The MeidasTouch Podcast: New York Attorney General Letitia James on Trump’s Disastrous Start

Release Date: May 1, 2025

In this compelling episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas engage in an in-depth conversation with New York Attorney General Letitia James about the tumultuous first 100 days of Donald Trump’s presidency. The discussion navigates through various critical issues, including legal battles, the impact on immigrant communities, market manipulation concerns, and the continuous challenges faced by public officials under the Trump administration. Below is a detailed summary capturing all key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. Assessing Trump's First 100 Days

The episode opens with Ben questioning Letitia James on her evaluation of Trump’s initial period in office.

• Ben (01:40): "I gotta ask you, what is your grade for Donald Trump's first 100 days in office?"
• Letitia James (01:51): "Oh, Ben, that's not fair. Come on. Listen, it's. Well, I have to give him an A for coming in and renovating Penn Station. That, that, that's, that's a good thing."

While acknowledging the positive aspect of infrastructure renovation, Letitia emphasizes the shortcomings in other areas, particularly regarding due process.

• Ben (02:19): "More renovating, less violating due process."
• Letitia James (02:22): Discusses the importance of due process as per the Constitution, highlighting concerns over Trump's administration's approach to legal procedures.

2. Legal Actions and Business Fraud

The conversation shifts to Letitia’s office's legal undertakings against Trump, focusing on business fraud.

• Ben (11:37): References their successful prosecution, mentioning a $454 million judgment against Trump.
• Letitia James (11:46): "We secured a $454 million judgment against Donald Trump et al, and it's based on his exaggerated overinflated assets for the purposes of securing favorable insurance and mortgage."

She criticizes the administration for fostering an environment conducive to fraud and corruption.

• Letitia James (11:56): Comments on the administration's weakening of federal agencies, which traditionally investigate such offenses.

3. Impact on Immigrant Communities and TPS

Ben brings attention to the administration’s stance on Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and its effects on immigrants.

• Ben (04:57): Highlights Trump’s actions against immigrant communities despite their lawful status.
• Letitia James (05:25): Elaborates on the detrimental impact, stating: "There are individuals who are fleeing gangs, who do not want to be a part of gangs, and who need the protection of these United States... They want to contribute to the fabric of this country."

She underscores the urgency of maintaining TPS to protect vulnerable populations fleeing violence and persecution.

4. Arrest of the Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge

The episode delves into a controversial incident involving the arrest of a sitting judge.

• Ben (07:31): Questions the legitimacy and repercussions of Trump's FBI arrest of a judge, hinting at a "chilling effect" on the judiciary.
• Letitia James (08:29): Defends the judge’s actions and criticizes the use of administrative warrants instead of judicial warrants: "If they had an issue with how the judge handled the matter, they should have brought it up before the judicial committee that oversees the behavior of judges."

She asserts that such actions deter immigrants from participating in the legal process out of fear of deportation.

5. Market Manipulation Concerns

Ben raises concerns about potential market manipulation stemming from Trump's statements and actions.

• Ben (12:13): Asks Letitia if her office is monitoring possible "pump and dump schemes" related to Trump's activities.
• Letitia James (13:11): Responds affirmatively, highlighting the office’s jurisdiction over the Martin Act: "We do police Wall Street... we've been looking at a lot of this conduct at this point in time to determine whether or not it's actionable."

This reflects ongoing vigilance against financial manipulations that could harm the economy.

6. Dealing with Continuous Attacks

Letitia discusses the relentless attacks from Trump and his administration against her and her office.

• Ben (13:38): Points out the daily assaults faced by Letitia.
• Letitia James (13:56): Shares her resilience and focus: "It's nothing more than retribution. It's nothing more than the weaponization of the federal government. And we just continue to stay focused here in the New York State Office of the Attorney General, focused on our mission to enforce the law."

She emphasizes her commitment to upholding the law despite the personal and professional challenges posed by the administration's hostility.

7. Closing Message from Letitia James

As the episode winds down, Letitia delivers a powerful message to New Yorkers and Americans.

• Letitia James (16:30): Highlights her dedication to the Constitution and the rule of law: "I took an oath to the Constitution and to the rule of law. I made a commitment to New Yorkers that I would follow the law. And I do that each and every day."

She lists the various actions her office has taken to protect vulnerable populations, enforce legislation, and ensure governmental accountability. Letitia underscores the essential role of government in serving the public and rebukes the current administration for undermining this principle.

• Letitia James (16:55): "Government is not the demon. Government is there to serve the public... I am defending the United States government, defending them against these illegal and unlawful acts by this president."

8. Conclusion

The episode concludes with hosts expressing gratitude towards Letitia for her steadfast efforts.

• Ben (18:55): "New York Attorney General Letitia James. We're 100 days into the Trump administration. We appreciate you fighting back for the people."
• Letitia James (19:04): Receives accolades from Ben, highlighting her recognition as "Podcaster of the Year."

Key Takeaways:

• Legal Integrity: Letitia James is actively pursuing legal actions against Trump’s administration for business fraud and other unlawful activities, demonstrating her commitment to legal integrity.

• Protecting Immigrants: Her office is steadfast in protecting immigrant communities, advocating for the preservation of TPS, and ensuring due process is upheld.

• Defending the Judiciary: Letitia condemns the arrest of a sitting judge, highlighting the negative implications for the judiciary and immigrant participation in the legal system.

• Economic Vigilance: Her office is monitoring potential market manipulations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable and fair economic environment.

• Resilience Against Attacks: Despite continuous attacks from the Trump administration, Letitia remains focused on her mission to enforce the law and protect New Yorkers.

• Commitment to Public Service: She reaffirms her dedication to serving the public and upholding the Constitution, portraying government as a force for good.

This episode provides a thorough examination of the challenges posed by Trump's presidency from the perspective of a high-ranking legal official, offering listeners valuable insights into the ongoing legal and political battles shaping the current administration.