AP: Sherrod to sue Andrew Breitbart

The Associated Press reported today that former USDA official Shirley Sherrod says she plans to sue Andrew Breitbart.

As Media Matters documented, Breitbart released a heavily edited video purporting to show “proof” of Sherrod's “racism” against a white farmer while serving as an Obama administration official. After Breitbart's post, Sherrod lost her USDA job, and numerous media figures attacked Sherrod as a racist. The full video of Sherrod's remarks, however, vindicated her.

After his smear story dissolved, Breitbart falsely claimed that his story was “not about Shirley Sherrod,” and attempted to redirect the conversation to the NAACP by incorrectly claiming Sherrod's audience was “applauding racism.” In recent days, many in the media have criticized Breitbart's tactics, called on him to apologize, or pointed out how this episode has depleted any credibility he may have had.

Previously:

Breitbart still insists Sherrod video “shows that she's the racist”

Timeline of Breitbart's Sherrod smear

Breitbart flounders as his Sherrod story collapses

CNN's Cooper detonates Breitbart's NAACP applause falsehood

Media denounce Breitbart's tactics, highlight his loss of credibility