Fri May 02 00:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Senate Republicans Divided Over Controversial Trump Nominee for DC US Attorney

**Washington, D.C.** – The nomination of Ed Martin to serve as US Attorney for Washington, D.C., is facing significant headwinds within the Senate, with even some Republican senators expressing serious reservations. Martin’s nomination, championed by President Trump, has been mired in controversy, sparking a behind-the-scenes struggle within the Senate Judiciary Committee.

A closed-door meeting this week revealed deep divisions among Republicans. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) voiced “serious questions” about Martin’s past comments disparaging Capitol Police officers who defended the Capitol during the January 6th attack, calling for thorough vetting. Other Republicans, including Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and John Cornyn (R-TX), acknowledged concerns about Martin’s controversial past statements and incomplete disclosure forms.

A CNN KFile analysis uncovered that Martin failed to disclose nearly 200 media appearances, many on far-right and Russian state media outlets. Furthermore, under oath, Martin claimed not to recall several controversial statements. These revelations, coupled with Martin’s past attacks on prominent Republican senators, including Sens. John Cornyn, Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins and Mitch McConnell, have fueled opposition. Sen. John Curtis (R-UT) stated that he hopes for a hearing to address these concerns.

Democrats, while acknowledging some progress in the investigation, remain unconvinced, with Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) asserting that Martin lacks honesty and forthrightness. They have hinted at potentially forcing a vote on holding a hearing, a step unusual for US Attorney nominations. Republicans, however, seem to have reached a consensus against a hearing, fearing it could set a precedent.

The situation is further complicated by Martin’s short tenure as interim US attorney, which ends May 20th, and the Justice Department’s internal reservations about his suitability. While some of Trump’s allies have expressed continued support, the Senate Majority Leader, John Thune, has remained noncommittal, delaying any decision until the matter clears the committee. The outcome remains uncertain, leaving the future of Martin’s nomination hanging in the balance.

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