Ed Martin’s appointment signals strategic changes within the Trump administration’s Office of Management and Budget.
Ed Martin, a staunch conservative activist and longtime Republican operative from Missouri, has been selected by President-elect Donald J. Trump to serve as Chief of Staff for the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Martin’s appointment aligns with his history as an anti-abortion advocate and his role in organizing the “Stop the Steal” movement, which sought to overturn the 2020 election results for Trump.
Martin’s political career spans decades, including his tenure as Chief of Staff to former Missouri Governor Matt Blunt nearly 20 years ago and his leadership of the Missouri Republican Party 10 years ago. However, it was his close association with the late anti-feminist activist Phyllis Schlafly that elevated his national profile. Martin co-authored a book with Schlafly, released shortly after her death in 2016, urging conservatives to support Trump’s presidential campaign. He now leads the Phyllis Schlafly Eagles, an organization promoting her conservative legacy.
Martin will report to Russell Vought, Trump’s former OMB director, who played a key role in developing Project 2025, a comprehensive blueprint for reshaping federal governance drafted by the Heritage Foundation and other conservative groups. While Trump initially distanced himself from the project during his campaign, his recent appointments suggest its influence in shaping his administration. Martin, along with Representative Dan Bishop of North Carolina, who has been named Deputy Director of OMB, is expected to play a critical role in implementing Trump’s vision across federal agencies.
Martin’s controversial history includes his advocacy for anti-abortion policies, including a national ban, and openness to prosecuting women and doctors involved in abortions. Additionally, his prominent role in the “Stop the Steal” movement, which fueled claims of election fraud and culminated in the January 6 Capitol attack, has drawn scrutiny. Martin’s involvement was highlighted by the Congressional Committee investigating the events, noting his inflammatory rhetoric and organizational efforts.
Martin also facilitated the transfer of America’s Future, a conservative organization once associated with Schlafly, to retired General Michael Flynn, a vocal promoter of election conspiracy theories. Under Flynn, the group has embraced far-right ideologies, raising further questions about Martin’s affiliations and their implications for his new role.
As OMB Chief of Staff, Martin’s leadership will likely reflect his hardline conservative values, marking a pivotal influence in Trump’s second administration
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