The Office of Special Counsel sent its investigation findings to the president yesterday. The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from using their official authority to influence election outcomes. Federal employees can make partisan remarks in their own time but not when speaking about agency business or using their official title.
In February, Ms. Sebelius deviated from her prepared speech, which was delivered at a Human Rights Campaign in Charlotte, N.C., according to a report from The Hill.
The secretary said, “One of the imperatives is to make sure that we not only come together here in Charlotte to present the nomination to the president, but we make sure that in November, he continues to be president for another four years.” She also made comments about gay marriage and electing a Democratic governor in North Carolina.
Ms. Sebelius claims she offered to reimburse the government for the trip after she went “off script.” The Democratic National Committee ended up reimbursing the government for her travels, however, and HHS reclassified the appearance from “official” to “political” after Ms. Sebelius made her comments.
The White House has defended Ms. Sebelius in wake of the investigation’s conclusion. A White House spokesman said the secretary immediately acknowledged the error, promptly corrected it and did not misuse any taxpayer dollars
It is up to President Obama to decide what, if any, penalties to impose.
More Articles on HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius:
HHS Announces $275M State Healthcare Innovation Initiative
HHS Sec. Sebelius: ‘Medicare is Stronger Than Ever’ Because of the Healthcare Law
HHS Secretary: Overturning PPACA Would Be ‘Pretty Cataclysmic’
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
