Former Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley violated the Hatch Act during an interview last year with a local news outlet, according to an investigation by the U.S. Special Advisors Office. This was reported by a North Carolina news source.
The investigation was initiated following a complaint filed on October 23, 2024. At the time of the incident, O’Malley was in office and allegedly misused his official position to influence the election.
The complaint highlighted a seven-minute interview O’Malley had on WPTF Morning News, which is based in Raleigh, North Carolina.
While most of the discussion centered on his work at an independent institution, host Chris Edwards asked O’Malley about the “biggest thing” he wanted to convey to local listeners about his agency.
O’Malley stated that Social Security is a long-term program and emphasized that it’s everyone’s duty to use their “power” to secure its strength for future generations.
The former governor of Maryland expressed concerns about proposals from Donald Trump potentially harming Social Security, saying we may not be able to tell future generations about it because it could be drained away.
“Governing is a choice,” O’Malley remarked, adding that officials are obligated to serve the public and ensure a positive future for all, including North Carolina residents.
The Special Advisors Office concluded that O’Malley’s statements indicated he was suggesting listeners should vote against President Trump to fulfill their responsibilities regarding Social Security.
After the interview, O’Malley voluntarily reported his remarks to SSA ethics officials. He did not participate in the OSC investigation, and since his departure from government service, he has faced no disciplinary measures. The OSC has shared the investigation’s conclusions with the White House.
Charles N. Bardis, a senior adviser at OSC, expressed hope that the report would assist the administration in training future officials to comply with the Hatch Act.
The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from engaging in campaign activities while acting in their official capacities.
This report marks the first Hatch Act review since Trump dismissed special advisor Hampton Dillinger, the chief of the office.
Dillinger had claimed his dismissal was unlawful, arguing that Trump overstepped by firing him after confirming his five-year term under President Biden. Initially, a lower court sided with Dillinger, but he ultimately dropped his legal fight after an appellate court ruled against him.
Since then, the office has reversed several decisions, including those related to Trump’s authority concerning federal employees hired in the past year or two.
