Rep. Smucker Comments on LNP|LancasterOnline Defamation Suit

Image July 9, 2026 Press Release LANCASTER, PA – Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) released the following statement: “Earlier this year, I filed a defamation lawsuit against LNP|LancasterOnline after it published statements about me that were false and defamatory. This week, the court denied LNP's attempt to dismiss the case, allowing it to move forward. As the judge wrote: "Smucker's characterization had a substantial factual basis, such that LNP's accusation of 'lying' could be understood as a provably false assertion of intentional dishonesty." I look forward to presenting the facts in court. A free press plays a vital role in our democracy, and with that role comes a responsibility to report the truth accurately and fairly.” # # #