Ohio Representative Responds as Altered Flag Emerges
Congressman Dave Taylor (R-Ohio) is calling for a full investigation after an American flag—apparently modified to form a swastika—was discovered in his Washington, D.C. office. The image surfaced during a virtual meeting and quickly drew national scrutiny.
The screenshot shows a staffer, Angelo Elia, seated before a wall where the altered flag was pinned. The office described the symbol as “vile and deeply inappropriate,” distancing itself from the image’s presence.
Details of the Incident & Taylor’s Response
How it came to light
The flag was noticed during a video call, prompting news outlets to obtain the image. Reports suggest that similar flags had been mailed to multiple Republican congressional offices.
Taylor says that when he learned of the display, his office immediately removed the flag and sought help from U.S. Capitol Police.
The “optical illusion” defense
Taylor’s office claims the swastika was not evident to the naked eye and couldn’t be perceived without photo or video analysis. He has labeled the incident an act of “office vandalism.”
However, staffers from other offices report that similar flags bore clearly visible swastikas—so obvious, they say, that flags were discarded immediately.
Political context
This controversy follows a recent leak of racist and pro-Hitler messages among young Republican operatives, amplifying concerns about extremism infiltrating political circles.
Critics argue the swastika image cannot be dismissed as inadvertent, especially given the timing and similarity to other flagged incidents.
What Comes Next?
- Investigation continues. Taylor’s office is coordinating with Capitol Police, which has limited public comment because of the federal government shutdown.
- Staff explanations pending. It remains unclear who positioned the flag or how long it had been displayed.
- Political fallout. The incident has reignited debate over symbols, accountability in government, and how far “optical illusion” claims can be credible under scrutiny
