Ed Martin, who has served as the interim U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia since Donald Trump commenced his second term, has been nominated by the former president for the permanent role. Martin's appointment comes amid controversy due to his involvement in the events surrounding the January 6 Capitol riot and his defense of individuals associated with it. Trump's nomination is seen as part of his broader effort to reshape narratives around the violent events of January 6, 2021.
Martin was among the Trump supporters gathered near the White House on January 6, where Trump encouraged them to march on the U.S. Capitol. He has repeatedly echoed Trump's baseless claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen, including speaking at a "Stop the Steal" rally on January 5 in Washington, D.C. This backdrop adds complexity to his nomination as the top federal prosecutor in a city still grappling with the aftermath of the Capitol insurrection.
Martin has defended his involvement by stating he ceased any engagement in related cases over a year and a half ago. He claimed his participation was pro bono and that he believed he was no longer involved in these cases. Despite this, court filings list him as a lawyer for at least three Capitol riot defendants, including a member of the Proud Boys who admitted to felony charges. This ongoing association raises questions about potential conflicts of interest in his new role.
"Since Inauguration Day, Ed has been doing a great job as Interim U.S. Attorney, fighting tirelessly to restore Law and Order, and make our Nation’s Capital Safe and Beautiful Again." – Donald Trump
In recent months, Martin has overseen the dismissal of hundreds of January 6 cases following Trump's pardons and commutations, as well as his promise to dismiss charges against defendants. He has also asked a federal judge to reverse bans on prominent January 6 figures, such as Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes, from visiting Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Capitol post-pardon.
Martin's legal career includes serving as director of legal clinics for low-income residents at the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St. Louis and obtaining a law degree from St. Louis University. He has also been active in Republican politics, having led the Missouri Republican Party, aligning consistently with Trump's political agenda.
"Rowdy crowd but nothing out of hand. Ignore the #FakeNews." – Ed Martin
In addition to his current role, Martin has supported individuals involved in the January 6 events through the Patriot Freedom Project, which raises funds for defendants and their families. His advocacy has extended to defending Elon Musk's "department of government efficiency," or Doge, asserting that legal action will be pursued against those obstructing its work.
"We will pursue any and all legal action against anyone who impedes" – Ed Martin
"If people are discovered to have broken the law or even acted simply unethically, we will investigate them and we will chase them till the end of the earth to hold them accountable." – Ed Martin
Martin's confirmation awaits approval from the U.S. Senate, a process that promises scrutiny given his controversial past and outspoken defense of actions and individuals linked to January 6. His appointment could significantly impact ongoing investigations and prosecutions related to that day.
Press freedom groups have voiced concerns over Martin's stance against critics of government work, emphasizing that public identification or criticism is not criminal.
"It is not a crime to identify or criticize individuals openly conducting government work." – Press freedom groups