A Republican congressman from Ohio has launched an investigation after an image of an American flag altered to resemble a swastika appeared during a video call in his office, prompting immediate attention from Capitol Police.
The disturbing display, which distorted the red and white stripes into a Nazi symbol, was visible behind legislative correspondent Angelo Elia during a Zoom call on Tuesday.
Rep. Dave Taylor (R-OH) condemned the imagery as “vile and deeply inappropriate,” emphasizing that it does not reflect the values of his office or staff.
He described the incident as potentially resulting from “foul play or vandalism” and confirmed that a thorough probe is underway with U.S. Capitol Police.
Taylor stressed that no further comments would be made until the investigation concludes.
The flag was pinned inside Taylor’s office in the Cannon House Office Building, alongside a pocket Constitution and a congressional calendar.
The image, which was initially shared on X by the account The Rooster, raised concerns about how the symbol was allowed to appear in a congressional workspace.
Elia, who has served as a legislative correspondent in Taylor’s office since January, holds a master’s degree in legislative affairs from George Washington University, according to the New York Post.
It remains unclear whether he played any role in displaying the flag or was aware of it.
The incident follows heightened scrutiny of Republican circles after the release of thousands of texts from Young Republican leaders.
The leaked messages reportedly contained praise for Adolf Hitler, antisemitic and racist content and threats of sexual violence.
Democrats have cited both the swastika flag and the leaked texts as examples of extremist elements infiltrating GOP groups.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) called on national leaders, including President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, to address the situation.
Taylor, representing Ohio’s Second District and a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure and Agriculture Committees, emphasized that the swastika display does not reflect the standards of his office.
“Upon learning of this matter, I immediately directed a thorough investigation alongside Capitol Police,” he said, according to FOX 5.
Historically, Congress has investigated the use of extremist symbols after events like the Jan. 6 riot.
The Daily Mail notes that symbols such as swastikas, neo-Nazi insignias and Confederate flags have drawn attention due to their connection to domestic extremism and potential threats to public safety.
Lawmakers have sought to understand how such imagery might influence extremist networks and political environments.
The Ohio incident highlights ongoing concerns about radical symbolism in political offices, as well as the need for careful vetting of materials displayed in congressional workspaces.
Experts note that even seemingly minor acts, such as the presence of offensive imagery, can carry significant implications for public perception and office integrity.
As the investigation continues, Taylor’s office and Capitol Police are working to determine how the altered flag came to be displayed and who is responsible.
The episode underscores the importance of maintaining ethical and patriotic standards in federal offices and serves as a reminder of the broader challenges posed by extremist influences in American politics.
