News You Can Use Digest – July 10, 2026

National/Federal

Alibaba Gets Reprieve on Lobbying Ban Tied to DoD Blacklist

MSN – Kate O’Keeffe (Bloomberg) | Published: 7/6/2026

A federal judge ordered the Pentagon to give Alibaba Group a reprieve from a law that caused all its lobbyists to drop it as a client while she considers the constitutionality of the measure, in a case set to test the U.S.’s ability to curtail Chinese companies’ activities. Washington’s most powerful lobbying firms rushed to sever ties with Alibaba and other Chinese tech giants after a new law targeting entities allegedly aiding China’s military took effect.

Trump Ethics Disclosure Throws Curveball at Senate Crypto Talks

MSN – Mark Schoeff Jr. (Roll Call) | Published: 7/2/2026

The newly disclosed scale of President Trump’s personal cryptocurrency-related profits since taking office last year comes at a sensitive moment for Senate negotiations on a major digital assets bill that Republican leaders want to bring to the floor in July. Trump’s potential crypto conflicts have been a sticking point in negotiations over a crypto market structure bill that is pending in the Senate.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Supreme Court Upholds Voter-Approved Anti-‘Dark Money’ Law

MSN – Taylor Seely (Arizona Republic) | Published: 6/30/2026

The Arizona Supreme Court upheld the state’s voter-approved law that requires people who spend thousands of dollars to influence the outcome of elections to identify themselves. The court said the challengers failed to show how the Voters’ Right to Know Act was unconstitutional in all or even most cases and donations to fund campaign media are not private affairs protected from disclosure. The ruling is not an entire loss for the conservative challengers. The justices allowed one of their claims to continue in trial court, and that could create a blueprint for donors to challenge similar laws in other states.

Florida – They Gave James Uthmeier’s Campaign $25,000. Then His Office Stepped in to Help

MSN – Lawrence Mower (Miami Herald) | Published: 7/7/2026

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has used his office to intervene on behalf of donors since taking office last year, inserting the state’s lawyers into civil disputes to help developers and car dealers. In at least three separate instances, the attorney general’s office got involved in a legal battle soon after a donor gave $25,000 to Uthmeier’s campaign. He also helped expunge the criminal history of a wealthy businessperson’s daughter this year.

Georgia – Influential Georgia Evangelical Group Fined for Ethics Violations

Yahoo News – Ross Williams (Georgia Recorder) | Published: 7/9/2026

Frontline Policy, an influential conservative lobbying group in Georgia, is facing $17,500 in fines in connection to complaints over unregistered lobbying and failing to file more than $380,000 in mandatory disclosure reports. Since its founding in 2021, Frontline has touted its role in helping pass legislation. But according to the state ethics commission’s findings, Frontline skirted the law some of the time that it was lobbying legislators. It was previously fined more than $4,000 by the commission for violating lobbying laws.

Hawaii – Luke Campaign Violations Referred to AG For Possible Prosecution

Honolulu Civil Beat – Madeleine Valera and Chad Blair | Published: 7/8/2026

The Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission voted to refer a set a set of alleged campaign finance violations by Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke’s campaign to the state attorney general’s office for possible prosecution. The commission’s executive director, Kristin Izumi-Nitao, filed the complaint in May accusing the campaign, Friends of Sylvia Luke, of mishandling funds in 2021 and 2022. It alleges eight counts of filing false reports and four counts of unauthorized handling of campaign funds. Luke has been on unpaid leave since April after becoming the target of a bribery investigation.

Maine – Graham Platner Ends U.S. Senate Campaign in Maine

MSN – Alexei Koseff and Dan Merica (Washington Post) | Published: 7/8/2026

Graham Platner, the populist political newcomer who Democrats had hoped could flip a critical U.S. Senate seat in Maine, ended his campaign after a woman he previously dated publicly accused him of sexual assault. Even as he withdrew from the race, Platner remained insistent that the accusations against him, as well as other controversies dating back to October, were false and part of a larger campaign “by the establishment to put structural pressure on us.” The development injects fresh chaos into Democrats’ battle to retake the Senate in November.

Mississippi – Former Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba Pleads Guilty in Jackson Bribery Scandal

Yahoo News – Charlie Drape (Mississippi Clarion Ledger) | Published: 7/6/2026

A week after Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens pleaded guilty, former Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba followed suit, as he admitted guilt in federal court in a bribery case that has hung over Jackson for nearly two years. Lumumba had consistently denied wrongdoing after being indicted in November 2024 and was scheduled to stand trial alongside former Jackson City Councilperson Aaron Banks, who also pleaded guilty an hour later.

Missouri – What Exactly Does Ty Masterson Do at Koch-Funded Office? Rival Calls It a ‘No-Show Job’

MSN – Matthew Kelly (Kansas City Star) | Published: 7/8/2026

Kansas Republican governor hopeful Ty Masterson has two offices. One is on the third floor of the Capitol, where he presides as Senate president. The other is on the campus of Wichita State University. Before it opened in 2017, Masterson was named director of “GoCreate, a Koch Collaborative” where students and community members can design, 3D print, laser cut, weld, saw, and stitch their creations into being. The details of his employment arrangement with the university, including the source of his privately funded salary, are opaque.

North Carolina – More NC Lawmakers Identified as Attending Bourbon Trip, Search Warrant Says

Yahoo News – Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 7/6/2026

A newly released search warrant identifies two more North Carolina lawmakers who attended at least one of two bourbon tours in Kentucky, and one of them is the current co-chair of the House Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee. The warrant is the second made public in a probe by the State Bureau of Investigation into a nonprofit known as Greater Carolina, which hosted the trips. Four lobbyists face a misdemeanor charge of violating the state’s ban on gifts to lawmakers.

National/Federal

Supreme Court Says Fed’s Cook Can Keep Her Job for Now, but It Upholds Other Trump Firings

MSN – Mark Sherman (Associated Press) | Published: 6/29/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court dramatically expanded presidential power, upholding President Trump’s firings of the heads of independent federal agencies with one important exception: the Federal Reserve. The justices allowed Fed governor Lisa Cook to stay in her job while she fights the president’s effort to fire her over allegations of mortgage fraud, which she has denied. But other than at the nation’s central bank, the court held that presidents have free rein to fire agency heads at will, despite federal laws that require a cause for such dismissals and a 91-year-old decision that had limited executive authority.

Supreme Court Loosens Campaign Finance Laws, Opening Up Flood of Midterm Cash

Yahoo News – Jessica Piper and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 6/30/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down limits on coordinated spending between candidates and political parties, which will fundamentally change how tens of millions of dollars are spent in congressional elections. The decision will have an almost immediate impact on the midterms. Removing the limit on coordinated spending effectively gives candidates direct control over a far greater amount of money being spent on their races. It is also likely to increase the flood of political advertising that hits the airwaves each fall. The ruling held that the limits violate the First Amendment.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan Can Face Challenge from Other Dan Sullivan, Court Says

MSN – Lisa Kashinsky (Politico) | Published: 6/29/2026

The Alaska Supreme Court ruled that a retired teacher named Dan J. Sullivan can appear on the ballot as a Republican alongside incumbent U.S. Sen. Dan S. Sullivan, a ruling that reverses a top election official’s decision to disqualify the challenger. The new ruling appears to end a bizarre saga that has dominated Alaska politics for weeks. It could hurt Sen. Sullivan’s effort to fend off a challenge from his Democratic opponent, former U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola, in a contest that could decide control of the Senate.

Indiana – Hogsett’s Former Chief of Staff Quickly Took Job at Major City Contractor

MSN – Jordan Smith (Indianapolis Star) and Emily Hopkins (Mirror Indy) | Published: 6/25/2026

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett’s former top deputy in city government is now working at an engineering firm run by major Hogsett donors that has received contracts worth up to $62 million since the mayor took office. The top Hogsett official, former chief of staff Dan Parker, signed many of those contracts himself while he led the Department of Public Works from 2017 to 2022. Parker’s move to American Structurepoint comes as one of the company’s contracts with the city is facing scrutiny for being too expensive.

Kentucky – KY Supreme Court Rules Restructuring of Ethics, Fair Boards Unconstitutional

MSN – Beth Musgrave and Hannah Pinski (Lexington Herald Leader) | Published: 6/26/2026

The Kentucky Supreme Court said two bills passed by the Republican-controlled General Assembly giving other officer holders the ability to appoint members of the State Fair Board and the Executive Branch Ethics Commission were unconstitutional because it removed executive branch oversight. Gov. Andy Beshear challenged the General Assembly’s changes, arguing the state constitution requires separation of powers and the governor must retain oversight of executive branch operations.

Maryland – Casino Lobbyists Wrote Maryland Faming Regulators’ Letter to Feds

WBFF – Patrick Hauf (Spotlight on Maryland) | Published: 6/30/2026

Maryland gaming regulators urged federal officials last year to crack down on sports prediction markets using a letter drafted by casino lobbyists, according to public records. The records raise questions about the independence of the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, which is responsible for regulating the state’s gambling industry but relied on language written by the industry’s chief lobbying organization before sending an official policy position to federal regulators.

Michigan – Ad Targeting US House Hopeful Prompts Debate Over Reach of Michigan AI Law

USA Today – Beth LeBlanc (Detroit News) | Published: 6/24/2026

An ad targeting a candidate for the U.S. House is prompting new questions about state limits on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in political ads, with the Michigan Bureau of Elections maintaining the state law does not apply to federal races. A complaint alleges the ad violates a state law passed in 2023 that requires political ads using AI to disclose as much within the ad. It is unclear whether the ad was generated using AI, though the video footage in the ad is clearly manipulated.

