Full Breakdown
Trump Endorses Republican Challenger in New York Attorney General Race
8/16/2026, 3:16:45 AM
Core Event
President Donald Trump posted a “complete and total endorsement” for Saritha Komatireddy, a Republican former DEA chief of staff and former federal prosecutor, in her bid to replace New York Attorney General Letitia James. Komatireddy thanked Trump and said she will seek to defeat James in the November election.
Background of the James–Trump Conflict
James sued Trump and the Trump Organization in 2022, alleging fraud in asset valuations used to secure loans. An appeals court later vacated a nearly $465 million disgorgement award, ruling it violated the Constitution’s excessive-fine prohibition. James also ran unsuccessfully for governor, receiving less than 1 percent of the vote before withdrawing. The feud has persisted for years, with Trump repeatedly labeling James a “complete and total disaster.”
Official Statements & Responses
Trump’s endorsement highlighted Komatireddy’s qualifications, noting her 2020 nomination by Trump to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York and her clerkship for former Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
Komatireddy responded on X, expressing honor at both her 2020 judicial nomination and Trump’s endorsement, and stating she is working to win support across New York. Fox News reported that James’s campaign had not been contacted for comment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Patriot, Saritha Komatireddy, who is running to be the next Attorney General of the once wonderful State of New York,” — Donald Trump, president
- “Letitia 'Peekaboo' James, is considered by many to be the WORST Attorney General in our Country. She is a Complete and Total Disaster, who tried running against Kathy Hochul for Governor, and got less than 1% of the Vote in the Polls, and QUIT, taking many innocent suckers down with her,” — Donald Trump, president
- “On the other hand, as your next Attorney General, Saritha Komatireddy will fight tirelessly to Ensure LAW AND ORDER, Grow our Economy, Champion our Law Enforcement and First Responders, Support our Military/Veterans, Advance Election Integrity, Keep our Border SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Uphold our Constitution, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment,” — Donald Trump, president
