Trump To Award Rudy Giuliani Presidential Medal of Freedom After Near-Fatal Car Crash
President Donald Trump announced Monday that former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, just days after Giuliani was seriously injured in a high-speed car crash in New Hampshire.
“As President of the United States of America, I am pleased to announce that Rudy Giuliani, the greatest Mayor in the history of New York City, and an equally great American Patriot, will receive THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM, our Country’s highest civilian honor,” Trump declared in a statement shared to Truth Social. “Details as to time and place to follow.”
The decision to honor Giuliani comes as the 81-year-old remains hospitalized after his vehicle was rear-ended at high speed Saturday evening, hours after assisting a domestic violence victim. The accident left Giuliani with a fractured vertebra and multiple injuries to his arm and leg.
Michael Ragusa, Giuliani’s head of security, confirmed Monday that the former mayor is “in good spirits and recovering tremendously” and is under close medical supervision. Giuliani is being assisted by his business partner Maria Ryan, a registered nurse who has remained by his side.
The crash was not considered a targeted attack, according to Ragusa, who asked the public to avoid spreading speculation.
From Ground Zero to the Medal of Freedom
Giuliani earned the nickname “America’s Mayor” for his leadership during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. His steady response in the wake of national tragedy became a symbol of American resilience and made him one of the most recognizable figures in modern U.S. political history.
As mayor from 1994 to 2001, Giuliani implemented aggressive crime reduction policies that reshaped New York City. Under his leadership, the city experienced a dramatic drop in violent crime, earning praise from supporters and criticism from detractors.
He later became one of Trump’s most loyal allies, serving as his personal attorney and leading high-profile efforts to investigate election integrity following the 2020 race.
Presidential Recognition
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national security, public service, or cultural life. Past recipients include figures such as Mother Teresa, Rosa Parks, Elvis Presley, and Rush Limbaugh.
Trump’s announcement signals not only recognition of Giuliani’s legacy as mayor and national figure, but a personal tribute to one of his closest allies who now faces a challenging recovery.
Further details about the ceremony will be released in the coming weeks.