Rudy Giuliani Disbarred in New York Over 2020 Election Misconduct

Rudy Giuliani, once celebrated as "America’s Mayor," has been officially disbarred in New York following a ruling that found him guilty of professional misconduct related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. The decision, issued on July 1, 2024, permanently strips Giuliani of his ability to practice law in the state.

The New York Supreme Court’s Appellate Division ruled that Giuliani repeatedly violated ethical standards by promoting baseless election fraud claims on behalf of former President Donald Trump. The court found that his statements undermined public trust in the legal system and contributed to widespread misinformation about the election’s legitimacy.

“Respondent’s actions represent a fundamental breach of his duties as an attorney,” the court wrote in its ruling. “His misconduct directly contributed to the erosion of confidence in our democratic institutions.”

Giuliani, 80, had been facing multiple disciplinary actions over his role in spreading election falsehoods, including unfounded claims of voting machine fraud and illegal ballot counting. His law license had been suspended in New York since 2021, but this ruling makes his disbarment permanent.

In response to the ruling, Giuliani dismissed the decision as politically motivated, claiming he was being persecuted for defending Trump. “This is a disgraceful attack on my reputation,” he said in a statement. “I stood up for election integrity, and now they want to silence me.”

Legal experts note that Giuliani’s disbarment could have further consequences, including additional disciplinary actions in other states where he holds legal credentials. He is also facing multiple lawsuits and criminal investigations related to his post-election activities, including his involvement in the fake elector scheme.

Once a respected prosecutor and mayor of New York City, Giuliani’s legacy has been overshadowed by his legal troubles and his close association with Trump’s efforts to challenge the 2020 election results. With his law career officially over in New York, Giuliani now faces an uncertain future as he battles mounting legal and financial challenges.

The ruling is seen as a strong message that lawyers who engage in deliberate misinformation and unethical conduct will face consequences. As Giuliani’s legal troubles continue, his downfall serves as a cautionary tale of how political loyalty and ethical responsibility can collide with devastating results.