Final answer:
The Hatch Act of 1939 was designed to reduce the political influence of federal employees, but over time, the Act has been softened. This reflects the changing political landscape and the evolving interpretation of the law by the courts. The correct option for how the Hatch Act has changed over time is (d) it has been softened.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hatch Act of 1939: Historical Context and Evolution
The Hatch Act of 1939, also known as the Political Activities Act, was enacted to prevent federal employees from engaging actively in political campaigns and using their authority to influence the outcomes of elections.
Over the years, the Act has seen various interpretations and rulings by the Supreme Court, which has clarified its provisions and made determinations on its constitutionality. The Act's intention was to diminish the political influence of the civil service by promoting a nonpartisan approach to their work.
Despite the initial strictness of the Act, it has undergone modifications. Courts have struck down some of its provisions while maintaining others, leading to an overall softening of the Act's restrictions on civil servants' political activities. In light of the historical and legal developments surrounding the Hatch Act, it can be seen how the political landscape and the roles of civil servants have influenced its application over time.
It can be noted that labor unions became an integral part of the Democratic coalition, affecting political dynamics and legislations like the Hatch Act.
Additionally, increasing polarization in American politics has challenged the bipartisan nature that once facilitated more open collaboration across the aisle, thereby impacting the way legislation like the Hatch Act is perceived and enforced.
Given these historical developments and the subsequent legal interpretations, the Hatch Act of 1939 has been softened (d) over the years rather than becoming more rigid, supporting party politics, or being declared unconstitutional.
This softening is reflective of the changing attitudes toward government workers' participation in political affairs and the evolving nature of American democracy.