Jim Sedor, Author at State and Federal Communications

September 30, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Arizona: “Conservatives Say Charlie Kirk Shooting Shows Need for Anonymous Political Spending” by Taylor Seely (Arizona Republic) for Yahoo News New York: “NY AG James Turns to Legal Defense Fund Amid Scrutiny from Trump DOJ” by Jimmy Vielkind for Gothamist Elections New […]

September 29, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Arizona: “Lawmaker Faces Heavy Fines from Clean Elections Commission” by Jakob Thorington for Arizona Capitol Times Elections New York: “Eric Adams Ends Reelection Campaign” by Joe Anuta and Jeff Coltin (Politico) for Yahoo News Ethics California: “LAHSA Adopts […]

September 26, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – September 26, 2025

National/Federal Here’s What Happens When Big-Time Lobbyists Become Big-Name Trump Officials MSN – Caitlin Oprysko (Politico) | Published: 9/21/2025 Before Pam Bondi was sworn in as President Trump’s attorney general, she spent six years as a lobbyist at Ballard, where […]

National/Federal

Here’s What Happens When Big-Time Lobbyists Become Big-Name Trump Officials

MSN – Caitlin Oprysko (Politico) | Published: 9/21/2025

Before Pam Bondi was sworn in as President Trump’s attorney general, she spent six years as a lobbyist at Ballard, where she was a partner in its Washington office and chaired the firm’s corporate regulatory compliance practice focusing on Fortune 500 companies. Among the clients for whom Ballard reported lobbying DOJ this year, all but one signed with the firm since Trump’s election and his nomination of Bondi for attorney general. A similar phenomenon is occurring across K Street at lobbying firms that have former employees in top roles with the Trump administration.

Supreme Court Allows Trump to Fire Democratic Member of Trade Commission

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 9/22/2025

The Supreme Court cleared the way for President Trump to fire Rebecca Slaughter, the sole remaining Democrat on the Federal Trade Commission. The ruling, while provisional, is significant because the high court also said it will hear arguments in December on overturning a 90-year-old precedent that allowed Congress to set up independent, nonpartisan agencies insulated from political interference by the president if they do not wield executive power.

Even Without Formal Charges, Trump’s DOJ Can Punish Critics

MSN – Perry Stein and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 9/23/2025

Prosecutors have struggled to build viable cases against Sen. Adam Schiff and other opponents of President Trump for mortgage fraud. Erik Siebert, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, resigned under pressure from the White House after prosecutors in his office said evidence did not support bringing such charges against New York Attorney General Letitia James. Siebert’s resignation, and increasing pressure on prosecutors in other jurisdictions, underscores the administration’s apparent willingness to ignore long-standing rules around criminal investigations to target people perceived to be political opponents.

Supreme Court Poised to Shake Up Midterm Elections

MSN – Jack Birle (Washington Examiner) | Published: 9/22/2025

The Supreme Court will hear three cases in the coming months that could have ramifications for campaigns, elections, and who controls the U.S. House. While the court has yet to schedule its arguments for NRSC v. FEC, the justices’ ruling is slated to have the most immediate effect on campaigns. The FEC’s coordinated spending limits between political parties and candidates have remained in place despite the Supreme Court lifting different limits as unconstitutional in recent years, but the case could open the floodgates to more coordinated spending.

Pentagon Demands Journalists Pledge to Not Obtain Unauthorized Material

MSN – Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 9/19/2025

The Trump administration unveiled a new crackdown on journalists at the Pentagon, saying it will require them to pledge they would not gather any information, even unclassified, that has not been expressly authorized for release. Under the policy, the Pentagon may revoke press passes for anyone it deems a security threat. Possessing confidential or unauthorized information, under the new rules, would be grounds for a journalist’s press pass to be revoked.

Judge Tosses Trump’s $15B Defamation Suit Against New York Times, Penguin Random Hous

MSN – Peter Charalambous (ABC News) | Published: 9/19/2025

A federal judge tossed President Trump’s $15 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times and Penguin Random House, calling the complaint “decidedly improper and impermissible.” U.S. District Court Judge Steven Merryday struck the complaint and gave the president’s lawyers 28 days to refile their lawsuit. Merryday said the complaint contains eighty pages of repetitive claims and praise for Trump, but fails to establish the two counts of defamation alleged.

Trump Designates ‘Antifa’ a Terrorist Group, but Experts Say Legality Is Unclear

MSN – Niha Masih, Vivian Ho, and Mariana Alfaro (Washington Post) | Published: 9/22/2025

President Trump signed an executive order designating “antifa,” a decentralized, leftist ideology adhered to by various individuals and groups, as a “domestic terrorist organization,” days after raising the prospect in the wake of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s fatal shooting. The U.S. has no legal mechanism for labeling domestic organizations as terrorist groups. Experts also said it remains unclear how such a designation would work for a broad movement rather than a distinct group and expressed concern it could be used to justify a crackdown on the political left more generally.

FBI Says It Found Classified Documents in John Bolton’s DC Office

MSN – Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 9/24/2025

FBI agents executing a search warrant at former national security adviser John Bolton’s Washington office turned up documents marked as classified, according to a court filing. Search warrant applications indicated FBI agents were seeking evidence related to three felony offenses, including gathering, transmitting, or losing national defense information in violation of the Espionage Act, and retaining classified information without permission.

Federal Judge Declines to Reinstate Inspectors General Fired by Trump

MSN – Kelly Kasulis Cho (Washington Post) | Published: 9/25/2025

A federal judge declined to reinstate eight inspectors general fired by President Trump as part of a purge of government watchdogs in the early days of his second term, though she agreed the terminations were unlawful. The inspectors general sued Trump in February, claiming they were dismissed illegally. The lawsuit underscored widespread concern that Trump sought to purge federal watchdogs and install loyalists in the crucial role of investigating government agencies for fraud, waste and abuse.

