have gotten most of the attention — and rightly so, given their unprecedented effect on an election campaign — it’s the civil investigation of the former president, his associates and his companies that may have longer-lasting effects.
The case is now on appeal to the First Department of the Appellate Division, the state intermediate appeals court that handles cases arising in Manhattan. Wefor the Manhattan Institute, arguing that Engoron’s rulings are troubling exemplars of the kind of lawfare that discourages investment in the United States and undercuts job creators’ confidence.
If his decisions are allowed to stand, it will open the door for future cases where individuals and businesses are subjected to severe penalties based on insufficiently rigorous evidence. When the rules of the game are manipulated to achieve political ends, the investor confidence necessary for economic growth quickly erodes. We’re already seeing that James’ actions have hurt the city and state, with businesses reconsidering their operations and some choosing to leave entirely.