Letitia James currently serves as the attorney general of New York, where she has served in office since January 2019 and is now seeking reelection. Originally from Brooklyn, N.Y., James holds a law degree from Howard University. She is a member of the Democratic and Working Families Party, and her campaign website states public safety, affordability, consumer protection and health care as her core priorities if reelected.
Questionnaire responses have been lightly edited for clarity.
How does your background and previous experience qualify you for this position?
I have served New Yorkers as a New York City councilmember, public advocate, and now as attorney general. I’ve carried this experience into everything I do, fighting for those who need it most. Since I took office as attorney general in 2019, my office has recovered millions in stolen wages, removed more than 10,000 guns off our streets and recovered billions of dollars from corporations and individuals who sought to rip New Yorkers off.
What makes you a good candidate for young voters and students?
Young people are the voice of the next generation of leaders, and my office will do everything in its power to ensure young people have a fair shot to achieve their goals. My office continues to invest in the next generation of leaders. Through initiatives like the Civic Ambassador Award, we have encouraged students to deepen their understanding of government, leadership and community service. I’ll keep fighting to make sure young people in New York have a clear path forward to the future they deserve.
Costs are rising, and young people across this state frequently bear the brunt of the affordability crisis. That’s why my office has taken action to provide students with resources, consumer protection guidance and warnings when fraudsters try to prey upon student loan borrowers. A quality education should be accessible to all, not a select few.
What motivated you to run for this position?
I’m a daughter of Brooklyn. I grew up as one of eight children, so I know firsthand what New York families are up against when rents climb, corporate greed takes over and workers get shortchanged. I’ve carried this experience into everything I do, fighting for those who need it most.
Looking back on your previous terms, what are some achievements that you are most proud of? Is there anything you would do differently? [BOLD]
I am proud of the work my office has done over the last eight years to protect New Yorkers and defend their rights and freedoms.