The Office of Special Counsel stated on Thursday that U.S. Navy Sec. Carlos Del Toro had violated a federal law which limits political activity of federal employees by publicly urging people to vote for President Joe Biden, and criticizing former President Donald Trump.

Hatch Act is a law that limits some political activities in order to protect the government from partisan influences. The Hatch Act prohibits the use of official authority to influence an election.

Del Toro, while on an official trip to London in January of 2024, said that he is "confident" that the American public will support President Biden's second term in November as Commander-in-Chief.

Del Toro "expressed" his opposition to Trump in an interview given by the BBC the next day.

Hampton Dellinger, Special Counsel said that Del Toro had encouraged the support of one candidate in the upcoming election by speaking on behalf of his department during a taxpayer-funded visit.

"By doing this, he violated the Hatch Act." Dellinger said that this is particularly troubling, because Del Toro himself has acknowledged that military work should not be mixed with partisan politics.

Del Toro reported his own comments to the watchdog. He said that his intention was to discuss strong international alliances.

He told the office that "in retrospect, my response could have been more general and not refer to any specific candidates."

The U.S. Military is supposed to be apolitical and loyal to the U.S. Constitution, independent of any political party or movement. Del Toro, a civilian, was appointed Navy secretary by Biden.

A fine or suspension from office are possible punishments.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it would be reviewing the report. However, it is important that the military avoids any actions that might imply that they are supporting a political party or campaign. (Reporting and editing by Rosalba o'Brien, Idrees ali)

(source: Reuters)