New York Attorney General Letitia James has vowed to stand against any moves from President-elect Donald Trump that she believes threaten the rights of New Yorkers, EconoTimes reported. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, James addressed concerns about potential “revenge or retribution” that could impact state policies and funding following Trump’s return to the White House.
Joined by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, who echoed her commitment to safeguarding state rights, James affirmed her readiness to challenge any attempts from the incoming administration to undermine state policies. “We are prepared to respond to this result,” James said, adding that her office has been developing strategies to counter any federal actions perceived as harmful to New York.
Hochul, while extending her congratulations to Trump, emphasized that New York would not back down on core state issues. She announced the Empire State Freedom Initiative, designed to protect areas of potential conflict with federal policies, including reproductive rights, civil rights, and environmental protections. “New York is a bastion of freedom and rule of law,” Hochul stated. She pledged to collaborate with federal representatives to support funding for infrastructure and economic development while making clear that any rollback of state rights would face staunch opposition.
Attorney General James Poised for Legal Battle
James took a pointed tone, reminding the public of her office’s past legal actions against Trump’s previous administration. Between 2019 and 2021, she led nearly 100 legal challenges, opposing moves to limit state tax deductions, cut funds for law enforcement, and dismantle parts of the Affordable Care Act. Her message on Wednesday underscored her readiness to repeat those battles if necessary.
“We used the rule of law to fight back before, and we are prepared to do so again,” James said. She noted that her office has contingency plans for any attempts by Trump’s administration to reduce funding or impose restrictive policies. “This is not the time to be fearful, but steadfast,” she assured New Yorkers.
Guardians of New York’s Autonomy
Hochul and James both pledged to uphold New York’s legacy as a progressive state and a leader in movements for civil rights, LGBTQ rights, and environmental justice. James concluded her remarks with a message to New Yorkers: “We are the guardians of the law, prepared to fight back and protect our state’s rights.”
As the state braces for potential clashes with federal policies under Trump’s renewed leadership, both officials assured constituents that they would leverage every available legal tool to defend New York’s autonomy and values.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.