According to reports, the White House allegedly disregards warnings from its internal watchdog and uses the term “MAGA” in official communications, even though doing so may violate the Hatch Act.
The Biden administration has been dealing with challenges such as an uncertain economic outlook, a porous southern border, and topless transgender activists on the White House lawn. They have referred to “MAGA Republicans” as a common source of people pressing these concerns.
Using the term by the White House seems to violate federal election regulations.
According to the Office of Special Counsel (OSC), it violates the Hatch Act for the Biden administration to use the term “MAGA” officially because the Act prohibits elected officials from using government resources for campaign activities.
MAGA is closely associated with Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign as it was his slogan.
According to a memo from the OSC, the use of “MAGA” by a current candidate for political office is considered political activity because it is their campaign slogan.
Federal employees are advised not to use the phrases ‘MAGA’ or ‘Make America Great Again’ while on duty, in the workplace, or when acting in their official capacity, including communicating through email, social media, or government websites.
Bates referred to Jean-Pierre’s comments when asked for a comment.
Andrew Bates (the deputy press secretary) issued a memo later in the day where he used the term “MAGA” and criticized House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and the Republican Study Committee (RSC). He alleged they are trying to defund Medicare benefits and promote significant tax cuts for the wealthy.
The OSC found that Jean-Pierre violated the Hatch Act by repeatedly referring to “mega MAGA Republicans” while serving as White House press secretary before the 2022 midterm elections.
So far, KJP is not in danger of being reprimanded for violating federal law, and never will be.
