A local newspaper publishes an opinion article which claims that Mr. Lewis Crull is is having an affair with his secretary, has embezzled church funds and has abused his dog. Mr. Crull is a pastor at a local congregation which holds services in 3 area cities and also streams their services live. He also regularly leads local political groups in rallies and protests, and regularly gives unpaid interviews and statements to the press about hot political topics.
Mr. Crull sues the newspaper, claiming defamation. Does he have a case? Why or why not?