Navy Secretary Violates Hatch Act After Warning Personnel About Political Neutrality

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro found himself in hot water after being cited for violating the Hatch Act, a law that prohibits federal employees from engaging in political activities while on duty. Ironically, just a day before the citation, Del Toro had warned Navy personnel to remain apolitical during the 2024 election season.

Del Toro’s violation occurred during a taxpayer-funded trip to the U.K. in January, where he publicly endorsed President Joe Biden for re-election. This action prompted the Office of Special Counsel to step in, stating that Del Toro’s remarks crossed the legal line. The Hatch Act explicitly bars federal officials from engaging in political endorsements while performing official duties.

In an unclassified document sent to Navy personnel, Del Toro had emphasized the importance of the Department of the Navy remaining an “apolitical body.” He stressed that the public’s trust in the military depends on its neutrality in political matters.

Critics of the Biden-Harris administration, including Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN), chairman of the Anti-Woke Caucus, seized on the incident. Banks remarked, “Public trust is eroding under the Biden-Harris administration,” citing what he sees as growing politicization of the military.

The Office of Special Counsel’s report highlighted that Del Toro’s statements in favor of Biden conveyed clear political support, violating the Hatch Act and raising concerns about the military’s role in political matters under the current administration.