Mississippi – The Supreme Court Upholds Grace Periods for Mail-In Ballots, Siding Against the GOP

NPR – Ashley Lopez | Published: 6/29/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a Mississippi law that allows election officials to count mail-in ballots that are postmarked by Election Day but received up to five days after it. The ruling is a loss for the Republican Party, which brought the case, ahead of this year’s midterm elections. These grace periods have historically provided voters time to get their absentee ballots to officials in case there are any issues with the Postal Service, as well as any other unforeseen issues, such as weather events. But Republicans have been fighting these grace periods in recent years, an effort led by President Trump.

New Jersey – New Jersey Lawmakers Steered State Money to Employers, Relatives and Clients

MSN – Daniel Han (Politico) | Published: 6/26/2026

A media examination of similar last-minute spending additions tucked into New Jersey’s three most recent state budgets found one lawmaker requested state money for a nonprofit founded and run by his aunt, a grant worth roughly four times the organization’s annual revenue. Other lawmakers sent money to local governments where they are on the payroll or have financial ties. The appropriations raise questions in a state where political connections have long been a form of currency.

Ohio – Judge Dismisses $20M SEC Lawsuit Against Ex-FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 6/29/2026

A federal judge dismissed a $20 million securities fraud lawsuit against former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones over his role in the $60 million scandal that prosecutors have called the largest bribery scheme in Ohio history. Jones was accused by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission of misleading investors about bribing former House Speaker Larry Householder, who used $60 million in FirstEnergy money to secure the passage of House Bill 6. The law provided a $1.3 billion ratepayer-funded bailout for two aging nuclear power plants.

National/Federal

Judge Blocks Use of Federal Database to Check Citizenship, Saying It Could Wrongly Purge Voters

Associated Press News – Ali Swenson and Fatima Hussein | Published: 6/22/2026

A federal judge ruled that a recently revamped version of a federal tool central to the Trump administration’s efforts to nationalize elections can no longer be used. U.S. District Court Judge Sparkle Sooknanan sided with advocacy groups that argued the recent upgrades to the program, called Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements aggregated Americans’ sensitive personal data in a way that could result in voters being wrongly purged from voter rolls.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Hobbs Vetoes State Contract Transparency Measure Amid GOP ‘Pay-to-Play’ Allegations

Arizona Capitol Times – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 6/23/2026

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed financial disclosure legislation that was inspired by controversy over a 60 percent increase in a state contract awarded by her Department of Child Safety. The bill would have required any company bidding on state contracts to immediately disclose any donations made to the governor, to any campaign committees or inaugural funds, and to any entity that “advocates for the election of the governor or for the defeat of an electoral opponent of the governor.”

California – S.F. Lawmaker Wants City-Funded Nonprofits to Report Their Lobbying Efforts at City Hall

MSN – J.D. Morris (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 6/24/2026

San Francisco Supervisor Matt Dorsey will propose an ordinance that would eliminate a provision in city law that exempts nonprofits from local rules requiring organizations to register their lobbyists and publicly report when they seek to influence officials at City Hall. Dorsey said the legislation was intended to create more transparency around how city-funded nonprofits are allocating their resources.

California – Proposal to Limit Lobbying in City of San Diego Politics Moves Forward

MSN – City News Service | Published: 6/24/2026

The San Diego City Council’s Rules Committee voted unanimously to direct staff to begin drafting a proposed ethics reform package aimed at lobbyists and dark money. “[Current disclosure rules] do not fully capture modern influence campaigns, including paid mailers, texts, digital ads, mass communications, and other outside spending designed to shape public opinion and pressure elected officials on city decisions,” Councilperson Sean Elo-Rivera said.

Indiana – Hogsett Vowed to Fight Insiders. His Campaign Advanced Their Interests Behind Closed Doors

Yahoo News – Emily Hopkins and Peter Blanchard (Mirror Indy) and Hayleigh Colombo (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 6/23/2026

A media investigation found Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett’s campaign acted behind closed doors to advance the interests of the insiders who bankrolled his mayoral bids. On multiple occasions, for instance, Hogsett’s top campaign fundraiser arranged for wish lists of donors’ preferred city contracts to be hand-delivered to the city’s public works chief at the time, according to a person familiar with the arrangement.

Maryland – Maryland Lawmaker Helped Launch State Fund That Bankrolls His Nonprofit

WBFF – Patrick Hauf (Spotlight on Maryland) | Published: 6/17/2026

A Maryland lawmaker helped establish an energy fund that later sent about $19 million in state tax dollars to his nonprofit, raising concerns from some experts and a fellow lawmaker about ethics and conflicts-of-interest. Records show Civic Works, the Baltimore nonprofit led by Del. Dana Stein, received $18.8 million through the Strategic Energy Investment Fund between 2009 and 2025.

New Hampshire – Ayotte Signs Law Raising Cap on Anonymous Campaign Donations

Yahoo News – Ethan DeWitt (New Hampshire Bulletin) | Published: 6/23/2026

This election season, donors will be able to contribute more money to New Hampshire candidates while staying anonymous under a new law signed by Gov. Kelly Ayotte. Senate Bill 405 raises the total contribution cap for an anonymous donor to $200 per election cycle. The change puts New Hampshire in a small group of states that allow anonymous contributions up to $200.

New York – Chief of Staff to Former NYC Mayor Eric Adams, 3 Others Charged in Federal Bribery Probe

MSN – Dave Collins, Jake Offenhartz, Michael Sisak, and Alanna Durkin Richer (Associated Press) | Published: 6/24/2026

A chief of staff to former New York City Mayor Eric Adams was charged with accepting more than $100,000 in bribes to steer a lucrative migrant shelter contract to a Queens hotel. Frank Carone’s arrest was the latest in a string of corruption allegations that have rocked the one-term mayor and his inner circle. It came the same day federal authorities executed search warrants related to a separate bribery investigation involving high-ranking police officials under Adams, the latest sign that prosecutors are continuing to probe the previous administration.

Texas – Husband of Fort Worth Mayor Listed as Lobbyist for Data Center Industry Group

MSN – Harrison Mantas (Fort Worth Star-Telegram) | Published: 6/22/2026

Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker’s husband, David, is listed as having been a lobbyist for a data center industry trade group since January. The Data Center Coalition describes itself as representing and advancing the interests of the data center community through policy advocacy, informing public officials, and promoting the benefits of the industry. The city is considering new rules to regulate data center development amid increasing opposition from residents. David Parker serves as the managing director of government affairs and strategy with the lobbying firm Longbow Partners.

Washington – $35M Campaign Finance Fine Against Meta Upheld by WA Supreme Court

Yahoo News – Jake Goldstein-Street (Washington State Standard) | Published: 6/18/2026

Facebook’s parent company must pay the largest campaign finance fine in Washington history, the state Supreme Court affirmed. Meta urged the justices to declare a state law unconstitutional under the First Amendment to avert the $35 million penalty. It repeatedly had not provided required records for digital political advertisements hosted on its platforms.

National/Federal

Secretive Super PAC Funding is Skyrocketing in Primaries

MSN – Jessica Piper and Andrew Howard (Politico) | Published: 6/14/2026

A record number of groups are exploiting a gap in campaign finance law to flood this year’s primary elections with money, without disclosing their donors until long after the race is over. The groups are taking advantage of the campaign finance calendar. A super PAC formed after the last pre-election FEC deadline can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money in the crucial final days of an election without disclosing its donors until afterward. The practice has been used for years, but never to the degree of this year’s midterms.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – Alaska Formally Disqualifies Namesake Challenger to Sen. Dan Sullivan from Appearing on the Ballot

Yahoo News – Alex DeMarban (Anchorage Daily News) | Published: 6/15/2026

The head of the Alaska Division of Elections said the state will not allow Dan J. Sullivan, the namesake challenger to Republican U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, to appear on the August 18 primary ballot. Carol Beecher said in a letter to the challenger that she believes he filed in an effort to confuse voters. The National Republican Senatorial Committee urged state officials to keep Dan J. Sullivan’s name off the ballot, arguing he had worked with Democrats or their supporters to run for office in an attempt to draw votes from the senator to benefit top challenger Mary Peltola.

California – Newsom Fined by Campaign Finance Watchdog Just Prior to DOJ Probe Announcement

Yahoo News – Haley Parsley (Sacramento Bee) | Published: 6/16/2026

The California Fair Political Practices Commission fined Gov. Gavin Newsom $31,500 for failing to report millions of dollars in charitable donations made on his behalf on time. The contributions, totaling more than $5.6 million across 35 donors, are so-called behested payments. That means Newsom solicited funding for those specific groups from outside companies, including major corporations like BlackRock, Lockheed Martin, and Apple.

Colorado – Denver Tightens Lobbying Rules, Adds ‘Cooling Off’ Period

Denver Gazette – Deborah Grigsby | Published: 6/15/2026

Lobbyists seeking to influence the city and county of Denver will now face new requirements after the city council voted unanimously to amend the law by adding disclosure regulations and a 12-month waiting period for former elected and cabinet members. Lobbyists will now have to file bi-monthly activity reports, disclosing the clients they represent, how much they were paid by each, and the officials lobbied. The law takes effective January 1, 2027.

Kentucky – Ethics Commission Nixes Complaint Against KY Lawmaker Over Lobbying Interests Payments

Yahoo News – McKenna Horsley (Kentucky Lantern) | Published: 6/11/2026

The Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission dismissed a complaint filed against state Sen. Julie Raque Adams regarding compensation she received from a nonprofit that was funded exclusively by lobbying interests in recent years. Kentucky Strong, Inc., had paid Raque Adams $80,500 between January 2023 and January 2026. Those payments were the group’s only expenses during that time.