Va. Federal Prosecutors Preparing to Seek Comey Indictment, People Familiar with Matter Say

MSN – Salvador Rizzo, Jeremy Roebuck, and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 9/24/2025

The Justice Department is preparing to seek an indictment against former FBI Director James Comey for allegedly giving false testimony to Congress. The effort comes days after President Trump demanded prosecutors use the criminal justice system to punish his political opponents. The investigation centers on testimony Comey gave before the Senate Judiciary Committee about the FBI’s missteps in the “Crossfire Hurricane” probe, which had delved into possible but ultimately unproven collaboration between Russia and Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.

Hobbled Federal Campaign Finance Enforcer Loses Another Member

MSN – Faith Wardwell (Politico) | Published: 9/25/2025

The vice chair of the FEC will resign from his post after five years with the agency, leaving just two commissioners behind as the agency has gone months without quorum. James Trainor said he would step down in October and is “seriously evaluating” a bid to replace the U.S. House seat left vacant by Rep. Chip Roy. Trainor’s departure lands yet another blow to the FEC after another three commissioners departed their roles earlier this year.

New York City May Move Its Mayoral Elections to Even Years. It’d Be Part of a Trend

NPR – Ashley Lopez | Published: 9/24/2025

One of the most closely watched elections this fall is New York City’s mayoral race. But New York voters will also weigh in on a lesser-known proposal that could move future city elections to even-numbered years. It is part of a growing trend to consolidate election dates – adding local races to the ballot during presidential and midterm elections. Proponents of the effort say it counters persistently low turnout for local elections, despite concerns about local issues and candidates getting overshadowed.

Judge Rules Feds Can’t Require States to Cooperate on Immigration to Get Disaster Money

Yahoo News – Michael Casey (Associated Press) | Published: 9/24/2025

A federal judge ruled it is unconstitutional for the Trump administration to require states to cooperate on immigration enforcement actions to get funding for disasters, which is overseen by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. U.S. District Court Judge William Smith found the “contested conditions are arbitrary and capricious” and the actions are unconstitutional because they are “coercive, ambiguous, unrelated to the purpose of the federal grants.”

Jimmy Kimmel Advocates for Free Speech, Slams FCC Chair in Late-Night Return

Yahoo News – Emily Yahr (Washington Post) | Published: 9/24/2025

Jimmy Kimmel returned to late-night television to a standing ovation from his studio audience as he talked about the controversy that saw his show temporarily removed from ABC’s airwaves after comments he made about the killing of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk. Kimmel thanked many people for their support and delivered a passionate call for free speech. He said he was moved to see people on both sides of the aisle criticize what appeared to be the head of a government agency suggesting that he would attempt to shut down or censor the show of a comedian he did not like.

Tom Homan Was Investigated for Accepting $50,000 from Undercover FBI Agents. Trump’s DOJ Shut It Down.

Yahoo News – Carol Leonnig and Ken Dilanian (MSNBC) | Published: 9/20/2025

In an undercover operation last year, the FBI recorded Tom Homan, now the White House border czar, accepting $50,000 in cash after indicating he could help the agents, who were posing as business executives, win government contracts in a second Trump administration. The FBI and the Justice Department planned to wait to see whether Homan would deliver on his alleged promise once he became the nation’s top immigration official. But in recent weeks, Trump appointees officially closed the investigation, after FBI Director Kash Patel requested a status update on the case.

Ryan Routh Found Guilty of Trying to Assassinate Donald Trump at Florida Golf Course

Yahoo News – Christopher Cann, Julius Whigham II, and Hannah Phillips (USA Today) | Published: 9/23/2025

A jury found Ryan Routh guilty of trying to kill Donald Trump at one of his Florida golf courses last year. Routh was convicted of attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, a charge carrying a possible sentence of life in prison. Authorities said Routh armed himself with a rifle outside the fence of Trump International Golf Club and waited over 11 hours for Trump to walk into his line of sight. Prosecutors say the plot was thwarted by a Secret Service agent who spotted Routh and opened fire, leading him to drop his rifle.

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – Edmonton Event Held for Liberal Ministers, MPs Raised Concern Over Lobbying Rules

iAsk.ca – Stephanie Levitz and Robert Fife (Globe and Mail) | Published: 9/18/2025

A real estate executive, a lobbyist, and a banker held a reception for cabinet ministers and Members of Parliament on the margins of the government’s recent caucus meeting in Edmonton, raising concerns within the Liberal Party that the event could be in breach of federal lobbying rules. The event was called The Western Exchange, and was held at the bar of the JW Marriott on September 10.

Arizona – Appeals Court Rejects New Voter-Behavior Rules for Arizona Polling Sites

Arizona Daily Star – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 9/16/2025

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes cannot enforce his ban on offensive or insulting speech at and around polling places, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled. The provisions Fontes included in the Elections Procedures manual are so broad they could criminalize unintentional conduct, the court concluded. Judge Kim Wardlaw, writing for the unanimous three-judge panel, said threat of prosecution could “chill” individuals from engaging in otherwise legal political activity.

Arizona – Adelita Grijalva Wins US House Special Election in Arizona, Delivering Decisive Signature for Epstein Files Push

MSN – Molly English (CNN) | Published: 9/24/2025

Democrat Adelita Grijalva won a special election in Arizona’s Seventh Congressional District, which will deliver the decisive signature to the push for a vote to release the Jeffrey Epstein case files. Discharge petitions historically have a bad track record of forcing a vote on the floor, mostly because lawmakers in the majority are wary of taking a stand against leadership. The Epstein issue, however, has animated some Republican members.

Arkansas – Bloggers File Ethics Complaint Against Arkansas Attorney General, Two Lawmakers and Related PACs

Yahoo News – Sonny Albarado (Arkansas Advocate) | Published: 9/22/2025

Complaints filed with the Arkansas Ethics Commission claim three Republican state officials and PACs tied to them “appear to have repeatedly and willfully violated” state campaign finance law. The co-founders of an online legislation tracking and analysis firm alleges Attorney General Tim Griffin, state Rep. David Ray, and state Sen. Ben Gilmore and PACs associated with them violated campaign contribution limits and prohibitions on illegal coordination of contributions, the use of public property for campaign purposes, and public servants receiving outside payment for carrying out official duties.

