November 29, 2007
Posted: 02:00 PM ET

Giuliani called the Politico report a 'hit job.'

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Republican presidential hopeful Rudy Giuliani has called a story raising questions about the accounting of his security expenses while he was mayor of New York a "hit job."

Late Wednesday, Politico.com reported city records show Giuliani billed New York City government offices for at least $34,000 in security and travel costs on trips to the Hamptons in his last year in office, with charges spread around departments under his control.

In its report, which Giuliani says might have been fueled by opposition research, Politico said it obtained the records through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. CNN was also able to obtain the same records.

"I thought the way the story was presented was like a hit job," Giuliani told CNN after the CNN/YouTube debate Wednesday night.

"Coming two hours before this debate, I kind of got the idea that it was not a legitimate story."

Full story

Filed under: Rudy Giuliani


cathy, boston,ma   November 29th, 2007 12:44 pm ET

We need to unearth all what you are. That was nothing with the media twisting things around. By the way, I hope you will not date one woman on the south lawn and the other in North lawn. This guy is a gang member himself.
The debate itself was CNN made for the candidates that are good for us.

Bob, NY, NY   November 29th, 2007 12:47 pm ET

So Rudy is calling into question the integrity of a reporter without any shred of evidence? Nice guy.

The expenses are now being reported to be as much as $500,000 and the issue here is that they went up when he started his affair with Judy Nathan, that the food/lodging for his security detail would have been less or zero if he had stayed in the city, and why if these were legimate charges were they billed to other agencies (which some have stated the only reason to do this was to hide them) and why did it take people five years to be able to get the information that this story is based on if everything was done properly and legally?

Wynter, Loudon, NH   November 29th, 2007 12:48 pm ET

First Kerik and now another scandal for the already embattled Giuliani. And we want this guy in office? Someone needs to update their resume of felonies and misdemeaners before they attempt to go to the Primary.

Telling it as I see it,
Wynter

Ryan, New York, NY   November 29th, 2007 12:48 pm ET

When Rudy starts working on wife #4 as President, will the US taxpayers get to pay for the security necessary for those trysts, too? At least JFK and Bill brought their girls into the White House where they didn't incur any extra costs to the taxpayers to screw around.

Anyone wonder if Rudy got the idea from Bernie Kerik to get others to fund their affairs, as Kerik was using an apartment donated for use by emergency workers for his.

Wayne, Greenville TX   November 29th, 2007 12:51 pm ET

To paraphrase Shakespeare, methinks Rudy protestest too much.

(In other words, there's more to this story than Rudy wants America to know….)

Walter   November 29th, 2007 12:53 pm ET

In what universe do Republicans nominate a guy who cheats on his wife and sends the bill to the taxpayer?

Chris, Middletown, CT   November 29th, 2007 12:53 pm ET

Pop your popcorn…and sit back and watch how nervous the Democrats get with their attacks….I mean if it came down to a Giuliani vs Clinton for the White House - the voters would need to choose between a mayor with sound fiscal experience and a social liberal background….or a waffling socialist….(believe me…lookup Saul Alinsky…Hillarys mentor…and author of her 800 Billion in entitlement promises) -the country will not choose Hillary….well..the dumb ones will

J.Crobuzon   November 29th, 2007 12:56 pm ET

Yeah, it would be so unfair if someone running for president got 'swift-boated' and had lies told about them, wouldn't it? Speak up Rudy! You're against 'hit jobs' and unfounded allegations, aren't you?

"I would not accuse any of my opponents of doing it," he said. "But who knows, it could be on the Democratic side." Oh well, then it's probably ok to swift-boat then, thanks for clearing that up. Thirty-four thousand dollars? Why not just pay it back?

Frank, San Diego   November 29th, 2007 12:57 pm ET

You've got to hand it to Rudy. Clinton never was creative enough to figure out how to charge his extramarital expenses to the taxpayer. That kind of book keeping is just what the Republicans will need to balance the budget.

Democrats must be writing checks to the Giuliani campaign by the thousands.

James,Nashua,nh   November 29th, 2007 1:01 pm ET

The debate was well Skewed so that we can see Guliani as a favourable candidate with just less weakness and knowing that the public knows he is not perfect they just brought one issue about him. If you look at the whole debate you would realize that there was thourough study on who will say what and who will pander who. Romney came out very weak because they knew what he would say and Mccain would come and say right opposite which might be bad for Romney. Out of 500 questions you would realize there was accordination and they did what they did. Now some candidates will not recover from that. This is today's political ads to kill certain politicians campaigns. Basically it is like the citizens have no right to choose candidates from real issues. What I am worried about is we might leave out good candidates. The other thing is how people have given their money with generousity and volunteered just to be hijacked at these last debates. I am left with no words.

karen nj   November 29th, 2007 1:05 pm ET

No matter where he travelled to , whether on his days off duty or working Giuliani was under 24 hour security, just as Bloomberg is. And the money for the security is NYC revenue expense money. Why is that so hard to understand.

