US Pardon Attorney Ed Martin Leaves Administration to Focus on Legal Roles for Midterm and 2028 Elections
President Trump announced that US Pardon Attorney Ed Martin will be leaving the administration to focus on legal roles related to the upcoming midterm and 2028 elections. Martin, who previously led the Justice Department’s Weaponization Working Group, played a key role in reviewing Biden-era prosecutions and pushing for a criminal investigation of New York Attorney General Letitia James for alleged mortgage fraud. Trump praised Martin's work and expressed confidence in his ability to ensure free, fair, and honest elections in his new role.
Despite his departure, Martin's relationship with new Attorney General Todd Blanche is described as complicated, with both men acknowledging their differences while maintaining mutual respect. During his tenure as pardon attorney, Martin oversaw Trump's mass clemency for Capitol rioters and granted pardons and sentence commutations to individuals who bypassed the standard process. Alice Johnson, who was granted clemency by Trump, continues to serve as the White House pardon czar.
As Martin transitions to his new legal role, Trump expressed his support and confidence in his abilities to advocate for legal battles in the upcoming elections. Martin's departure marks a shift in the administration's legal team, with a focus on ensuring the integrity of future elections and upholding constitutional rights.