The letter, sent Monday by 22 state attorneys general, urged Senate leaders to quickly confirm President Trump’s nominee for the U.S. attorney position in the District of Columbia, Ed Martin. The group expressed concerns over the state of the District, stating that it has faced significant corruption and misconduct during the tenure of Biden’s appointee, emphasizing the need for safety restoration in the area.
The missive was addressed to Senate Majority Leader John Toon and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley. It highlighted an impending deadline, May 20, for confirming Trump’s appointees, as Martin has been serving in an interim capacity since 2021. His background includes working as a defense attorney and involvement in the January 6 insurrection.
If the Senate fails to confirm a U.S. attorney within 120 days, a judge can appoint another interim lawyer. Currently, Judge James Boasberg, an Obama appointee, is overseeing matters related to Trump’s immigration policies, which have raised legal challenges.
Martin’s nomination comes as Trump has cast doubt on the integrity of the D.C. District Court system. In prior statements, he criticized it as being corrupted, especially after Boasberg halted a deportation flight earlier this year.
Indiana Attorney General Todd Lokita, who led the effort to support Martin, described him as a capable leader who has made strides in law enforcement. He insisted that it’s vital for the Senate to act fast to avoid any interruptions in Martin’s ongoing work.
The letter also conveyed confidence in Martin’s ability to uphold his duties effectively, citing his efforts since January 20, 2025. The group comprised states such as Alabama, Alaska, Florida, and more, all seeking swift confirmation for Martin.
However, there are concerns. Senator Dick Durbin from Illinois, a prominent Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, has voiced reservations regarding Martin’s nomination during recent meetings.
In the letter, attorneys general also mentioned dissatisfaction with crime levels escalating in Washington under the Biden administration. They pointed to perceived failures by the current U.S. attorney, Matthew Graves, who they claim has neglected significant cases.
Martin has taken an active role since his interim appointment, notably overseeing prosecutions related to January 6. In a February statement, he urged for eliminating inefficiencies in the federal government and expressed commitment to protecting his staff from any threats arising from their duties.
Finally, the letter celebrated Martin’s proactive steps to prosecute those involved in violent protests, asserting that he has done more to address crime than his predecessor did during nearly four years in office.
