The Trump administration has recently focused on Democratic officials, alleging mortgage fraud as a tactic to undermine critics. This new approach follows a pattern of targeting individuals who have been critical of the former president.
The most recent instance involves Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. Trump publicly called for her resignation on his social media platform. This followed a letter from William Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, to Attorney General Pam Bondi, alleging that Cook had falsified documents to obtain favorable loan terms, potentially committing mortgage fraud. Pulte's letter claimed Cook misrepresented her residence statuses for properties in Michigan and Atlanta.
This move mirrors previous actions against Senator Adam Schiff and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Schiff was a key figure in Trump's impeachments, and James successfully sued Trump and his company over financial misrepresentations. A judge awarded James' office a substantial sum in the case, which Trump is appealing.
In a related development, Ed Martin, a conservative activist, was appointed as a "special attorney" to investigate mortgage fraud allegations against Schiff and James. Grand juries in Virginia and Maryland are set to investigate the allegations. Trump had previously called for the prosecution of both officials. Schiff, James, and Cook have all denied any wrongdoing.
Allegations of mortgage fraud have long been used in political opposition research. Identifying inconsistencies in candidates' primary residence declarations is a common practice. Penalties typically involve fines, not jail time.
The Trump administration's focus on these allegations against Democrats is noteworthy. At the same time, reports indicate that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Trump ally, and his wife made inaccurate statements on mortgage applications. However, the Trump administration has not indicated whether Paxton is under similar investigation.
James' lawyer, Abbe Lowell, highlighted the potential inconsistency in enforcement actions in a letter to Martin. Pulte, however, stated that the probes are free from political considerations.
Cook, in response, stated that she learned of the criminal referral through news reports and that she intends to gather accurate information to address any legitimate questions. Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the episode as an attempt by the Trump administration to pressure the Federal Reserve.
2 Comments
Loubianka
Strong leaders take action, and that's what Trump is doing! Allegations must be addressed.
Katchuka
Allegations of fraud should not be used as a weapon against political opponents. This is shameful behavior.