AI Gemini on Political Partisanship in the US government
The core US policy aimed at limiting political partisanship within the federal government is the Hatch Act of 1939 (amended in 1993 and 2012).
The purpose of the Hatch Act is to ensure that federal programs are administered in a nonpartisan fashion, protect federal employees from political coercion in the workplace, and ensure employees are advanced based on merit rather than political affiliation.
Key Provisions of the Hatch Act
The Hatch Act applies to most employees in the executive branch of the federal government (excluding the President and Vice President) and certain state and local employees whose positions are federally funded.
Prohibited Activities (Generally Applies to All Covered Employees)
Federal employees may not engage in partisan political activity:
While on duty (this includes teleworking).
In any federal room or building or while wearing an official uniform or insignia.
While using a federally-owned or leased vehicle or federal property/resources (like work computers or email).
They may not use their official authority or influence to interfere with or affect the result of an election.
They are prohibited from being candidates for public office in partisan elections.
They may not solicit or receive political contributions for a partisan political party, candidate, or group (with limited exceptions).
Permitted Activities
Most federal employees are considered "less restricted" and may engage in partisan political activities while off duty, outside of a federal facility, and not using federal property, including:
Voting and expressing their opinions about candidates and issues.
Contributing money to political campaigns, parties, or groups.
Attending and being active at political rallies and meetings.
Campaigning for or against candidates, referendums, or ordinances.
Being a candidate in a nonpartisan election.
The U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is the independent agency that investigates and prosecutes alleged violations of the Hatch Act. Penalties for violations can include removal from federal employment, reduction in grade, suspension, or civil fines.
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