Walter, San Diego   November 29th, 2007 1:08 pm ET

What happened to Rudy's first reaction, "it's untrue," followed by the ever popular "I wasn't responsible for the billing." Now we have, "it's a hit job." With this guy, making excuses is a multiple-choice operation.

Maybe he should take a lesson from his hero, George Bush. He should decide on his lie and stick with it.

George,Alt   November 29th, 2007 1:12 pm ET

Jesus was smart enough not to run for public office. Otherwise he would say the debates were set up to kill some candidates campaigns. I pity the truth.

Timothy,Boston,ma   November 29th, 2007 1:21 pm ET

Is there educated people out there to help me out on how you saw the debate last night. Planted? YES! Planted for you to think what you are thinking right now if not otherwise!

its obvious   November 29th, 2007 1:23 pm ET

i love how these candidates have the gall to critisize the other candidates for doing "hitjobs" and then talk bad about every candidate they are going against like "hillary" like the fact that its coming from the opposition cancels out its credibility. this is politics giuliani if you cant handle the stones then maybe you should be throwing them either!!!

Ricardo, San Jose, CA   November 29th, 2007 1:27 pm ET

Is the media going to back down from digging into this story because of Rudy's protests? No, the media won't back down. It's just that tomorrow the story will be, "Man Bites Dog!"

Sean, Charlotte, NC   November 29th, 2007 1:28 pm ET

"a mayor with sound fiscal experience"

Yea, the sound fiscal experience of shading accounting in order to hide taxpayer-financed trips to Southhampton so the mayor could visit his mistress in secret while he carried on his adulterous affair.

Giuliani is scum, and this legitimate news story illustrates his manipulative self-serving and dishonest nature.

Rob, Potomac, MD   November 29th, 2007 1:28 pm ET

The reason Juliani has "ethical, moral, and legal" problems is his mindset. Like most other fascists, he thinks rules and laws apply to the peasants not to our "dear mayor". He comes down hard on the NY homeless or the squeegee people. But when it comes to himself and his buddies, he thinks that he can misuse government funds, lie and cheat on his family and everyone else, and no one should have the audacity to question him.

All hail Benito Juliani, the new leader of the American Fascist party!

Susan Fedelchak, Durango, Colorado   November 29th, 2007 1:30 pm ET

I think CNN was obscene in the way they handled the debate. Shame on you all…you are not news people and I will no longer watch your station. The only mistake the candidates made was not walking off the stage after the first cartoon. This is the office of President of the U.S. Again, shame on you.

YUB,NYC,NY   November 29th, 2007 1:33 pm ET

BROKEN SYSTEM
MEDIA CAMPAIGN KILLERS!

Alison, Boston, MA   November 29th, 2007 1:38 pm ET

Wow, Rudy, so now unearthing wrongdoing by our Presidential candidates is a 'hit job'? And not, you know, an attempt to determine the true character of the people we're electing to represent us?

This issue should destroy his campaign — public money used to support his illicit sexual habits? — disgusting.

Megha, San Antonio, TX   November 29th, 2007 1:48 pm ET

C'mon Republicans, you do have less rotten potatoes in your bag than Guli. Seriously, choose someone who is at least Republican. You're all beaten anyway.

Hillary 08

dmw, roeland park, ks   November 29th, 2007 1:52 pm ET

It is so interesting that articles about Republican misdeeds seem to go back to the Democrats and Hillary Clinton. Are you Republicans so afraid of Hillary that EVERYTHING that comes up is somehow related to her???

Some of you posters are getting to weird and bizarre around Hillary. Are you that afraid that she will be the next President that you MUST talk badly and accuse her of all bad things.

Face it, your great white hope, Giuliani is a scoundrel.

lanray, Bellaire, Texas   November 29th, 2007 1:58 pm ET

Not only is he a crook, but an attorney — double trouble — and some think he would be a good president. We need a change in the White House, not the same type of secrecy and arrogance.

RUDY08   November 29th, 2007 2:01 pm ET

Yep - Dems are scared. As well they should be. Haaaa Look who their candidates are? haaaaa You see how long it's taking them to dig up the dirt. They're not finding much. I know you dems aren't talking about cheatin' spouses! At least he's divorced - we all know the Clintons don't sleep together.

Columbus, Ohio   November 29th, 2007 2:06 pm ET

Can we sit back and pop our popcorn using the dishes that the Clintons stole from the White House when they left?

Lee Priestley, Yardley, PA   November 29th, 2007 2:06 pm ET

Giuliani is a sleezy, deceptive loser who shouldn't even be a candidate for a role on the "Sopranos" let alone for President of the United States.

Talk about crooked………

Cleveland, Ohio   November 29th, 2007 2:08 pm ET

"lanray, Bellaire, Texas" -

News flash - Hillary IS AN ATTORNEY. AND from the good ole boys club, at that! FEMALE ATTORNEYS are the worst! Trust me - I've worked with them for 30 years!

