WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal jury has ordered Rudy Giuliani, the former lawyer for ex-President Donald Trump, to pay $148 million in damages to two Georgia election workers accused of fraud. Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, testified during the four-day trial about the racist and violent threats they faced as a result of Giuliani’s false claims of election fraud. The damages awarded included defamation, emotional distress, and punitive damages.
Freeman expressed her gratitude for the jury’s decision, stating that it holds Giuliani accountable for the harm he caused her and her daughter. Moss described the devastating impact of Giuliani’s lies on their lives and expressed her hope that no election worker would have to go through such an experience.
Giuliani, who was part of Trump’s legal team after the 2020 election, plans to appeal the verdict and called the dollar amount awarded “absurd.” His attorney argued that a large verdict would be equivalent to the “civil death penalty” for Giuliani.
This case stems from Giuliani’s repeated accusations against Freeman and Moss of election fraud in Georgia. Despite investigations and findings that cleared them of any wrongdoing, Giuliani continued to perpetuate the false claims. He accused them of passing USB drives during ballot-counting operations, though Moss testified that the object in question was actually a ginger mint.
The verdict adds to Giuliani’s financial woes, as he is facing multiple lawsuits and criminal charges. His law licenses have been suspended in New York and Washington, D.C., and his former lawyer has sued him over unpaid legal fees. In addition, Giuliani has listed his New York City apartment for sale.
The jury’s decision holds Giuliani accountable for his harmful statements and sends a message that civil servants should not be subjected to baseless claims aimed at overturning the results of an election. The case highlights the importance of truth and accountability in the realm of electoral integrity.
Giuliani’s legal troubles continue to mount as he faces legal challenges and financial strain. The verdict in this case further tarnishes his reputation and highlights the consequences of spreading false information.