New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed an appeal challenging a judge’s ruling on her controversial letter addressed to supporters of former President Donald Trump, which she penned in relation to the “ReAwaken America” tour.
The tour, known for featuring prominent conservatives and accused of promoting far-right conspiracy theories and antisemitism, faced scrutiny ahead of its scheduled event at Cornerstone Church in Batavia, New York.
James, who has been prominently involved in legal battles against Trump, expressed concerns in her letter about potential extremist or racially motivated violence linked to the tour.
This prompted a lawsuit from the church’s pastor, Paul Doyle, and tour organizer Clay Clark, alleging reputational damage and infringement of their First Amendment rights.
Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder Jr. characterized James’s letter as “ominous” and endorsed recommendations suggesting it could be interpreted as a threat against citizens exercising their free speech rights.
Subsequently, U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra Jr. allowed the case to proceed against James, leading her to appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.
In her appeal, James reiterated concerns over the tour’s rhetoric, particularly references to the “Great Replacement Theory” and its potential ties to violent acts.
She underscored her office’s duty to prevent racially motivated violence under New York law.
In response, Doyle and Clark accused James of harassment based on race, color, and religious beliefs in their complaint, alleging violations of their constitutional rights to association and free speech.
James defended her letter as protected speech and argued for dismissal of the complaints, citing qualified immunity and absolute privilege.
The legal battle underscores ongoing tensions over free speech, extremism, and governmental oversight in public discourse, with implications for future rulings on the boundaries of First Amendment protections.