Julie, Houston, TX   November 29th, 2007 2:08 pm ET

Seems that Rudy has a warped sense of what's right and what's wrong. I guess if you can't defend your actions, you shoot the messenger. Sorry Rudy, you don't have the credibility to represent the United States - not to mention ethics or morals.

Richard,Derry, NH   November 29th, 2007 2:09 pm ET

Looks like this Moron was well coached on what to come and say and make no mistakes. I wonder if he will be helped in the white house. How sad to see the media try to groom candidates well and try hit hard on some candidates.
I don't like Romney but is sad to see the set up to hit him from left to right. I don't get it people.

Hank,boston,ma   November 29th, 2007 2:11 pm ET

I just think that debate was not fair.

Mike S., New Orleans, Louisiana   November 29th, 2007 2:12 pm ET

Rudy's just mad because the newspaper used his real name instead of referring to him as "The Hero of September 11th."

dan, Reality, USA   November 29th, 2007 2:12 pm ET

Pop your popcorn…and sit back and watch how nervous the Democrats get with their attacks….I mean if it came down to a Giuliani vs Clinton for the White House - the voters would need to choose between a mayor with sound fiscal experience and a social liberal background….or a waffling socialist….(believe me…lookup Saul Alinsky…Hillarys mentor…and author of her 800 Billion in entitlement promises) -the country will not choose Hillary….well..the dumb ones will

Posted By Chris, Middletown, CT : November 29, 2007 12:53 pm

Gotta love the clowns that bring the Clintons into everything despite an article having nothing whatsoever to do with Hillary. Quick question Chris…was it the smart ones that voted in W twice? I guess that makes me dumb for voting against him.

NY,NY   November 29th, 2007 2:14 pm ET

That's funny - Rudy couldn't be too "crooked" - he ran New York City and reduced crime substantially. Can you say that about your city? I doubt it.

jj,newton,Iowa   November 29th, 2007 2:15 pm ET

I am a republican and to say the least, I rather vote for Obama than this moron when the world is watching for ethics and honesty of united states!

Tiffany,charleston,s.c   November 29th, 2007 2:22 pm ET

CNN we are looking for American President not a city councilor. Stop dictating for us!

Lynn/West Hills, CA   November 29th, 2007 2:25 pm ET

After watching last nights debate I have come to the following conclusion:

The Republicans do not have a dog in this fight…

ask questions NY   November 29th, 2007 2:27 pm ET

RUDY08

dems dont look too scared of rudy. hahahaha thats how i laugh i dont know what haaaaaaaaa is……at least he is divorced?? what do you mean its ok that he cheated because hes divorced??? democrats DEFINETELY are not scared of these arguments at all. haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa…..i mean hahahahaha

KELLY THOMPSON, STATEN ISLAND, NY   November 29th, 2007 2:27 pm ET

NOW I KNOW WHY PEOPLE VOTE FOR IDIOTS LIKE BUSH AND GIULIANI BECAUSE THEIR IDIOTS TOO. KAREN FROM NJ DOESNT KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS? REALLY? LET ME EXPLAIN IT TO YOU KAREN. RUDYS BILL IS NOW ESTIMATED AT $500,000 IF NOT MORE AND ITS ALL BECAUSE HE WENT TO STAY WITH HIS GIRLFRIEND WHILE HIS WIFE AND KIDS WERE LIVING IN GRACIE MANSION AND THAT'S OUR MONEY, NOT HIS. SO BECAUSE HE HAD A GIRLFRIEND LIVING OUT IN THE HAMPTONS WE HAD TO PICK UP THE TAB, IT MIGHT NOT BOTHER YOU KAREN SINCE YOU LIVE IN NJ AND DIDNT CONTRIBUTE TO RUDY'S LOVENEST FUND, BUT I , AS A NEW YORKER PAID FOR IT AND IM NOT HAPPY.

Chris L, SLC, Utah   November 29th, 2007 2:30 pm ET

I am a republican and to say the least, I rather vote for Obama than this moron when the world is watching for ethics and honesty of united states!
Posted By jj,newton,Iowa : November 29, 2007 2:15 pm
##

Amen. It amazes me when I talk to other social conservatives who were rightly frustrated and downright upset with Clinton, but now endorse Rudy. This man makes Slick Willy look like a saint. I know he will not get the Christan vote from Utah.

Salita, SC   November 29th, 2007 2:31 pm ET

Why would we care if the Clinton's sleep together? U might want to get your priorities straight. Rudy having affairs..Old news…But shifting the money around to cover his tracks…NEW NEWS! BIG NEWS! LOL dont try to blame this mess on Hillary.

PS why would be be afraid of republicans. LOL. You are more worried about where the Clintons are sleeping than the business of the country.

Biden Backer/Seattle   November 29th, 2007 2:33 pm ET

This guy is a fraud,a cheat, & the biggest weasel going. The run-up to the election is just gonna get more and more entertaining because this loser is going to be exposed even more. Yay Rudy!!

john williams san diego, ca.   November 29th, 2007 2:34 pm ET

hillarys war/slime machine and its associates are still in first gear. after the primaries be ready for them to go to overdrive from all directions..they will be imposing

fair,washington,dc   November 29th, 2007 2:35 pm ET

C'mon Republicans, you do have less rotten potatoes in your bag than Guli. Seriously, choose someone who is at least Republican. You're all beaten anyway.

