Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), the leading Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, has urged acting Special Counsel Jamieson Greer to launch an investigation into the White House's communications regarding the ongoing government shutdown. Garcia contends that these communications may be violating federal law, specifically the Hatch Act, which prohibits federal employees from participating in political activities.

In a detailed letter addressed to Greer on Thursday, Garcia expressed concerns that the administration's rhetoric and the deployment of accusatory banners across agency websites such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Agriculture are politically charged. These banners, which blame the shutdown on “The Radical Left in Congress,” have sparked significant controversy. "Violations of the law must be held accountable," Garcia stated in his letter.

The government shutdown, now in its second day, continues as Senate Democrats push for an extension of Affordable Care Act insurance subsidies. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump and his allies are pressuring moderate Democrats to accept a Republican-led continuing resolution. This includes threats of mass layoffs and withdrawal of funding from states and cities that lean Democratic.

Garcia's call for an investigation follows complaints filed by the nonprofit Public Citizen against both HUD and the Small Business Administration, claiming that their homepage messages are clear violations of the Hatch Act. Garcia supports these allegations, emphasizing the misuse of executive branch agencies for political gains. "The Administration’s statements make it abundantly clear that these messages are intended to circumvent the law, further highlighting the need for an immediate investigation," he wrote. "Federal agencies work for the American people, not a political party."

However, some ethics experts have suggested that while the Hatch Act may not be violated, the Anti-Lobbying Act could be at play. This act restricts the use of appropriated funding for lobbying purposes, which might encompass the kind of public messaging currently under scrutiny.

In defense, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson asserted to POLITICO, "It’s an objective fact that Democrats are responsible for the government shutdown, the Trump Administration is simply sharing the truth with the American people."

As this political and legal drama unfolds, the stakes are high, not only for the involved parties but for all Americans affected by the government shutdown. The investigation, if initiated, could have significant implications for the White House's approach to public communication and governance during times of political strife.