Rudy Giuliani Settles $148 Million Defamation Judgment with Georgia Election Workers
Rudy Giuliani has officially resolved his legal battle with two Georgia election workers after “fully satisfying” a settlement to resolve a $148 million defamation judgment. The agreement, signed off by Judge Lewis Liman in Manhattan federal court, brings an end to a yearslong saga stemming from false claims made following the 2020 U.S. Presidential election.
- Giuliani settled the $148 million judgment owed to Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss.
- The deal allows Giuliani to retain his most valuable assets, including his Upper East Side high-rise and Palm Beach condo.
- As part of the agreement, Giuliani promised to never defame the election workers again.
- The settlement follows a December 2023 jury verdict that found Giuliani liable for falsely claiming the pair tried to steal the election.
The Terms of the ‘Mystery Deal’
Even as the specific financial details of the settlement remain a “secret bargain,” court papers confirm that Giuliani has fully satisfied his obligations. A significant aspect of the deal is that it prevents the liquidation of Giuliani’s most prized possessions. Under the terms, the former New York City mayor is permitted to keep his $5 million Upper East Side high-rise, his condo in Palm Beach, Florida, his vintage Mercedes, and his collection of Yankees gear.
Following the agreement, Judge Liman dismissed the case and disbanded the court-ordered receiver that had previously been tasked with collecting Giuliani’s belongings to satisfy the debt.
Background: The Defamation Lawsuit
The legal conflict began after Giuliani falsely claimed that Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, mishandled ballots during the 2020 presidential election. Giuliani later conceded in a court filing that these statements were false.
In December 2023, a Washington DC jury found Giuliani liable for defamation and ordered him to pay the mother-daughter duo $148 million. The settlement reached on January 16, 2025, finally closes the chapter on this specific litigation.
The Role of Fundraising and Political Support
The timing of the settlement coincided with public support from Donald Trump. Just days before the deal was struck, the then President-elect posted “SAVE RUDY!!!” on Truth Social. While the post triggered a wave of donations to Giuliani’s fundraising page, the financial impact was minimal compared to the judgment; his online defense fund raised only $169,000, a fraction of the $148 million owed.
What This Means Moving Forward
The settlement provides a definitive resolution for Freeman and Moss, who receive compensation and a legal guarantee that Giuliani will cease defaming them. For Giuliani, the agreement preserves his primary residences and luxury assets, avoiding a total financial collapse that seemed imminent during the receiver’s tenure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Rudy Giuliani lose his homes in the settlement?
No. The settlement specifically allows him to keep his Upper East Side high-rise in New York and his condo in Palm Beach, Florida.
How much was the original judgment?
A Washington DC jury originally ordered Giuliani to pay $148 million in December 2023.
Who are the election workers involved?
The workers are Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, who were falsely accused of election interference in Georgia.