Hillary 08

Posted By Megha, San Antonio, TX : November 29, 2007 1:48 pm

Megda,
Question for you. If you really think Rudy is unelectable and can be beat by Hillary why would you then get on here and implore the Republicans not to vote for him? Its just not logical to me, I believe the same thing , but unlike you I want them to put him in as their nominee so bad I can taste it so Hillary can mop the floor with him in the general election. You see Republicans post comments like this , dogging Hillary and saying she's unelectable and imploring Dems not to vote for her , but on their part its some kind of reverse psychology. They really don't want to see Hillary on the otherside in a general because they know she's formidable. Whats your excuse?

Surrealist, Fort Myers, FL   November 29th, 2007 2:35 pm ET

Don't blame the Democrats because some wanked off administrator from NY resents your pompous unqualified attempt to become President. If you're a scumbag (and we think you are) there will probably be more. You already have: infidelity, abuse of power, negligence…

Tom, AlBUQUERQUE, NM   November 29th, 2007 2:38 pm ET

Rudy Giuliani has dirt on his hands. When the leaves are peeled back on Rudy they will expose a lot of unsavory things about the man. I think it would be fortuitous for the Democrats if Rudy is the republican nominee. It would indeed nullify the republicans attack against Hillary if she is the DEMs choice.

Independent in IA   November 29th, 2007 2:38 pm ET

I'm quite sure Giuliani is familiar with 'hit jobs'. He's initiated enough of them. The man is dirty through and through and the sooner the public stops kissing his butt because of what he supposedly did with regard to 9/ll, the better off we'll all be.

Mike NY, NY   November 29th, 2007 2:45 pm ET

"That's funny - Rudy couldn't be too "crooked" - he ran New York City and reduced crime substantially. Can you say that about your city? I doubt it."

He ran NYC like a fascist. He cleaned up the streets with clubs and jailed people for "quality of life violations." Giuliani is a criminal, liar and a moron. I can't believe that the Kerik story hasn't had more legs. Maybe his incompetence on security around 911 and his child molesting staff member will keep him out of office.

PW Va   November 29th, 2007 2:49 pm ET

What I'm surprised about is that Rudy hasn't concocted a way to use "9/11″ to cover his behind on this! Of course, he blames the Democrats for bringing this to the forefront, but I find it interesting that Michael Bloomberg is not commenting on this either way. Hmmm…"something's rotten in the state of Denmark!"

JD Rugby ND   November 29th, 2007 2:50 pm ET

Bernie Kerik.

ERIC EMANS NYC   November 29th, 2007 2:51 pm ET

NYC PAID FOR HIS COURTSHIP OF JUDY,A THRICE MARRIED COURTISAN—COMMON PRACTCE IN RUDY'S ADM,SEE BERNIE AND THE OTHER JUDY[REGAN]

Dixon, Des Moines Iowa   November 29th, 2007 2:56 pm ET

I am a life long Democrate. However, recently I have decided neither party deserves my vote. People running for office don't really tell us what they will do. Name calling, weak accusations and lobby money is all we see. This story is just another attempt to bring candidates down. I am so sick of these constant accusations against each other. Tell us what you stand for and what you will do not what you think the other will do.

Tim Myers, Panama City, Fl   November 29th, 2007 2:57 pm ET

Ok, as Mayor you had threats to your life which warranted the protection, but as mayor you are charged with ensuring assets are spent appropriately. It is not appropriate for any elected official to charge travel to visit with a mistress while you are married to someone else. An official must understand that 24 hours protection while you are at home is a totally different cost when you decide to travel. So one must ensure all trips are absolutely necessary to execute the duties of that office only.

Wayne, Greenville TX   November 29th, 2007 3:02 pm ET

No matter where he travelled to , whether on his days off duty or working Giuliani was under 24 hour security, just as Bloomberg is. And the money for the security is NYC revenue expense money. Why is that so hard to understand.

Posted By karen nj : November 29, 2007 1:05 pm

If they were legitimate expenses, karen, then why were they hidden in the budget of the Loft Board? Why didn't they appear in the Police Department budget, or the budget for the Mayor's Office.

Something smells fishy, all the way out here in Texas.

Rocco, Wellington, fl   November 29th, 2007 3:11 pm ET

I'll bet this is just the tip of the iceberg. When Giulianis' opponents start to dig dirt on this guy watch out. People forget this guy was in business with Bernie Kerck, he recommended him as Homeland Security head. As many people have said these guys are fascist and are above the law. I hope the voter understand what is going on here.

Ryan Indianapolis   November 29th, 2007 3:13 pm ET

The best thing about Republicans agreeing to do the CNN/YouTube debate is that it created yet another invaluable opportunity to expose CNN’s abject incompetence.

