Context:

President Donald Trump is actively supporting Ed Martin's nomination for US attorney for Washington, DC, by personally reaching out to Republican senators amid a contentious confirmation process. Martin's nomination has faced significant scrutiny due to his failure to disclose numerous media appearances and controversial past statements. Several GOP senators have expressed reservations, particularly in light of Martin's previous remarks about police officers involved in the Capitol riot. Despite the controversies and a tight confirmation timeline, the White House remains optimistic about securing Martin's confirmation. Trump's influence is bolstered by support from 23 Republican state attorneys general and allies who are advocating for Martin's approval despite internal DOJ preferences for a different candidate.

Dive Deeper:

• Ed Martin, nominated by President Trump for the role of US attorney in Washington, DC, is navigating a turbulent confirmation process, primarily due to undisclosed media appearances and past controversial remarks.

• Despite the controversies, Trump is personally lobbying Republican senators to secure Martin's confirmation, which has not yet been scheduled for a committee vote.

• Concerns among GOP senators are heightened by Martin's previous praise of a Capitol rioter and his derogatory comments about officers defending the Capitol during the January 6 attack.

• Senator Chuck Grassley and other members of the Senate Judiciary Committee are still vetting Martin, with some expressing serious doubts about his suitability for the position.

• The nomination process is under a time constraint, as Martin's interim position expires on May 20, potentially necessitating a new selection process if confirmation is not achieved.

• The White House and DOJ are working to expedite the confirmation process, although some DOJ officials had initially favored another candidate for the position.

• Republican state attorneys general and Trump allies have publicly supported Martin, emphasizing the importance of his confirmation and aligning with Trump's preferences.