Michigan – Lee Chatfield’s Wife Avoids Prison with Guilty Plea in Michigan Corruption Probe

Bridge Michigan – Simon Schuster | Published: 6/16/2026

The wife of former Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield pleaded guilty to embezzling from a political nonprofit, more than two years after both were charged as part of a wide-ranging corruption probe. Under a plea agreement, Stephanie Chatfield will face no jail time. Instead, she will get probation after pleading guilty to embezzling between $200 and $1,000 from the nonprofit. Lee Chatfield still faces 13 felony counts, including allegedly “conducting a criminal enterprise,” which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Montana – How Unidentifiable Donors Are Funding Montana’s Anti-Dark Money Initiative

Montana Free Press – Victoria Eavis | Published: 6/11/2026

The Montana-based group promoting a ballot initiative that would make campaign finance more transparent obscures its own financial backers with a murky fundraising structure, according to campaign finance filings. A citizen’s initiative known as The Montana Plan would prohibit political spending by “artificial persons” such as nonprofits, corporations, trusts, trade associations, and others. Until late April, nearly all of The Montana Plan’s hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations have come from a nonprofit which does not have to disclose its donors.

New York – NY Elections Officials Can No Longer Choose Voting Equipment While Paid by Vendors

Yahoo News – Timothy Fanning (Albany Times Union) | Published: 6/12/2026

For years, New York elections officials could help oversee contracts for voting equipment while maintaining financial relationships with the companies selling it. One incident surfaced in 2018, when Michael Ryan, executive director of New York City’s Board of Elections, resigned from a paid advisory position with a major voting-machine vendor that did business with the agency he helped run. Now, state officials are attempting to close that loophole.

Ohio – FBI Searches Office of Ohio Group That Supports Voter Registration Efforts

MSN – Claudia Lauer and Alanna Durkin Richer (Associated Press) | Published: 6/12/2026

FBI agents searched the office of an Ohio group that supports voter registration efforts, seizing documents and computer files. It is the latest action by the Trump administration connected to voting or election operations in the states, and it comes in a state that is expected to have hotly contested races this fall for governor and U.S. Senate. The focus of the probe was unclear, but a person familiar with the matter said investigators were examining potential fraud violations.

Oregon – Political Contribution Limits in Oregon Take Effect in January – But It’s Unclear If Election Officials Will Be Ready

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 6/16/2026

State officials say they are rushing to carry out a 2024 law intended to limit the amount and increase the transparency of political spending in Oregon. But with just six months left until key provisions take effect, those officials warned lawmakers that unexpected challenges could lead to a botched rollout. By law, the secretary of state’s office must begin carrying out several parts of the new statute by next January.

Across US., Nonprofits Are Making Potentially Illegal Campaign Donations

MSN – Emilie Munson (Albany Times Union) | Published: 6/5/2026

Across the United States, hundreds of nonprofits in the last decade made donations to candidates, parties, and committees through contributions which may have violated federal law, an Albany Times Union investigation found. The list includes nonprofits with hundreds of millions of dollars in annual income and well-known names like the American Heart Association. Their money flowed to right- and left-leaning candidates and special interest groups.

Big Money at the Ballpark: Top K Street firms, corporate giants sponsor Congressional Baseball Game

OpenSecrets – Jonathan Salant | Published: 6/10/2026

The sponsors of the recent Congressional Baseball Game included the second- and third-biggest lobbying firms by revenue, three of the top four spenders on lobbying, and two companies that recently have drawn unwanted attention from members of Congress. Lobbying firms, trade associations, and corporations spent as little as $1,000 or as much as $100,000 to put their names before the lawmakers and staff members who handle their issues, and even more to hold receptions at Nationals Park.

ActBlue CEO Invokes Fifth Amendment Repeatedly in Testimony to Congress

Seattle Times – Reid Epsten (New York Times) | Published: 6/10/2026

The chief executive of ActBlue, whose lawyers warned her that she might have misled Congress about how the Democratic fundraising organization vetted its foreign donations, invoked her Fifth Amendment rights and declined to answer questions from a Republican-led House committee. Nearly 23,000 candidates and groups used the site in 2025, ActBlue has said, raising almost $1.8 billion from 52 million contributions. Federal election law prohibits foreign citizens or people who are not permanent residents from donating directly to federal candidates or PACs.

From the States and Municipalities

California – Barbara Lee’s Private Fundraising Could Get Tricky Under a Strong Mayor System

Oaklandside – Eli Wolfe | Published: 6/9/2026

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee endorsed a plan to give future mayors much more power over city business. That could pose serious conflicts-of-interest if current rules regarding behested payments are not changed. Behested payments are perfectly legal, but officials must report to state or local regulators when they raise money this way. Other Oakland mayors and council members have taken advantage of behested payments to fund pet projects and programs with private dollars.

Illinois – Illinois Lawmakers Lead US in Spending Campaign Cash for Childcare – and One Dog

Yahoo News – Olivia Olander (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 6/7/2026

Five years after Illinois joined other states in allowing politicians to use campaign funds for childcare, a handful of state lawmakers from Chicago have become some of the nation’s biggest users of laws designed to encourage parents, particularly mothers of young children, to run for office, according to an organization tracking the funds. But which lawmakers have made the most use of the measure, and to what degree they have tapped into their campaign funds, has sparked concerns about whether the legislation is working as intended.

Louisiana – Louisiana Lawmakers Pass Bill That Could Vacate a Colleague’s Ethics Fine

Yahoo News – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 6/4/2026

Louisiana lawmakers unanimously approved a bill that could allow at least one of its members to dodge a state ethics fine. The Senate inserted language into House Bill 250 that changes an existing law dictating when candidates must file public personal financial disclosure forms with the state. The initial law went into effect August 1, 2024, but the Senate change would make it retroactive to January 1, 2023. That earlier date could get state Rep. Steven Jackson out of having to pay a late fee of at least $1,000 for failing to file his own personal financial disclosure form.

Maine – Democrat Graham Platner Will Try to Unseat GOP Sen. Susan Collins in a Critical Senate Matchup

Yahoo News – Patrick White and Kimberlee Kruesi (Associated Press) | Published: 6/9/2026

Graham Platner won the Maine Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, channeling voter frustration over the high cost of living and overcoming revelations about his past to set up a high-stakes race against Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Democrats see the race as a top opportunity to flip a GOP-held seat and a must-win as the party tries to claim control of the Senate in November. Platner’s expected win in the primary came after days of questions about his past personal conduct, particularly his relationships with women, that threatened to undermine enthusiasm on the left over his candidacy.

New York – Former High-Ranking NY ITS Official Admits Violations, Will Pay Fine

MSN – Brendan Lyons (Albany Times Union) | Published: 6/10/2026

A former high-ranking official in the New York Office of Information Technology Services admitted violating the Public Officers Law and will pay a $5,500 fine to settle administrative charges that had been pursued by the Commission on Ethics in Lobbying in Government and the state inspector general’s office. The allegations stemmed from Rajiv Rao’s participation as a guest and speaker at multiple events that state authorities said were “hosted and paid for by a registered lobbyist and attended by clients of the lobbyist.”

Ohio – New Charges Against Ex-FirstEnergy Executives Could Reshape Second Corruption Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 6/8/2026

New criminal charges filed against two former FirstEnergy executives could dramatically change how prosecutors present one of Ohio’s largest public corruption scandals in an expected second trial. Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and the company’s former top lobbyist, Michael Dowling, still face accusations they bribed Sam Randazzo just before he became chairperson of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. But a new indictment broadens the case, accusing the pair of participating in a wider scheme that also involved the passage of House Bill 6, which gave FirstEnergy a $1.3 billion ratepayer bailout of two failing nuclear plants.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Ethics Agency to Consider Regulating Use of AI in Political Campaigns

Yahoo News – Emma Murphy and Courtney Bell (Oklahoma Voice) | Published: 6/4/2026

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission will consider ways to require disclosure when artificial intelligence (AI) is used in campaigns. The agency will explore options for regulating the tool, such as defining AI, requiring disclaimers when it is used, exemptions for parody or satire, and addressing concerns about First Amendment rights or protected political speech. Executive Director Lee Anne Bruce Boone said they would likely work “in tandem” with state lawmakers as there are parts of this issue that are outside the commission’s jurisdiction and need to be addressed in state law.

National/Federal

He Hasn’t Been Seen in Months. The Congressional Record Disagrees

MSN – Nina Heller (Roll Call) | Published: 6/2/2026

It has been nearly three months since he last cast a vote on the House floor, but U.S. Rep. Thomas Kean Jr. has been keeping busy, or at least trying to look like he is. In the 89 days since he last voted, Kean has also disclosed stock trades and introduced legislation. Five speeches under his name have appeared in the Congressional Record. Staff in congressional offices continue to work even when their bosses do not, which is nothing new. But Kean’s disappearance has raised long-overdue questions about transparency on the Hill, some experts say.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Supreme Court Allows Alabama to Use Congressional Map Favoring Republicans in This Year’s Elections

Yahoo News – Mark Sherman (Associated Press) | Published: 6/2/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court allowed Alabama to use a congressional map favoring Republicans in this year’s elections, blocking a lower court ruling that the redistricting plan intentionally discriminates against Black people. The justices granted the state’s emergency appeal to use a map it adopted three years ago that has a majority-Black population in just one of its seven congressional districts. The three liberal justices dissented.