Retired Brig. Gen./gays in the military lobbyist/Hillary-Kerry supporter Keith H. Kerr wasn’t the only plant at the CNN/YouTube debate. The plant uncovering is in full-swing over at Free Republic.

Example: “Journey,” a.k.a. “Paperserenade,” the girl who asked an abortion question, is a declared John Edwards supporter.

Cnn I am sure you will not post this but you should be ashamed of yourselves and this shows the partisian ways of CNN….YOu people are pathetic

P Kelly, Brampton, On   November 29th, 2007 3:17 pm ET

Rudy is deflecting the real question. Sure, he had security expenses whether he was cheating on his wife or not.

But why were these expenses hidden under other utterly unrelated categories, such as "defense for the indigent" or "people with disabilities"? Rudi claims it was the NYPD that tried to hide these expenses. Is that true?

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   November 29th, 2007 3:26 pm ET

Yet another shameless attempt to derail the Giuliani campaign (with some other alleged event that happened 5 years ago that has absolutely nothing to do with any of Giuliani's positions) that will fall on deaf ears.

Yawn.

Lev Klinemann, Redondo Beach CA   November 29th, 2007 3:30 pm ET

Once a crook, always a crook.

Every day something comes out about this guy, every single day.

…and his best friends seem to be mobsters, child molesters, and sheiks that happen to be involved with 9-11…

God help us if Giuliani becomes the president of this country. He'll be worse than Bush.

Surrealist, Fort Myers, FL   November 29th, 2007 3:30 pm ET

To: Dixon in Des Moines;
Listen…. Debate isn't always bad! I applaud forums like this that enable the free exchange of ideas. Some of them are helpful–others are nuts. But if you choose not to vote,not to participate in the democratic process, you could be relinquishing not only your future, but the future of your children and grandchildren. Throughout the history of our nation–political bad mouthing has been around–perhaps with the exception of George Washington. With the information age–it's larger than ever!! Your responsibility is to make up your OWN mind. It doesn't matter which candidate you choose–you should exercise your constitutional right to vote–and make your voice count. Don't let someone else decide who your leaders are going to be. Even if your favorite does't make it–you have the satisfaction of at least making your voice heard!!!

Mike, Milwaukee,WI   November 29th, 2007 3:34 pm ET

Rudy always seems to disregard people who disagree with him or who exposes him for all he is worth as "a hit job."

Whether Pro-Rudy FOX News likes it or not, Dems want Rudy to be the nominee. They are not scared of him at all because stuff like this will keep coming out on the trail!

Mac   November 29th, 2007 3:55 pm ET

Admit nothing, deny everything, launch counter-allegations

Sherry Lansung IOWA   November 29th, 2007 4:14 pm ET

Come on Rudy, tell the truth, its coming out anyway…

CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT

Joe, Old Bridge, NJ   November 29th, 2007 4:14 pm ET

This is a non-story. Honestly, the NY mayor, like any other big city mayor or governor, has police protection 24/7, so when any big city mayor or governor travels, the cops go with him.

A bigger story is the fact that Hillary had her tentacles in the debate when one of her advisors was asking questions about gays in the military. First Hillary plants questions at her own appearances and now she's planting them in debates. She needs to be stopped!

Rudy   November 29th, 2007 4:43 pm ET

I don't get it. You said your site could support HTML tags.

William Judson, NY, NY   November 29th, 2007 4:44 pm ET

Trust me, this is the tip of the sleazy Guiliani iceberg. This man is a my-way-or the-highway scumbag who would make the moron Bush look like Lincoln. We in New York never bought the 'Americas Mayor' crap b/c we had to watch his bullying, stubborn and autocratic manner for years prior to his 9/11 epiphany. I SO hope he runs.

R. Morelli, SF CA   November 29th, 2007 4:49 pm ET

Someday people will realize that being a slimball crosses over all political lines.

Rudy is a politician; of course he's fed out of the public trough.
Nobody should be surprised by corrupt NY politicians, of which Hillary is one.
If you don’t think she’s corrupt, you’re ignoring history.

Not many “good” people become politicians

Nate, Owensville, IN   November 29th, 2007 4:50 pm ET

11 months to go and allready ive heard way to much arguing, its not gonna come soon enough.

Patrick C. Irvine, CA   November 29th, 2007 4:50 pm ET

Guiliani did a great job as Mayor of New York. I don't care what he did after work. He had to have a 24/7 security detail. They went where he went. It was part of the job. If New Yorkers want this changed, they should vote for a change in policy. For the rest of you whiners: pound sand.

NYC   November 29th, 2007 4:54 pm ET

Just the tip of the iceberg….

A man who fires people when they gain the trust of the people is surrounded by enemies. Giuliani meet the best police cheif you ever fired, Richard Bratton.

More to come.

Don Clintoneone , Formica MN   November 29th, 2007 5:00 pm ET

Rusy must be a formidable candidate judging by the cnn plants and little leftist whiners on this site.

