year old man. In my time on earth I can recall a handful of mortifying occasions where I have inadvertently touched someone inappropriately. On each occasion, I acknowledged it and apologized profusely.
Whether he guided it there deliberately or unintentionally, Mr Mueller knows exactly where his hand landed as they posed for that photograph.
So why didn't he acknowledge it and apologize?
Whether he guided it there deliberately or unintentionally, Mr Mueller knows exactly where his hand landed as they posed for that photograph.
So why didn't he acknowledge it and apologize?
23
Because he's a cad and you and I are gentlemen.
12
Ms. Swift's plain and simple responses to the questioning and the fact that her lawyer saw no need to elaborate on anything about her character, her clothing on that night, or the opportunity cost to her of taking 9-days out of her life to pursue this case in a Denver court all speak volumes about her self worth and her views regarding the worth of all women. Assault is a crime. Through her elegant behavior she is morphing from a victim of crime to a beacon of light. I applaud both her and her mother for making the difficult decision to pursue this countersuit. Ms. Swift's maturity far outdistances her age.
128
Bravo Ms Swift! Lucky for you there was photographic evidence!
That grope is exactly the kind of behavior women tolerate every day- in the thousands- and I reckon a handful say anything.
I hope this will encourage more women to confront these jerks; even if there is no witness/evidence/legal recourse, every act of defiance is a cobblestone in the road toward change.
That grope is exactly the kind of behavior women tolerate every day- in the thousands- and I reckon a handful say anything.
I hope this will encourage more women to confront these jerks; even if there is no witness/evidence/legal recourse, every act of defiance is a cobblestone in the road toward change.
16
I'm befuddled by Ed Lee, the 50 year-old man who took his daughter to the trial to teach her that, "...she is an alpha and ...will need to pull out her claws...." at times. Is he trying to teach her that she needs a million bucks to get an attorney for similar justice?
2
Your confusion must be because you've never raised a daughter or had a relationship with a woman who has told you that she had been touched inappropriately. Or perhaps because you think women and girls should stay silent when that happens. Or that they should not pursue justice against the perpetrator.
14
No, I think he's trying to teach her that she has the power to stand up for herself, and not just silently suffer - like so many women - when they are treated inappropriately. This is a lesson that has nothing at all to do with money. (Plus, I'm guessing she's a fan and that's why they are there. The "strong woman" message is just a bonus).
4
Great great witness! She was righteous!
Swift has said she is suing him for women so we don't have to put up with sexual assault.
Thank you Taylor Swift!
Swift has said she is suing him for women so we don't have to put up with sexual assault.
Thank you Taylor Swift!
25
The mother's shock at her daughter being groped is hard to believe. Young women get groped by disgusting men all the time.
6
Not hard for me to believe Andrea Swift or her reaction.
9
Maybe in your world, Exile, but not in mine......
2
I don't think it is. Who would expect an industry professional to cop a feel at a meet and greet with his girlfriend in the room?
1
I don't trust her mother. I think Mueller did nothing inappropriate.
3
I'll wait for the jury to decide if what he did was inappropriate.
1
Unbelievable.
2
Her family reported her mother has cancer. Such persons tend to be concerned about the finality of truth.
In my constitutionally-protected opinion, the plaintiff and his trial lawyer picked the wrong family to attack.
In my constitutionally-protected opinion, the plaintiff and his trial lawyer picked the wrong family to attack.
2
Way to go Taylor. You are a great role model and a great person.
15
Really really proud of her. She did the right thing
22
Serves the guy right. He thought he could get quick money for suing her after she reported him to his emlployer. She was right to report him and she is right to fight back.
34
I guess he was not enough of a star. As the saying goes "And when you’re a star, they let you do it. You can do anything"
7
He wanted to be a star apparently. Sounds like he is now persona non grata in the radio and music business.
5
Mueller can go work for Trump. Seems he'd fit right in.
3
A former employer used to find me near the screen door of the kitchen where we worked - it was the only place to cool down when things weren't busy. Let's just say he got very touchy with me, an underage girl. Why didn't I say anything?
Why is that always the question?
Because I was embarrassed, confused, humiliated. Powerless. Because he was my boss.
Why is that always the question?
Because I was embarrassed, confused, humiliated. Powerless. Because he was my boss.
133
I apologize on behalf of decent men everywhere for the cad you worked for.
I hope you realize that for every Bill Clinton and Donald Trump there is a Barack Obama who "gets it".
