Rudy Giuliani’s Condition Improving After Hospitalization for Pneumonia

WASHINGTON — Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is showing signs of improvement after being hospitalized in critical but stable condition with pneumonia in both lungs, his spokesman confirmed on May 4, 2026.

Giuliani, 81, was admitted to a hospital in West Palm Beach, Florida, over the weekend after experiencing respiratory distress. He was placed on a ventilator in the intensive care unit due to complications from pneumonia. In the past 24 hours, doctors have removed him from the ventilator, and he is now breathing on his own. He has also regained consciousness and begun engaging in limited conversations with medical staff and family members.

Spokesman Ted Goodman stated that Giuliani is “showing signs of strength” and that “the situation is still very serious, but we are seeing positive signs.” A source close to the family added that Giuliani “is not out of danger yet — but he’s improving and fighting, and that means everything right now.”

Giuliani’s lung issues are believed to be complicated by restrictive airway disease stemming from his exposure to toxic dust and debris while leading the city’s response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He spent months at Ground Zero and has spoken openly in the past about the long-term health effects of that period.

President Donald Trump reacted quickly to news of the hospitalization, posting on Truth Social: “Our fabulous Rudy Giuliani, a True Warrior, and the Best Mayor in the History of New York City, BY FAR, has been hospitalized, and is in critical condition. He will be fine, and he will be back stronger than ever. Rudy is a Great American Patriot!”

Giuliani rose to national prominence as mayor of New York from 1994 to 2001, earning the nickname “America’s Mayor” for his leadership after the 9/11 attacks. He later served as personal attorney to President Trump and played a prominent role in post-2020 election legal challenges. He has remained an active voice in conservative media, hosting his online show “America’s Mayor Live” from Florida as recently as Friday night.

As of the latest update, Giuliani remains in the ICU under close monitoring. No further medical details have been released, and his family has asked for privacy during his recovery.

Well-wishes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with many noting Giuliani’s resilience and long public service record. Updates on his condition will continue to be released by his team as they become available.