Giuliani recovering from pneumonia and 'now breathing on his own'

May 4, 2026

Rudy Giuliani, the 81-year-old former New York City mayor, is hospitalized in critical but stable condition after battling pneumonia that required mechanical ventilation. His spokesperson revealed that Giuliani has suffered from restrictive airway disease since the September 11 attacks, which compromised his ability to fight respiratory infections. The former mayor, who gained prominence leading New York through 9/11's aftermath, has experienced a dramatic fall from grace in recent years, including disbarment and a $148 million defamation judgment related to false 2020 election claims.

Who is affected

Rudy Giuliani (hospitalized patient)
Giuliani's family (at his bedside)
His primary medical provider
Ted Goodman (his spokesman, providing updates)
President Donald Trump (expressed concern)

What action is being taken

Giuliani is recovering in hospital
He is breathing on his own (after previously requiring mechanical ventilation)
His family and primary medical provider are at his side
His spokesman is providing public updates on his condition

Why it matters

Giuliani's illness highlights the ongoing health consequences of 9/11, as toxic exposure from the attacks has killed twice as many people in the 25 years since as the attacks themselves. His case demonstrates how first responders and those present at Ground Zero continue to suffer long-term medical effects. Additionally, the hospitalization of a prominent political figure who played significant roles in both 9/11 recovery and recent controversial political events remains newsworthy given his continued connection to President Trump and ongoing legal troubles.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC