Watchdog Group Accuses Top Officials of Violating Hatch Act in Political Activities at White House, SBA

A watchdog group has accused top officials at the White House and Small Business Administration of violating a federal law that restricts government staffers from engaging in certain political activities, according to Protect the Public’s Trust (PPT). Emails obtained by PTT have allegedly revealed officials regularly utilized official resources for discussions about former President Donald Trump’s campaign slogan “MAGA.” However, under the Hatch Act, federal executive branch employees are prohibited from using their authority or influence to interfere with elections. Michael Chamberlain, director of PPT, argued that this apparent disregard underscores why such a law is required since citizens don’t want taxpayer-funded programs used as political tools for coercion. The Hatch Act has been breached in previous administrations by at least 13 officials, including under Trump. PPT cited emails showing White House Senior Communications Assistant Brianna Stonick emailing colleagues with talking points about “House Republican MAGA Economic Plan” and “President Biden’s Veto of Extreme MAGA Republican Bill.” Neither the White House nor SBA responded to requests for comment on this matter.