California – They Fought for Independent California Redistricting. Now They’re Sitting Out a Gerrymander

MSN – Jeremy White (Politico) | Published: 9/22/2025

Republicans fighting Gov. Gavin Newsom’s redistricting campaign in California have reassembled much of the coalition that brought independent lines to the state more than a decade ago. There is one big exception: good government groups that once helped to strip line-drawing power from state lawmakers. It reflects the intensified partisanship of the Trump era, as Common Cause and groups like it work to square their longstanding opposition to gerrymandering with a sense that American democracy is in peril.

California – Oakland’s Public Ethics Commission Has a New Leader

MSN – Darwin BondGraham (Oaklandside) | Published: 9/18/2025

The Oakland Public Ethics Commission appointed Suzanne Doran as executive director. Doran will lead the commission’s staff of eight professionals who are charged with enforcing the city’s campaign and ethics laws, investigating ethics complaints, and ensuring greater trust and accountability in city government. Commission Chairperson Francis Upton IV said commissioners ultimately chose Doran because of her experience and qualifications.

California – Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore More Than $500 Million in Research Funds to UCLA

MSN – Eric He (Politico) | Published: 9/22/2025

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restart the flow of about $500 million in funding for scientific research it withheld from the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), sparing the university for now from a devastating fiscal blow. While only temporary, the ruling was a significant victory for UCLA and the rest of the University of California system, which has been caught up in a campaign by federal officials to punish high profile universities for what conservatives allege was their overly permissive response to student protests over Israel’s war in Gaza and failure to address antisemitism on their campuses.

District of Columbia – A Statue of Trump and Epstein Holding Hands in D.C. Is removed as Fast as It Appeared

NPR – Rachel Treisman | Published: 9/24/2025

A statue of President Trump holding hands with Jeffrey Epstein appeared briefly on the District of Columbia’s National Mall, only to be removed after less than a day. Trump has repeatedly downplayed his relationship with Epstein, the convicted sex offender who died in jail. while a National Park Service permit issued for the statue allowed it to remain there until September 28, eyewitness video showed U.S. Park Police hauling it onto a truck before sunrise on September 24.

Georgia – Macon Mayor Fined for Campaign Finance Violations. What We Know.

Yahoo News – Myracle Lewis (Macon Telegraph) | Published: 9/18/2025

The Georgia State Ethics Commission fined Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller $5,000 for violating the state’s campaign finance laws. Miller reached a consent agreement with the commission to resolve findings that he improperly transferred $220,000 in excess campaign contributions to a nonprofit organization he helped establish two years ago.

Hawaii – Judge To Decide Fate of CEO Accused of Illegal Campaign Donations

Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 9/24/2025

A state judge says she will decide within 30 days whether the case of a Hawaii businessperson accused of funneling campaign contributions through subordinates should proceed. Prosecutors allege JL Capital Chief Executive Officer Tim Lee reimbursed employees for donations they made to the Honolulu mayoral campaigns of Keith Amemiya and Kym Pine in 2020. State law prohibits political donations in the name of anyone other than the source of the money.

Indiana – Governor Expands Cabinet Roles – But How Far Can Dual Office Holding Go in Indiana?

Yahoo News – Casey Smith (Indiana Capital Chronicle) | Published: 9/22/2025

Gov. Mike Braun’s decision to give two of his top officials additional leadership posts has revived a longstanding constitutional question in Indiana: when can one person legally hold two government offices at once? In August, Secretary of Education Katie Jenner was confirmed as the state’s next higher education commissioner, while also keeping her K-12 role. Following the abrupt resignation of Jennifer-Ruth Green, Indiana State Police Superintendent Anthony Scott was tapped by Braun to take on a second job serving as the secretary of public safety.

Maine – Democratic Fundraiser ActBlue Fined $100K by Maine Campaign Finance Watchdog

Portland Press Herald – Rachel Ohm | Published: 9/24/2025

ActBlue, a national online fundraising platform for Democrats, was fined $100,000 by Maine’s campaign finance watchdog for filing a report two weeks late. The fine is among the largest penalties the Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices has ever assessed and the largest for a registered political group that missed a published deadline. Jeff Hunter, an attorney for ActBlue, acknowledged fault at a commission meeting, attributing the late filing to a “kind of a perfect storm.”

Massachusetts – Former UMass Amherst Provost Pays $10,000 for Violating Conflict of Interest Law

MSN – Namu Sampath (MassLive) | Published: 9/24/2025

A former University of Massachusetts Amherst provost paid a $10,000 civil penalty for hiring her brother to positions in her department, the State Ethics Commission said. Heather Sharpes-Smith, former associate provost for instructional design and technology, violated the conflict-of-interest law when she asked whether an “unnamed guy” could be hired to a temporary position until a more permanent position was available. That person was her brother, the commission said.

Nebraska – Feds Say Former Nebraska Liquor Official Helped Strip Club in Exchange for Free Lap Dances, Sexual Favors

Courthouse News Service – Hillel Aron | Published: 9/24/2025

The former head of Nebraska’s liquor commission has been charged with fraud and is accused of providing favors to a strip club in exchange for money, free lap dances, and sexual favors. Employees of The Office Gentleman’s Club would, according to the indictment, “note on sticky notes the amount of money taken out of the business safe in order to provide to Hobert Rupe.” The sticky notes would read COB: the cost of doing business.

Nevada – Clark County Commissioners Violated Ethics Law by Failing to Disclose Free F1 Tickets

MSN – Mary Hynes (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 9/23/2025

The failure of five Clark County commissioners to fully disclose accepting free tickets to the Las Vegas Grand Prix constitutes a non-willful violation of Nevada’s ethics law, according to an agreement approved by the state Ethics Commission. Each county commissioner accepted a ticket or pass worth $10,900 to all four days of events at the inaugural Formula One race in November 2023.

Nevada – Lombardo, Ethics Commission Settle Long-Running Dispute Over Use of Sheriff’s Badge, Office

Nevada Independent – Tabitha Mueller | Published: 9/23/2025

The long-running saga surrounding Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo’s use of his Clark County sheriff’s badge and uniform during his first campaign for office finally ended with a settlement agreement finding the governor had not purposefully violated the ethics law and would be assessed a $5,000 payment. The Ethics Commission’ss attorney, Elizabeth Bassett, added that though the panel often includes a requirement for ethics training, that part was left out because Lombardo voluntarily underwent the training after he became governor.

