Summary
Democrats are challenging language used by the Trump administration on federal websites and emails, which blames Democrats for a government shutdown. They argue this violates the Hatch Act, which prevents political activity by government employees while on the job. A formal complaint has been filed, and a union is also taking legal action.
Key Facts
- The Trump administration has posted language on federal websites and emails blaming Democrats for a government shutdown.
- Democrats and a federal workers' union claim this language breaks the Hatch Act, a law from 1939 that bars political activity by government employees.
- Former Idaho Democratic legislator Todd Achilles filed a complaint with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel.
- The complaint argues that public infrastructure should not be used for political messaging.
- A federal workers' union has sued the U.S. Department of Education over similar automated email language.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which manages the Forest Service, has not responded to requests for comment.
- The Hatch Act Unit is currently not operating due to budget issues caused by the shutdown.
