February 2, 2026
Ed Martin removed from DOJ "weaponization" working group
Deputy AG Blanche ousts Martin after months-long feud; Martin keeps pardon attorney role
Ed Martin removed as head of DOJ Weaponization Working Group on February 2, 2026. The removal came after criticism that Martin prosecutions of 
James Comey and New York Attorney General 
Letitia James were dismissed by judges, raising questions about his effectiveness and judgment.
Martin retained role as department pardon attorney but was relocated to satellite office. The demotion effectively removed him from mainstream DOJ operations while keeping him in the department in a less visible capacity with reduced authority and influence.
The group created by Attorney General 
Pam Bondi to review alleged politicized prosecutions faced criticism for partisan focus. The working group was established to examine cases against Trump critics but was seen by many as a tool for political retaliation rather than legitimate law enforcement review.
Martin prosecutions of Comey and James were dismissed by federal judges in January 2026. The cases were criticized as weak and politically motivated, with judges finding insufficient evidence to support the charges and questioning the timing of the prosecutions.
The removal reflected DOJ efforts to distance from partisan activities ahead of 2026 midterms. The department faced criticism for appearing to use law enforcement tools for political purposes, and the changes were seen as attempts to restore credibility and independence.
Senate Republicans including Thom Tillis opposed Martin permanent nomination as U.S. Attorney for D.C. in May 2025. The opposition from within the Republican party highlighted concerns about Martin qualifications and judgment, contributing to his eventual removal.
The working group continued under new leadership but with reduced focus and visibility. The group shifted from high-profile prosecutions to more administrative review functions, reflecting the political sensitivity of its original mission and activities.
Martin removal was part of broader DOJ leadership changes under Attorney General Bondi. The department saw multiple personnel changes as Bondi sought to install loyalists while addressing criticism of politicization and partisan activities within the department.
People, bills, and sources
What you can do
1
civic action
Support DOJ independence organizations defending nonpartisan law enforcement
Donate to or volunteer with organizations that advocate for independent Department of Justice free from political interference. These groups monitor DOJ activities, challenge politicization, and work to maintain law enforcement integrity.
info@brennancenter.org
My name is [Name] and I am calling to support the Brennan Center work defending DOJ independence from political interference. I am concerned about the Weaponization Working Group and want to help ensure law enforcement remains nonpartisan and independent.
2
civic action
Contact your representatives about DOJ oversight and accountability
Urge your representatives to support congressional oversight of DOJ activities and legislation that prevents political interference in law enforcement. Ask them to hold hearings on the Weaponization Working Group and ensure proper accountability.
find your representative at congress.gov
My name is [Name] and I am calling about the DOJ Weaponization Working Group and concerns about political interference in law enforcement. I urge the representative to support congressional oversight and legislation that prevents political retaliation through law enforcement.
3
understanding
Learn about DOJ independence and separation of powers
Study the importance of DOJ independence from political influence and how the separation of powers protects law enforcement integrity. Understanding these principles helps you recognize when DOJ independence is threatened.
info@acslaw.org
I am calling to learn about DOJ independence and separation of powers principles. With concerns about the Weaponization Working Group, I want to understand how political independence protects law enforcement integrity and constitutional principles.