White House press secretary violated Hatch Act, government watchdog determines

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre violated the Hatch Act for her use of the term "mega MAGA" in the White House briefing room, the Office of Special Counsel determined.

The OSC opted against pursuing disciplinary action against Jean-Pierre and instead issued her a warning letter. News of the OSC's findings came in the form of a letter the office sent to Protect the Public's Trust Director Michael Chamberlain, who filed the initial complaint, CNN reported.

Passed in 1939, the Hatch Act imposes restrictions on the political activity of government employees, excluding the president and vice president. 

"OSC has investigated your allegation and concluded that Ms. Jean‐Pierre violated the Hatch Act. However… we have decided not to pursue disciplinary action and have instead issued Ms. Jean‐Pierre a warning letter," the letter reads. "OSC concluded that the timing, frequency, and content of Ms. Jean‐Pierre’s references to 'MAGA Republicans' established that she made those references to generate opposition to Republican candidates."

"Accordingly, making the references constituted political activity," the letter continued. "Because Ms. Jean‐Pierre made the statements while acting in her official capacity, she violated the Hatch Act prohibition against using her official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with or affecting the result of an election."

Jean-Pierre has defended herself, asserting that she received approval from her higherups prior to making the comments. The White House has indicated that it is reviewing the OSC opinion.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.