U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY) recently lodged a formal complaint with the New York State Committee on Professional Standards against Attorney General Letitia James, alleging that James violated professional conduct rules in her ongoing investigation of President Donald Trump.
Stefanik contends that James has been relentlessly pursuing legal action against Trump, characterizing it as a witch hunt.
In her statement, Rep. Stefanik said, “I have found New York Attorney General Letitia James’ handling of the investigation and trial of President Donald Trump nothing short of shameful. It is evident that Attorney General James violated fundamental principles of fairness and impartiality by engaging in a relentless lawfare campaign against President Trump, marked by over 50 prejudicial comments on social media during just the first five weeks of the trial.”
“It’s been her explicit mission since she announced her run for office to go after President Trump. Such behavior not only undermines the integrity of the legal process but also violates the Rules of Professional Conduct to which James, as a licensed attorney, is bound.”
In 2018, Letitia James, the first African-American to be elected as Attorney General of New York State, gained attention when a video surfaced showing her expressing frustration towards Trump and making threats of legal action.
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While all Americans possess the right to express their opinions on matters of public interest, attorneys–particularly state attorneys general–are held to a higher standard due to their unique role as officers of the court.
Her conduct not only constitutes a breach of her professional responsibilities but also risks irreparable harm to the public’s already eroding trust in our legal institutions,” said Stefanik.
The complaint calls for the Attorney Grievance Committee to launch an immediate investigation into AG James’ conduct and to consider sanctions that could range from an interim suspension to disbarment or suspension from practicing law.
“I urge the Attorney Grievance Committee to immediately conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate disciplinary action, including the immediate interim suspension, disbarment, or suspension of Attorney General James, to uphold the integrity of our legal profession and ensure justice is served impartially,” said Stefanik.
