Trump loyal to Giuliani, but some aides wish he would cut ties

By Darlene Superville The Associated Press

5 years ago

FILE - In this Nov. 20, 2016, file photo, then-President-elect Donald Trump calls out to media ... — FILE – In this Nov. 20, 2016, file photo, then-President-elect Donald Trump calls out to media as he and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani pose for photographs as Giuliani arrives at the Trump National Golf Club Bedminster clubhouse in Bedminster, N.J. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is standing by his personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, amid reports that federal prosecutors are looking into Giuliani for possible lobbying violations.

Trump tweeted Saturday that Giuliani is the victim of what the president calls “a one sided Witch Hunt.”

So now they are after the legendary “crime buster” and greatest Mayor in the history of NYC, Rudy Giuliani. He may seem a little rough around the edges sometimes, but he is also a great guy and wonderful lawyer. Such a one sided Witch Hunt going on in USA. Deep State. Shameful!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 12, 2019

The New York Times reported Friday, citing two anonymous sources familiar with the inquiry, that the investigation is linked to Giuliani’s efforts to undermine the former the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.

However, some aides and advisers to the president tell The Associated Press they wish he would cut ties with Giuliani.

Giuliani’s efforts on behalf of Trump led Giuliani to Ukraine, which now entangles the former federal prosecutor and mayor in legal jeopardy and is central to the danger threatening the presidency he labored to protect.