Trump Forced To Withdraw What?

President Trump signaled that he may withdraw the nomination of Ed Martin for U.S. attorney in Washington, D.C., following a lack of support from Senate Republicans. Speaking during a press conference in the Oval Office, Trump expressed frustration over the stalled confirmation process and hinted at moving forward with a different nominee.

Trump said he was “disappointed” that Martin couldn’t secure enough backing to advance through the Senate Judiciary Committee. He emphasized that while Martin wasn’t formally rejected, the chances of confirmation had become slim.

“A lot of people were disappointed, but that’s the way it works sometimes,” Trump said. “It would be hard. And we have somebody else that we’ll be announcing over the next two days, who’s going to be great.”

Martin did not immediately issue a formal response, but he acknowledged the development on social media by posting a digitally altered image of himself dressed as the pope with the caption “plot twist,” referencing the recent election of a new pope.

The White House’s decision to reconsider the nomination follows public opposition from Sen. Thom Tillis, a key Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, who said he would not support Martin’s confirmation. With the Senate evenly divided, Tillis’ announcement effectively blocked Martin’s path forward.

Martin, who lacks experience as a prosecutor, has been serving as interim U.S. attorney since earlier this year. His tenure has already drawn attention for a series of high-profile decisions, including the reassignment and removal of several prosecutors handling January 6-related cases.

Previously known for his role as a speaker at “Stop the Steal” rallies, Martin also represented multiple individuals charged in connection with the Capitol riot. Barring a new nominee being confirmed, he is expected to remain in the interim role until May 20.