That's ridiculous. Of course it's different. And the difference has been explained more than once ITT and elsewhere. But I understand the challenges you face so I'll make it easier on you with another example.
If I go on TV and say, based upon your comment the other day I think you're a racist, there's nothing whatsoever that is defamatory about that--in terms of applying the law, that is. People can judge for themselves if they agree or disagree with my opinion.
But if I get up in public and declare you're a child rapist with no evidence to back it up, that's clearly defamatory. It's a statement of fact that is untrue whereas the prior example is an opinion. There is no agreeing or disagreeing with a factual claim--it's either true or untrue. On the other hand, opinions are like assholes--everybody's got one. You can't legislate against opinion in a democratic society that values free speech.