New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, is confronting serious political and legal challenges that threaten her chances of re-election in 2026. With several factors at play—including voter sentiment changes, party disputes, and a burgeoning mortgage fraud investigation—James finds herself in an increasingly vulnerable position in a state that has traditionally been a stronghold for her party.
Earlier this year, a Siena College Research Institute poll indicated distressing signs for James, showing her with only a 40 percent favorable rating against a 33 percent unfavorable. These figures are considered particularly low for a Democratic attorney general in New York and suggest a shift in political dynamics within the state, as reported by Trending Politics.
Complicating matters further for James, allegations emerged in April accusing her of misrepresenting her primary residence to secure more favorable mortgage terms. Forensic accountant and investigator Sam Antar pointed to a Virginia home James claimed as her main residence, which drew scrutiny, especially as she is involved in a 2024 mortgage fraud case against former President Donald Trump.
The situation intensified when the former head of Trump's Federal Housing Finance Agency alleged James made false claims about a multifamily property she owns in Brooklyn. These accusations prompted the Department of Justice to launch an investigation, raising serious concerns about James's commitment to legal standards.
While James grapples with these issues, the Republican Party is witnessing a significant rise in support across New York. Trump's 2024 presidential campaign saw an uptick in vote share throughout the state, achieving the highest Republican vote percentage in New York City since George H.W. Bush and making substantial inroads in Democratic strongholds.
Outside the city, GOP support has grown in counties like Nassau and Suffolk, where Republicans now control the county legislatures and numerous local offices. Analysts note that these developments have narrowed the voter registration gap and created a more competitive electoral landscape for Democrats, who have previously relied on solid margins for electoral victories.
James's political troubles don't end with the federal investigation or the Republican resurgence. Within her own party, she may face additional challenges. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat with whom James has a contentious history, is reportedly considering a run for New York City mayor in 2025. Should Cuomo win, he could become a formidable political force and potentially undermine support for James's re-election campaign.
The City Journal reported, "Democrats in New York need at least 65 percent of the vote in the city to win a statewide race," a threshold James may struggle to reach if Cuomo were to discourage his allies from supporting her campaign.
As James navigates the federal probe, shifting voter attitudes, and potential internal party conflicts, her once seemingly secure path to re-election has become fraught with uncertainty. Her situation was further publicized by broadcaster Trish Regan, who tweeted, "BREAKING: New York's Voting Letitia James OUT! Tish SINKS In New Poll–Days Ahead of Indictment!"
