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Giuliani breathing independently after pneumonia battle
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is recovering from pneumonia and has been removed from mechanical ventilation, his spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday.
Health struggles linked to 9/11 exposure
Giuliani, 81, has suffered from restrictive airway disease since the 2001 terror attacks, which weakened his ability to fight infections, spokesman Ted Goodman said in a statement on X. The condition stems from exposure to toxic dust and smoke while leading rescue efforts at Ground Zero.
Goodman described how the virus rapidly overwhelmed Giuliani's body, necessitating ventilation to maintain oxygen levels and stabilize his condition. He remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition.
From crisis leadership to legal controversies
Giuliani earned the nickname "America's Mayor" for his leadership during the 9/11 attacks, a role that later earned him an honorary knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in 2002. His second term as mayor ended later that year, and he subsequently made an unsuccessful bid for the Republican presidential nomination.
In recent years, Giuliani became a prominent ally of former President Donald Trump, serving as his personal attorney and a vocal supporter during the 2016 campaign. After the 2020 election, he led efforts to challenge the results, making unsubstantiated claims of widespread fraud. These allegations led to a $148 million defamation judgment against him and the loss of his law license.
Trump comments on Giuliani's health
In a social media post, Trump expressed concern for Giuliani's health while repeating false claims about the 2020 election. He accused Democrats of mistreating Giuliani and fabricating stories to undermine the former mayor.
"They cheated on the Elections, fabricated hundreds of stories, did anything possible to destroy our Nation, and now, look at Rudy. So sad!"
Donald Trump, former U.S. President
Long-term health toll of 9/11
Giuliani's current health struggles reflect a broader pattern among first responders and survivors of the 9/11 attacks. Researchers estimate that diseases linked to toxic exposure at Ground Zero have claimed twice as many lives in the past 25 years as the attacks themselves.
Last September, Giuliani was injured in a car crash in New Hampshire, suffering a fractured vertebra, lacerations, and other injuries. His spokesperson did not specify whether this incident contributed to his recent hospitalization.
Current status
Goodman confirmed that Giuliani is now breathing independently, with family and medical staff at his side. His condition remains critical but stable.