New York – Democratic Elected Officials Arrested at ICE Facility in New York City

MSN – María Luisa Paúl and Grace Moon (Washington Post) | Published: 9/18/2025

More than a dozen New York elected officials, all members of the Democratic Party, were arrested at a federal building in Manhattan while seeking access to a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement holding facility and protesting the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign. A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction requiring the agency to limit capacity, improve cleanliness, and expand access to legal phone calls at the facility. Immigration detention facilities fall under federal oversight, giving members of Congress the right to visit and inspect them. State and local lawmakers do not have that authority.

Ohio – Ohio Can Ban Foreign Donations to Ballot Campaigns, Appeals Court Rules

MSN – Jessie Balmert (Columbus Dispatch) | Published: 9/16/2025

Ohio can ban green card holders and foreign nationals from donating to statewide ballot campaigns without violating the First Amendment, a federal appeals court ruled. A divided Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals panel said the state can enforce the ban while a lawsuit challenging it is pending.

Ohio – Cleveland Heights Mayor Awarded Lucrative Graphic Design Contracts to Longtime Friend, Then Gave Her Full-Time Job

MSN – Cory Shaffer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 9/24/2025

Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren, who voters recently recalled, awarded multiple lucrative graphic design contracts to a longtime friend before hiring her to a full-time city position last year. Frances Collazo, who at the time lived in central Ohio, received more than $65,000 in city contracts from January to October 2024. One of the projects she worked on was never put out to bid. Another saw Collazo win the contract, even though her bid was twice as high as any other. The city paid her $12,000 to redesign the Planning Department’s website, a project the city did not ultimately implement.

Ohio – Ohio Lawmakers’ Texts, Emails Blocked from Public Scrutiny Under New Secrecy Law

MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 9/24/2025

Beginning on September 29, Ohio lawmakers’ text messages and emails between each other and their staff will be exempted from public-records disclosure for up to two years. The changes are the most significant restrictions to state public-records law regarding the Legislature in more than a quarter century. Critics say the new restrictions will allow lawmakers to keep the inner workings of the lawmaking process secret from the public.

Rhode Island – McKee Advisor Involved in ‘Fixed’ ILO Deal Cleared of Lobbying Complaint

MSN – Patrick Anderson (Providence Journal) | Published: 9/19/2025

Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore’s office cleared Michael Magee, a confidant of Gov. Dan McKee, of violating state lobbying laws for helping steer a pandemic-era education contract to the ILO Group. Common Cause Rhode Island filed a complaint against Magee last year. It argued he was legally required to register as a lobbyist in 2021 when he worked with McKee’s office to hire a firm founded by a former subordinate.

Tennessee – Glen Casada, Former TN House Speaker, Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison in Mailer Scheme

MSN – Evan Mealins (Nashville Tennessean) | Published: 9/23/2025

Former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada was sentenced to three years and ordered to pay a $30,000 fine after his conviction on public corruption charges. Casada was found guilty for his role in what prosecutors describe as an unlawful scheme to take advantage of a state allowance for lawmakers to send informational mailers.He pressured state bureaucrats to approve payments for mailers to a shadowy political consulting company called Phoenix Solutions.

Texas – Ethics Agency Fines Former Texas Lawmaker $105K for Violating Revolving Door Law

MSN – Taylor Goldenstein (Houston Chronicle) | Published: 9/18/2025

A former Texas lawmaker who went on to work as a lobbyist was fined $105,500 by the state Ethics Commission skirting a “revolving door” law he helped write. The fine against Chris Paddie is the highest imposed by the commission in 15 years. Paddie retired in 2022 after chairing a powerful House committee that was tasked with holding energy firms accountable for failures during the state’s deadly 2021 winter storm. He later registered as a lobbyist and took on several of those same companies as clients.

Texas – Republican Redistricting Is Sowing Chaos in Houston

San Francisco Examiner – J. David Goodman (New York Times) | Published: 9/22/2025

First came the Republican gerrymander in Texas. Now comes the Democratic chaos in Houston. A certain amount of confusion is likely to play out in districts from the Rio Grande Valley to suburban Dallas, as voters and candidates adjust to new lines that are usually redrawn only once a decade. But Texas’ 18th House district is feeling it now, thanks to the unexpected death of Rep. Sylvester Turner, just weeks into this session of Congress; a special election that was delayed by Gov. Greg Abbott to help Republican leaders in Washington navigate their narrow House majority; and new district lines that will take effect soon after the special election.

September 25, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Hawaii: “Pay to Play: Hawai’i CEO pressured staff to make political gifts” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat Maine: “Democratic Fundraiser ActBlue Fined $100K by Maine Campaign Finance Watchdog” by Rachel Ohm for Portland Press Herald Elections […]

September 24, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Arkansas: “Bloggers File Ethics Complaint Against Arkansas Attorney General, Two Lawmakers and Related PACs” by Sonny Albarado (Arkansas Advocate) for Yahoo News Georgia: “Macon Mayor Fined for Campaign Finance Violations. What We Know.” by Myracle Lewis (Macon Telegraph) […]

September 23, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Elections Texas: “Republican Redistricting Is Sowing Chaos in Houston” by J. David Goodman (New York Times) for San Francisco Examiner Ethics National: “Disney Brings Back Jimmy Kimmel, Sidelined After Charlie Kirk Comments” by Scott Nover (Washington Post) for MSN National: “Supreme Court Allows Trump to […]

September 22, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Ethics California: “Oakland’s Public Ethics Commission Has a New Leader” by Darwin BondGraham (Oaklandside) for MSN National: “In Pressuring ABC Over Kimmel, Trump May Have Crossed a Constitutional Line” by Adam Liptak (New York Times) for Seattle Times National: “Pentagon […]

September 19, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – September 19, 2025

National/Federal After Kirk Killing, Political Leaders Pull Back from Public Appearances MSN – Patrick Marley and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 9/13/2025 Elected officials and other political leaders are canceling or postponing in-person events, aiming to beef up security, […]

National/Federal

After Kirk Killing, Political Leaders Pull Back from Public Appearances

MSN – Patrick Marley and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 9/13/2025

Elected officials and other political leaders are canceling or postponing in-person events, aiming to beef up security, and weighing how to engage with the public after the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk intensified concerns that once-routine appearances have become too dangerous. Even before Kirk was shot dead, a wave of political violence had increased unease among public officials. Now, that anxiety has reached a new level, adding urgency to discussions in Congress, at state Capitols, and among activists and candidates.

