'I will not break': Former NY AG Letitia James campaigns for Zohran Mamdani, warns against Donald Trump

New York’s political battle lines have hardened. Former attorney general Letitia James returned to the public stage this week to campaign for Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral run — days after a federal indictment many see as political retribution. Their alliance reflects years of confrontation with Donald Trump and a deeper struggle over the city’s political future.

Driving the news

Letitia James spoke at a campaign rally in Washington Heights on Monday night, her first appearance since being indicted by a federal grand jury in Virginia on mortgage fraud charges. The case was brought by acting US attorney Lindsey Halligan, who previously worked as Trump’s personal lawyer.


James, who denies wrongdoing, did not name Trump in her speech but said “powerful voices” were trying to “weaponise justice for political gain.” She added: “I will not bow. I will not break. I will not bend. I won’t give up, and I won’t give in.”

Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for mayor, thanked James for her support and promised to stand by her as she faces legal challenges.

Trump and New York: a hate story

Trump’s political vendetta against figures like James and Mamdani is deeply rooted in his complicated relationship with New York itself. He was born and raised in Queens and built his wealth and celebrity through Manhattan real estate, tabloids, and television. Yet, despite his origins, Trump never felt fully accepted by the city’s cultural or political elite. New York’s liberal establishment viewed him as a brash outsider, and his populist, grievance-driven style alienated much of the city long before he entered politics.

That alienation turned to resentment after his rise to the presidency. New York, one of the most staunchly Democratic states in the country, repeatedly rejected him at the ballot box, handing overwhelming victories to his opponents in both 2016 and 2024. Trump’s inability to win over the city he once called home has fuelled a deeper hostility — one now playing out through his legal battles and political feuds with New York’s most prominent progressive voice

Why it matters

Letitia James and Zohran Mamdani have become two of Trump’s most prominent adversaries in New York politics. Their shared opposition to his agenda — and his sustained attacks on them — have turned both into political symbols for the city’s progressive movement.
Letitia James: As attorney general, James led multiple investigations into Trump’s businesses, including a civil fraud lawsuit that resulted in a $500 million judgment before being overturned on appeal. Trump has repeatedly attacked her, calling for federal prosecution after her investigations.

Zohran Mamdani: Trump has labelled the socialist-leaning city council member a “communist” and questioned his immigration status. In July, he suggested arresting Mamdani if, as mayor, he refused to cooperate with ICE deportation efforts.

Their partnership represents a coalition of progressive politicians determined to counter what they describe as the politicisation of law enforcement under Trump’s second term.

The big picture

From prosecutor to defendant: James built her reputation by pursuing powerful figures, from exposing sexual harassment allegations against Andrew Cuomo in 2021 to targeting Trump’s business empire. Her current indictment, announced shortly after Trump publicly demanded charges, has raised questions about political interference.

A mayoral race with national implications: Mamdani’s victory over Cuomo in the Democratic primary and his challenge from Cuomo’s independent campaign have turned the election into a referendum on the city’s ideological direction — establishment centrism or progressive realignment.

Trump’s retribution campaign: The use of federal prosecutorial power against political opponents is emerging as a key feature of Trump’s second administration. The charges against James, filed by one of his former attorneys, illustrate that broader strategy.

Bottom line: Letitia James’ appearance alongside Zohran Mamdani was a calculated show of unity between two of Trump’s most consistent critics. It signals that the battles of Trump’s presidency are not confined to Washington — they are shaping the political landscape of America’s largest city.