New York Attorney General Letitia James pleaded not guilty Friday to two federal charges related to her purchase of a Virginia property more than five years ago.

James, appearing upbeat as she entered the courtroom in Norfolk, Va., spoke briefly during the arraignment before U.S. District Judge Jamar Walker. When asked if she understood her rights, the 67-year-old Democrat replied, “Yes,” and later responded, “Not guilty, judge, to both counts,” when prompted by her attorney, Abbe Lowell.

Following the hearing, James delivered short public remarks outside the courthouse, pledging to “not be deterred” as she faces the federal case. In her statement, she invoked elements of Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, drawing attention from onlookers and critics alike, the New York Post reported on Friday.

James did not directly address the charges or proclaim her innocence.

“I believe that justice will rain down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream,” she told supporters who chanted “We Stand With Tish!” and “No Fear!” — a conscious reference to MLK’s line: “We will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.”