Nadine Menendez, Wife of Ex-New Jersey Senator, Sentenced to 4.5 Years in Prison

MSN – Ella Lee (The Hill) | Published: 9/11/2025

The wife of former U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez was sentenced to more than four years in prison for her role in a scheme to trade her husband’s political power for lavish bribes. Nadine Menendez was convicted in April of plotting with her husband, the former chair of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee, to exchange his clout for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, gold bars, and a Mercedes-Benz.

Appeals Court Allows Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook to Keep Her Job

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 9/15/2025

A divided federal appeals court ruled Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook can keep her job, turning aside an appeal by the Trump administration that sought to fire her ahead of the central bank’s key meeting this week on setting interest rates. Trump has accused Cook of mortgage fraud, a charge she denies, and has sought her dismissal, but the three-judge panel said the president violated Cook’s rights by not giving her a chance to defend herself against the accusations.

More Employers Fire Workers Over Kirk Posts as Pressure from Right Mounts

MSN – Taylor Telford and Faiz Siddiqui (Washington Post) | Published: 9/16/2025

The wave of companies and other institutions firing or suspending employees over what they have said in reaction to the killing of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk has expanded in recent days, as some of his supporters in and outside the government amp up a push against speech they say crosses lines. At a time when people have unprecedented ability to share their instant reactions with vast audiences on social media, the actions by employers have stirred a debate over employees’ speech rights, the role of public pressure campaigns, and what is appropriate public commentary on a violent event like Kirk’s killing.

Retired 4-Star Navy Admiral Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Bribery Plot

MSN – Michael Kunzelman (Associated Press) | Published: 9/16/2025

A retired four-star U.S. Navy admiral was sentenced to six years in prison for his conviction on corruption charges that he agreed to exchange a military contract for a lucrative postretirement job. Retired Admiral Robert Burke, once the second-highest uniformed officer in the Navy, was commanding its forces in Europe and Africa when he engaged in a bribery plot with two business executives, according to federal prosecutors.

ActBlue Acquiring Dem Digital Firm as Its Mission Grows

MSN – Jessica Piper (Politico) | Published: 9/17/2025

ActBlue is expanding beyond online fundraising by buying the Democratic digital organizing firm Impactive. It is the latest example of steps taken by ActBlue, the biggest donation processing tool for Democrats for two decades, to further expand its role in the campaign ecosystem. The platform has pitched the acquisition as serving smaller campaigns that cannot afford the more advanced digital tools used by large national groups.

Effort to Censure Rep. Ilhan Omar Over Charlie Kirk Comments Fails

MSN – Kadia Goba (Washington Post) | Published: 9/17/2025

A resolution to censure U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar over comments and a social media repost she made regarding conservative leader Charlie Kirk’s death failed. The resolution to censure Omar was the first legislative effort to punish someone perceived as a Kirk critic to come to a vote. Though it has failed, others remain in motion.

ABC Yanks Jimmy Kimmel’s Show ‘Indefinitely’ After Threat from Trump’s FCC Chair

MSN – Brian Stelter, Elizabeth Wagmeister, and Liam Reilly (CNN) | Published: 9/18/2025

Walt Disney-owned ABC said it was pulling “Jimmy Kimmel Live” off the air indefinitely, after comments by the late-night show’s host about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk prompted a threat by the head of the Federal Communications Commission against Disney. At least two major owners of ABC-affiliated stations subsequently said they would preempt Kimmel’s show, sparking speculation the owners were trying to curry favor with the Trump administration. The local media conglomerates are each seeking mergers that would require administration approval.

From the States and Municipalities

Europe – France Targets Non-EU Lobbyists in New Foreign Interference Crackdown

Euractiv – Magnus Lund Nielsen | Published: 9/18/2025

France will set up a new public transparency registry of foreign influence activities next year, as part of broader efforts to curb external interference. Under a new decree, anyone lobbying or carrying out political influence work in France “under the direction or control” of a non-European Union country will be required to sign up with France’s lobbyists watchdog, the High Authority for Transparency in Public Life.

Alaska – Former Alaska AG Treg Taylor Asks for Exemption from Financial Disclosure Requirements

Yahoo News – James Brooks (Alaska Beacon) | Published: 9/12/2025

Ahead of an expected run for governor, former Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor is asking the state’s campaign finance regulator to exempt him from a law that requires he disclose who is renting apartments in several Anchorage buildings he owns. Under state law, public officials must file an annual financial disclosure form that lists the sources of their income, including rental income, if it is above $1,000.

Arizona – Arizona Supreme Court Weighs Fate of Voter-Approved ‘Dark Money’ Disclosure Law

Yahoo News – Jerod MacDonald-Evoy (Arizona Mirror) | Published: 9/11/2025

Since Arizona voters in 2022 approved Proposition 211, the Voters Right to Know Act, opponents of the law have challenged its constitutionality. It requires the disclosure of any “original source” of contributions greater than $5,000 if the money is used to pay for media expenditures of more than $50,000 in a statewide election or $25,000 in a local election. At the Arizona Supreme Court, plaintiffs said mandating disclosure of the source of political spending violates the state constitution’s protections of free speech, association, and separation of powers.

Arizona – Coconino Prosecutors Will Investigate Rodney Glassman Over Alleged Campaign Finance Violations

Yahoo News – Jerod MacDonald-Evoy (Arizona Mirror) | Published: 9/12/2025

After numerous counties turned down the case over the past few weeks, Coconino County agreed to investigate allegations that Republican candidate for state Attorney General Rodney Glassman violated campaign finance law. Glassman, a perennial candidate for elected office in Arizona, is accused of accepting at least 30 contributions above the contribution limits spelled out by state law.

