The D.C. Bar has formally begun disciplinary proceedings against Ed Martin, a senior Justice Department official during the Trump administration, over a letter he sent to Georgetown University Law Center. The proceedings stem from an accusation that Martin, while serving temporarily as the interim U.S. Attorney for D.C., threatened to cease hiring Georgetown law students due to the school's diversity, inclusion, and equity (DEI) initiatives.
This formal complaint, filed by Hamilton Fox, the professional conduct investigator for D.C., initiates a process where Martin will be required to respond to the allegations. Potential sanctions could range from a public reprimand to the loss of his law license.
The Justice Department has publicly criticized the D.C. Bar's action, asserting that it is politically motivated and part of a larger contention between the department and state bar authorities regarding the oversight of federal attorneys. The ethics inquiry was reportedly triggered by a complaint filed by a retired judge, Phillip Argento, concerning Martin's communication with Georgetown.
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Martin, who is currently a pardon attorney at the Justice Department, has previously been removed from his role leading the department's Weaponization Working Group. His nomination to be the U.S. Attorney for D.C. was also withdrawn after failing to gain sufficient Senate support.
The disciplinary office's complaint alleges that Martin, "acting in his official capacity and speaking on behalf of the government, used coercion to punish or suppress a disfavored viewpoint, the teaching and promotion of ‘DEI.’" The specifics of any requested penalty have not been disclosed. The ultimate decision on any sanctions will rest with the District of Columbia's highest local court, following recommendations from the disciplinary board.