Colorado – Gov. Jared Polis Vetoes Bill Requiring Disclosure from Administration Lobbyists

Colorado Politics – Marianne Goodland | Published: 5/29/2026

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis vetoed a bill that would have required executive branch lobbyists to follow much of the same disclosure rules that already govern other lobbyists at the Capitol. Lobbyists for organizations are required to state their clients’ position on bills. The executive branch’s lobbyists, on the other hand, rarely provide a position. State Rep. Dusty Johnson argued the executive branch lobbyists should play by the same rules as any other lobbyist. She noted taxpayers pay the salaries of the executive branch lobbyists, one reason for more transparency.

Colorado – Secretary of State Rejects Lobbying Allegations in Colorado House District 6 Race

Colorado Politics – Marianne Goodland | Published: 6/3/2026

The Colorado secretary of state dismissed a complaint alleging attorney Iris Halpern engaged in illegal lobbying at the Capitol. Halpern is challenging Rep. Sean Camacho in the June 30 primary for the House District 6 seat. The complaint was filed by Bethany Morris, who had been a delegate for Camacho at the Denver Democrats’ Assembly. Halpern has long testified at the Capitol on legislation. Morris alleged that testimony proved Halpern was a lobbyist.

Maryland – A $100 Donation Ignites Ethics Questions for Baltimore County School Board

Yahoo News – Racquel Bazos (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 6/3/2026

A $100 campaign donation from the chairperson of Baltimore County’s Board of Education to a candidate seeking a seat on the board is raising questions about ethics, political influence, and the nonpartisan nature of the county’s school system. The dispute centers on more than the value of the contribution. At issue is whether a board chair should use her position, and political capital, to help shape the future makeup of the body she leads.

New Mexico – National Energy Super PAC Faces Ethics Complaint Over Spending in NM Land Commissioner Race

Source New Mexico – Patrick Lohman | Published: 5/22/2026

American Energy Action Fund, a super PAC that has thrown its weight behind a Democratic land commissioner candidate in New Mexico, is facing a state ethics complaint over its alleged failure to disclose spending details. The secretary of state’s office said the Virginia-based fund has not complied with a New Mexico law that requires out-of-state super PACs to submit certain spending records to the state.

New York – New York Lobbying Spending Sets Fourth Straight Record

MSN – Grace Jiang (Albany Times Union) | Published: 6/4/2026

For the fourth year in a row, spending to influence state government officials and lawmakers in New York set a record last year, with lobbyists and their clients reporting more than $384.8 million spent. The new record, according to a report from Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government, came with a messier figure attached: $23.47 million in discrepancies between what clients said they paid and what their lobbyists reported earning. The agency resolved most of those gaps one filing at a time and is pressing the state for money to automate the work.

New York – NY Appeals Court Unanimously Sustains Blakeman’s Public Funds Bid

MSN – Timothy Fanning (Albany Times Union) | Published: 5/28/2026

A New York appeals court ruled that state elections regulators created a bureaucratic trap and faulted the Public Campaign Finance Board for rolling out new gubernatorial ticket rules without updated forms, guidance, or training before they denied potentially millions of dollars in matching funds to candidates who subsequently failed to comply with the byzantine rules. Calling the state’s handling of the rollout “irrational,” an appellate court unanimously revived Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman’s bid for public campaign money.

Oklahoma – Out-of-State Group Tests Oklahoma Law with Cruise for Political Donation Sweepstakes

KGOU – Keaton Ross (Oklahoma Watch) | Published: 6/1/2026

A Wyoming-based organization is testing Oklahoma law by attempting a cruise sweepstakes for people who contribute at least $50 to one of their preferred candidates in the state’s 2026 election cycle. The group claims status as a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization, which is allowed to raise and spend unlimited amounts of money and is not required under state or federal law to disclose its donors. MOGANetwork LLC could face legal challenges over the sweepstakes, which must meet strict criteria to avoid being classified as an illegal lottery, according to attorney Bob Burke.

Rhode Island – RI Ethics Commission Will Investigate If Shekarchi Can Jump to the Supreme Court

MSN – Patrick Anderson (Providence Journal) | Published: 6/2/2026

The Rhode Island Ethics Commission will investigate whether former House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s bid to join the state Supreme Court violates the state’s “revolving door” law. Roger Williams University Law School Professor Michael Yelnosky has filed a complaint, arguing Shekarchi should have to wait a year before seeking a spot on the court.

National/Federal

How This Age of Extreme Gerrymandering Is Transforming American Politics

MSN – Patrick Marley and Olivia George (Washington Post) | Published: 5/25/2026

The nationwide redistricting battle that erupted last year has evolved into a forever war. Politicians, no longer content to leave elections to chance, are working with increased precision to choose their voters, with plans to recalibrate as often as every two years. The potential result is a congressional map that looks more like a presidential map, with winner-take-all elections in many states. That could increase the chances for minority rule and further divide an already polarized country.

Trump Bought Stock in Drugmaker as His Government Boosted Its Obesity Drugs

MSN – Darius Tahir (KFF Health News) | Published: 5/22/2026

President Trump earlier this year bought as much as $680,000 in stock of Eli Lilly, the maker of blockbuster obesity drugs. The timing of Trump’s purchases coincides with several favorable government decisions benefiting Lilly’s GLP-1 medication business, including progress toward a long-held goal: qualifying the drugs for reimbursement from Medicare when they are prescribed for weight loss. The disclosure forms, which bear Trump’s distinct signature, show seven purchases of Lilly stock made on the president’s behalf through the end of March.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Complaint Raises Conflict of Interest Issues for Arizona Officials Who Are Also Candidates

KJZZ – Mary Jo Pitzl (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 5/25/2026

When he filed a campaign finance complaint with the Arizona secretary of state, a legislative candidate unwittingly provoked a question that pops up during election years: can election officials carry out their duties while also exercising their free speech rights? Arizona law does not bar endorsements or, more widely, block an election official’s management and oversight of elections when they themselves are on the ballot. The National Association of Secretaries of State had a similar assessment when looking at conflict of interest policies nationwide.

California – What Are They Trying to Hide? California Lawmakers Kill Lobbying Transparency Bills

MSN – Ryan Sabalow (CalMatters) | Published: 5/20/2026

California lawmakers are poised to defeat legislation that would have forced them to immediately release lobbying letters from business and advocacy groups and given the public a new window into the secretive world of Capitol lobbying. Two bills that would have required the Legislature to post the letters lawmakers receive from registered lobbyists and groups trying to influence legislation never received a hearing in the state Assembly. Now, the lawmaker in charge of the committee that would have to approve the measures for them to advance says the Legislature does not need a law to put the letters online.

Illinois – Fundraiser for Illinois GOP Governor Candidate Darren Bailey Delayed After Tribune Raised Ethics Law Questions

Yahoo News – Dan Petrella (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 5/27/2026

A political dinner that had been scheduled to benefit gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey was postponed after the Chicago Tribune raised questions about whether the event complied with a law prohibiting candidates from holding fundraisers anywhere in the state when the Legislature is in session. The prohibition also applies to “any political committee on behalf of” those elected officials or candidates. But it is unclear who is ultimately responsible for policing any potential violations.

Kansas – Kansas Official Running for Governor Received $300K in Donations Before Key Decision

Yahoo News – Matthew Kelly (Kansas City Star) | Published: 5/24/2026

A top Kansas regulator who is running for governor is facing scrutiny over a deluge of campaign contributions that she received from interested parties in the weeks before a key regulatory decision, raising ethical questions about a potential influence campaign. Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt denies any connection between the more than $300,000 she accepted from billionaire Todd Boehly and his allies and her office’s support for slower implementation of new capital rules that Boehly’s financial services company, Security Benefit, advocated forcefully for delaying.

Maine – Maine Ethics Suggests Going Further Than Federal Rules in Policing Candidate Communications

Yahoo News – Lauren McCauley (Maine Morning Star) | Published: 5/28/2026

Maine’s ethics commission is adopting a more stringent approach than the federal government regarding candidate communications, particularly those seemingly targeting outside groups seeking to advertise on a candidate’s behalf. State and federal campaign finance laws bar candidates from coordinating with PACs, which can spend unlimited funds and often do not disclose their donors. One way that candidates evade those restrictions is through so-called red boxing, a tactic in which a campaign publishes messaging and instructions to supportive PACs on their website.

Michigan – Bid to Reshape How Cash Flows in Michigan Politics Submits Petitions

AOL – Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 5/27/2026

A ballot proposal campaign that aims to ban some of Michigan’s largest corporations from spending money on state politics submitted more than 562,000 petition signatures to the secretary of state’s office. The filing might set off a high-stakes battle in Michigan, entangling powerful utilities and insurance heavyweights while potentially testing the legal ability of the public to limit the political influence of big businesses.

North Carolina – Warrant Reveals New Details in Case Against NC Lobbyists Charged Over Bourbon Tours, Gifts

MSN – Will Doran (WRAL) | Published: 5/26/2026

Powerful North Carolina lawmakers were treated to at least one other trip to Kentucky in addition to a 2024 bourbon tour, replete with free alcohol and other gifts, that has since resulted in criminal charges against four lobbyists, according to a search warrant. Investigators are also looking into a 2022 trip that they believe served as the model for the 2024 trip at the heart of the criminal case, according to the warrant. It also indicates more lobbyists, political fundraisers, and others were involved in the effort, including a top North Carolina Republican Party official. But there have been no additional charges.

Texas – Paxton’s Texas Victory Opens a New Front in the Battle for the Senate

Seattle Times – Lisa Lerer and Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 5/27/2026

Ken Paxton’s primary election victory in Texas transformed the deep red state into the nation’s newest political battleground, expanding the U.S. Senate map, previewing lines of attack from both parties, and offering a test of President Trump’s influence in the general election. Democrats still face an uphill battle in their quest to turn Texas blue, even with the excitement surrounding their nominee, James Talarico, a state legislator and seminary student who is pitching a brand of inclusive politics.

