In a recent press briefing, New York Attorney General Letitia James underscored her commitment to upholding the law in anticipation of potential legal battles with the administration of President-elect Donald Trump. James stated that her office has been preparing extensively over the past months to counter any perceived overreach and defend New York’s legal interests rigorously. This statement comes amid increased tension between her office and Trump’s camp, with allegations and aggressive rhetoric exchanged publicly.
Mike Davis, a prominent Trump ally and potential White House counsel, has issued direct warnings to James. In a recent appearance on the “Benny Johnson Podcast,” Davis’s language escalated, stating that any attempt by James to engage in legal action against Trump could result in severe repercussions. Specifically, Davis cautioned, “I dare you to try to continue your lawfare against President Trump in his second term…we will put your fat a** in prison for conspiracy against rights.” This threat, which referenced conspiracy charges, hinted at the possibility of criminal prosecution if James’s actions were viewed as infringing on constitutional rights.
Davis further advised James to “think long and hard” about any actions that could be construed as encroachments on the rights of President-elect Trump or any other American, suggesting potential legal repercussions beyond typical civil disputes. Earlier this year, James ordered Trump to pay a $454 million bond in connection with a civil fraud case, claiming Trump inflated his asset values to secure favorable financing. Trump has since contested this ruling and has filed an appeal.
A New York Black Law Enforcement group has also criticized Attorney General Letitia James for her focus on Trump cases at the expense of needed police reforms.
“The Black community is not interested in another high-profile press conference about Donald Trump,” said Jones. “We urgently need—and have long been waiting for—an Attorney General committed to policing reform, an issue where James has been conspicuously silent since taking office.”
Jones highlighted several incidents of police violence against Black New Yorkers that he believes deserve greater attention from the AG’s office. He specifically referenced the recent death of Jarrell Garris, an unarmed Black man who was fatally shot by New Rochelle police while experiencing a mental health crisis, as an example of ongoing systemic issues requiring immediate address
Following Trump’s recent electoral win, James, alongside New York Governor Kathy Hochul, made clear their intentions to resist any retaliatory moves. In a press conference, James assured New Yorkers that her office was prepared for any legal confrontations with the new administration, stating, “This is not the time to be fearful, New York. But faithful. And steadfast. Knowing that I, as the attorney general, along with my entire team, we are guardians of the law. And we are prepared, my friends, to fight back.” This assertion reflects her stance that the office will remain proactive, resilient, and committed to defending New Yorkers’ legal protections, regardless of federal political shifts.
