WASHINGTON – Lawyers for two Georgia election workers accused Rudy Giuliani of defamation, claim he “destroyed” their reputations by falsely accusing them of rigging the 2020 U.S. presidential election against Donald Trump. The trial, which is focused on determining how much Giuliani will have to pay the workers, began with opening arguments. A federal judge has already found Giuliani liable for defamation.
The two workers, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss and her mother Ruby Freeman, are seeking tens of millions of dollars in damages. Joseph Sibley, Giuliani’s lawyer, warned that if the jury awards Moss and Freeman what they are asking for, it could be “the end of Mr. Giuliani.”
Moss and Freeman alleged that Giuliani orchestrated a smear campaign against them, falsely accusing them of election fraud to support Trump’s efforts to overturn his election loss. They are expected to testify during the trial, which is set to conclude this week.
During opening statements, Von DuBose, the lawyer representing the women, argued that Giuliani and other Trump allies “stole the lives” of his clients by tarnishing their names. DuBose played recorded messages filled with racist and sexist slurs that Moss and Freeman received after the election.
Giuliani, who was present in the courtroom, may also take the witness stand. Sibley admitted that Giuliani had done something wrong, but claimed that the attacks on Moss and Freeman involved numerous people, suggesting that Giuliani wasn’t solely responsible.
The trial is centered around Giuliani’s false claims regarding surveillance footage. He alleged that the workers hid “suitcases” full of illegal ballots and counted them multiple times. However, a state investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing. Moss and Freeman, who are Black, said they faced racist abuse and threats as a result of Giuliani’s accusations.
U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell, presiding over the case, has already ruled that Moss and Freeman are entitled to damages for defamation, emotional distress, and conspiracy. The jury’s verdict could worsen Giuliani’s financial problems, as he already faces legal and professional challenges related to his work for Trump.
In August, Giuliani was indicted in a racketeering case in Georgia, which accused him of targeting Freeman and Moss. He pleaded not guilty. Moss and Freeman settled their defamation claims against One America News Network last year.
The trial continues as the two workers seek justice for the harm they have endured due to false accusations. Giuliani’s actions and the subsequent fallout highlight the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. The jury’s decision will determine the compensation the workers receive for the damage inflicted upon their lives.