NY AG hopeful blasts Letitia James as Medicaid fraud recoveries collapse: ‘She’s not doing the job’

A candidate for New York Attorney General has sharply criticized current AG Letitia James, claiming she has failed to adequately pursue Medicaid fraud and allowed recoveries to plummet in recent years.

Concerns Over Medicaid Fraud Enforcement

Michael Henry, who is challenging James for the state’s top legal post, pointed to a significant drop in funds recovered from Medicaid fraud cases. According to Henry, the state’s efforts to reclaim taxpayer dollars lost to fraudulent claims have weakened since James assumed office.

“She’s not doing the job,” Henry said. “New Yorkers deserve an Attorney General who will aggressively fight fraud and protect public resources.”

Sharp Decline in Recovered Funds

State records indicate that New York recovered $104 million from Medicaid fraud cases in 2023, a steep decline from the $302 million recouped in 2019, the year James took office. The figures highlight a downward trend in the state’s ability to recover funds lost to fraudulent activity within the Medicaid system.

• 2019: $302 million recovered
• 2020: $220 million recovered
• 2021: $183 million recovered
• 2022: $143 million recovered
• 2023: $104 million recovered

Henry argues that this trend demonstrates a lack of commitment to holding fraudsters accountable and protecting the state’s Medicaid program.

James’ Office Responds

Letitia James’ office has defended its record, stating that the Attorney General remains committed to fighting Medicaid fraud and that the office continues to pursue investigations and prosecutions. A spokesperson noted that the pandemic affected the pace of investigations and recoveries, but insisted that the office is still actively working to safeguard public funds.

“The Attorney General’s Office continues to prioritize Medicaid fraud enforcement and has taken action against numerous bad actors,” the spokesperson said.

Calls for Stronger Oversight

Henry, however, insists that more robust oversight and enforcement are needed. He has pledged to make Medicaid fraud a central focus if elected, promising to restore aggressive investigations and recoveries to previous levels.

“Taxpayers expect their leaders to protect their money,” Henry said. “We need to send a clear message that fraud will not be tolerated in New York.”

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