Tillis Opposes Trump's Pick for D.C. U.S. Attorney

Ed Martin's nomination to serve as U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia is facing serious jeopardy after key Senate Judiciary Committee member Sen. Thom Tillis announced his opposition, primarily due to concerns over Martin's handling of January 6 prosecutions and advocacy for those involved in the Capitol riot. Tillis stated he might support Martin for a different district but not for D.C., where the events of January 6 occurred. This opposition is significant because Martin needs majority support from the committee to advance, and without Tillis, his nomination is unlikely to proceed to the full Senate. While President Trump and some senators, such as John Cornyn, support Martin and tout his record on reducing crime, others criticize his actions as interim U.S. attorney, including dropping cases against January 6 defendants and alleged prosecutorial misconduct. If Martin is not confirmed by the end of his interim term, the court could appoint a new interim U.S. attorney unless the administration restarts the appointment process. The situation highlights deep divisions within the Senate over Martin's suitability for the high-profile D.C. post.