Mark Totten, the U.S. attorney for Lansing, is stepping down soon but may consider future political roles.

Totten has hinted he might run for attorney general again after his term ends on January 20. He’s looking forward to some family time first, though. He mentioned needing a break after years of intense public service.
He recently submitted his resignation, which is standard after a presidential election. Reflecting on his time, he emphasized the importance of initiatives he hopes will continue, especially those targeting gun violence.
One of his key projects was the “Safe Summer” initiative, aimed at tackling gun violence by shifting some prosecutions to federal courts. This approach allows for more resources and tougher penalties for offenders.
Totten focused on the small number of individuals responsible for most gun violence, working closely with local law enforcement. He believes that understanding who’s behind the shootings is crucial for making real changes.
His office also took action against ghost guns and devices that convert firearms to automatic weapons. There’s evidence that these efforts have made a difference, with a decrease in gun-related deaths in the area.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies, stressing that working together is key to public safety. Despite the political changes with his replacement, he believes the mission remains the same: protecting the community.
Totten also pointed to significant cases his office handled, including crimes against children and hate crimes. He shared the tragic story of a kidnapping case that ended in a child’s death, showcasing the serious work done during his tenure.
As he prepares to step down, Totten reflects on the challenges and successes of his time in office, leaving a legacy of focused efforts on gun violence and community safety.