WASHINGTON (AP) — The coalition of New York NAACP chapters had just begun its annual state convention when Letitia James, a longtime member and the state’s attorney general, canceled her appearance.
James had just been indicted by the Justice Department for alleged mortgage fraud, a charge which she called “baseless” and “a grave violation of our constitutional order.”
The New York convention’s organizers felt that the moment was alarming and underscored the gathering’s importance, which included discussions on escalating political power at the state level amid perceived federal threats to social welfare and civil rights. NAACP New York State Conference President L. Joy Williams stated, “It was through our collective action that a democracy was built. What we have to do is not only defend against what is happening now, but we have to push further past where we were before, to build a better American democracy.”
James’ indictment, particularly following her previous prosecutions against the Trump Organization for business fraud, has raised questions about the political bias within the justice system, mirroring recent attempts by Trump to dismiss Federal Reserve Board governor Lisa Cook over similar allegations.
Claims against James and Cook carry symbolic weight
Advocates view some of Trump’s actions as particularly aimed at undermining Black female leaders. “This is something that we’ve grappled with since the start of this administration,” remarked Shavon Arline-Bradley, president and CEO of the National Council of Negro Women. She emphasized that accusations against leaders like James resonate deeply within Black families, where historical discrimination has hindered property ownership.
With homeownership serving as a primary avenue for wealth accumulation among Black Americans, Arline-Bradley noted, “When you attack someone’s home, you attack their ability to own, you attack their ability to have choice, you attack their ability to make a statement about their economic future.”
‘One tier of justice for all Americans’
The Trump administration defends the indictment of James as justified, asserting that “No one is above the law,” according to U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan. Critics, including Yvette Clark, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, argue this indictment is a politically motivated retribution aimed at silencing opposition. Clark stated, “The American people see this corrupt prosecution for what it is — a desperate attempt by President Trump to weaponize the justice system.”
Case against James ‘very uncommon,’ legal expert says
Alongside James, the Trump Justice Department has indicted former FBI Director James Comey for false statements and is investigating Sen. Adam Schiff for mortgage fraud. Legal experts express skepticism toward the mortgage fraud inquiries, suggesting such actions are unusual without clear patterns of wrongdoing. Professor Paul Schiff Berman described the case against James as lacking solid justification, as her actions related to property rental may not constitute a legal breach.
In light of the ongoing legal turmoil, allies of James reaffirm their support. NAACP leaders conveyed that she is always welcomed back, emphasizing the need to give her space during these challenging times.