National/Federal

Trump’s Deal with His Administration Also Ends His Tax Audits

MSN – Richard Rubin (Wall Street Journal) | Published: 5/19/2026

President Trump’s agreement with the federal government was expanded to end all pending tax audits of him and his businesses. That agreement extends the recent settlement, in which the government agreed to create a $1.8 billion fund to compensate people who claim to have been victims of so-called weaponization by the government, a move that could lead to payouts to Trump allies.

A Year After Trump Fired a Top Ethics Watchdog, There’s Still No Leader

Yahoo News – Dan Diamond (Washington Post) | Published: 5/19/2026

Senate Democrats are pressing the White House to explain its plan for the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), more than a year after President Trump fired the office’s Senate-confirmed leader and five months after its most recent acting director stepped down. The OGE, an independent agency, works to prevent financial conflicts-of-interest and other ethical violations across more than 100 government agencies. It has historically served as a watchdog on government ethical standards, offering guidance to federal officials, and even rebuking the White House, as the office’s past leader repeatedly did in the first Trump administration.

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – Despite Change to Lobbying Rules, Foreign Governments and Groups Still Funding MP Travel

CBC News – Elizabeth Thompson | Published: 5/20/2026

A small change to Canada’s lobbying rules has led to a big drop in free trips for Members of Parliament (MP), a CBC News analysis found, but many MPs continue to head to destinations like China, and India courtesy of foreign governments and groups not registered to lobby. The CBC’s analysis comes as the House of Commons ethics committee is reviewing the Lobbying Act. Currently, there is no restriction on MPs accepting sponsored travel beyond the requirement to report the trip and its cost.

Alaska – Curveball Vote Could Snarl Effort to Reimpose Campaign Finance Restrictions in Alaska

Alaska Beacon – James Brooks | Published: 5/21/2026

The Alaska Legislature passed new limits on the amount of money that can be donated to candidates, but opponents of those limits are seeking to start those rules in the middle of the current election, something that could lead to a lawsuit that snarls the new rules altogether. If Gov. Mike Dunleavy vetoes the bill, a substantially similar measure will be presented to voters on the August primary election ballot. Speaking in 2022, Dunleavy implied he is generally opposed to campaign finance limits.

California – The Steyer Campaign Pays Influencers. Their Posts Don’t Always Make That Clear

MSN – Ben Wieder (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 5/15/2026

In recent weeks, several social media influencers have popped up in online feeds touting the California gubernatorial campaign of Democrat Tom Steyer. They do not disclosure that their creators were paid by the Steyer campaign to produce the videos, according to a complaint filed with the Fair Political Practices Commission. The complaint alleges the Steyer campaign failed to notify the influencers it hired of their obligation to inform their audience when their posts have been sponsored by the campaign.

Colorado – Denver Considers Major Lobbying Overhaul After High-Profile Influence Cases Went Largely Unreported

KUSA – Spencer Soicher | Published: 5/14/2026

Under current law, lobbyists in Denver only have to report direct gifts, money, or things of value given to officials. Because most lobbying does not involve an explicit financial exchange, the majority of lobbying reports filed with the city show no activity at all. City Councilperson Jamie Torres is working with the city clerk’s office on legislation that would require lobbyists to disclose who they meet with, which clients they represent, and how much they are paid to do so, something the current law does not require.

Delaware – Conservative Group Challenges Delaware Campaign Finance Law

Spotlight Delaware – Matt Butler (Spotlight Delaware) | Published: 5/19/2026

A conservative advocacy group filed a lawsuit challenging a key instrument of election transparency in Delaware, which, if successful, could upend nearly 15 years of campaign finance law. Americans for Prosperity seeks to overturn the Delaware Elections Disclosure Act on the grounds its extensive campaign finance transparency requirements serve to discourage political speech and violate the First Amendment.

Hawaii – New Hawaii Law Targets Corporate Influence in Politics after Citizens United Ruling

MSN – Jennifer Sinco Kelleher (Associated Press) | Published: 5/14/2026

Hawaii’s governor signed into law a bill that uses a novel approach to reduce the influence of corporations and hard-to-track dark money groups that have been able to spend unlimited amounts on politics since a 2010 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. The law, which takes effect July 1, 2027, redefines corporations in a way that precludes spending on elections.

Michigan – Campaign Finance Watchdog Says Cox PAC Network Follows Letter of Campaign Law, but Tests Its Spirit

Yahoo News – Katherine Dailey (Michigan Advance) | Published: 5/18/2026

Michigan gubernatorial candidate and former Attorney General Mike Cox received campaign donations of more than $30,000 from eight PACs, four of which have his wife, former Republican Party Chairperson Laura Cox, listed as the treasurer. None of this is breaking the law in any way, explained Neil Thanedar, the executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, as these PACs are each classified as “Independent.”

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Democratic Fundraising Committee Settles with Ethics Board

Yahoo News – Emma Murphy (Oklahoma Watch) | Published: 5/14/2026

A fundraising committee supporting Democratic candidates for the Oklahoma House and the chairperson who oversaw it will pay over $37,000 in fines after settling with the state Ethics Commission. The Oklahoma House Democratic Campaign Committee and former chair and treasurer Joe Hartman admitted to using improper methods for expenditures, inaccuracies in reporting payments and consulting services, and failure to maintain complete and accurate records, according to the terms of a settlement agreement.

National/Federal

What to Know About States’ Efforts to Limit Corporate Donations in Politics

MSN – Jennifer Sinco Kelleher and Geoff Mulvihill (Associated Press) | Published: 5/12/2026

Two states could try a new way to reduce the influence of corporations and hard-to-track dark money groups that have been able to spend unlimited amounts on politics since the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United ruling. Hawaii lawmakers sent a bill to the governor that would redefine corporations in a way that precludes spending on elections. A volunteer group in Montana is gathering signatures in hopes of putting a similar issue to voters in November.

Transportation Secretary Duffy Filmed a Reality Show, Funded by Firms He Regulates

NPR – Rachel Treisman | Published: 5/12/2026

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has returned to his reality television roots, filming a cross-country road trip with his family that will be released as an unscripted series ahead of America’s 250th birthday in July. Those involved say production costs were covered by a nonprofit called The Great American Road Trip Inc. Its public list of sponsors is stacked with travel-related companies, like Toyota, Boeing, and United Airlines, with ties to the Department of Transportation, raising ethics questions.

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – New Brunswick Government Proposes Overhaul of Lobbying Rules

Yahoo News – Eli Ridder (Canadian Press) | Published: 5/12/2026

The New Brunswick government proposed an overhaul of its lobbying rules that would require hundreds more people to register as lobbyists and would empower the provincial ethics chief to fine rule breakers. If passed into law, the reforms would also require lobbyists to regularly record their meetings with politicians and other lobbying activities in an online searchable database.

California – Arcadia Mayor, Accused of Being Chinese Foreign Agent, Strikes Deal with Feds and Resigns

Yahoo News – Brittny Mejia and Rebecca Ellis (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 5/11/2026

Facing charges of acting as an illegal foreign agent of China, Arcadia Mayor Eileen Wang resigned after reaching an agreement to resolve the federal case. She was accused of doing the bidding of Chinese officials, such as sharing articles favorable to Beijing, without prior notification to the U.S. government as required by law. City officials and Wang’s attorneys said the conduct described by federal authorities occurred before Wang was elected.

Connecticut – CT Legislators Remove Nepotism Ban That Would Have Applied to Them

Yahoo News – Paul Hughes (CT Insider) | Published: 5/6/2026

The Connecticut House voted to strip a nepotism standard to bar public officials and state employees from arranging jobs, promotions, or special advantages to relatives or friends from an ethics bill. The prohibition would have applied to the 187 members of the General Assembly. The Office of State Ethics proposed the nepotism standard for the first time as part of its annual legislative recommendations.

Illinois – Former Chicago Mayoral Candidate Paul Vallas Fined $214,000 by Ethics Board for Campaign Finance Violations

Yahoo News – Jake Sheridan (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 5/12/2026

Former Chicago mayoral candidate Paul Vallas was fined $214,000 for violating campaign finance rules by accepting excessive contributions from people who were doing business with the city. The Board of Ethics found an unnamed “unsuccessful candidate” in the 2023 city elections violated the law by accepting $202,000 in contributions from 12 city contractors, even though the law limits such donors to giving no more than $1,500 annually to candidates seeking city office and elected officials, according to the board.

Missouri – Wide-Reaching Missouri Election Bill Includes Changes to Automatic Campaign Donations

St. Louis Public Radio – Sarah Kellog | Published: 3/12/2026

Missouri lawmakers passed a wide-reaching election bill that included changing the process of collecting recurring campaign donations. Candidates in Missouri will no longer be able to collect automatic campaign contributions without the explicit permission of the donor. The bill also allows lobbyists to maintain candidate committees under certain circumstances.

Nevada – A Reno Mayor Candidate Kept Old Donations for Her Campaign. It Opened a Can of Legal Worms.

Nevada Independent – Eric Neugeboren | Published: 5/11/2026

When Kate Marshall began fundraising in 2024 for a bid for Reno mayor, she had a leg up over the other candidates: about $116,000 in her campaign account from her time as Nevada’s lieutenant governor. Keeping that money has kicked off a series of complaints to state election officials, most recently from the Nevada Republican Party alleging she violated Nevada campaign finance law by accepting a $500 contribution in 2022 and not eventually draining her entire campaign account.

