New York Attorney General Letitia James has announced that her office will not drop the civil fraud case against President-elect Donald Trump, despite his legal team’s request to dismiss the lawsuit.
The case stems from allegations that Trump and his organization inflated his net worth to secure financial benefits.
James’ decision comes as Trump awaits the outcome of an appeal in the case. A New York judge had previously ruled against Trump, finding him and his businesses liable for fraud and ordering them to pay a $454 million judgment.
With accrued interest, the amount owed by Trump, the Trump Organization, and key executives—including Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump—has surpassed $497 million.
Trump’s legal team has challenged the judgment in a New York appeals court, which has not yet delivered a final decision. Judges have indicated they are open to potentially reversing the ruling. However, James’ office stated that the ongoing appeals process does not interfere with Trump’s duties as president-elect.
Deputy Solicitor General Judith Vale reinforced this position in a letter to Trump’s attorney, D. John Sauer, writing that “the ordinary burdens of civil litigation do not impede the President’s official duties in a way that violates the U.S. Constitution.”
Trump’s legal team previously requested the dismissal of the civil fraud case, citing the need for national unity after his election victory.
In response, James’ office rejected the appeal, asserting that “presidents are not immune from civil litigation arising from unofficial conduct.” They also argued that the final judgment does not affect Trump’s ability to serve as president.
Critics argue the case is politically motivated. Trump’s attorneys have highlighted the dismissal of other legal actions against him, including two criminal prosecutions by Special Counsel Jack Smith, as reasons for James to follow suit.
Without directly referencing the civil fraud case, James confirmed that she was out for revenge. She stated she intends to “stand tall in the face of injustice, revenge, retribution.”
As the appeals court deliberates, Trump and his legal team await the possibility of overturning the judgment.