Rudy Giuliani Held in Contempt Amid Claims of Politically Motivated Justice System Weaponization

Rudy Giuliani’s attorney, Ted Goodman, launched a scathing critique of the justice system following a Monday ruling holding the former New York City mayor and Trump ally in contempt of court. Goodman described the decision as part of a politically motivated vendetta and an example of the justice system’s “weaponization.”

“It’s tragic to watch as our justice system has been turned into a total mockery, where we have charades instead of actual hearings and trials,” “Unfortunately, it’s getting worse and worse because so few members of the legal community are willing to speak up or do anything about the weaponization of our justice system, and that needs to change.”

Goodman suggested the contempt ruling was retaliation orchestrated by associates of President Joe Biden’s son, Hunter Biden. Giuliani had previously attempted to implicate Hunter Biden in a corruption scandal using the contents of a laptop allegedly obtained from a repair shop.

“Let’s be clear. This case was brought by Hunter Biden’s former law partner Michael Gottlieb — a current partner at Willkie, Farr & Gallagher — who claimed he was taking on this case out of the goodness of his heart,” Goodman said.

“Why is Willkie, Farr & Gallagher pouring so many resources, and using so many lawyers on this case to try and destroy Mayor Rudy Giuliani? It appears that they are a part of this ongoing politically motivated vendetta against Mayor Giuliani.”

Goodman also defended Giuliani’s legacy, listing his achievements as New York City mayor, including fighting poverty, dismantling the Mafia, and leading the city through the aftermath of 9/11. “Willkie, Farr & Gallagher might be happy to fight to take away Mayor Giuliani’s most cherished personal belongings… but they can never take away his extraordinary record of public service,” Goodman concluded.

The contempt ruling stems from Giuliani’s behavior during discovery in a defamation lawsuit brought by Atlanta poll workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss. Giuliani had falsely accused the women of ballot-stuffing during the 2020 election, leading to harassment and threats against them. Despite a $150,000 default judgment and a court order to stop making the claims, Giuliani initially continued to repeat them.

U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman, a Trump appointee, found Giuliani’s conduct during the discovery process to be in civil contempt of court, criticizing his “preposterous” behavior and “blithe disregard” for the court’s authority.