New York AG Challenges Authority in Trump Investigation
New York Attorney General Letitia James is questioning the authority of John Sarcone, the acting U.S. attorney for the Northern District of New York, in relation to a Justice Department investigation concerning President Donald Trump and the National Rifle Association. This move is part of James’s effort to block subpoenas linked to the investigation, according to reports.
James’s attorney, Heiling Chen, argued in court that Sarcone’s role as a U.S. attorney was not legitimate and that any legal actions he took, such as issuing the subpoena, were therefore invalid. When U.S. District Judge Lorna G. Schofield inquired about the situation, Chen suggested that Sarcone should be disbarred from the investigation.
Chen also noted that “Mr. Sarcone exercised power that he did not legally possess,” as reported. Meanwhile, Justice Department attorneys contended that Sarcone was properly appointed, insisting that attempts to block the subpoena were unwarranted. Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Bellis described the idea of disbarring Sarcone as “drastic and extreme,” expressing a belief that such measures wouldn’t be appropriate.
The judge engaged both sides with questions but did not specify when a decision would be made.
Currently, there is no appointed U.S. attorney for the Northern District of New York. Sarcone was chosen as interim U.S. attorney in March by Attorney General Pam Bondi, but after a 120-day term, judges did not extend his position. Although Bondi later designated Sarcone as special counsel and first assistant U.S. attorney, federal officials indicated he could still function as acting U.S. attorney for the time being.
In court, Bellis highlighted Bondi’s extensive authority to appoint and delegate responsibilities to Justice Department attorneys but also proposed that Sarcone could carry out a grand jury investigation, despite lacking standard authority as acting U.S. attorney.
Comments have been requested from the Department of Justice regarding this case.