California – California Passes Bill Curbing Utilities Use of Ratepayer Money for Political Spending

Energy and Policy Institute – Stephanie Chase | Published: 9/16/2025

California is the seventh state to pass a bill limiting investor-owned utilities from using customer money to pay for political and lobbying costs. Assembly Bill 1167 includes provisions prohibiting investor-owned utilities from using customer money to support utility political activities, promotional advertising, and dues for trade associations that conduct political activities.

California – Alameda County Board Rejects Bid to Raise Donation Limits in Supervisor Campaigns

MSN – Kiley Russell (Bay City News) | Published: 9/12/2025

The Alameda County Board of Supervisors declined a proposal to substantially increase campaign contribution limits. The proposal would have increased the amount of money individual donors can give supervisor candidates from $20,000 to $40,000 per election. It would have also increased the limit for donors giving to candidates for countywide offices like district attorney or sheriff from $40,000 to $60,000 per election.

California – Jesus Cardenas Fined $5,000 for San Diego Ethics Violation

MSN – Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union-Tribune) | Published: 9/12/2025

Jesus Cardenas agreed to pay $5,000 to settle allegations he violated San Diego’s ethics rules when he participated in lobbying contacts as a city official. Cardenas ran the political consulting firm Grassroots Resources while also serving as chief of staff to Councilperson Stephen Whitburn. Cardenas took meetings with client Blue Water Government Affairs in 2021, months after disclosing the lobbying firm paid him more than $10,000 for political consulting work.

California – UC Takes Heat for Sharing Student, Faculty Names with Trump Administration

Yahoo News – Eric He (Politico) | Published: 9/16/2025

The University of California at Berkeley faced continued backlash for its decision to disclose the names of 160 students, faculty, and staff to Trump administration officials as part of an investigation into allegations the school fostered an atmosphere of antisemitism. The disclosure of the names comes as the federal government continues to wage a campaign to upend elite institutions of higher education that it launched in the wake of campus protests over Israel’s war against Hamas.

Florida – Former Miami-Dade Commissioner Gets Prison Time but Allowed to Remain Free for Now

Yahoo News – Douglas Hanks (Miami Herald) | Published: 9/15/2025

Former Miami-Dade County Commissioner Joe Martinez received a nearly three-year prison sentence for what a jury concluded was accepting money in exchange for sponsoring legislation to help a business owner. Judge Miguel de la O said he thought the 34-month minimum sentence called for under state guidelines was too harsh. He is allowing Martinez to remain free during the appeals process, which is expected to take at least a year.

Georgia – Fani Willis Loses Bid to Regain Control of Trump Georgia Case

MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 9/16/2025

The Georgia Supreme Court declined to hear Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis’s appeal of a lower-court decision that disqualified her from the criminal racketeering case against President Trump and several allies charged with illegally conspiring to overturn Trump’s 2020 election loss in the state. The decision probably dooms the high-profile prosecution, the last active criminal case against Trump, who has sought to have charges dropped, citing his return to the presidency.

Hawaii – Hawai’i Supreme Court: OHA trustees bound by state ethics code

Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 9/17/2025

The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs are considered state employees and must abide by the state ethics code. The ruling stems from a series of ethics violations against former Trustee Rowena Akana, who was found to have accepted illegal gifts and used her trustee allowance for personal use on food purchases and Hawaiian Airlines Premier Club membership. The court’s opinion also upheld the 47 ethics violations against Akana as well as a $23,000 fine.

Illinois – Ex-Ald. Walter Burnett, Mayor’s Pick to Head the CHA, and His Wife Got Over $260,000 in Subsidized Rent Payments as Landlords, Records Show

Chicago Sun Times – Lizzie Kane | Published: 9/15/2025

Former Ald. Walter Burnett – Mayor Brandon Johnson’s pick to run the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) – and his wife Darlena Williams-Burnett have been paid more than $260,000 as housing voucher landlords for the agency since 2007. The Burnetts have had 10 contracts for properties rented to CHA voucher holders, including two ongoing contracts and five that were active while Williams-Burnett worked for the city agency. The payments to Burnett and his wife could be a roadblock to his appointment to lead the nation’s third-largest public housing authority.

Maryland – Campaign Announcements Highlight ‘Glaring Hole’ in Maryland Election Law

MSN – Sam Janesch (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 9/17/2025

When Sen. Steve Hershey said he might run for governor of Maryland, he said he would launch an exploratory committee to begin raising money and engage with voters before making a final decision. That was a slight misnomer, according to the State Board of Elections. Hershey, instead, is in the process of creating the type of formal campaign committee he could continue to use if he decides to run later this year. But the announcement reignited concerns about a loophole in the law in which a potential candidate can raise money in unlimited amounts without disclosing the donors to “explore” their viability.

Massachusetts – Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott Accused of Using Campaign Cash for Personal Use

MSN – Chris Van Buskirk (Boston Herald) | Published: 9/15/2025

Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott agreed to pay a $7,500 penalty and hand over tens of thousands of dollars in campaign cash to resolve allegations he misused political funds to contract services for personal business ventures instead of efforts to stay in elected office. In an agreement with the Office of Campaign and Political Finance, regulators said McDermott made more than $31,000 in payments to 10 vendors where the documentation was either incomplete or indicated the money was used to serve a now-defunct real estate holding company or himself.

Massachusetts – MassGOP to Pay $36K After Allegations of Illegal Donations

MSN – Ross Cristantiello (Boston.com) | Published: 9/11/2025

The Massachusetts Republican Party faced allegations of taking tens of thousands of dollars in unlawful donation, including from the campaign of a congressional candidate who is now serving prison time, and has now agreed to pay the state more than $36,000 in a settlement agreement. The Office of Campaign and Political Finance flagged 11 donations the GOP received in 2022. By far the largest contribution, a check for $27,723.45, came from the congressional campaign of Dean Tran.

Michigan – Michigan Democrats Propose Penalties for Lying About Elections

Yahoo News – Hayley Harding (Votebeat) | Published: 9/11/2025

Intentionally lying about elections could draw a fine under a new bill proposed by Michigan Senate Democrats. The legislation would impose a $1,000 fine on anyone who knowingly lies about elections or a voter’s eligibility. Employers who had someone working for them “for election-related purposes,” such as a lobbyist who suggests certain groups are not eligible to vote early, could face a fine of up to $10,000.

