WASHINGTON, D.C. – Please review this important Hatch Act memorandum from Stephen Alexander Vaden, USDA’s general counsel, and Stuart Bender, director of USDA’s Office of Ethics. As the 2020 national election season moves into high gear, it is important that all employees observe the applicable statutory restrictions on political activity imposed by the Hatch Act.  

The attached memorandum provides timely guidance and informs you of the resources available to obtain answers to questions you may have about the Hatch Act rules governing political activities by federal employees. All employees are encouraged to direct any questions about the Hatch Act to the USDA Office of Ethics advisors assigned to service their mission areas at: www.ethics.usda.gov. Employees can also contact the USDA Office of Ethics at its “Hatch Act Hotline” (202) 720-2251 or via e-mail at daeo.ethics@usda.gov.

Additional information about the Hatch Act can be readily found on the USDA Ethics App (you can search “USDA Ethics” and download the App on any smart phone).  Also, you can view several short videos about the Hatch Act on USDA’s official YouTube page (these videos are also available on the Video Library section of the USDA Ethics App).