WASHINGTON (AP) — Legal teams representing two Georgia election workers are making a powerful case in court, revealing shocking audio recordings of the racist and threatening messages these women received following false accusations made by Rudy Giuliani.
Giuliani falsely claimed fraud and shared baseless allegations over the 2020 election results, putting Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, in the crosshairs of a dangerous conspiracy that resulted in real-life harassment and fear.
A federal lawsuit aims to hold Giuliani accountable for his actions, determining the extent of the damages he must pay to the women. Their lawyers insist that the reputational damages alone could stretch to $47 million, with additional emotional and punitive damages potentially reaching “tens of millions.”
While Giuliani’s defense argues for a lesser award, the recordings played in court depict the terrifying nature of the threats made against Freeman and Moss. From threats of treason to accusations of vote tampering and ballot fraud, the women were subjected to a relentless campaign of intimidation that culminated in people showing up at their homes and more.
The impact of these false accusations, amplified by Giuliani and even echoed by Donald Trump himself, has had long-lasting consequences. Ostracized and targeted, Freeman was forced to sell her home of 20 years and live in fear for her safety.
Lawyers urging substantial damages hope to send a clear message that such behavior is not acceptable in the United States, while Giuliani’s defense maintains he was not directly responsible for the threats and harassment. As this trial unfolds, the question remains: what is the appropriate repayment for the damage caused by these falsehoods?