Minnesota – Democrat Elected to Fill Seat of Minnesota Lawmaker Killed in June

MSN – Patrick Svitek and Sabrina Rodriguez (Washington Post) | Published: 9/16/2025

Democrat Xp Lee won a somber special election to fill the seat of former Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman. Lee was projected to defeat Republican Ruth Bittner, keeping the seat in Democratic hands and restoring an even divide between the two major parties in the House. The candidates competed in a race they wished was not happening. Hortman was shot dead, along with her husband, at their home in June.

Missouri – Missouri Senate Passes Trump-Backed Plan That Could Help Republicans Win an Additional US House Seat

MSN – David Lieb (Associated Press) | Published: 9/12/2025

Missouri Republicans passed a redistricting plan that could help Republicans win an additional U.S. House seat in next year’s elections. The Senate vote sends the redistricting plan to Gov. Mike Kehoe, who said he will sign it into law soon. But opponents immediately announced a referendum petition that, if successful, could force a statewide vote on the new map.

New York – Former New York Prosecutor Maurene Comey Sues Over Firing by Justice Department

MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 9/15/2025

Maurene Comey, a former federal prosecutor who handled cases against sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, sued the Justice Department for firing her allegedly because her father is disliked by President Trump. The lawsuit alleges the Justice Department offered no rationale for Comey’s firing and it was an illegal and political move. Her father is James Comey, a former FBI director whom Trump has long criticized.

New York – Cuomo’s Campaign Unlocked Matching Funds on Donations from Minors in Violation of CFB Rules

Yahoo News – Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) | Published: 9/10/2025

Andrew Cuomo’s New York City mayoral campaign unlocked $4,000 in public matching funds off donations made in the names of minors in violation of fundraising compliance laws, according to records. The donors whose contributions produced the questionable matching cash include a five-year-old son of a prominent Cuomo supporter. The program’s rules are strict and include a prohibition on candidates seeking matching funds on contributions from anyone under 18.

Ohio – Cleveland City Council Votes to Censure Joe Jones After ‘Joking Remark’ About Killing a Staff Member

MSN – Sean McDonnell (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 9/15/2025

The Cleveland City Council censured Councilperson Joe Jones for breaking the workplace violence and standards of conduct policies. Jones said a “joking remark” he made was twisted and magnified into a controversy. Jones, who is accused of threatening to kill a staffer, said what was happening to him proved any member of the council could be targeted and punished without due process.

Oklahoma – Former Oklahoma Lawmaker Files Ballot Measure to Overhaul Legislative Process

Yahoo News – Barbara Hoberock (Oklahoma Voice) | Published: 9/17/2025

A former Oklahoma lawmaker wants to dramatically alter how the Legislature conducts business. Former Rep. Charles Key filed paperwork to circulate a proposed constitutional amendment that would require three bills from every lawmaker to be heard in committee. State Question 839 would also require any bills advanced from committee to be heard on the House or Senate floor. Key said lobbyists and large money donors behind the scenes pick which bills get heard.

Oklahoma – Gamefowl Commission to Pay $10,000 in Settlement with Oklahoma Ethics Commission

Yahoo News – Emma Murphy (Oklahoma Voice) | Published: 9/17/2025

The Oklahoma Gamefowl Commission PAC will pay $10,000 and dissolve following a settlement with the state Ethics Commission for violating campaign finance laws. The Gamefowl Commission, which had advocated for lessening cockfighting penalties, must dissolve within 30 days and cannot form a new affiliated PAC for two years.

Oregon – Oregon Ethics Commission to Investigate Travel by 4 Washington County Commissioners

MSN – Jamie Goldberg (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 9/12/2025

The Oregon Government Ethics Commission voted to investigate whether four members of the Washington County commission violated state ethics law during trips they took on behalf of the county sewer agency. Investigators said Chairperson Kathryn Harrington and commissioners Pam Treece, Jerry Willey, and Nafisa Fai may have committed violations by receiving airline miles for trips they took on behalf of the agency, Clean Water Services. In addition, investigators said Harrington and Treece may have violated rules by tacking on personal vacation to the business trips.

Rhode Island – Lawmakers Changed RI’s Campaign Finance Rules. It’s Giving Foulkes a 2026 Fundraising Edge.

USA Today – Patrick Anderson (Providence Journal) | Published: 9/15/2025

Former CVS executive Helena Foulkes, who is challenging Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee in a rematch of 2022, has built a healthy financial advantage, in part thanks to the higher individual donation limit that went into effect in 2024. Her ability to extract twice as much from each donor annually – $2,000 instead of $1,000 – has not only helped her to build a money edge over McKee, but also to narrow the financial gap with Rhode Island’s reigning fundraising champion, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, who shepherded the bill through the House and who could still decide to jump into the gubernatorial race.

Rhode Island – Former R.I. Senator and Housing Leader Fined $2,500 for Breaking Campaign Finance Laws

Yahoo News – Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) | Published: 9/17/2025

Former Rhode Island Senate Majority Leader Daniel Connors paid a $2,500 fine for unreported and misused campaign finance funds under an agreement with the Board of Elections. Connors has not held elected office since 2010. But he kept his campaign finance account open through subsequent jobs as a senior adviser to Gov. Gina Raimondo, and a high-ranking official under Gov. Dan McKee, including as interim secretary of the Department of Housing.

South Carolina – SC Supreme Court Upholds Voting Map, Throws Out Partisan Gerrymandering Claim

Yahoo News – Jessica Holdman (South Carolina Daily Gazette) | Published: 9/17/2025

The state Supreme Court upheld South Carolina’s congressional voting lines by ruling there is nothing unconstitutional about partisan gerrymandering. After the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in May 2024 that the lines did not racially discriminate, the League of Women Voters sued in state court, using Republicans’ arguments it was party, not race, that influenced the redrawing.