New York – Judge Restores Blakeman’s Ticket in NY’s Matching Funds Program

MSN – Timothy Fanning (Albany Times Union) | Published: 5/17/2026

A state Supreme Court justice overturned a decision by New York’s campaign finance board that had barred Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman and his running mate Todd Hood from receiving public matching funds. Hood’s campaign was found ineligible by the state Public Campaign Finance Board to receive public funds because Hood, the sheriff in Madison County, never filed the required paperwork. That decision, which was criticized by good government groups and Republican lawmakers as a partisan move, left Blakeman at a significant financial disadvantage against Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Virginia – Virginia’s High Court Strikes Down Voter-Passed House Map Favoring Democrats

MSN – Gregory Schneider and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 5/8/2026

The Supreme Court of Virginia invalidated the referendum that could have given Democrats four extra seats in the U.S. House, a major win for Republicans who started a national redistricting war to maintain control of the chamber. The court ruled the General Assembly violated the state constitution in establishing the ballot measure approved by voters. A four-to-three majority of the court ruled the Legislature had improperly submitted the referendum to voters, rendering the results “null and void.” The court restored the pre-referendum map that was adopted in 2021.

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – Advocate Warns BC Lobbying Law Changes Would Increase Corruption Risk

The Tyee – Andrew MacLeod | Published: 5/5/2026

The special legislative committee that reviewed British Columbia’s lobbying rules recommended 24 changes they say are “intended to reduce administrative workload while maintaining transparency and simplifying reporting requirements to encourage democratic participation.” But Democracy Watch co-founder Duff Conacher says the committee missed an opportunity to strengthen the law and its recommendations would increase the risk of corruption.

Arizona – AZ Lawmakers Owe 6-Digit Campaign Late Fees. Could They Be Erased?

USA Today – Ray Stern (Arizona Republic) | Published: 4/29/2026

A proposed law would let elected officials in Arizona escape late fees that can run up to hundreds of thousands of dollars for failing to file timely campaign finance reports. At least three sitting lawmakers running for reelection owe six-digit late fees. More than 20 other candidates owe thousands of dollars.

Colorado – Colorado Lawmakers Reject Bill That Would Have Required Legislative Caucuses to Report Their Donors

Colorado Sun – Taylor Dolven | Published: 5/6/2026

State lawmakers rejected a bill aimed at requiring Colorado legislative caucuses to disclose their funders. Senate Bill 168 would have required all legislative caucuses to regularly file public reports detailing their fundraising and spending. The impetus for the bill grew out of a controversial retreat at a Vail hotel in October hosted by the Colorado Opportunity Caucus, which has declined to reveal who paid for the lawmakers’ getaway with lobbyists.

Connecticut – UConn Sports Ticket Perk for Lawmakers Added to CT Ethics Proposal

MSN – Paul Hughes (CT Insider) | Published: 5/2/2026

State legislators would be allowed to accept two tickets annually from the University of Connecticut to one home game for either basketball team under a proposed change to the ethics code. The House voted unanimously to redefine allowable gifts to permit public officials or state employees to accept an offer of admission from a public college or university hosting an intercollegiate sporting event for themselves and another person once per calendar year. Tickets to sporting events are considered a gift under the ethics code.

Louisiana – Louisiana Congressional Primaries Are Suspended as a Result of the Supreme Court’s Ruling

MSN – Sara Cline, Jack Brook, and David Lieb (Associated Press) | Published: 4/30/2026

Louisiana suspended its congressional primaries as early voting was about to get underway, while pressure mounted on Republican officials in other states to redraw their U.S. House maps in light of a Supreme Court ruling that significantly weakened the Voting Rights Act. All other races on the ballot will proceed as scheduled. The Supreme Court decision and Gov. Jeff Landry’s executive order triggered a flurry of follow-up legal action.

Missouri – Springfield City Council Approves Bill Limiting the Amount of Money Candidates Can Receive from Singular Donors

MSN – Conner Trett (KY3) | Published: 5/5/2026

Individuals running for mayor and city council seats in Springfield are now limited to a total of $2,825 in both monetary and in-kind contributions per election cycle. “What I think that does is it opens the doors for your everyday Springfieldian to get into local politics,” said Roman Moody, a leader with Missouri Jobs for Justice, a group that supported the bill’s passage.

New Mexico – Over Campaign Contribution Limits? Miyagishima Just Crossed Them Out

New Mexico In Depth – Azure Mitchell | Published: 4/28/2026

After it was reported in February that New Mexico gubernatorial candidate Ken Miyagishima had exceeded limits by more than $125,000 on the amount of donated goods and services his campaign could receive, Miyagishima found a creative resolution: crossing some of them out.  Those changes appear in an amended report he filed in February. But his next campaign finance report, filed April 5, does not show payments back to the companies whose contributions he crossed out. That raises the question of whether the campaign received services it later erased from its reports without paying for them.

North Carolina – NC Lawmakers Gave Autism Nonprofit $2 Million. Much Went to a Former Colleague.

MSN – Dan Kane and Kyle Ingram (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 5/4/2026

Former Nort Carolina Rep. Cecil Brockman won $2 million in state funding for a nonprofit that provides services for people with autism and other disabilities in 2023. Since then, nearly a fifth of that money went to his predecessor and former boss, Marcus Brandon. Now the state is investigating whether taxpayer money was used to pay for lobbying of lawmakers.

Pennsylvania – These Pennsylvanians Walked 63 Miles to Get Lawmakers to Stop Taking Gifts – and Unlimited Campaign Contributions

MSN – Gillian McGoldrick (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 5/6/2026

For the last 10 years, a good-government advocacy group has been protesting at the state Capitol to press the Pennsylvania General Assembly for regulations on the way money influences state politics and policy. During that time its members have walked a lot of miles. March on Harrisburg completed its sixth long-distance march recently, with a group of 20 Pennsylvanians walking a 63-mile route from Reading to Harrisburg, with other residents joining for parts of the trip along the way.

National/Federal

Supreme Court Limits Key Provision of the Landmark Voting Rights Act

MSN – Justin Jouvenal and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 4/29/2026

The Supreme Court weakened a key provision of the landmark Voting Rights Act, a ruling that limits the consideration of race in drawing voting maps and could usher in Republican gains in the House. The decision could touch off a scramble by Republicans to redraw minority-majority districts, especially in the South. New districts could shift the balance of power in Congress by imperiling the reelection prospects of some Black Democrats, possibly as soon as November’s midterms in some instances.

From the States and Municipalities

Colorado – Lawmakers Advance Bill to Regulate State Agencies, Like Lobbyists Who Try to Sway Legislation

Colorado Public Radio – Rae Solomon | Published: 4/29/2026

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis is pushing back against a proposal that would treat legislative staff in his administration like any other lobbyist. The primary job of those workers, called legislative liaisons, is to try to sway lawmakers and change legislation. They are essentially lobbyists for the state government and the Polis administration, but they are not required to follow the same disclosure rules that govern most lobbyists.

Hawaii – Sylvia Luke on Indefinite Leave as Keith Regan Becomes Acting Lieutenant Governor

Yahoo News – Dan Nakaso (Honolulu Star-Advertiser) | Published: 4/24/2026

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke is now on unpaid “indefinite leave” after the state attorney general sent her a target letter in a bribery investigation with ties to Hawaii’s infamous 2022 political scandal that sent two state legislators to federal prison. Gov. Josh Green announced that state Comptroller Keith Regan had accepted the job as acting lieutenant governor. If Luke does not return from her leave, Regan would serve as lieutenant governor until Inauguration Day on December 7, after voters pick a new, permanent lieutenant governor in the November 3 general election.

Illinois – 7th Circuit Upholds Ex-Speaker Madigan’s Conviction of Bribery, Other Corruption

Yahoo News – Hannah Meisel (Capitol News Illinois) | Published: 4/27/2026

A federal appeals court panel upheld the 10 guilty verdicts that sent former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to prison, finding no errors in the way the jury was instructed or the “mountain of evidence” the government used to prosecute the influential Democrat during his lengthy bribery trial. While another Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals recently ordered the release from prison and a new trial for two people convicted of bribing Madigan in a related trial, the judges who heard the former speaker’s appeal were unconvinced of the similar arguments.

Maine – Maine Gov. Janet Mills Drops US Senate Bid Ahead of June 9 Democratic Primary Against Graham Platner

MSN – Kimberlee Kruesi and Patrick Whittle (Associated Press) | Published: 4/30/2026

Maine Gov. Janet Mills dropped her bid for the U.S. Senate just weeks before the Democratic primary in a race that reflected an internal party debate over how to win one of this year’s most competitive Senate seats. Mills struggled to outshine first-time candidate Graham Platner, her opponent in the June 9 Democratic primary. Platner has maintained strong popularity despite facing controversy over past comments he made online and a tattoo he had that is widely recognized as a Nazi symbol.

New Mexico – NM State Ethics Commission Sues Secretive Group Behind Pro-Project Jupiter Ad Campaign

Yahoo News – Joshua Bowling (Source New Mexico) | Published: 4/23/2026

The New Mexico State Ethics Commission filed a lawsuit against Elevate New Mexico, the anonymous, out-of-state company behind the ad campaign that urged people to support the controversial OpenAI and Oracle data center complex Project Jupiter. The lawsuit alleges that since Elevate New Mexico spent at least $2,500 to lobby the state Environment Department to approve air quality permit applications during a public comment period for natural gas power plants associated with Project Jupiter, it should have registered as a lobbyist organization.

