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Trump’s top DC prosecutor nominee facing some GOP headwinds

CNN's profile
CNN
6h ago

Controversies surrounding Ed Martin, President Trump's nominee for US attorney for Washington, DC, have prompted the Senate Judiciary Committee to discuss the potential need for a hearing, which is typically not standard for such nominations. Concerns include Martin's past derogatory remarks about officers injured during the January 6 Capitol attack, his failure to disclose numerous media appearances, and his contentious actions while serving as interim US attorney. Some Republican senators, like Thom Tillis and John Cornyn, have expressed reservations, and Democrats may push for a vote to decide on holding a hearing. Martin's history of criticizing fellow Republicans adds to the complexity of his nomination, with some senators urging for a thorough vetting process before making a decision. Amidst these issues, Martin has been actively seeking support on Capitol Hill, while Trump and his allies remain supportive of his performance and nomination.

Trump’s top DC prosecutor nominee facing some GOP headwinds

Ed Martin's nomination as US attorney for Washington, DC, is under scrutiny due to his controversial comments about police officers who defended the Capitol on January 6, 2021, and his critical remarks about fellow Republicans.

Republican Senator Thom Tillis has raised serious questions regarding Martin's nomination, particularly his suitability for the jurisdiction where the Capitol riot occurred, and is conducting due diligence before deciding his stance.

Martin has been criticized for failing to disclose nearly 200 media appearances, many on far-right and Russian-state outlets, in his mandated disclosure forms to Congress, which is raising concerns among Senate Judiciary Committee members.

Top Justice Department officials, who preferred another candidate, have had to caution Martin about his public activities, but they are still working to facilitate his confirmation as Trump's choice.

Despite the controversies, Martin continues to seek support from senators by meeting them on Capitol Hill, while Trump and his allies express satisfaction with his performance and advocate for his confirmation.

Some senators, like Lindsey Graham and John Curtis, have expressed a desire to hold a hearing to thoroughly vet Martin's qualifications and address the unresolved issues before proceeding with a vote.

Martin's past statements targeting Republicans and his role as a defense attorney for some January 6 rioters contribute to the contentious atmosphere surrounding his nomination, with GOP Sen. Josh Hawley defending Martin based on personal acquaintance.

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