AOC Calls for Support of Letitia James Amid Legal Troubles

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez reached out to her supporters on Thursday, asking them to contribute financially to state Attorney General Letitia James as a way to “fight back” against the recent federal indictment.

In her email, Ocasio-Cortez characterized the indictment over mortgage fraud as an unjust attack orchestrated by President Trump. She emphasized that James remains steadfast and that immediate support is crucial, urging donations to meet a target of 20,000 contributions by midnight.

“Letitia is not backing down. If you can, please donate to her,” she wrote. “Your contribution will send a clear message that you stand with her as Trump uses the Justice Department for his own gains.”

The email contained a link to a fundraising site, though it was unclear if the funds would be directed to James’ election campaign or her legal defense.

On Instagram, Ocasio-Cortez promoted a page titled “Letitia James Legal Fund,” reiterating her belief that the accusations against James are unfounded. “This just represents a dangerous escalation where Trump goes after those who challenge him,” she stated.

James’ legal challenges escalated on Thursday when she faced federal charges related to bank fraud in Virginia. She is scheduled to appear in court on October 24 and has denied the allegations, framing them as politically motivated, an assertion echoed by her supporters.

The relationship between James and Trump has been contentious since his first term, marked by legal actions over claims that he exaggerated the value of his assets. Although the initial penalties levied against him were appealed in August, the rivalry remains intense.

Legal experts indicated that there are no explicit prohibitions against New York officials transferring campaign resources to legal defense funds. Nevertheless, a spokesperson for James mentioned that the AG, who is also campaigning for re-election, intends to allocate the Democratic Attorneys General Association’s legal funds toward her defense.

When contacted, Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign had not provided a response swiftly. “We support her. New Yorkers admire her. I admire her too,” Ocasio-Cortez shared on social media.