Starting the week, former New York City Mayor and attorney for then-President Donald Trump, Rudy Giuliani, is expected to face Georgia poll workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss in a trial over allegations of defamation. The claims emerged from Giuliani's unsupported accusations of widespread election fraud during the 2020 U.S. Presidential elections.
The Claim's Origin
While diligently processing the results of Georgia's 2020 election, Fulton County poll workers Ruby Freeman and her daughter Shaye Moss were captured in a video Giuliani interpreted as evidence of election malpractices. Giuliani alleged that the workers had passed a USB drive between them to scan unnoticed ballots hidden in suitcases below tables at Atlanta's State Farm Arena, contrary to the report by Georgia's State Election Board.
Impact on the Poll Workers
Witness to numerous threats following Giuliani's baseless accusations, the workers suffered emotionally. In a deposition with the House Jan.6 committee, Freeman highlighted the distress and loss of personal security inflicted upon her and her daughter, alluding to the use of her as a 'scapegoat' to propagate falsehoods about the Presidential election.
The Legal Proceedings
Freeman and Moss had instituted a lawsuit against Giuliani in December 2021, alleging defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, civil conspiracy, and punitive damage. In their amended complaint in May 2022, the poll workers decried Giuliani's critical role in the malicious character assassination they had been subjected to.
After several investigations, Giuliani accepted in court documents that his allegations were without basis. However, he asserted constitutional protection for his statements. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell held Giuliani civilly accountable for his statements. The trial's purpose is now to establish the damages due to the plaintiffs.
Trials Beyond the Horizon
The unfolding trial is likely the initial fragment of a more extended legal battle. Freeman and Moss are critical witnesses in Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis's case against Giuliani, Trump, and others accused of joining a criminal conspiracy to retain Trump in power after the 2020 election outcome. Giuliani faces 13 such counts.
Related Developments
Simultaneously, a few of Trump's associates had allegedly attempted to influence Freeman's statements. Incidents of an Illinois Pastor and a Black Voices for Trump leader trying to persuade Freeman have been reported. These individuals are also part of the charges in the Georgia case alongside Giuliani. Additionally, lawyers Jenna Ellis and Ray Smith III were deposed, and their involvement might come under scrutiny.
Testimonies
Giuliani is set to testify during the defamation trial, as confirmed by his lawyer. Ellis and Smith, though, in a recently held deposition, chose to assert their Fifth Amendment rights hundreds of times, which could limit their testimonies' insights. Freeman and Moss's lawyers plan to call four witnesses, and video clips from several depositions are expected to be played.
Looking Ahead
The forthcoming trial will be instrumental in unfolding the true implications of public figures making unwarranted accusations. While acknowledging the defamation, Giuliani continues to claim constitutional protection for his statements. As the trial unfolds, it will set a precedent for similar allegations made by public personalities and the general public.
If you or a loved one have been subjected to defamation, false accusations, or harassment, seeking legal assistance is critical. Defend yourself against false allegations and seek justice to safeguard your rights. Contact your legal representative today.
