February 2, 2026policy changejustice departmentexecutive powerrule of lawjudiciaryexecutive powerinvestigation

Ed Martin removed as head of DOJ Weaponization Working Group

The Department of Justice removed Ed Martin from his role leading the Weaponization Working Group on February 2, 2026, confirming what Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche had communicated to Martin in December 2025. Martin had led the group reviewing Jack Smith's investigations, Jan. 6 prosecutions, and DOJ cooperation with state-level Trump prosecutions. He retained his position as DOJ Pardon Attorney. CNN reported an internal review found Martin had leaked grand jury material, though DOJ denied any ongoing misconduct investigation.

Sources

Ed Martin out as leader of DOJ's weaponization group, sources say Ed Martin removed as head of Justice Department's Weaponization Working Group Ed Martin removed from role as weaponization czar at Justice Dept.