Trump Asks New York AG Letitia James to Drop Fraud Case for the ‘Good of the Country’

President-elect Donald Trump lawyers are urging New York Attorney General Letitia James to drop her civil fraud lawsuit against him, his family, and his businesses. They argue that ending the case would be in the “greater good of the country.”

In a letter obtained by Fox News Digital, Trump’s attorney, D. John Sauer, asked James to dismiss the $454 million fraud judgment, which claims Trump exaggerated his assets for financial gain. Trump has appealed the decision, and a New York court recently showed interest in possibly reversing or lowering the penalty.

“President Trump has called for Americans to put aside divisions and work together,” Sauer wrote. He described the legal case as a source of partisan conflict and said dismissing it could help bring the country together.

“As Trump’s lawyer—and now his pick for U.S. Solicitor General—I believe ending this case is necessary for the nation’s unity,” Sauer added.

Recent Legal Wins Strengthen Trump’s Position

Sauer pointed to Trump’s recent legal victories, including the dismissal of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s 2020 election case and the dropping of an appeal in a classified records case. In another case brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a judge allowed Trump to file a motion to dismiss.

He argued that James’ case against Trump lacks evidence, saying it includes “no victims, no complaints, and no financial losses.” Sauer emphasized that Trump’s business partners were paid back in full and even made over $100 million in profits.

“The evidence shows that everyone involved knew the risks, did their own checks, and benefited greatly from working with Trump,” he said.

Sauer warned that the lawsuit sends a bad message to businesses in New York, pushing them to relocate to other states. He highlighted Trump’s contributions to New York, such as building iconic properties, creating jobs, and restoring landmarks like Wollman Rink.

“This lawsuit serves no public purpose,” Sauer said, adding that the penalties are “unfair” and harmful to New York’s business climate.

Sauer compared the current division in the country to the Civil War, referencing President Abraham Lincoln’s call for unity in 1863. “Just as Lincoln urged Americans to come together for peace and harmony, we ask you to dismiss this case,” Sauer wrote.

Background on the Case

James’ lawsuit, filed in 2022, accuses Trump and his company of inflating asset values to secure better loans and insurance deals. In September 2023, a judge ruled that Trump committed fraud, leading to a $454 million penalty, which grows daily due to interest.

Trump’s lawyers are fighting the case and say they are ready to take it to the U.S. Supreme Court if needed.

Trump denies wrongdoing, arguing that his financial statements included warnings for lenders to verify the information themselves. His legal team brought in witnesses, including banking and accounting experts, who testified that there was no evidence of fraud and that banks actively sought to work with Trump.