DDF Files Hatch Act Complaint Against Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy
September 10, 2026
Secretary Duffy used his official authority to boost a political speech at a MAGA Inc. super PAC event in Michigan in clear violation of the law
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Democracy Defenders Fund filed a Hatch Act complaint today against Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy following his remarks at a MAGA Inc. super PAC event in August 2026. Duffy spoke extensively about Transportation Department business while actively promoting the Republican party and the Republican nominee for Michigan’s open Senate seat.
MAGA Inc., the super PAC established to assist President Trump in the 2024 election, hosted the Sterling Heights, Michigan event to promote Republican nominee Mike Rogers for U.S. Senate and several other Michigan Republicans. Duffy addressed the crowd alongside other notable government officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Federal Trade Commission Chairman Andrew Ferguson.
Duffy’s comments constitute clear political activity. During his speech, Duffy ranted about Chinese competition in the auto industry and outlined his plans to prevent Chinese technology from entering the United States. He directly tied these official policy remarks to an endorsement of Mike Rogers, asserting that Rogers would block Chinese cars from entering the U.S. market.
“The Hatch Act is clear: cabinet members are not permitted to use their official position or authority of office to push a partisan political agenda,” said Virginia Canter, chief counsel and director of ethics and anti-corruption at Democracy Defenders Fund. “Secretary Duffy’s electioneering activities in Michigan ahead of the midterms crossed the legal and ethical line. This unlawful violation demands a prompt, independent investigation by the Office of Special Counsel and full transparency.”
“Duffy’s actions are part of a broader pattern of this administration playing fast and loose with the law,” Canter added. “This week, as the GOP holds its first-ever midterm convention in Dallas, multiple cabinet officials are scheduled to speak. It remains to be seen whether these appearances will cross the line into prohibited political activity, but the pattern is deeply concerning and warrants close scrutiny.”
Congress established the Hatch Act in 1939 to prevent federal employees from meddling in partisan political activities. The law strictly prohibits Duffy, along with all federal officials, from using official authority to affect election outcomes. This is to ensure the government operates fairly and prevent public officials from exerting improper influence on elections.
Read the full complaint here.
# # #
Democracy Defenders Fund brings together a nonpartisan team to work with national, state and local allies across the country to defend in real-time the foundations of our democracy.
For media inquiries, contact press@democracydefenders.org.
