Former Georgia election worker, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, testified in federal court on Tuesday about the life-altering impact of defamation she experienced after Rudy Giuliani disseminated conspiracy theories about her online. Moss recounted how lies were spread about her and her mother, allegations of fraud and incompetence that led to extensive public scrutiny and threats.
Since then, Moss detailed how her life has become unrecognizable, having lost her job, received numerous threats, and been forced to enter therapy. She is most fearful of her son coming home to find her or her mother hanging outside their house, or receiving news at school about her death. Moss and her mother are seeking between $15.5 million and $43 million in damages for reputational harm and emotional distress caused by the false statements made by Giuliani and others in the aftermath of the 2020 election.
Messages of a racist and violent nature have flooded Moss’ phone and social media, leading to paranoia and panic attacks. She has been forced to confront her son with the realities of racism, causing her immense despair. One particularly hurtful moment was when she received a message about being glad it’s 2020 and not 1920, a reference to the treatment of Black people during that era.
Moreover, Moss has discussed the Giuliani video shared on Twitter, showing her and her mother working at a Georgia voting center. This led to further public scrutiny and hateful comments directed at Moss and her family. Moss found herself dumbfounded by the allegations and lies spread about her and her mother, including claims of treasonous acts and election stealing. When asked in court, she vehemently denied all the accusations made against her.
The judge has already ruled that Giuliani spread false information about Moss, further emphasizing the harm caused to her and her family. This case highlights the detrimental impact of baseless conspiracy theories and misinformation on the lives of individuals, and the lasting effects it can have.