Rudy Giuliani's Gamble: What's in It for Him if Trump Wins?
As the 2020 election draws closer, the question of what's in it for Rudy Giuliani if his former client, Donald Trump, secures victory is increasingly on the minds of political analysts and observers. While Giuliani remains actively involved, his motives and the potential rewards he sees from Trump's potential presidency are significant.
Giuliani's Quest for Political Relevance
Rudy Giuliani, much like Chris Christie and other political figures surrounding Trump, is seeking to reclaim a measure of political relevance. Since leaving the mayorship of New York City in 2001 due to term limits, Giuliani has been largely out of the national spotlight. His efforts to secure a position in Trump's administration are not merely altruistic, but rather driven by a desire to regain prominence and influence.
Giuliani's political journey has been marked by challenges and setbacks. In 2000, he was diagnosed with cancer and his personal life was further complicated by a public affair. Despite these obstacles, his candidacy for the U.S. Senate against Hillary Clinton faltered. His 2008 presidential ambitions also fell short, and he later supported John McCain in the primaries.
Revenge and Political Aspirations
Beyond a simple desire for relevance, Giuliani harbors more complex motivations. He seeks to exact a sort of revenge against his political detractors, particularly Hillary Clinton, who thwarted his 2008 campaign. The idea of sitting at the "right hand" of the victorious president speaks not only to further relevance but also to a potential for retribution and vindication.
Political Hopes Amidst Unpredictability
Notwithstanding the clarity of his ambitions, the political landscape is fraught with uncertainty. Trump, known for his mercurial nature, has a history of reneging on promises and changing his stance. Relying on future appointments or guarantees from an unpredictable leader poses significant risks. Giuliani's willingness to engage in un-statesmanlike behavior is likely an attempt to curry favor and secure a position, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Understanding Giuliani’s Advocacy Efforts
Giuliani's current advocacy efforts are centered around resurrecting the now-controversial “Stop and Frisk” policy in New York City. He is positioning himself as a seasoned law enforcement expert and proponent of the measures. His strategy is clear: by highlighting past successes, he is laying the groundwork for a promised role in Trump's administration. The success of this campaign, however, depends on Trump's vision and commitments.
Conclusion: The Price of Political Relevance
The stakes are high for Rudy Giuliani. His continued involvement in Trump’s campaign and potential presidency comes with a significant personal and professional cost. The political relevance and influence he seeks may come at the price of principle and personal values. The voters and the public are left to ponder whether Giuliani’s drive for political favor and relevance is more important than the stability and integrity of the Trump administration.