WASHINGTON D.C. — Justice Department official Ed Martin expressed genuine surprise today after the D.C. Bar initiated disciplinary proceedings against him, alleging an 'unethical pressure campaign' against Georgetown University. Sources close to Martin indicate he was under the impression that leveraging his position to influence academic decisions was simply part of the job.

“Mr. Martin has always understood his role as one of proactive engagement, ensuring that the nation’s educational institutions align with, shall we say, certain… national priorities,” stated a spokesperson for Martin, who wished to remain anonymous to avoid similar disciplinary action. “He genuinely thought 'pressure campaign' was just a fancy term for 'vigorous oversight.' What else are you supposed to do with all that official stationery?”

Legal experts are now scrambling to clarify the precise boundaries of 'persuasion' versus 'coercion' for federal employees. “It’s a fine line, apparently,” noted Professor Eleanor Vance, a constitutional law scholar at a university that has, so far, avoided direct Justice Department 'suggestions.' “Most of us thought 'don’t use your government title to bully people' was covered under basic civics, but perhaps we need a more explicit addendum to the employee handbook.”

Martin’s legal team is reportedly preparing a defense arguing that his actions were merely an enthusiastic interpretation of 'checks and balances,' specifically the 'checking' part.