Trump awards Rudy Giuliani the Presidential Medal of Freedom

In the United States, President Donald Trump made a significant announcement on September 1, 2025, stating that he will award former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. This announcement came just days after Giuliani faced serious health issues following a traffic accident that left him with multiple injuries, including a fractured vertebra. Despite these challenges, Giuliani continues to hold a prominent role within political circles, particularly as a staunch ally of Trump amidst numerous controversies. Rudy Giuliani has been a notable figure in American politics, especially remembered for his leadership during the September 11 attacks in 2001. He garnered the moniker ’America’s Mayor’ for his crisis management during that period. However, his reputation has been tainted in recent years due to his involvement in several legal issues stemming from the 2020 election, where he was a key advocate for Trump’s unsuccessful attempts to challenge the election results. These legal troubles included being criminally charged in Georgia and Arizona, based on accusations linked to attempts to overturn the election. In addition to his political endeavors, Giuliani’s recent car accident further complicated his public image. The incident occurred in New Hampshire, where he was injured while assisting a woman who was a victim of domestic violence. As he was leaving the scene in a rented vehicle, it was struck from behind at high speed. Giuliani was hospitalized shortly after, leading to a wave of support from various political figures urging for his swift recovery. Trump’s decision to recognize Giuliani with the Presidential Medal of Freedom appears to be a gesture of loyalty and support, especially given the timing closely following Giuliani’s health crisis. In his announcement on Truth Social, Trump described Giuliani as the “greatest Mayor in the history of New York City” and an “equally great American Patriot.” This honor marks the first recipient of the Medal of Freedom during Trump's second term, emphasizing his continued alliance with Giuliani amidst a landscape of conflicting opinions surrounding his legacy. The ceremony details are yet to be announced, with broad reactions expected following such an honor awarded to a figure entangled in controversy.