“Rudy Giuliani Rages Against ‘Inappropriate’ Questions in Contempt Hearing”
“Rudy Giuliani Blasts ‘Abusive’ Questions During Contempt Hearing”
Rudy Giuliani, former Trump attorney and ex-mayor of New York City, erupted in a Manhattan federal court on Friday, calling questions from lawyers representing Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss “inappropriate” and “abusive” during his contempt of court hearing.
Why It Matters: Giuliani, 80, has faced mounting legal and financial troubles, stemming from his role in efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Last year, he was found liable for defaming Freeman and Moss, falsely accusing them of election fraud, and was ordered to pay $148 million in damages.
The Hearing: U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman heard arguments about whether Giuliani should be held in contempt for failing to comply with court orders to provide assets as part of the judgment. The hearing precedes a trial that will determine if Giuliani must give up his $3.5 million Florida condo to Freeman and Moss. Giuliani criticized questions about his doctors, calling them irrelevant and “abusive.” Judge Liman disagreed, emphasizing that it’s not for Giuliani to decide relevance.
Assets at Issue: Giuliani turned over a Mercedes-Benz and his New York apartment, but failed to provide paperwork to liquidate those assets and didn’t surrender other items like watches and sports memorabilia. The upcoming trial will also decide whether he must forfeit his World Series rings as part of the judgment.
Giuliani’s Defense: Giuliani defended his actions, claiming financial hardship and difficulty accessing his own accounts due to court-imposed restrictions. His legal team maintains he’s complied with most of the orders.
What’s Next: Giuliani’s trial begins January 16, where Judge Liman will determine if his Florida condo is his primary residence. The contempt hearing is ongoing, with more to be decided later.
“Matt Gaetz Roasted After House Applauds His Departure”
“House Applauds Matt Gaetz’s Decision Not to Return for New Term”
On Friday, members of the House of Representatives applauded the official announcement that former Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz will not be returning for the 119th Congress. Gaetz had been a controversial figure, and his decision to step away was met with mixed reactions.
Why It Matters: Gaetz, a fervent ally of President-elect Donald Trump, briefly resigned after being reelected in November to accept a nomination for attorney general. However, he withdrew from consideration for the role shortly after. In late December, he hinted at a possible return to Congress, but the recent announcement confirmed he would not seek re-election.
Gaetz’s tenure was marred by a House Ethics Committee report citing “substantial evidence” that he violated House rules, including allegations of prostitution, statutory rape, and drug use, though Gaetz denied the charges and faced no criminal charges. These controversies made him unpopular among some colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
What Happened: Acting House Clerk Kevin McCumber announced Gaetz’s decision in the chamber, prompting applause from House members. This came just before the vote for the next Speaker of the House. With Gaetz no longer in Congress, Republicans hold a 219-seat majority, allowing Speaker Mike Johnson to retain his position after securing 218 votes.
What’s Next: Gaetz’s seat, Florida’s 1st District, will be up for a special election, with Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis running for the position, endorsed by both Trump and Johnson. The primary will be held on January 28, with the general election set for April 1.
Additionally, Gaetz has hinted he might run for Senator Marco Rubio’s seat if Rubio is confirmed as Trump’s secretary of state. If that happens, Governor Ron DeSantis will appoint an interim senator until a special election is held.