New York Attorney General Letitia James spearheaded civil suits against the Trump Organization and the National Rifle Association. She won a half-billion-dollar penalty against Donald Trump for inflating his net worth, though an appeals court later vacated the fine.
Her office also targeted the NRA and its leader, Wayne LaPierre, in a separate fraud case.
James’s Legal Challenge
James quickly moved to quash the subpoenas. She argues they represent an abuse of the criminal justice system. Furthermore she contends the subpoenas violate state sovereignty and First Amendment rights.
The Subpoenas Issued
In August 2025, a grand jury in Albany issued two subpoenas to James’s office. These demands required documents from the Trump and NRA investigations. Prosecutors claim James selectively pursued these cases, potentially violating federal laws.
Arguments in Court
During the hearing on December 4, 2025, in Albany federal court, James’s team called the subpoenas a “flagrant abuse” driven by personal grievances. Prosecutors countered that the grand jury holds broad power to investigate selective enforcement.
However James highlights the unlawful appointment of acting U.S. Attorney John Sarcone as a key flaw.
Current Developments
The court focused solely on Sarcone’s appointment validity. Similar challenges have succeeded in other states, disqualifying Trump administration picks. As a result, the motion remains pending, with potential impacts on federal state relations. Meanwhile James vows to protect her office’s independence.
This dispute underlines tensions between state enforcers and the federal government. Lengthy legal battles lie ahead, analysts say.