NYKevin, Boston Ma   November 29th, 2007 5:20 pm ET

I won't vote for Rudy, but he is uncorruptable.This is all smoke.

NYC budget was around 24 Billion a year when Rudy took over the opportunities for curruption were boundless yet Rudy played it straight and ran a tuaght ship.

The lefties hate him and fear him..

rada, Houston Texas   November 29th, 2007 5:21 pm ET

I hope that Giuliani gets the nomination…

I'll be so easy… go ahead republicans PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE give the nomination to Rudy!!!

GO RUDY 08!!!

Alex Fitzgerald, Canton, OH   November 29th, 2007 5:23 pm ET

I would vote for Hillary over Giuliani and that is saying a lot. I will never vote for a socialist like Hillary, unless she is running against this crook, Rudy Giuliani. Please people, do not force me to vote for a liberal socialist like Hillary.

chris green   November 29th, 2007 5:29 pm ET

I Can't believe CNN is reporting this story without mentioning why Rudy was visiting the Hamptons (to cheat on his wife). Isn't that an important piece of information when deciding if he was trying to cover it up.

Larry, Lexington, MA   November 29th, 2007 5:36 pm ET

I love these people who are upset that "ringers" are sneaking into the Republican debate. Are you saying that a retired brigadeer general who served his country for 20 plus years has no right to question the likes of these hypocrites (McCain excluded). Do they think this is a Bush Town Meeting with invitations, donations and tickets required.

Scott, Fort Worth, TX   November 29th, 2007 5:41 pm ET

boo-hoo. What a crybaby. And it's not a debate - I wish they'd stopped referring to it as a debate.

Please, whatever higher power is listening, don't let this slimebag take any more high office.

And, please, whatever higher power is listening, don't let reporters falter or shrink from digging all they can about ALL of the candidates.

Mark, Ballwin, IL   November 29th, 2007 5:42 pm ET

Funny reading. Rudy supporters trying to resolve his shagging of his mistress while married, at extra taxpayer expense. Resolve his doing millions in business with terrorist supporters. His locating the security command center in WTC with private elevator so he can shagg his mistress locally, never mind it being a terrorist target. Etc.

When does their brain say that this is not a good man?

EE, CA   November 29th, 2007 5:46 pm ET

The use of public funds is bad enough, but isn't the more damaging part of this the fact that Guiiani had a mistress in the first place?

Larry New York,N.Y.   November 29th, 2007 5:46 pm ET

CNN-Typical liberal hit site. Like Slick Willie and JFK did'nt screw a light bulb given the opportunity. Keep me laughing you fools.

Uneducated Cheesehead Bayside, WI   November 29th, 2007 5:52 pm ET

If this is the best hack job that Clinton can do the Mayor is in great shape. The Clintons think everyone is stupid. Look at Bill's big mouth and Hillary's plants.

Schratboy, Boulder CO   November 29th, 2007 5:56 pm ET

BoooFreakingHooooo! Hey Rudy! Keep it in your pants and pay your own freaking bills and these infidelities wouldn't be an issue.

EB Rideout, Georgia   November 29th, 2007 6:25 pm ET

Another nail in this phony's political coffin.

This guy has more baggage than an airport carousel.

Ru911dy, it's over.

Cindy, Fairborn, OH   November 29th, 2007 6:35 pm ET

I agree that as the Mayor of NYC Rudy was entitled to 24 hr protection as are NYC mayors. My problem is the fact that in addition to his legal wife, Donna Hanover Guiliani, his MISTRESS (now wife) Judith Nathan also had 24 hr police protection. This article doesn't make that clear, but it's true…look it up.

How can that be right and how could the people of NYC let that happen? Please don't elect this man…we'd be better off changing the laws and giving George W four more years…at least we know what we'll get.

Ryan, New York, NY   November 29th, 2007 6:35 pm ET

The best thing about Republicans agreeing to do the CNN/YouTube debate is that it created yet another invaluable opportunity to expose CNN’s abject incompetence.

Retired Brig. Gen./gays in the military lobbyist/Hillary-Kerry supporter Keith H. Kerr wasn’t the only plant at the CNN/YouTube debate. The plant uncovering is in full-swing over at Free Republic.

Example: “Journey,” a.k.a. “Paperserenade,” the girl who asked an abortion question, is a declared John Edwards supporter.

Cnn I am sure you will not post this but you should be ashamed of yourselves and this shows the partisian ways of CNN….YOu people are pathetic

Posted By Ryan Indianapolis : November 29, 2007 3:13 pm

Oh, poor Ryan, are you upset because the questions could be submitted by all citizens and some of them are Democrats? I realize that Bush has trained you to think that only supporters should get a voice in government, but that's not really reality.

CNN opened up the Democratic Party's Youtube debate to all voters. If I recall, there were questions asked that weren't softballs, then, too. Secondly, too bad if you don't like the Youtube debates. The submissions were from predominantly younger voters, so what did you expect, since they're sure not registering as Republicans in droves (unless they want to vote for Ron Paul).

