Breaking news about another one of Donald Trump's critics and perceived enemies being targeted today, this afternoon, right now, for criminal prosecution. Two people familiar with the proceedings telling MSNBC that acting US Attorney Lindseay Haligan has presented evidence to bring criminal charges against New York Attorney General Leticia James to a grand jury. Sources telling MSNBC that the office is currently awaiting the grand jury's decision on whether or not to indict James on charges of mortgage frau ...

She said two words and only two words in the courtroom today. It was her first appearance as a prosecutor in an arraignment in her career as a prosecutor. And career is a very strong word to use for someone who has so far spent exactly 12 work days of her life in that career. If you're a kindergarten student in America tonight, first of all, you should be asleep at this hour. And second of all, you already have a longer career as a kindergarten student than Donald Trump's new favorite prosecutor has as a pr ...

Legal Proceedings & Potential Outcomes - The case against James Comey is viewed by some legal experts as a vindictive and selective prosecution [1] - The defense plans to file motions around selective malicious prosecution, acknowledging the high legal bar [4] - Evidence suggests actual vindictiveness from the government towards Comey could lead to the case's dismissal [7][8] - Concerns exist regarding the unusual handling of the case, including the appointment of inexperienced prosecutors and the lack of clarity regarding the alleged false statements [1][2] - The defense argues the prosecution is targeting Comey in a way that wouldn't be applied to others [7] Key Individuals & Their Roles - Former FBI Director James Comey pleaded not guilty in federal court [1] - Lindseay Halligan, a prosecutor with limited experience, was handpicked to lead the case after the previous US attorney refused to indict Comey [1] - Patrick Fitzgerald, Comey's defense lawyer, intends to file motions challenging the prosecution [1][4] - Morin Comey, James Comey's daughter and former federal prosecutor, was present at the arraignment [1] Political Context & Motivations - President Trump's repeated calls to prosecute Comey are noted as a driving force behind the case [1] - The prosecution is perceived by some as a means to keep Comey under a cloud of suspicion, regardless of the ultimate verdict [1] - A message from Trump urging Comey's prosecution was accidentally posted publicly, suggesting a personal agenda [4][5]

Legal Proceedings & Strategy - The legal team intends to file motions for selective prosecution and unlawful appointment of the interim US attorney, aiming to dismiss the case before trial [2][12][13] - Discovery prospects are extensive, potentially involving White House and Justice Department communications, and grand jury proceedings [2] - The defense may argue the prosecution is retaliatory, violating free speech rights [13] - The White House might assert executive privilege to withhold certain communications [22] Potential Outcomes & Motivations - A conviction is considered a success for the Trump White House, potentially across multiple investigations [9][11] - James Comey may seek vindication through a jury trial, aiming to prove his innocence [7] - There are concerns about potential retribution from the Trump administration, including frivolous lawsuits and IRS targeting [16][17] Key Individuals & Dynamics - James Comey's confidence is noted, but this is his first time being on the defense side [5] - The involvement of Pam Bondi and potential White House coordination are under scrutiny [20][21] - An FBI agent was allegedly fired for refusing to do a "perp walk" with James Comey, indicating a desire for public spectacle [18]

Joining us now, political White House and foreign affairs correspondent Eli Stools, New York Times reporter and MSNBC contributor Jeremy Peters, former US attorney and MSNBC legal analyst Joyce Vance and opinion national politics writer for the New York Times, Michelle Codddle. Michelle, welcome to the show. >> All right, Joyce, I will begin with you. Is it legal or what are the legal ramifications I can say for the president demanding on social media that his attorney general go after his political enemies ...