Rudy Giuliani held in contempt of court over 2020 Georgia election lies

The lawsuit stems from Giuliani’s claims that Moss and Freeman engaged in election fraud during the 2020 presidential election. These accusations led to severe harassment and threats against the two women. “Mr Giuliani began lying about the plaintiffs in December 2020 and refused to stop, even after being repeatedly told his claims were baseless, malicious, and dangerous,” said their lawyers, reported by Associated Press (AP).

During the hearing, Giuliani laughed and shrugged off the judge’s remarks. Judge Howell, who was appointed by President Barack Obama, described his actions as “outrageous and shameful.” She added, “This takes real chutzpah, Mr Giuliani.”

Before the hearing, Giuliani criticised Judge Howell in a social media post, calling her “bloodthirsty” and biased. After the court session, he referred to the proceedings as a “farce” and called the judge “completely prejudiced”, AP reported. 

Although the judge did not impose an immediate fine, she warned Giuliani he would face daily fines of $200 if he failed to confirm compliance within 10 days.

This ruling follows a December 2023 jury decision, awarding Moss and Freeman $75 million in punitive damages and an additional $73 million in other damages. The pair testified that Giuliani’s false claims caused them to live in fear, with Moss saying she rarely leaves her home and suffers from panic attacks.

Giuliani’s legal troubles continue to mount. Earlier this week, another judge in New York held him in contempt for failing to provide evidence in a separate case involving his Palm Beach property. He is also facing criminal charges in Georgia and Arizona related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.

Despite his ongoing legal battles, Giuliani maintains his innocence. His lawyers argue that there is no “clear and convincing” evidence that he violated court orders and claim he acted in good faith.

(with inputs from AP)