Sen. Tillis Opposes Trump's Nominee Ed Martin for D.C. Attorney

Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a key member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has publicly opposed President Donald Trump’s nominee for U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Ed Martin, citing concerns over Martin’s defense of individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and his stance on prosecuting those who breached the Capitol. Tillis’s opposition is significant, as Martin needs Judiciary Committee support to advance his nomination, and without Tillis’s backing, the nomination faces a major hurdle. Tillis stated that while Martin made a case for some over-prosecution, he believes anyone who entered the Capitol on January 6 should face prison time and expressed disappointment with Martin’s more lenient approach. The nomination has become contentious, with Trump publicly urging Senate support and other Republicans such as Sen. John Cornyn expressing their backing, while Democrats have filed formal complaints against Martin for alleged prosecutorial misconduct. Martin’s actions as acting U.S. attorney, including dropping cases against Jan. 6 protesters and firing career prosecutors, have fueled further controversy. The outcome of Martin’s nomination remains uncertain as Senate leaders weigh the matter.