The U.S. Office of Special Counsel has determined that Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro violated the Hatch Act by publicly endorsing the reelection of President Joe Biden and criticizing former President Donald Trump while on official duty overseas. The watchdog agency's report to the White House highlighted Del Toro's comments made during a BBC interview and a speech in London, where he expressed support for President Biden and questioned Trump's commitment to democratic principles.
The Hatch Act prohibits U.S. officials from engaging in political activity while on duty and from using their official authority to influence election outcomes. Del Toro's remarks were deemed to have crossed this legal line, as he openly advocated for President Biden and criticized Trump's approach to democracy.
While Del Toro later reported his comments, the Office of Special Counsel expressed concern over his unwillingness to take responsibility for his actions. The agency emphasized the importance of maintaining a nonpartisan stance in official capacities, especially in the context of international relations.
In response to questions during his speech in London, Del Toro stated, 'The United States and the world need the mature leadership of President Biden,' and criticized Trump for aligning with autocratic rulers. These statements were considered a violation of the Hatch Act, as they were made while Del Toro was on official duty.
The Navy Secretary's lawyer argued that the remarks were spontaneous and not premeditated, but the Office of Special Counsel maintained that Del Toro had indeed breached the legal boundaries set by the Hatch Act. The report underscored the need for government officials to uphold the apolitical nature of their roles to maintain public trust and confidence.
The findings regarding Del Toro's violation of the Hatch Act come in the wake of concerns raised by Democratic members of Congress about political influence within the military during the presidential election. While penalties for violating the Hatch Act can include dismissal, suspension, or fines, enforcement against federal employees is rare.
Both the Navy and the White House have yet to comment on the Office of Special Counsel's report regarding Navy Secretary Del Toro's actions.
