Giuliani ordered to pay $148 million for defaming Georgia election workers
A jury ordered Rudy Giuliani to pay $148 million in damages for defaming two Georgia election workers as part of his alleged efforts to undermine the results of the 2020 presidential election.
Giuliani ordered to pay $148 million in defamation case
Rudy Giuliani has been ordered by a jury to pay $148 million in damages for defaming two Georgia election workers. The defamation lawsuit was filed by Ruby Freeman and her daughter Shaye Moss, who alleged that Giuliani spread false claims about them committing ballot fraud. Giuliani's efforts were seen as part of his attempts to undermine the results of the 2020 presidential election.
The decision marks another significant penalty in a case related to lies and false claims about the election. Giuliani's mounting legal fees and financial troubles will be further exacerbated by this ruling. However, Giuliani has expressed his disagreement with the decision, calling it absurd and indicative of the unfairness of the entire proceedings.
Background of the case
Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss sued Giuliani and the right-wing media outlet One America News Network for repeating claims that they committed ballot fraud. OAN was dismissed from the lawsuit last year after settling with Freeman and Moss. However, Giuliani was found liable for defaming the election workers. As part of the summary judgment, Giuliani had already been required to pay the women $230,000 in legal fees and penalties.
During the trial, Freeman described the threats and harassment she and Moss faced as a result of Giuliani's false claims. They received numerous racist messages and death threats. Despite the ruling, Giuliani maintains that his comments were supportable and intends to appeal the decision.
Giuliani's legal troubles continue
This defamation case is just one of several civil and criminal cases that Giuliani faces as a result of his actions following the 2020 election. He is a co-conspirator charged in Fulton County, Georgia's election interference criminal case alongside former President Trump. Additionally, Giuliani has been sued by Dominion Voting Systems for defamation, with the company seeking $1.3 billion in damages.
It remains to be seen how Giuliani's legal battles will unfold, but the significant financial and legal consequences are adding up. This decision serves as another blow to Giuliani's reputation and resources.
