President Trump’s mini-rally on the White House Lawn on Saturday caused quite a stir on Twitter with many claiming he organized a super spreader event and violated the Hatch Act.

The Hatch Act states that federal employees are prohibited from engaging in most political activity inside federal buildings or while on duty. Although the president and vice president are exempt from these rules, which means the President will not face a penalty, the federal employees who organize these events are not.

During his speech, Trump encouraged his followers to go out and vote for him on election day to stop Joe Biden and the Democratic party from gaining control.

“If the left gains power, they will launch a nationwide crusade against law enforcement and they’ve already done that,” Trump told the crowd.

“Taking their funds away, their firearms, their fundamental authorities, taking everything away, including your freedom.”

In the audience, attendees appeared to wear masks however, there were no signs of social distancing in the crowds.

The folks on Twitter felt the event was broke the law and criticized President Trump for irresponsibly holding a rally amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“It was illegal for Donald Trump to hold his nominating convention at the White House in August. And it is morally bankrupt for Donald Trump to hold another super-spreader rally at the White House today. The law and ethics don’t matter to this President. Nor does our health,” California Congressman Adam Schiff tweeted.

Another person added, “Having a White House super spreader event on Saturday means there is virtually no difference between Trump and Jim Jones except in addition to willfully endangering people's lives Trump is also violating the Hatch Act.”

According to the US Office of Special Counsel, those who violate the Hatch Act could face a number of penalties.

“​The penalty structure for violations of the Hatch Act by federal employees includes removal from federal service, reduction in grade, debarment from federal employment for a period not to exceed 5 years, suspension, reprimand, or a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000,” the OSC website states.

US President Donald Trump continues to sound a defiant tone on the coronavirus, which has killed more than 213,000 Americans and severely dented his chances of winning a second term
US President Donald Trump continues to sound a defiant tone on the coronavirus, which has killed more than 213,000 Americans and severely dented his chances of winning a second term AFP / MANDEL NGAN
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