New York Readers Criticize Governor's Appointment of AG James in Cornell Case

New York Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to appoint Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor in the "Cornell 7" case has drawn sharp criticism from readers of the New York Post, who cite concerns over potential bias and political motivations. The case involves allegations of sexual assault at Cornell University.

Several readers questioned the timing of the appointment, suggesting it was a political maneuver ahead of the midterm elections. "This woman will do anything to garner votes so she can continue to destroy this state even more over the next four years — pathetic," wrote Ralph Manente of Yonkers.

Concerns were also raised about Attorney General James's perceived impartiality. Michael Mulhall of Moseley, Va., stated that "elected officials make public declarations before the evidence has been fully reviewed, then replace local prosecutors after a case becomes politically combustible." He added that the matter "should not be decided by headlines or cowardly political calculation."

Lou Bivona of Belleville, N.J., drew a stark comparison, suggesting that assigning James to the case was "equivalent to assigning Charles Manson to a murder case." Similarly, Robert DiNardo of Farmingdale argued that James's "incendiary statements of support for the alleged victim on social media leaves no doubt that these young men will never be treated objectively." He called the appointment "a joke" and declared James "unfit to be attorney general."

Mitchell Schwefel of Barnegat, N.J., a former prosecutor, described the appointment as turning a serious investigation into a "virtual gong show." He accused James of being a "cynical, callous political hack who cares little for the truth or justice" and predicted she would "misuse this case to further her own interests."

Michael Headley of Brooklyn suggested the appointment was a tactic by Governor Hochul to appeal to women voters, stating, "By appointing AG James as special prosecutor, the governor seems to be sending a not-so-subtle message to women to give her their votes because she has their backs." He believes voters can see through such political strategies.

Gene O’Brien of Whitestone argued that James cannot be a "fair and independent prosecutor" due to her prior statements. He asserted that while those accused should be prosecuted if found guilty, the process requires "a fair and impartial prosecutor."

Mathew Mari of Manhattan accused Hochul and James of acting like communists by "prejudging the facts and joining the lynch mob." He characterized their actions as "cheap politics in an election year" and reiterated that "the suspects are innocent until proven guilty."

The letters reflect a sentiment among some New York Post readers that the appointment of Attorney General James politicizes a serious legal matter and compromises the principles of due process and fair investigation.