DC prosecutor forms unit to investigate election offenses

Washington's top federal prosecutor, Ed Martin, has created a new unit called the “Special Unit: Election Accountability.” This unit aims to investigate election offenses. Martin previously supported former President Donald Trump’s false claims about the 2020 election being rigged. In an email to his staff, Martin announced that the unit has already started one investigation. He emphasized the importance of upholding election laws to restore public confidence in the electoral process. Martin has a history of involvement with election issues, including detecting voter registration fraud in St. Louis years ago. Martin's past connections to the "Stop the Steal" movement have drawn skepticism from some politicians. For instance, California Senator Alex Padilla expressed concern that the unit might focus more on attacking political opponents than ensuring fair elections. Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin criticized the effort, suggesting it was designed to manipulate election outcomes. The new unit's jurisdiction is unclear, raising questions about its authority. Voting experts worry that the focus on supposed voter fraud may further damage public trust in elections. There is no evidence of widespread fraud in the 2020 election, which was confirmed by multiple recounts and audits. Martin's leadership has already stirred controversy within the U.S. attorney's office in D.C. He has demoted senior officials and raised eyebrows with comments that align closely with Trump’s priorities. He also threatened not to hire students from a law school unless it changed its diversity programs.