Utah Nonprofits Sue Kevin O'Leary and Fox News Over Alleged Smear Campaign Tied to Data Center Plan

Two Utah nonprofit organizations filed a lawsuit Wednesday against Shark Tank star Kevin O'Leary and Fox News, accusing them of falsely labeling the groups as agents of the Chinese Communist Party during a television segment. Mediaite reported that the suit claims the nonprofits were defamed by the on-air portrayal.

MediaiteFox News and Kevin O’Leary Are Sued Over Claim That Nonprofits Worked for Chinese Communist Party

The plaintiffs are the Alliance for a Better Utah and Elevate Strategies, both of which had criticized O'Leary's proposed artificial intelligence data center in Box Elder County. According to abc4.com, the lawsuit alleges that O'Leary coordinated a smear campaign to discredit their opposition to the project.

abc4.comAlliance for a Better Utah, Elevate Strategies sue Kevin O'Leary, Fox News over data center 'smear campaign'

The legal action centers on a Fox News appearance in which O'Leary accused the nonprofits of working for the Chinese government. Mediaite noted that the two groups say the claim is false and has damaged their reputations.

abc4.com reported that the nonprofits view O'Leary's statements as a deliberate attempt to undermine their advocacy against the data center. The lawsuit seeks damages for defamation and asks the court to hold both O'Leary and the network accountable for the alleged falsehoods.

This case highlights the escalating tension between a high-profile business figure and local civic groups over a major development project. The outcome could test the boundaries of free speech in commercial disputes, particularly when national security rhetoric is invoked.