Federal Judge Rules Giuliani Liable for Defaming Georgia Election Workers

A federal judge has determined that Rudy Giuliani, the former personal attorney to Donald Trump, is legally responsible for defaming two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss. This ruling, issued on March 15, 2024, by Judge Beryl Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, follows allegations that Giuliani falsely accused the workers of election fraud during the contentious 2020 presidential election.

In a detailed 57-page opinion, Judge Howell criticized Giuliani’s conduct, stating that he obstructed the legal process intended to ensure a fair examination of the claims made by Freeman and Moss. She remarked that Giuliani’s portrayal of himself as a victim in court was merely a tactic to undermine the discovery process essential to the case. “Donning a cloak of victimization may play well on a public stage to certain audiences, but in a court of law, this performance has served only to subvert the normal process of discovery,” Howell wrote.

The next phase of this legal battle will involve a jury that will determine the amount of damages Giuliani must pay to Freeman and Moss. The former New York City mayor had accused the workers of engaging in fraudulent activities, suggesting they were “surreptitiously passing around USB ports as if they are vials of heroin or cocaine.” In reality, Freeman was seen in surveillance footage handing her daughter, Moss, a ginger mint, which was mischaracterized by Giuliani.

Giuliani, who played a prominent role in attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, also alleged that Freeman and Moss were involved in a scheme involving “suitcases” filled with ballots. Judge Howell clarified that these so-called suitcases were, in fact, official ballot containers.

Last month, Giuliani conceded that he had made false and defamatory statements regarding Freeman and Moss. According to reports from CNN, the potential damages owed could reach thousands, if not millions, of dollars.

In addition to the liability ruling, Giuliani has already faced sanctions amounting to nearly $90,000 for the attorneys’ fees of Freeman and Moss. Judge Howell noted that further sanctions could also be imposed on him.

Giuliani is currently navigating significant financial difficulties, exacerbated by multiple legal challenges related to the 2020 election, including a criminal case in Georgia. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges in this case and remains free on bond.

As this situation develops, the implications for Giuliani could extend beyond financial penalties, impacting his reputation and legal standing as he continues to face scrutiny over his actions during and after the 2020 election cycle.