Idaho Complaint Accuses Federal Government, Democrats of Radical Actions
Former Idaho Representative Todd Achilles has lodged a formal complaint with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel. The complaint targets Tom Schultz, the chief of the U.S. Forest Service, alleging violations of the Hatch Act. This federal law prohibits government employees from engaging in political activities while on duty.
Allegations Against the U.S. Forest Service
Achilles, who resigned from his position to run as an independent candidate for the U.S. Senate against incumbent Senator Jim Risch, claims that political messages posted on the Forest Service’s website are overtly partisan. The messages, which specifically blame “radical left Democrats” for a recent government shutdown, are cited as breaking federal law.
Content of the Complaint
In his complaint, Achilles argues that such politically charged statements compromise public trust and constitute prohibited partisan political activity. He emphasizes that these assertions undermine the core nonpartisan standards expected of Forest Service employees.
One notable statement from the Forest Service claimed, “The Radical Left Democrats shut down the government.” This message arrived as the government experienced a funding lapse, which has affected over 750,000 federal employees, some requiring furlough while others work without pay.
Hatch Act Overview
The Hatch Act is designed to ensure that federal employees remain impartial and free from partisan influence. It restricts the use of government resources in promoting political candidates or parties. Achilles highlighted the significance of adhering to these standards, noting that federal agencies should serve all Americans, irrespective of their political affiliations.
Context of Government Shutdown
- Date of Shutdown: The federal government ceased operations on October 2, 2025.
- Impact: Over 750,000 federal employees were either furloughed or required to work without pay.
- Cause: Disagreements between Democratic and Republican lawmakers regarding the continuation of Affordable Care Act health insurance subsidies.
Achilles has called for accountability, stressing the importance of separating government functions from political propaganda. The U.S. Forest Service has yet to respond to the allegations made in Achilles’s complaint.
