Report: Julian Castro Violated Hatch Act

U.S. Housing and Urban Development secretary Julian Castro was found by the U.S. Office of Special Counsel to have violated the Hatch Act, according to a Monday report. The law bars federal employees from engaging in political activity in their official capacity. The OSC focused on an interview that Castro did with Yahoo News’ Katie Couric, during which Castro discussed a policy issue before pivoting to praise of Hillary Clinton. Castro transitioned by saying: “taking off my HUD hat for a second and speaking individually.” The OSC’s report will be sent to President Obama, who will decide whether to act upon its findings. Castro is among those rumored to be on Clinton’s vice-presidential short list.