United States Senator Adam Schiff has placed a hold on the nomination of Ed Martin, President Donald Trump's pick for U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, signaling strong Democratic opposition. Martin, who is currently serving in an interim capacity, has not yet faced a Senate confirmation hearing.

In a public statement, Schiff criticized Martin for what he described as the erosion of boundaries between the White House and the Department of Justice. "In every way he can, Ed Martin has demolished the firewalls between the White House and his own office within the Department of Justice," Schiff said.

Schiff argued that confirming Martin to the role on a permanent basis would compromise the Department’s independence and set a dangerous precedent. "Confirming him to serve permanently in the role he has already abused in his interim capacity would cross the prosecutorial Rubicon that every single Senator would come to regret," he warned.

The hold prevents Martin’s nomination from advancing, at least temporarily, unless Senate leadership intervenes or negotiates its removal. The move underscores growing partisan tensions over executive influence on the DOJ and prosecutorial integrity.

Ed Martin has been acting as U.S. attorney for D.C., a critical jurisdiction overseeing numerous high-profile federal investigations. Critics argue that his interim leadership has raised concerns over impartiality and political pressure. Supporters within the Trump administration maintain that Martin is qualified and has acted in accordance with the law.

The standoff marks another battle in the broader political conflict between the White House and Democratic lawmakers over control and independence of federal institutions. It also highlights the Senate’s key role in confirming appointments that shape national legal policy and prosecutorial strategy.

No date has been announced for Martin’s confirmation hearing, and it remains unclear whether the administration will push forward with his nomination or consider an alternative candidate. Meanwhile, Schiff’s hold signals the beginning of what could be a contentious and closely watched confirmation fight in Washington.