DOJ's 'Weaponization' Task Force Sees Leadership Shakeup as Key Trump Ally Ed Martin Exits Role
WASHINGTON — Ed Martin, a prominent ally of former President Donald Trump, is no longer leading the Justice Department's controversial "weaponization" working group, according to two sources familiar with the matter. The group was established to review the conduct of prosecutors who pursued investigations into Trump and his associates.
The Justice Department, when contacted for comment, did not directly address Martin's departure from the working group. A spokesman stated that Martin "continues to serve as Pardon Attorney," a separate role to which Trump appointed him, adding that he "continues to do a great job in that role."
Martin's tenure as the head of the working group was marked by controversy from the outset. Initially serving as interim U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, his permanent nomination faced significant opposition, notably from Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), a key figure on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Subsequently, Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed him to direct the newly formed "weaponization working group," a move aligned with a presidential executive order. The D.C. U.S. attorney position was later filled by former Fox News host Jeanine Pirro.
The working group's mandate is broad, focusing on several high-profile and politically sensitive areas. These include examining the work of former Special Counsel Jack Smith, assessing any federal cooperation with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg—who led the recent hush money prosecution of Trump—reviewing the DOJ's handling of cases related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, and looking into criminal prosecutions of anti-abortion activists.
Martin's approach to the role frequently drew criticism for appearing to depart from established Justice Department norms. As an advocate for individuals arrested following the Capitol riot, he publicly stated his intention to "name" and "shame" people whom the department could not formally charge, a tactic at odds with long-standing DOJ policy against commenting on ongoing investigations or individuals not charged with crimes. When questioned about this potential conflict, Martin emphasized the importance of getting "the truth" out.
The removal of Martin from the working group's leadership raises immediate questions about the future direction and tone of its inquiries. It is currently unclear who will assume leadership of the group. Martin did not respond to a request for comment regarding his exit.
This story is based on original reporting from NBC News.
Reaction & Analysis
Eleanor Vance, Political Science Professor at Georgetown University: "This move signals an attempt to recalibrate. The working group's mandate was inherently political, but Martin's overtly confrontational style may have become a liability. His departure doesn't end the probe, but it might temper its most aggressive public-facing tactics."
Marcus Thorne, Former Federal Prosecutor: "The 'naming and shaming' concept was a clear violation of foundational DOJ principles of fairness and due process. His exit is a necessary corrective, albeit a belated one, to protect the department's institutional integrity from further erosion."
Rebecca Shaw, Conservative Commentator & Podcast Host: "This is a disgraceful purge of a patriot who was finally getting answers for the American people about the two-tiered system of justice used against President Trump. It's a win for the deep-state bureaucrats who want these abuses buried. What are they so afraid of him uncovering?"
David Chen, Legal Correspondent for The National Review: "The practical impact remains to be seen. The working group continues under Bondi's authority. The key question is whether a new leader will pursue a more fact-based, procedural review or if the underlying mission remains unchanged, just with a less inflammatory spokesperson."