Trump Appoints Ed Martin to DOJ Weaponization, Pardon Roles

After Senate opposition led by Sen. Thom Tillis blocked Ed Martin's nomination to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, President Trump appointed him to a significant role within the Department of Justice. Martin will serve as the Director of the Weaponization Working Group, Associate Deputy Attorney General, and Pardon Attorney, positions that do not require Senate confirmation. His new responsibilities include investigating alleged weaponization of the government under the Biden administration and reviewing pardon petitions, particularly for those he believes were unfairly targeted, such as January 6 participants and pro-life advocates. Attorney General Pam Bondi established the Weaponization Working Group to examine improper investigative tactics, including the work of Special Counsel Jack Smith. Trump also named Jeanine Pirro as interim U.S. Attorney for D.C., signaling a strategic reshuffling within the DOJ. The move underscores Trump's commitment to challenging what he calls political weaponization and providing justice to those he views as victims of government overreach.