Rudy Giuliani off ventilator but remains critical as he battles pneumonia

WASHINGTON, DC: Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is now breathing on his own but remains in critical condition as he continues to battle pneumonia, his spokesperson confirmed in an update on Monday, May 4.

Ted Goodman said the 81-year-old no longer requires mechanical ventilation, marking a significant development after his condition worsened over the weekend.

“He is now breathing on his own, with his family and primary medical provider at his side,” Goodman said, describing Giuliani as “the ultimate fighter.”

Despite the improvement, Giuliani’s condition remains serious, with doctors continuing to monitor him closely.

Underlying health condition complicates recovery

According to his spokesperson, Giuliani suffers from “restrictive airway disease,” a condition linked to his exposure during the September 11 attacks in New York City.

The illness is known to exacerbate respiratory infections such as pneumonia, making recovery more difficult. Goodman said a virus had “quickly overwhelmed his body,” necessitating the use of a ventilator to stabilize oxygen levels during the most critical phase.

Medical experts note that patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions often face heightened risks when dealing with severe lung infections.

Sudden decline after public appearance

Giuliani had appeared in public just days before his hospitalization, hosting his podcast 'America’s Mayor Live' on Friday night. During the broadcast, he mentioned having a cough and said his voice was “a little bit under the weather.”

Shortly afterward, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to his admission to the hospital and subsequent placement on mechanical ventilation.

The swift progression from mild symptoms to critical illness has raised concerns about the severity of the infection.

Trump voices support amid health crisis

President Donald Trump confirmed Giuliani’s hospitalization on Sunday, praising his longtime ally and describing him as a “true warrior.”

Trump also used the moment to criticize his political opponents, reiterating his support for Giuliani, who served as his personal lawyer and played a prominent role in efforts to challenge the 2020 election results.

Giuliani, once celebrated for his leadership during the September 11 attacks, has remained a high-profile and often polarizing figure in US politics.

His involvement in attempts to overturn the 2020 election led to his disbarment in New York and Washington, DC, and multiple legal challenges, which he has denied.

The former mayor also faced a major health setback last year following a serious car crash in New Hampshire that left him with multiple injuries, including a spinal fracture.

While Giuliani’s ability to breathe independently marks a positive step, his overall condition remains fragile. Doctors are expected to continue intensive monitoring as he battles pneumonia alongside underlying respiratory complications.