Hillary R C, new york, ny   November 29th, 2007 6:35 pm ET

Nominate Giuliani, please!

Dick Tuck Franklin. MA   November 29th, 2007 6:43 pm ET

"Cheat on his wife and send the bill to the taxpayers???? Be d**d if that isn't what BUBBA did!

Enrique Blackwood, NJ   November 29th, 2007 6:51 pm ET

So far I feel Rudy is giving us as much truthfulness a politician can give.

Scott, Sand Diego, CA   November 29th, 2007 7:17 pm ET

"In what universe do Republicans nominate a guy who cheats on his wife and sends the bill to the taxpayer?"

The same Universe as the Dems do Walter… the same as the Dems. Do you not remember a certain Bill "BJ" Clinton, cheating on his wife and being nominated by his party. Think before you speak buddy, think before you speak!

Scott, San Diego, CA   November 29th, 2007 7:31 pm ET

Being from NY and now living on the Left Coast, I have a quick question for those of you stuck in your little California fishbowl… Do any of you on this site, who are so quick to bash Rudy for "cheating" on his wife, even know the whole story: NO, I didn't think so… Rudy and his former wife, Donna Hanover, were legally seperated for roughly 1-2 years before he even started seeing Judith Nathan.

The force at which you people consistently try to create drama and instigate controversy, without even knowing the facts of a story is ridiculous… keep riding the "Conspiricy Train" of the Clinton Crime Family.

kelly thompson,staten island, ny   November 29th, 2007 7:37 pm ET

patrick from ca. is a perfect example of the idiots i mentioned in my earlier post. he says rudy dikd a great job as mayor of nyc, this from a guy who lives in california, he says new yorkers should change policy if we dont want to fund rudy's love nest lol
when they get all the paperwork together on rudys hiding his spending on his love nest he will be getting a bill. just ask kerik

Sasha, Marysville, WA   November 29th, 2007 7:57 pm ET

Walter wrote: "In what universe do Republicans nominate a guy who cheats on his wife and sends the bill to the taxpayer?" Can you say Clinton????

Fidel Castro   November 29th, 2007 8:21 pm ET

After reading through this barrage of leftist diatribes and rants, I offer all of you positions in my Secret Police Force. You are the sort of chicas and hombres I'm looking for.

Fondest Wishes During this Holiday Season,

Your Friend,
Fidel

Big Ben   November 29th, 2007 8:35 pm ET

The democratic party has never portrayed itself as the party of “Family Values” , whatever that is. It is not the party that claims to be morally superior than any one else.

What you have just pointed out, even if I don’t think you realize it, is the hypocrisy of the republican party!

Jake, Wantagh, NY   November 29th, 2007 8:37 pm ET

The reason this did not come out till now it was sat on for seven years. Just Remember Clinton did the same thing as Govenor & Attorney General. He used the State Troopers to round up State Employees AGAINST THER WILL.

Demo Crat - Orlando Florida   November 29th, 2007 9:20 pm ET

Until the facts are in a rush to judgment s foolish. Too often we allow ourselves to be led when we should be taking the time to quantify the facts first.

First, one needs to understand that regardless of what certain political people are doing, there are mandatory levels of security coverage that must be maintained (by law).

No one has all the facts sufficient to make any valid judgment one way or the other; and if the cost incurred would have happened irregardless of where the Mayor had gone, then there is no point to the story whatsoever.

Greg, Westchester New York   November 29th, 2007 10:10 pm ET

If the dems want to compare dirty laundry… bring it on! Hillary has done nothing as senator. Why don't we start with asking all those folks in the northern part of the state how she has fulfilled all those campaign promises? At least Rudy delivered. You may not like all his policies but if you were around NYC before and after his time in office and compare that to what Hillary has done for New York there is no comparison.

D. Endo, Honolulu HI   November 29th, 2007 10:19 pm ET

It's not a "hit job" if it's true. The $34K is only what we know about. I'm sure if you dig deeper, you'll find more corruption. Rudy's a liar and an opportunist. His "handling" of 9/11 will prove at some point that he's dirty.

Come on, Rudy, why aren't you addressing the truth of the issue. Because the truth of the issue is you're a slimy, lying, corrupt weasel.

Patrick C. Irvine, CA   November 29th, 2007 10:36 pm ET

For all of you folks who are saying that Guiliani billed NYC for his personal expenses, please check the facts before you continue to make fools of yourselves. Guiliani's 24/7 police security detail did bill the City of New York for their time and expense. It was a required part of their job that they accompany the mayor wherever he went at all times. Guiliani paid for his own personal expenses. He did not bill NYC for his personal expenses. You can continue to lie and say that he did, but you will be exposing yourselves as idiots. Of course, you may be happy to be so. "Don't try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig."

Anonymous, Denver, CO   November 29th, 2007 11:17 pm ET

Guiliani/Huckabee - now that's a TICKET! Two crooks for the price of one! Both guys have allegedly misappropriated taxpayer funds. One is a pompous, holier-than-thou "hero" whose "heroics" on 9/11 amounted to nothing more than showing up at the scene of the crime. The other is a Baptist minister/politician who has had to answer to at least 14 ethics charges when he was Governor of Arkansas (including an attempt by he and his wife to take $70K worth of furniture out of the governor's mansion when he left office)…Yep — one heck of a pair! Hillary 08!

