Ed Martin, controversial pardon attorney at DOJ, leaving Trump administration
August 21, 2026 / 3:48 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Ed Martin, a pro-Trump lawyer, is leaving the Trump administration.
- Martin previously served as interim U.S. attorney for D.C. and as the pardon attorney.
- His tenure was marked by controversies, including actions related to Jan. 6 defendants and investigations into political figures.
- Senators opposed his permanent confirmation as D.C. U.S. attorney due to his advocacy for Jan. 6 rioters.
- Martin faced criticism for allegedly pressuring prosecutors, demoting staff, and violating Justice Department social media guidelines.
- He was also involved in investigations into figures like Sen. Adam Schiff and N.Y. Attorney General Letitia James.
- Ethics complaints were filed against him, including one for threatening to cease hiring Georgetown Law graduates.
- Despite past conflicts, an official close to Martin stated his relationship with Todd Blanche has mended.
- The Justice Department has filed a statement of interest in support of Martin in his ongoing ethics case.