North Dakota – Ethics Commission Adopts New Travel Disclosure Rules for Some North Dakota Officials

Yahoo News – Mary Steurer (North Dakota Monitor) | Published: 4/28/2026

The North Dakota Ethics Commission adopted new rules requiring some state officials to file forms when they take trips paid for by third parties. The rules apply to all elected and appointed officials of the executive and legislative branch. Reports would have to be filed with the commission within 15 days of a trip. The Ethics Commission will post all travel disclosure statements on its website and retain each one for three years.

Ohio – US Supreme Court Won’t Take Up Appeal of Ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 4/27/2026

Former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder’s corruption conviction and 20-year prison sentence in the House Bill 6 scandal will stand after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear his appeal. The justices also denied taking up the appeal of co-defendant Matt Borges, a lobbyist and former Ohio Republican Party chair. Householder masterminded the corruption scheme in which FirstEnergy funneled some $60 million through dark-money channels to Householder, who used it to push for the bill’s passage in 2019.

Oklahoma – No Free Lunches: At least 11 Republican candidates have pledged to reject lobbyist meals and gifts

Oklahoma Watch – Keaton Ross | Published: 4/24/2026

Lobbyists have spent more than $414,000 on meals, beverages, and gifts for Oklahoma lawmakers since January 2025. That number is likely to increase as the legislative session marches toward sine die and the latest lobbyist spending reports come due in May. Many lawmakers, who work part-time and are term-limited, said the meals help them learn about complex issues and fine-tune legislation. But the rate of spending has drawn the ire of a slew of Republican primary challengers, who are hitting the campaign trail with a message that their opponents are more beholden to lobbyists than their constituents.

Washington – Recall Effort Against Washington Governor Ends

Yahoo News – Jerry Cornfield (Washington State Standard) | Published: 4/28/2026

Campaign finance activist Conner Edwards’ quixotic quest to recall Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson was intended to prod the governor into filling two vacant seats on the state Public Disclosure Commission. It worked. Ferguson appointed Teebah Alsaleh, a lawyer for Microsoft, to the commission. Her selection came a week after the governor installed Matt Segal, a former King County Superior Court judge, to the other opening. With that, Edwards said he would end his pursuit of a recall.

National/Federal

Trump Fought to Keep the Ballroom Fundraising Contract Secret. Here’s What’s in It.

Anchorage Daily News – Jonathan Edwards and Dan Diamond (Washington Post) | Published: 4/21/2026

The Trump administration’s contract governing hundreds of millions of dollars in private donations to build Donald Trump’s White House ballroom shields donors’ identities, excludes the White House from conflict-of-interest protections, and was disclosed only after a lawsuit and a judge’s order. White House officials have declined to disclose the total amount raised, the identities of all donors or, until recently, basic details about the building’s design. Court documents show Trump knew he was going to tear down the East Wing at least two months before doing so, but he never told the public

House Democrat Resigns Ahead of Possible Expulsion Vote Over Alleged Financial Crimes

MSN – Anna Liss-Roy, Mariana Alfaro, Marianna Sotomayor, and Kadia Goba (Washington Post) | Published: 4/21/2026

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigned from Congress to avoid a possible expulsion vote on allegations she used Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) money mistakenly sent to her family’s health care company during the pandemic to boost her 2022 campaign for Congress. The House Committee on Ethics found she violated more than two dozen ethics rules. Cherfilus-McCormick separately faces criminal charges that could lead to decades in prison tied to the errant FEMA dollars.

Chavez-DeRemer Stepping Down as Labor Secretary

MSN – Nick Niedzwiadek (Politico) | Published: 4/20/2026

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer is stepping down from her Cabinet post amid a series of misconduct allegations against her and her top staffers. Chavez-DeRemer has been under scrutiny since January, when Labor Department Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito opened an investigation into allegations she was involved in an extramarital affair with a member of her security detail, that she drank on the job, and top aides concocted official events to facilitate her personal travel plans.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Alabama’s Top Ethics Official Quits Mabel Amos Board After Money Went to His Children: ‘It was not prohibited’

MSN – Mike Cason (AL.com) | Published: 4/18/2026

Alabama Ethics Commission Executive Director Tom Albritton resigned from the board of the Mabel Amos Memorial Fund as part of a dispute over allegations of self-dealing. It is the latest development in a years-long legal dispute over the scholarship fund named in honor of Amos, who was Alabama’s Secretary of State from 1967 until 1975. Lawsuits by state Attorney General Steve Marshall and others challenged the scholarship awards to Albritton’s children and others.

Connecticut – More Money, More Influence? Here’s Who Spends the Most Paying Lobbyists in CT

Yahoo News – Brianna Gurciullo (CT Insider) | Published: 4/19/2026

Each year, lobbyists in Connecticut receive tens of millions of dollars in combined compensation from companies, trade groups, unions, nonprofits, and other clients trying to influence decisions by state government officials. Those clients have spent more than $70 million paying in-house or outside lobbyists in 2025 and 2026. Lobbyists say they provide information and perspectives to officials as they craft legislation and policies, and their spending is tracked by the Office of State Ethics. But do the companies or groups that spend the most have an outsized influence in Hartford?

Hawaii – Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke Received Target Letter in $35,000 Probe

Honolulu Civil Beat – Christina Jedra | Published: 4/22/2026

Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke received notice that she is a target in the Hawaii attorney general’s investigation of $35,000 given to an influential state lawmaker in 2022. Lobbyist and businessperson Tobi Solidum also received a target letter in the case. The attorney general’s probe is an offshoot of a federal investigation that landed two ex-state lawmakers, Ty Cullen and J. Kalani English, in prison. For years, Cullen and English were taking cash bribes from businessperson Milton Choy.

North Carolina – Four Lobbyists Indicted over Kentucky Bourbon Distillery Trip for NC Lawmakers

Yahoo News – Dan Kane and Virginia Bridges (Raleigh News and Observer) | Published: 4/22/2206

A Wake County grand jury indicted four Raleigh lobbyists, saying they violated North Carolina’s gift ban by getting their clients to sponsor a bourbon-tasting junket to Kentucky that included state lawmakers. Kevin Wilkinson, David Ferrell, Douglas Bowen Heath, and Douglas Miskew each face a misdemeanor charge. Three of the four represent alcoholic beverage companies. The indictments say the money went to tour sponsor Greater Carolina, which then paid the travel, meal, and hotel costs.

Ohio – Ohio Treasurer Candidate Showered with Gifts from CEOs, Fundraisers, Lobbyist, Disclosures Show

Signal Ohio – Jake Zuckerman | Published: 4/10/2026

Republican state treasurer candidate Jay Edwards received more than 42 gifts worth at least $75 a piece last year as he prepared his campaign, financial disclosures show. The list of gift-givers spans a mix of industrial titans and personal friends of Edwards. That includes health care entrepreneurs, construction executives, campaign fundraisers, and a lobbyist for the vendor that is regularly in the hunt for state lottery contracts. Did Edwards really receive more than $3,100 worth (at minimum) of gifts, as he disclosed in his financial statement? Probably not, he said in an interview.

Oklahoma – New Questions Emerge Over Oklahoma’s Invest in Oklahoma Contract After Shared Lobbyist Discovered

KOGU – Paul Monies (Oklahoma Watch) | Published: 4/22/2026

Oklahoma Treasurer Todd Russ hired the same lobbying firm as the parent company of a financial firm he later recommended for a state contract, raising more questions about whether the treasurer’s compressed selection process was fair and transparent. The contract gives 311 Capital Management, a subsidiary of Citizen Capital, a potentially lucrative investment advisory role over billions of dollars of investments from state pension and trust funds. The common lobbying thread is The 1907 Group, which represented the interests of Citizen Capital before the treasurer, governor, and lawmakers for the past two years.

Virginia – GOP’s Hope to Undo Virginia’s New Redistricting Power Grows After Judge Halts Maps

Yahoo News – Markus Schmidt (Virginia Mercury) | Published: 4/21/2026

After losing the redistricting referendum, Virginia Republicans are now shifting their focus to the courts, arguing the legal fight, not the ballot box, will ultimately determine whether the measure stands. That battle escalated when a Tazewell County Circuit Court judge issued a new ruling that halts implementation of the voter-approved amendment less than 24 hours after it passed. While the result initially cleared the way for newly drawn congressional maps to take effect, the latest ruling by Judge Jack Hurley pauses that process, at least for now, as the case ultimately heads to the Supreme Court of Virginia.

National/Federal

Donald Trump Ballroom Donations Under Scrutiny for Potentially Breaking Law

MSN – Kate Plummer (Newsweek) | Published: 4/7/2026

Donations made to President Trump’s White House ballroom are under scrutiny for potentially breaking the law. The Campaign Legal Center wrote to Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, urging her office to investigate whether lobbyists violated federal lobbying law by not disclosing donations to this and other projects overseen by the president.

Reps. Swalwell, Gonzales Say They’ll Leave Congress Ahead of Possible Expulsion Votes

MSN – Mariana Alfaro and Amy Wang (Washington Post) | Published: 4/13/2026

Reps. Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales separately announced plans to depart from Congress ahead of possible expulsion votes related to allegations of sexual misconduct. The departures of Swalwell and Gonzales, one Democrat and one Republican, would mean the Republicans’ narrow majority in the House remains unchanged if they leave the chamber at the same time

From the States and Municipalities

Colorado – Colorado Justices Weigh Constitutionality of Unique Disclosure Requirement for Ballot Measures

Colorado Politics – Michael Karlik | Published: 4/13/2026

Members of the Colorado Supreme Court considered whether a provision of the state’s campaign finance law violates the First Amendment by requiring the disclosure of a ballot measure committee’s legal representative on advertisements. Initially, No on EE – A Bad Deal for Colorado spent more than $3 million on communications opposing a ballot measure without listing its registered agent, who is the person designated to receive mailings and file campaign finance reports. After a complaint, the group revised its advertisements to correct the omission.