Joe Willie, Amarillo TX   November 30th, 2007 12:04 am ET

I don't believe even the Party of Family Values will nominate somebody who married his first cousin then moved his second wife out of the mayor's mansion to move the girlfriend in.

Jonny Knuckles   November 30th, 2007 12:33 am ET

Rudy just give up and stop running for president. You are a liar and will never be as great a man as Ron Paul. Go Ron Paul.

LeeO Dallas, TX   November 30th, 2007 4:28 am ET

Rudy Vs Hillary. They are trying to feed us excrement on a stick and telling us it's shish kabob.

Dave, Buffalo, NY   November 30th, 2007 7:42 am ET

CNN should be ashamed of itself, they packed the questioners with Democrat campaign staffers makes the idea of an impartial media laughable. I wouldn't be surprised in the least if CNN is found to have had a hand in this entire thing including time timing of the release of this fabrication. This makes the Democrats hyperventilation over the imginary sins of Fox News even more difficult.

Alice Newman Center Harbor NH   November 30th, 2007 8:02 am ET

Hey Chris In Middletown:

Looks like you are one of the fool-aide drinkers: You posted "I mean if it came down to a Giuliani vs Clinton for the White House - the voters would need to choose between a mayor with sound fiscal experience and a social liberal background…"

True GOP - voting for a crook, a man who runs with crooks, has no morals, and by the way, if you got information from anything other than Faux News, you'd know Rudy has padded his resume with lies, and misleading statistics … the only fiscal experience he has is hiding the cost of his affair with his not-yet-third wife.

Gary, Oreland, PA   November 30th, 2007 10:47 am ET

Either he and his cronies used creative accounting to hide the expenses of his high lifestyle, or he didn't. It doesn't matter who brought the story out or when it was revealed. If he had his fingers too deep in the public funds, it makes you wonder what would happen if he became president. No bid contracts would be the least of our worries.

Cindy, Fairborn, OH   November 30th, 2007 10:58 am ET

Being from NY and now living on the Left Coast, I have a quick question for those of you stuck in your little California fishbowl… Do any of you on this site, who are so quick to bash Rudy for "cheating" on his wife, even know the whole story: NO, I didn't think so… Rudy and his former wife, Donna Hanover, were legally seperated for roughly 1-2 years before he even started seeing Judith Nathan.

Hmmmm…it appears you were privy to information on the state of the Guiliani's marriage that even Mrs. Guiliani wasn't aware of Scott, because I recall a certain press conference where Donna Hanover Guiliani basically said they were working on their marriage and she blindsided by Rudy's announcement that he was leaving the marriage in favor ofhis "good friend" Judy Nathan. But I'm sure you YOU know better. After all, she was only the (legal) wife.

Frank, San Diego   November 30th, 2007 11:22 am ET

We shouldn't be so surprised that Rudy had two women on the NYC police ledgers at the same time. After all, he told us up front that he is pro-choice.

cozumelkid   November 30th, 2007 1:29 pm ET

I would have thought that the mayor of New York City would have travel expenses much higher than that. The mayor is supposed to go out and promote his city.

Rick, Chicago Illinois   November 30th, 2007 10:30 pm ET

New Republican tactic for minimizing the dirt uncovered on their hypocritical heores ….

scream "PLANT!"

Somebody should dress up as one at the next GOP debate.

HISTORY REPEATS   December 1st, 2007 11:46 am ET

A bigger story is the fact that Hillary had her tentacles in the debate when one of her advisors was asking questions about gays in the military. First Hillary plants questions at her own appearances and now she's planting them in debates. She needs to be stopped!

Posted By Joe, Old Bridge, NJ : November 29, 2007 4:14 pm

the best part about this forum is that you get to see how the opposition works. instead of discussing the issue of giuliani they say its actually more importnant that someone that worked for hillary ASKED A QUESTION at a debate!!! thats right ASKED A QUESTION…….the absurdity of the accusation is that this is worse then what giuliani did puts things in perspective doesnt it?

HISTORY REPEATS   December 1st, 2007 11:53 am ET

Scott, San Diego, CA

scott i live in NY and to act like because you once lived here you are in some way more knowledgable on this subject then most is a ridiculous statement. look at CINDY from FAIRBORN, OH she seems to be mmore accurate on the subject then you and she isnt even from NY!!! amazing….lol

HISTORY REPEATS   December 1st, 2007 12:53 pm ET

Rick, Chicago Illinois

i completely agree i live in NY and before 9/11 people did not like giuliani. he wasnt looked at as a great mayor.he was the guy that would arrest everyone to protect park ave from litter!! then you see all these people now saying how great giuliani was for NY lol. look at NY today its all rich foreigners!!! there is no soul to this city anymore.

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