“I am happy to announce that Rudy Giuliani, the greatest mayor in New York City history and an equally great American Patriot, will receive THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM, our Country’s highest civilian honor,” Donald Trump said on Truth Social Monday afternoon in his capacity as president. Information about the time and location to be followed. Politicians of all stripes debated the statement right away.
Trump praised Rudy Giuliani as a “true American patriot” and highlighted his decades of public service, particularly his leadership as mayor during the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks 9/11, from 1994 to 2001. Giuliani, often dubbed “America’s Mayor,” was widely recognized at the time for his steady presence and resilience in guiding New Yorkers through one of the darkest chapters in U.S. history.
“Rudy Giuliani has always fought for the American people,” Trump said. “From taking on crime in New York City to standing up for our country’s values, he deserves the highest honor we can give.” However, critics highlight the harm caused by his efforts to promote Trump’s false claims of a stolen election. The election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, testified that Giuliani’s actions led to death threats that left them fearing for their lives.
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The Presidential Medal of Freedom is traditionally awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural achievements, or other substantial endeavors. Past recipients have included civil rights leaders like Rosa Parks, artists like Maya Angelou, and political figures such as Margaret Thatcher.
Rudy Giuliani selection, however, is not without controversy. In recent years, he has faced intense criticism and legal scrutiny over his role in challenging the 2020 presidential election results. He has been suspended from practicing law in New York and Washington, D.C., and continues to battle lawsuits related to his political activities. Critics claim that handing him an award diminishes the highest prestige.
His role in contesting the results of the 2020 presidential election has brought him a great deal of criticism and legal attention in recent years. He is still battling lawsuits pertaining to his political activities and has been barred from practicing law in New York and Washington, D.C. Critics contend that giving him the medal diminishes the honor’s prestige.
A most recent car accident has also garnered attention for Rudy Giuliani, adding to the series of public events that have kept him in the public eye. The 81-year-old was involved in a car accident on Saturday night, according to a statement issued by his head of security, Michael Ragusa, on Sunday.
According to Ragusa, before the crash Giuliani had stopped to help a woman who was the victim of a domestic violence incident, when his vehicle was struck from behind by a Honda HR-V. Giuliani sustained several cuts, contusions, and injuries to the left side of his body in addition to a fractured thoracic vertebra. Ragusa stated on Monday that Giuliani was still in the hospital but would likely be released shortly.
Supporters, on the other hand, point to Giuliani’s earlier career achievements, including his successful tenure as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York in the 1980s, where he earned a reputation for taking on organized crime and high-profile corruption cases.
Whether celebrated or criticized, the move ensures that Rudy Giuliani’s legacy will once again be at the center of national conversation. If formally awarded, the medal would cement his place in American history, not just as a polarizing figure, but as someone recognized at the highest level for his contributions to public life.