Illinois – Appeals Court Says It Will Reverse Convictions, Orders Two ‘ComEd Four’ Defendants Released from Prison

Yahoo News – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 4/14/2026

A federal appeals court announced it will grant new trials to former Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) Chief Executive Officer Anne Pramaggiore and lobbyist Michael McClain and ordered them released from prison on bond. The extraordinary development comes nearly three years after Pramaggiore and McClain were convicted as part of the landmark “ComEd Four” case alleging a conspiracy to bribe then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Indiana – State Ethics Commission Rules Against Former IEDC Official, Grants Waiver to Governor’s Aide

Yahoo News – Leslie Bonilla Muñiz (Indiana Capital Chronicle) | Published: 4/10/2026

The Indiana State Ethics Commission unanimously found thata statutory one-year waiting period applies to a former state official hoping to accept a job offer at a company whose contracts he previously oversaw. The commission also approved a waiver of other state ethics laws for Jason Johnson, currently the deputy chief of staff of legislative affairs for Gov. Mike Braun’s office. Johnson requested a waiver of the one-year waiting requirement before former state employees can work as lobbyists.

Louisiana – Louisiana Political Donors Would Have Addresses Redacted from Public Reports Under Bill

Yahoo News – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 4/14/2026

The Louisiana Legislature might block the public from seeing the addresses of political donors who give money to campaigns starting August 1. Sen. Caleb Kleinpeter sponsored a sprawling bill meant to continue the rewrite of state campaign finance laws that were drastically overhauled last year. The legislation also raises the threshold at which political contributions have to be reported.

New York – NY Elections Officials Have Sued Nearly 300 Campaigns as Enforcement Increases

MSN – Emilie Munson (Albany Times Union) | Published: 4/9/2026

Four years ago, New York’s election enforcement division had filed no cases against campaigns alleged to have broken the law by failing to file official reports. That is despite the fact that thousands of candidates and political committees had missing reports in violation of the law. But since then, election officials have started to more aggressively crack down on violations. Since October 2023, the state Division of Election Law Enforcement filed court cases against at least 261 candidates and committees that have failed to file their campaign information or were delinquent.

Oregon – Kotek Quietly Signs Bill Weakening, Delaying Parts of Oregon’s Campaign Finance Law

MSN – Hillary Borrud and Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 4/11/2026

Campaign donors will be allowed to spend more money on Oregon elections, with less transparency, under a bill that Gov. Tina Kotek signed into law. Good government groups called on the governor to veto the legislation, citing a variety of ways House Bill 4018 would let interest groups and wealthy individuals spend more than allowed under the state’s 2024 campaign finance law. Contribution limits in that two-year-old law do not take effect until next year, and Oregon currently allows unlimited political spending.

Pennsylvania – Did Pa. Governor Candidate Stacy Garrity Need to Register as a Lobbyist? Her Work for a Defense Contractor Raises Questions

WHYY – Carmen Russell-Sluchansky | Published: 4/14/2026

Before taking office as Pennsylvania treasurer in January 2021, Stacy Garrity served in senior positions at a defense contractor, where a significant part of her last role focused heavily on influencing public policy tied to military manufacturing and global trade. She has publicly taken credit for successfully moving legislation forward and has met with legislators and otherwise pushed her company’s interests with government officials. And yet, she never registered as a lobbyist.

Vermont – Ethics Panel Dismisses Complaints Over Lawmakers’ Trip to Israel

Seven Days Vermont – Hannah Bassett | Published: 4/14/2026

The House Ethics Panel dismissed complaints against five Vermont representatives who visited Israel last September on a trip sponsored by the Israeli government. The panel concluded that the lawmakers did not violate the state ethics code by participating in the overseas visit. Jewish Voice for Peace Vermont-New Hampshire alleged the legislators violated the gifts provision in the law by improperly accepting free airfare, lodging, and meals from the Israeli government for an event whose “chief purpose” was lobbying.

National/Federal

Wealthy Donors Are Hiding Political Money in Secretive Nonprofits

Journal-News – Theodore Schleifer and Steven Rich (New York Times) | Published: 4/3/2026

Increasingly, individuals do not cut big checks to campaigns, donations in which their names would have to be disclosed to the FEC or state regulators. They come more and more from an alphabet soup of patriotic-sounding philanthropic organizations that send hundreds of millions of dollars to PACs but do not have to disclose where the money came from. So-called dark money is not new. But a review of new election filings and internal fundraising documents shows an increase in the use of these shadowy philanthropic groups to raise money on behalf of candidates in federal elections.

From the States and Municipalities

California – Top S.F. Official Who Led Dream Keeper Equity Program Charged with Felonies: ‘Abuse of power’

Yahoo News – St. John Barned-Smith and Michael Barba (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 3/30/2026

Once San Francisco’s most powerful civil rights watchdog, Sheryl Davis continued her fall when she surrendered to authorities to face accusations she misappropriated funds and engaged in “pervasive” self-dealing while leading a landmark initiative meant to benefit the city’s Black community. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins filed a raft of felony financial misconduct charges against Davis, who oversaw the San Francisco Human Rights Commission, and James Spingola, the former chief executive officer of Collective Impact, a nonprofit Davis funded.

Hawaii – Convicted Hawai’i Lawmaker’s Emails Were Deleted When He Left Office

Honolulu Civil Beat – Madeleine Valera | Published: 4/8/2026

Soon after state Rep. Ty Cullen left office, resigning in disgrace due to a bribery scandal, the Hawaii House of Representatives wiped his email account clean, deleting years of messages. What kinds of emails he exchanged with the man convicted of bribing him, Milton Choy, the public may never know. Also unknown is what kinds of conversations, if any, Cullen shared with lobbyist Tobi Solidum, who is believed to be connected to an investigation into $35,000 in a paper bag given to another “influential” lawmaker in 2022.

Kentucky – Lobbying Interests Fund Small Political Nonprofit – and a Republican State Senator

Yahoo News – Tom Loftus (Kentucky Lantern) | Published: 4/3/2026

Since January 2023 a political organization named Kentucky Strong Inc. has paid its executive director, state Sen. Julie Raque Adams, $80,500. In fact, 12 payments to Adams totaling $80,500 were the only expenses reported by the organization in the three-year period ending January 2026. Over roughly the same period, Kentucky Strong was funded exclusively by interests that actively lobby the Kentucky General Assembly.

New York – Blakeman Campaign Denied Matching Funds by Dems on Campaign Board

Yahoo News – Timothy Fanning (Albany Times Union) | Published: 3/31/2026

An arm of the state Board of Elections denied campaign matching funds to Republican Bruce Blakeman and five other New York gubernatorial candidates based on a rule change the agency’s staffers failed to tell anyone about. The Public Campaign Finance Board, where Democrats hold the majority, ruled along partisan lines that Blakeman was ineligible because he did not file the correct paperwork to qualify for a program that allows a candidate to obtain matching taxpayer money if they raise enough money from state residents.

North Carolina – Who Paid to Help Oust NC’s Phil Berger? Voters May Never Now. Here’s Why.

Yahoo News – Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi (Raleigh News and Observer) | Published: 4/3/2026

Much remains unknown about who funded the race that ended Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger’s more than two decades in the North Carolina Legislature, with voters electing challenger and Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page to represent the district by fewer than two dozen votes. A large part of the opacity comes from political advertising by individuals, groups, and nonprofits, many of which are not required to disclose donors. Some of those ads, called electioneering communications, mention a candidate but stop short of explicitly urging voters to support or oppose them, a practice often referred to as issue advocacy.

Ohio – US Supreme Court Overturns PG Sittenfeld Corruption Conviction

MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 4/6/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court granted federal prosecutors’ request to overturn ex-Cincinnati City Councilperson PG Sittenfeld’s corruption conviction, opening the door for a lower court to dismiss his case given that President Trump pardoned him last year. The ruling marks what could be the first time in Supreme Court history that the nation’s high court accepted an appeal from a defendant who had already received a presidential pardon for a criminal conviction.

Rhode Island – Jim Thorsen Wins Fight to Clear His Name of Ethical Misconduct Charges on 2023 Philly Trip

Yahoo News – Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) | Published: 4/8/2026

Former Rhode Island Director of Administration Jim Thorsen was cleared of all wrongdoing following an ethics trial tied to an infamous business trip to Philadelphia. The state Ethics Commission decided Thorsen’s failure to immediately pay the $133-a-plate meal at Irwin’s in Philadelphia in March 2023 did not constitute knowing, willful, and deliberate flouting of the state ethics code.

Tennessee – Foreign Adversary Lobbyist Bill Sidelined for Session

Yahoo News – Sam Stockard (Tennessee Lookout) | Published: 4/8/2026

Legislation brought by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee’s administration requiring lobbyists to register when representing foreign adversaries has been derailed for the year. Sen. Adam Lowe, who carried the Senate version of the bill, said the state is trying to identify the influence of foreign money on Tennessee policy but that the methods for identifying that impact are changing.

Washington – Ferguson’s Failure to Fill Seats on WA Campaign Watchdog Panel Incites Recall Bid

Yahoo News – Jerry Cornfield (Washington State Standard) | Published: 4/7/2026

A recall effort is underway against Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson for failing to fill vacancies on the commission that enforces state campaign finance laws. The petition to remove Ferguson from office accuses him of misfeasance and violating his oath of office by not filling two seats on the Public Disclosure Commission within a timeline prescribed in state law. One has been open for nearly all of Ferguson’s term, which began in January last year.