Judge Howell Calls Rudy Giuliani’s Bluff in Defamation Case: ‘Sworn Declaration Under Penalty of Perjury’
Rudy Giuliani at this year’s 9/11 memorial service in New York City. (Adam Gray / AFP via Getty Images)
Rudy Giuliani’s attempts to avoid appearing in federal court took a dramatic turn when Judge Beryl Howell demanded proof of his claimed inability to attend in person. Giuliani, facing a contempt motion in the defamation case brought by Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, cited health issues and security concerns as reasons for requesting a virtual appearance.
The docket reveals that Giuliani claimed “severe knee conditions,” a “lung condition … requiring the use of an inhaler,” and a “heart condition.” He also referenced “credible death threats” as additional justification for his request to appear remotely.
However, legal analyst Lisa Rubin noted that Judge Howell is pressing Giuliani to substantiate his claims. The judge ordered Giuliani to sign a sworn declaration, “under penalty of perjury,” stating that “except for travel required for court proceedings, he has been unable to travel and has not traveled from his residence in Florida for the past 30 days.”
Rubin’s reaction to the judge’s response was telling: “Gulp.” The demand comes amid scrutiny of Giuliani’s recent activities, which appear to contradict his claims of immobility. On November 26, Giuliani held a news conference outside a New York courthouse, and on December 8, he was seen in a Washington, D.C. studio with Steve Bannon, as shown in a video he shared online.
Giuliani is accused of defaming Freeman and Moss by spreading baseless claims that they helped steal Georgia’s presidential election for Joe Biden in 2020. His false allegations placed the election workers in the national spotlight, leading to threats and harassment.
Judge Howell’s insistence on a sworn declaration raises the stakes for Giuliani, as any discrepancy between his claims and his actual activities could result in legal consequences. If Giuliani cannot provide credible evidence to support his claims, it could undermine his credibility in the ongoing defamation case.
The case highlights the mounting legal troubles faced by Giuliani, a former Trump attorney, as well as the broader challenges facing those who propagated false election claims. For Freeman and Moss, the case represents a step toward accountability for the harm they endured due to Giuliani’s allegations. Judge Howell’s firm stance underscores the seriousness of the proceedings and the expectation that all parties adhere to the truth under the law.
