Trump Demanding Letitia James Resign As Battles Between Them Continue

Former President Donald Trump is demanding the resignation of New York Attorney General Letitia James, following a media report and ongoing legal disputes between them.

Quick Takes

Trump calls for NY AG Letitia James to resign, labeling her “a totally corrupt politician.”
The demand arises amidst ongoing legal battles including a civil fraud trial.
James pursued various legal actions against Trump, alleging misconduct in his businesses.
Some suggest Trump’s resignation call is a strategy to undermine pending legal actions.

Demand for Resignation

Donald Trump demanded the resignation of Attorney General Letitia James, criticizing her as a “totally corrupt politician.” This follows a civil fraud trial outcome where a New York judge found Trump and his associates liable for inflating asset values, resulting in a $454 million penalty. In response, Trump denied any misconduct and alleged political bias. He is challenging the court’s decision, appealing with a $175 million bond.

Letitia James initially filed the lawsuit in 2022 after an extensive investigation, declaring the ruling a triumph for justice. James’s tenure, characterized by a strong focus on corporate accountability and civil rights, has seen her in opposition to Trump’s actions before. Notably, James collaborated with attorneys general from other states in filing amicus briefs that argue against some Executive Orders issued under Trump’s administration. These orders faced criticism for allegedly undermining constitutional principles and violating the First Amendment.

James’s Legal Actions

Attorney General James, alongside 20 other attorneys general, has defended law firms targeted by Trump’s administration by filing supportive amicus briefs. These law firms, Jenner & Block LLP and WilmerHale LLP, faced sanctions due to what the administration termed undesirable work. The attorneys general argue these actions undermine freedoms enshrined in the Constitution, including the right to counsel and free speech.

“Targeting and sanctioning law firms for representing clients that the president disagrees with is unconstitutional and undemocratic,” said Attorney General James. “The right to counsel and free speech is enshrined in the Constitution, and no president can take that away on a whim. I am proud to stand with these law firms as they courageously challenge these unconstitutional executive orders and defend the rule of law.”

The coalition posits that the orders, which include directives to suspend security clearances and exclude firm employees from federal buildings, are an overreach of authority threatening the rule of law. They also purport the measures could harm residents who rely heavily on these firms for their legal services.

Ongoing Contentious Relationship

The ill will between Trump and James is not new. Letitia James initiated several investigations into Trump’s business dealings and finances, making her a frequent target of Trump’s criticism. James’s efforts align with her office’s recent actions protecting free speech against alleged government overreach, as seen in actions opposed to the “Ideological Deportation Policy.” This controversial policy purportedly jeopardized academic freedom and suppressed free expression in educational establishments.

“Our democracy depends on the freedom to think, to speak, and to learn without fear,” AG James further said. “No one should face detention or deportation for exercising their right to free speech.”

As the legal tug-of-war between Trump and James persists, the implications are far-reaching for both parties. James remains steadfast in her legal pursuits, while Trump dismisses the trials as politically driven. Both continue to rally their bases, highlighting how legal and political battles unfold in the public arena.