Conservative pundits have also rallied behind Vance, praising him for taking the fight directly to the so-called “mainstream media.” “This isn’t just about Vance,” said Fox News host Tucker Carlson. “This is about the future of free speech in America. If we let CBS get away with this, what’s next? Will they fact-check us in our own homes?”

However, critics of Vance—and there are plenty—are less enthusiastic. Memes mocking the lawsuit flooded social media within hours of the announcement, with some poking fun at Vance’s claim that biased body language was part of the problem. One particularly viral post featured an image of Vance with the caption: “Suing for $1 billion because someone gave him side-eye. Toughen up, buttercup!”

Even within the Republican Party, some have expressed skepticism about the lawsuit’s merit. “Look, I understand J.D.’s frustration,” said one anonymous GOP strategist. “But suing for $1 billion because moderators were mean to him? It’s a tough sell. I’m not sure this is going to win over any undecided voters.”

CBS has not taken the lawsuit lying down. In a fiery statement, the network defended its moderators and called Vance’s claims “baseless and absurd.”

“CBS News prides itself on fairness, journalistic integrity, and rigorous fact-checking,” the statement read. “We have reviewed the footage of the debate, and we are confident that the moderators acted in an impartial manner. If Mr. Vance wants to bring this case to court, we say: bring it on.”

The network also took a swipe at Vance’s legal team, sarcastically thanking Giuliani for “yet another baseless lawsuit that will ultimately be thrown out of court.”

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