Thanks for telling your story. YOU are the real reason Ms. Swift did not keep silent. I hope she wins and that you find some comfort in her victory too.
I hope you realize that for every Bill Clinton and Donald Trump there is a Barack Obama who "gets it".
Thanks for telling your story. YOU are the real reason Ms. Swift did not keep silent. I hope she wins and that you find some comfort in her victory too.
15
You need to review your history. Monica was the one seducing Bill Clinton and all the touching was consensual, wasn't it. And they never did have sexual intercourse despite the attempts to construe "I did not have sex with that woman" beyond what the majority of Americans would understand it to mean. So a better example would be the conduct Donald Trump bragged about, wouldn't it?
2
Well.
If she said it assertively, then it must be true.
You go, girl!
If she said it assertively, then it must be true.
You go, girl!
To Great Lakes State -
The only thing vulgar here was Mueller's disgusting actions.
More power to Taylor Swift for not mincing words.
The only thing vulgar here was Mueller's disgusting actions.
More power to Taylor Swift for not mincing words.
11
NM-P, As a twenty-one year old woman, I was chased twice by a man while running, and then a week later on my bike in my hometown of Flint. the year was 1978. I will not go into great detail, he was a white man, who was on parole for rape.
I was not the only female that this man was exposing himself to, but I was the only woman who would testify in court. I was fearful, for not only myself, but for my sisters, and others in the community.
So NM-P, I was making the important connections at that very young age. My language in the courtroom reflected and spoke to my courage and thoughtfulness relating to the crime. I did not mince words, instead, my behavior and language spoke to my commitment to keep myself and others safe, including the man who chased me.
I was not the only female that this man was exposing himself to, but I was the only woman who would testify in court. I was fearful, for not only myself, but for my sisters, and others in the community.
So NM-P, I was making the important connections at that very young age. My language in the courtroom reflected and spoke to my courage and thoughtfulness relating to the crime. I did not mince words, instead, my behavior and language spoke to my commitment to keep myself and others safe, including the man who chased me.
8
I am surprised Ms. Swift is not more of a feminist icon, as she has both created a business empire solely with her talent and shown she is not willing to be pushed around.
34
The reporting of Ms Swift's most casual actions, thoughts or whims set into action a global media apperatus unparalleled in human history or possibly evolutionary biology. Empowerment of this type created a new paradigm, and has put select individuals in a position of incalculable influence. How does the reality of Ms Swift's international electronic personhood sit with the ability of the civil justice system to carry out its function or the press to present related news? In this context is possible to to see the two parties as just two people in a dispute? I do not see that as possible. Unless we are all to be slaves to the virtual realm, this story, or the stories around this new class of media enhanced citizen requires a new set of journalistic standards. What they are I do not know, that's for the NYT and others to put forth. Without it none of this content can be called journalism, it's just reporting. If the last presidential campaign taught us anything it is the truth is secondary to the power of messenger. And then the messenger becomes the truth.
7
There's a photo documenting her account. Look at it. His hand is exactly where she claims he put it. There is also nothing casual about her actions. Mueller undertook a strategy of suing her for defamation after she reported his groping of her. He was likely hoping to settle it because she is wealthy. She only counter sued alleging assault and battery in response to his attempt to shake her down. This is newsworthy it reflects a young woman - she was 23 at the time this occurred - standing up for her legal right not be groped by a stranger. Comparing this journalism, which is backed up by evidence and facts that are presented here and visual to the eye in the form of the photograph reflecting his groping, to the current administration is shameful. These are not parallel situations.
101
Um, what are you talking (blabbering) on about, exactly?
It's a trial. He testifies, she testifies. Jury makes a decision.
Maybe it's covered by media because she's famous, but the wheels of a court trial are turning in the same way they do for everyone.
It's a trial. He testifies, she testifies. Jury makes a decision.
Maybe it's covered by media because she's famous, but the wheels of a court trial are turning in the same way they do for everyone.
20
" .. If the last presidential campaign taught us anything it is the truth is secondary to the power of messenger .."
"Truth" being the biggest FOIA violator in USA history? Who failed to make a case for herself (versus Ms. Swift)? Who refused to campaign in the heartland?
Nah. Truth will out.
Now, back to reality -- T.S. has got it, going on. Early in her career, she REJECTED a serious contract because she didn't like the terms. Her dad's a stock broker -- they know how to deal.
