A GOP staffer was reinstated Monday after being fired from the Indiana Republican Party on Tuesday for flashing the “OK” hand gesture during a group photo.
The state’s party Chairwoman, Lana Keesling, announced the rehiring of Paul Tinkle and offered a public apology after an X post shared by Tinkle in which he said he was fired without a chance to explain himself.
“After learning more about the situation, it became clear that I did not have the full picture,” Keesling said. “I made the wrong decision regarding Paul’s employment, and I take full responsibility for it. I want to personally apologize to Paul for jumping to a conclusion that was not supported by the facts.”
I appreciate the party giving me my position back. I will be releasing a full statement later. So many people have assisted me throughout within the party. I wish I could thank all personally. I’m overwhelmed by the support of the past few days. Let’s get Max Engling elected!
— Paul Joseph Tinkle (@PTinkleIndy) October 5, 2026
In 2017, online sleuths claimed the “OK” hand gesture was a secret code for “white power,” and that those using it in photos were secret white supremacists who were hinting at their racial beliefs.
Tinkle said he only made the sign to convey “positive vibes” in the photo, and he did so because he did not know what to do with his hands.
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