On Wednesday, President Trump called off a Senate session while commenting on Senator Tom Tillis (R-N.C.).
“I know Ed, and it’s unfortunate because he’s really talented,” Trump shared with reporters in the Oval Office. “In Washington, D.C., street crime and violent crime have seen a reduction of 25%, and people are noticing a significant change.”
The president seemed unsure about Tillis’ stance, having learned only recently that the GOP Senator would not back Martin. Trump expressed that lawmakers should act in line with their convictions.
“I didn’t realize that, but if someone voted against him, I can’t help but feel disappointed,” Trump noted, referring to Martin’s accomplishments in reducing crime. “But it’s really up to the senator. They have to vote according to their beliefs; they need to follow their hearts.”
According to data from the metropolitan police, violent crime fell by 24% in 2025 compared to 2024.
Currently, Martin serves as the interim U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia and has faced backlash for leading a “stop theft” initiative after the 2020 election, alongside representing individuals charged in connection with the January 6th incident.
Tillis, part of the Senate Judiciary Committee and gearing up for a challenging reelection in 2026, cited Martin’s defense of those involved in the January 6th events as a reason for his opposition.
Tillis’s “no” vote effectively halts the nomination, given that Republicans hold a slim 12-10 majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee, with all Democrats also opposing Martin’s nomination.