"Truth" being the biggest FOIA violator in USA history? Who failed to make a case for herself (versus Ms. Swift)? Who refused to campaign in the heartland?
Nah. Truth will out.
Now, back to reality -- T.S. has got it, going on. Early in her career, she REJECTED a serious contract because she didn't like the terms. Her dad's a stock broker -- they know how to deal.
3
I love that lawyer asking *her* what *she* could have done differently..
It's always to tactic of the abuser to blame the abused for what he did to her.
Brava to Taylor Swift for holding strong and not being intimidated by that one of questioning. She put the onus right back whee it belongs - on he who laid an unbidden hand on her.
It's always to tactic of the abuser to blame the abused for what he did to her.
Brava to Taylor Swift for holding strong and not being intimidated by that one of questioning. She put the onus right back whee it belongs - on he who laid an unbidden hand on her.
189
I assume that her lawyer prepped her for this type of sexist questioning. I can feel a little better about my daughter idolizing her!
15
Lawyers seldom prep for sexist questioning...
He is guilty.
50
He's not on trial, and thank the non-existent gods you are not on a jury.
2
He should be, though.
Swift's attorney said it all by not questioning his client; she was a great witness!
160
Good for you, Taylor Swift! For so long, women have tolerated this type of behavior from men because of the old saying "boys will be boys." But you are setting an example for young women everywhere that they don't have to feel ashamed or denigrated by males who do this and usually get away with it. Keep standing tall!
273
Oh, I don't know. In the old days (1982), a yahoo ("Keith") with "roman hands" got weird with an admin at an office party. The next day, her boyfriend ("Rick") went over to "Keith's" house (with the wife and three kids) and immediately "popped" Mr. "Keith" in the mouth.
Not elegant .. certainly provided a lot of laughs, later.
T.S., you go, girl!
Not elegant .. certainly provided a lot of laughs, later.
T.S., you go, girl!
1
I saw the picture of the group. With what she says here...looks like for real.
51
"pressed on what she could have done differently, she said " your client could have taken a normal photo with me". Excellent response Taylor, to yet another question that blames the assult victim for the assult.
306
Here's the photo, so says TMZ, of the event at the center of all this:
http://www.tmz.com/2016/11/12/taylor-swift-butt-grab-dj-lawsuit-photo/?a...
Judge for yourselves. Doctored? If not, then where else would his right hand be?
http://www.tmz.com/2016/11/12/taylor-swift-butt-grab-dj-lawsuit-photo/?a...
Judge for yourselves. Doctored? If not, then where else would his right hand be?
38
Thanks. Any man around a beautiful woman like Talyor Swift knows exactly where his hands are in relation to her body. Combined with the fact that she has nothing to gain from this whole ordeal makes it pretty clearcut. (That shirt is also a crime.)
11
He looks the type.
5
Sixofone - Fantastic thanks, this is clarifying. His hand is certainly not up her skirt, and though it is as butt level, there is nothing to say he is "grabbing" anything. Your question, "Doctored?" is an attempt to doctor the interpretation of this innocent photo. Btw people react instantly to being touched underneath their clothes, not in delay.
5
There are too many inconsistencies in Mueller's testimony. He even said the radio station he worked at had spoken about letting him go before his encounter with Swift! His agent let him know that he bothered other people in the past. And so much more that makes Mueller seem guilty.
Good for Swift for requesting a public court case. Hopefully she will inspire some other girls and women to complain--assault is something girls and women shouldn't have to remain silent about.
Good for Swift for requesting a public court case. Hopefully she will inspire some other girls and women to complain--assault is something girls and women shouldn't have to remain silent about.
136
I've thought for several years that if we have to have celebrities in public office –Ms. Swift would make a perfectly fine president.
66
Vulgarity in any sensitive situation is unhealthy including language. It does not teach responsibility, rather enforces the acceptance of the abuse as normal. With so any strong words available to describe feelings, in a courtroom, remember to speak the truth with dignity.
6
I think we are currently trying that.
2
From a music business veteran, not only is she a fabulous singer-songwriter but she's also one of the smartest and most successful executives in the music business today while protecting her image and integrity. A rare feat and congrats to her...
197
I don't know very much about Taylor Swift's music but, based solely on how she's quoted in this article, she's awesome.
317
I was thinking the same thing! That lawyer must be feeling like a joke.
44
I don't think he gets it.
1