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A federal judge ruled on Thursday (January 8) that John Sarcone, the acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York, must cease his involvement in investigations targeting New York Attorney General Letitia James. The decision, made by U.S. District Judge Lorna Schofield, declared Sarcone's appointment unlawful and invalidated subpoenas he issued in August. These subpoenas sought information on investigations led by James that were opposed by President Donald Trump.
Judge Schofield, appointed by President Barack Obama, stated that the Executive branch acted without lawful authority by using its power for political investigations.The ruling is part of a broader rejection of the Trump administration's attempts to appoint U.S. attorneys without Senate confirmation.
The subpoenas were related to James's lawsuits against Trump, alleging fraud, and against the National Rifle Association. James's office called the ruling "an important win for the rule of law."
Sarcone's appointment was controversial from the start, with the Department of Justice using unconventional methods to maintain his position after his initial 120-day term expired. Attorney General Pam Bondi had appointed Sarcone as a special attorney, but the courts have repeatedly rejected such maneuvers.