U.S. Flag Altered To Include a Swastika Found In GOP Rep.'s Office: Report

A U.S. flag altered to include a swastika was found in the office of a Republican representative, according to a new report.

Politico detailed that the flag was seen at the office of Rep. Dave Taylor. Concretely, at a wall behind the cubicle of Angelo Elia, a staffer for Taylor. It is unclear if he had a role in placing the flag there, the outlet added.

Taylor acknowledged the image making the rounds, saying that he is "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," he added.

Taylor went on to say he directed an investigation along with Capitol Police, adding that he will not make any further comments until its complete. A spokesperson of his said Taylor believes the image is a result of "foul play or vandalism."

The development comes after the same outlet published a series of racist, sexist, antisemitic and violent messages in Telegram chats from young members of the party.

The Young Republican National Federation slammed those involved, saying it was "appalled by the vile and inexcusable language revealed." The group added that the "behavior is disgraceful, unbecoming of any Republican, and stands in direct opposition to the values our movement represents."

"We must hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity, respect, and professionalism," they concluded.

Several officials across the country have already taken measures against those involved in the chats. Axios noted that the Kansas Young Republicans was ended by the state GOP after the report surfaced. Moreover, New York State Assemblymember Mike Reilly fired Peter Giunta as his chief of staff after he was accused of saying "I love Hitler;" and warning that "everyone that votes no is going to the gas chamber."

A senior advisor to Rep. Elise Stefanik said she was "absolutely appalled to learn about the alleged comments made by leaders of the New York State Young Republicans and other state YRs in a large national group chat."

Rep. Mike Lawler, on his end, called the comments "deeply offensive and hateful" and called them to resign immediately and "reflect on how far they have strayed from basic human respect and decency."