New York Attorney General Letitia James has entered a plea of not guilty to federal charges of bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution. The charges stem from allegations that James misrepresented the intended use of a three-bedroom home in Norfolk, Virginia, which she purchased in 2020. Prosecutors claim that James secured favorable loan terms by falsely declaring the property as her secondary residence, while it was allegedly used as a rental investment property. James appeared in U.S. District Court in Norfolk on Friday, where her legal team requested a speedy trial, set for January 26. Outside the courthouse, James accused former President Donald Trump of exploiting the justice system as a “vehicle of retribution” against her and other political critics. She emphasized, “There’s no fear today,” as supporters rallied behind her. James’ legal team is challenging the appointment of U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan, a former personal attorney to Trump, to oversee the case. They argue the charges are “vindictive” and politically motivated. This case adds to a series of legal battles involving Trump and his critics, including former FBI Director James Comey and ex-National Security Adviser John Bolton. James previously pursued a civil fraud case against Trump, resulting in a $500 million fine, later reduced by an appeals court.