An American flag with stripes shifted to form a swastika was spotted in the office of Rep. Dave Taylor, Ohio Republican, who reported it to the U.S. Capitol Police.
The flag appeared on a cubicle wall behind one of Mr. Taylor’s staffers, Angelo Elia, during a video call, according to Politico. Mr. Elia has been working in the congressman’s office in Washington since January, according to his LinkedIn.
In a statement, Mr. Taylor, who represents Ohio’s 2nd District, said, “I am aware of an image that appears to depict a vile and deeply inappropriate symbol near an employee in my office. The content of that image does not reflect the values or standards of this office, my staff, or myself, and I condemn it in the strongest terms.”
Mr. Taylor also said he and the U.S. Capitol Police are investigating the flag and the circumstances surrounding its appearance in the office. The congressman said he wouldn’t comment further on the matter until the probe ends.
The flag issue comes after reports of a Young Republicans group chat among members in Arizona, Kansas, New York and Vermont containing racist, violent and derogatory language broke Tuesday, according to The Associated Press.
The Young Republican National Federation denounced the group chat, writing on Instagram, “We are appalled by the vile and inexcusable language revealed. … Such behavior is disgraceful, unbecoming of any Republican. … Those involved must immediately resign from all positions within their state and local Young Republican organizations.”
