Special Counsel Concludes HHS Secretary Sebelius Violated the Hatch Act, Issa Awaits President’s Action

WASHINGTON –Today, Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa issued the following statement on U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) announcement that Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius violated the Hatch Act when she made partisan political statements in a speech delivered in her official capacity on February 25, 2012.  The Hatch Act clearly prohibits federal employees from using their official authority or influence to affect the outcome of an election. Chairman Issa wrote a letter to OSC Special Counsel Carolyn Lerner in March of 2012 asking her to investigate.

“The Committee appreciates OSC’s timely and thorough investigation,” said Chairman Issa.  “OSC’s report and findings underscore the importance of laws prohibiting mixing official government business with partisan political activity. OSC has sent its findings to President Obama, who must now decide on appropriate action. The Committee awaits President Obama’s decision.  As he decides the appropriate consequences for Secretary Sebelius, the President should consider the important leadership role of Cabinet Secretaries and the example they must set for the entire Executive Branch.”

The OSC report can be found here. Chairman Issa’s letter can be found here.