Jen Psaki Interviews Letitia James Amid Federal Investigation

During an interview on Thursday, MSNBC host Jen Psaki spoke with New York Attorney General Letitia James, who is currently under federal scrutiny for allegations of mortgage fraud. Psaki opened the discussion by praising James, stating she seemed “pretty fearless.” By the end of the conversation, James expressed her intention to be “relentless,” “awful,” and “fearless” in pursuing actions against former President Donald Trump, drawing positive feedback from Psaki.

“There’s no doubt about it,” Psaki remarked. “Those watching can sense your strength and determination. I think many appreciate all the hard work you’re putting in to keep this administration in check and ensure transparency through the law.”

She thanked James for her time and expressed hope for a return visit to discuss more about the cases she is tackling alongside other attorneys general nationwide.

Reports indicate that the FBI and U.S. attorneys in Upstate New York have initiated a criminal inquiry into James following a referral from William J. Pulte, director of the U.S. Federal Housing Finance Agency. He claims she may have falsified her mortgage records, particularly by designating Norfolk, Virginia, as her “major residence” in a 2023 document when legal guidelines dictate that the Attorney General maintains a primary residence in New York.

James appears to have connections to two residences in Virginia referenced in an investigation report. Neighbors near these homes stated they didn’t recognize her, with one neighbor commenting that the residents appeared not to be “a New York woman.”

During the interview, Psaki brought up the federal investigation. James responded by underlining that she had not verified such claims.

“I have to ask you about this—there are reports of a criminal investigation by the Department of Justice related to your real estate transactions. I haven’t confirmed anything, but I wanted to know if you have received any formal notice,” Psaki asked.

James dismissed the allegations as “basically unfounded,” suggesting they were politically motivated in retaliation for her investigations into Trump.

She had promised to investigate Trump during her 2018 campaign and later pursued legal actions against him in September 2022. This culminated in a ruling earlier this year where Trump was ordered to pay $354 million, based on claims that he inflated the value of his properties to secure loans.