The allegations claim James misrepresented details in her loan paperwork to receive more favorable mortgage terms, including falsely declaring the Virginia property as her “principal residence” despite continuing to serve as New York’s top law enforcement officer.
“Ms. James, for both properties listed above, appears to have falsified records in order to meet certain lending requirements and receive favorable loan terms,” Pulte stated in a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, further alleging potential violations including wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and false statements to a financial institution.
The case is being handled by US Attorney John Sarcone III, who leads the Northern District of New York and is known to be an ally of president Donald Trump. Representative Elise Stefanik, whose district includes the jurisdiction of the investigation, praised the move by federal authorities, calling it “a vital step toward justice.”
“I will continue to fight to expose NY corruption, protect constitutional rights, and hold these failed Democrat leaders in NY accountable,” Stefanik said.
James denies ‘baseless’ allegations
Attorney General James has dismissed the accusations as politically motivated. Her office declined to comment on the investigation directly, but she previously described the referral as part of a “revenge tour” by President Trump—retaliation for the civil fraud case she brought against him and the Trump Organization, which resulted in a $454 million judgment earlier this year.