U.S. Pardon Attorney Ed Martin is departing the Justice Department to engage in external legal efforts supporting the midterm and 2028 presidential elections, former President Donald Trump announced Friday.
Martin, 56, held significant roles within the Trump administration's Justice Department, including leading the Weaponization Working Group. In this capacity, he oversaw internal reviews of prosecutions initiated during the Biden administration that involved former President Trump. He also played a part in advancing a criminal investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James concerning allegations of mortgage fraud.
"Ed Martin has been with me from the very beginning, and done an incredible job as an Attorney, Director of the Weaponization Working Group, and the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia," Trump stated on Truth Social. "Ed is now leaving to go outside to fight Legal Battles for the upcoming Midterm Election, and the Presidential Election of 2028. I know he will do an outstanding job, ensure Free, Fair, and Honest Elections, and strongly advance our Constitutional Rights. Good luck Ed!"
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During his tenure, Martin administered President Trump's mass clemency actions for individuals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol events. This involved granting pardons and sentence commutations, some of which were reportedly extended to individuals who lobbied outside the conventional process.
Alice Johnson, who received a presidential pardon from Trump during his first term, continues in her role as White House pardon czar. Martin's departure comes amid reports of a complex relationship with the newly confirmed Attorney General Todd Blanche, though both have publicly stated mutual respect despite perceived differences.
Before his role as Pardon Attorney, Martin served in various capacities within the Justice Department. His leadership of the "Weaponization Working Group" focused on scrutinizing actions taken by the current administration against Trump and his allies. Previously, he led the Justice Department's efforts to investigate New York Attorney General Letitia James. IMAGE4
