Question

In a much heated debate on the Senate floor in regards to whether or not to allow a new legislative reform to be voted on, two senators call each other liars, cheats and other unflattering words. One senator also accuses the other one of bribery. If one of the senators sues the other for defamation, is there a defense available to the defamation claim?

Answer 1

Answer: Yes, absolute privilege

Explanation: Defamation could be explained as an unwarranted statement or remark made about a certain person or individual. In many cases, such statements are vulgar, demeaning and untrue. In the scenario above, both senators could be said to be guilty of making damaging remarks to one another which could tarnish the image or reputation of either of them. However, this does not mean any of them cannot sue for Defamation. However, since both of them are senators, members of congress or public office holders, therefore the remarks and statements made about each other are deemed to be 'privileged' and as such may not form a rigid basis for suing for Defamation.