Why is Pompeo addressing the convention despite his own memo?

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Mike Pompeo's Convention Speech Amidst Diplomatic Instructions

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to address the Republican National Convention, a move that appears to contradict a previous cable he sent to US diplomats. This cable, issued on July 24, explicitly stated that presidential appointees are prohibited from engaging in any partisan political activity, even on personal time and outside of the federal workplace. Despite this directive, Pompeo is slated to speak from Jerusalem to the convention, sparking criticism regarding the adherence to modern norms for secretaries of state.
State Department's Interpretation of Pompeo's Appearance

A State Department official clarified that Secretary Pompeo would be speaking in his personal capacity. Furthermore, assurances were given that no State Department resources would be utilized for his appearance, nor would any staff be involved in preparing his remarks or making arrangements. The department indicated that it would not incur any costs related to this engagement, aiming to delineate it from official duties.
The Hatch Act and Historical Precedent

The 1939 Hatch Act, which limits the political activities of federal employees, is central to this discussion. Its purpose is to ensure the nonpartisan administration of federal programs and shield employees from political coercion. Historically, the State Department has maintained a policy of prohibiting its senior political appointees from participating in partisan political activities, even those permissible under the Hatch Act. This has included barring attendance at political party conventions.
Departure from Traditional Norms

According to legal experts and former officials, past Secretaries of State have traditionally refrained from attending political party conventions. John Bellinger, former legal adviser to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, noted that the department has long prohibited senior political appointees from engaging in partisan activities otherwise allowed by the Hatch Act. He suggested that Secretary Pompeo's decision to speak at the convention indicates either a change in policy or an assertion that his virtual participation aligns with traditional restrictions.

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Why is Pompeo addressing the convention despite his own memo?

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