“This Office will not stipulate to vacate the final judgment already entered by the Supreme Court, New York County, or otherwise seek to dismiss the action,” Vale stated in a letter to Trump’s attorney, John Sauer.
In a letter dated November 26, Sauer appealed to State Attorney General Letitia James to drop the case, framing it as a step toward national unity. He argued that the ongoing litigation would hinder Trump’s ability to perform his duties as president, following his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5 election.
Sauer also noted that some criminal cases against Trump had been delayed or withdrawn, urging similar treatment for this civil matter. However, Vale dismissed these arguments, asserting that the case’s continuation does not interfere with Trump’s presidential responsibilities.
“Presidents are not immune from civil lawsuits stemming from unofficial conduct, and such proceedings may continue while the president is in office,” Vale wrote, adding that the litigation imposes no undue burden on Trump’s ability to fulfill his constitutional obligations.
The lawsuit, filed by AG Letitia James in 2022, accuses Trump, his company, and certain associates of inflating asset values to boost his net worth. Earlier this year, Judge Arthur Engoron ordered Trump to pay more than $450 million in fines and interest, a figure that has since surpassed $486 million due to daily accruing interest.
Trump appealed the decision in February, and an appeals court subsequently reduced the amount required to secure the judgment during the appeal to $175 million. Oral arguments in the case, heard in late September, saw judges question whether James’ actions had exceeded reasonable bounds. A ruling has yet to be issued.
Vale emphasized that the civil case differs from criminal proceedings and does not warrant special exemptions for Trump. “The ordinary burdens of civil litigation do not impede a president’s official duties in a way that violates the Constitution,” she concluded.