In March, following an op-ed by a Justice Department employee criticizing the Biden administration regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, she was accused by her supervisors of violating federal law. However, the Office of Special Counsel recently dismissed that allegation, sending a concerning message to other federal employees involved in advocacy around Israel and Gaza.
Emma West Rasmus, a dedicated Justice Department employee, penned an op-ed for The Hill in early March about her visit to Palestine with her church. In the article, she expressed her decision not to vote for Biden or any Democrat unless there is an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestine.
After the op-ed was published, West Rasmus, who is associated with the Israel/Palestine Mission Network of the Presbyterian Church, was accused of violating the Hatch Act by senior Justice Department officials. The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from engaging in certain political activities using their official authority.
Despite being accused, West Rasmus followed the guidance provided by the Office of Special Counsel, which clarified that federal employees can express their views on Israel and Gaza without violating the Hatch Act as long as it’s not done while on duty or in the federal workplace.
While the investigation into West Rasmus revealed no violation of the Hatch Act, the incident had a chilling effect on federal employees engaging in dissent on Gaza policy. Despite the ordeal, West Rasmus remains committed to advocating for change and believes it was worth the risk.
The Justice Department, which had raised concerns about West Rasmus’ actions, did not provide a response to inquiries from The Intercept.
