Senate Republicans in New York are objecting to a $10 million fund that was included in the state’s budget without proper scrutiny and could potentially be used to cover the legal expenses of Attorney General Tish James amid an ongoing investigation.

The GOP legislators have written a letter to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, expressing their concerns about this fund. Although not directly naming James, they referenced statements made by the Democratic Attorney General when she was pursuing legal action against former President Trump.

The Republicans, led by Senate GOP Minority Leader Robert Ortt along with 21 other members, highlighted their disapproval of using public funds in this manner, describing it as a clear depletion of taxpayers’ money.

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“It undermines public trust in government and sends a troubling message that elected officials and state employees are entitled to a publicly-funded legal defense, even for matters entirely disconnected from their public responsibilities.

“As someone once said, no one is above the law,” the letter sent, parroting a phrase used by the attorney general, who is now under investigation by Trump’s Department of Justice.

Gov. Kathy Hochul and fellow Democrats in the state legislature creed the fund, which allows top government officials to use the fund to pay for “any reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses incurred” if they are under federal scrutiny “after Jan. 1, 2025” – as Trump was set to return to office for a second term.

A spokesperson for DiNapoli confirmed receiving the letter but had no further comment.

This is a developing story.