Key facts
- Former U.S. Pardon Attorney Ed Martin is launching a new gun rights group called Firearm Rights for Americans.
- The group aims to restore firearm access to individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes.
- Martin stated President Donald Trump encouraged the initiative, wanting credit for expanding gun access.
- The group plans to distribute testimonials and guides to help eligible individuals navigate regulations.
- A federal regulation allowing petition for restoration of gun rights was finalized in August by Attorney General Todd Blanche and Martin.
- Martin also plans to work with the Republican National Committee to mobilize lawyers for election integrity efforts.
Former U.S. Pardon Attorney Ed Martin has launched a new gun rights organization, Firearm Rights for Americans, with the stated goal of restoring firearm access to individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes. Martin, who recently departed the Justice Department, indicated that President Donald Trump encouraged the initiative during their final meeting, expressing a desire for his administration to receive credit for expanding gun access.
The group plans to produce and distribute written and video testimonials from individuals seeking to regain gun ownership, aiming to mobilize single-issue Second Amendment voters in competitive congressional districts. Martin believes this effort can help Republicans maintain their House majority in the upcoming midterm elections and build momentum for the 2028 presidential election.
This initiative follows the recent finalization of a federal regulation, announced in August by Attorney General Todd Blanche and Martin, which allows individuals disqualified from gun ownership to petition for the restoration of their rights. Martin intends for Firearm Rights for Americans to inform potential applicants and Second Amendment supporters about this change and provide guides for navigating regulations, though it will not offer direct legal advice.
Kris Brown, president of Brady: United Against Gun Violence, criticized the finalized rule as a "gift to the gun industry" that weakens safety protections. Martin, whose tenure at the DOJ was marked by friction with other officials, stated he waited to leave until the gun-restoration rule was finalized and Blanche was confirmed. He also plans to collaborate with the Republican National Committee to mobilize lawyers in battleground states to address election fraud concerns.