Tennessee – Cade Cothren, Aide to Ex-TN House Speaker Casada, Sentenced to 2.5 Years Prison

Yahoo News – Evan Mealins (Tennessean) | Published: 9/16/2025

Cade Cothren, former chief of staff to Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada, was sentenced to 30 months in prison and fined $25,000 for corruption tied to a political mailer scheme. Casada and Cothren were convicted of setting up a secret company called Phoenix Solutions that tapped into the state’s postage and printing program that provides House members $3,000 a year for constituent mailers.

Texas – Did the Top Texas Funeral Regulator Illegally Lobby the Legislature? The Law Is Murky, Experts Say

KERA – Toluwani Osibamowo | Published: 9/10/2025

In just two months, the Texas Funeral Service Commission (TFSC) fired its executive director, along with three people who supported him, sued the ex-employees who publicly discussed their firings, then dismissed that lawsuit. Before and after their firings, the former staffers maintained that Kristin Tips, TFSC’s head commissioner, improperly advocated for bills in the Legislature that could benefit her own funeral business and used state resources to do it, actions they say constitute illegal lobbying.

Utah – Utah Supreme Court Rejects Legislature’s Bid to Extend Use of Gerrymandered Congressional Maps, for Now

MSN – Emily Anderson Stern (Salt Lake Tribune) | Published: 9/15/2025

Current congressional maps drawn by the Utah Legislature in defiance of a passed voter initiative banning gerrymandering will, for now, not be reinstated, the state Supreme Court ruled. Attorneys for lawmakers asked that justices pause the portion of a District Court ruling that would have kept the boundaries in place until the Legislature adopts new ones and any appeals of the ruling conclude. If the high court had agreed, it would have opened the possibility of the current maps remaining in place for at least the 2026 midterm elections, if not longer.

Vermont – Ethics Take a Backseat in Vermont, Under-Funded Commission Not Taking New Municipal Cases

VTDigger.org – Auditi Guha | Published: 9/16/2025

The Vermont State Ethics Commission was established by the Legislature in 2018 as an independent, non-partisan agency to promote standards of ethical conduct in state government. A 2024 law gave it more purview over ethical standards for local governments, but the commission stopped offering services to municipalities in May, according to an announcement on the website, “due to lack of staffing.” It is continuing to accept complaints related to state government.

West Virginia – West Virginia Ethics Commission Promises to Focus on Mandatory Lobbyist Training

Parkersburg News and Sentinel – Steven Allen Adams | Published: 9/11/2025

A performance review of the West Virginia Ethics Commission conducted by legislative auditors revealed disparities between the commission The Performance Evaluation and Research Division found that while the commission demonstrated high effectiveness in ensuring lobbyists report their activities, the audit identified critical failures in the administration of ethics training requirements.

September 18, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Maryland: “Campaign Announcements Highlight ‘Glaring Hole’ in Maryland Election Law” by Sam Janesch (Baltimore Sun) for MSN National: “ActBlue Acquiring Dem Digital Firm as Its Mission Grows” by Jessica Piper (Politico) for MSN Rhode Island: “Former R.I. Senator […]

September 17, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Massachusetts: “Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott Accused of Using Campaign Cash for Personal Use” by Chris Van Buskirk (Boston Herald) for MSN Elections Minnesota: “Democrat Elected to Fill Seat of Minnesota Lawmaker Killed in June” by Patrick Svitek […]

September 16, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Arizona: “Coconino Prosecutors Will Investigate Rodney Glassman Over Alleged Campaign Finance Violations” by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy (Arizona Mirror) for Yahoo News California: “Alameda County Board Rejects Bid to Raise Donation Limits in Supervisor Campaigns” by Kiley Russell (Bay City News) for MSN Rhode […]

September 15, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Arizona: “Arizona Supreme Court Weighs Fate of Voter-Approved ‘Dark Money’ Disclosure Law” by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy (Arizona Mirror) for Yahoo News Massachusetts: “MassGOP to Pay $36K After Allegations of Illegal Donations” by Ross Cristantiello (Boston.com) for MSN New York: […]

September 12, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – September 12, 2025

National/Federal FBI Seized Computers, Papers Labeled ‘Trump’ During Bolton Search MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 9/4/2025 FBI agents seized computers, phones and reams of documents in the search of the home and office of former national security […]

National/Federal

FBI Seized Computers, Papers Labeled ‘Trump’ During Bolton Search

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 9/4/2025

FBI agents seized computers, phones and reams of documents in the search of the home and office of former national security adviser John Bolton. Search warrant records confirmed prosecutors are seeking to build a case against Bolton for alleged unauthorized removal of classified documents and violations of the Espionage Act involving improper transmission of national defense information. The most serious of those crimes carries potential punishment of up to a decade in prison.

Historic Peace Vigil Partially Dismantled After Trump Orders: ‘Take it down’

MSN – Marissa Land (Washington Post) | Published: 9/7/2025

Law enforcement officials dismantled parts of the White House Peace Vigil, which had stood for more than forty years and called for nuclear disarmament and an end to global conflict, after President Trump ordered it to be taken down as part of the clearing of homeless encampments in the nation’s capital. Federal officers picked apart the structure that shields protesters and their signs from the elements. The vigil is maintained by a rotating cast of volunteers who keep the protest going 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Appeals Court Upholds E. Jean Carroll’s $83.3 Million Defamation Judgment Against President Trump

MSN – Jake Offenhartz (Associated Press) | Published: 9/8/2025

A federal appeals court upheld a civil jury’s finding that President Trump must pay $83.3 million to E. Jean Carroll for his repeated social media attacks against the longtime advice columnist after she accused him of sexual assault. A three-judge panel of the Second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Trump’s appeal of the defamation award, finding that the “jury’s damages awards are fair and reasonable.”

House Committee Releases More Epstein Documents, Including ‘Birthday Book’

MSN – Kadia Goba and Katie Tarrant (Washington Post) | Published: 9/8/2025

The House Oversight Committee released hundreds of pages of documents it received from sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s estate, including a redacted version of a “birthday book” allegedly gifted to the deceased financier on his 50th birthday with messages from high-profile friends. Earlier in the day, Democrats on the committee released portions of the book, including a suggestive picture and note allegedly drawn by President Trump when he and Epstein were friends. White House officials have denied Trump drew the sketch or signed the note.

Chief Justice Allows Trump to Fire a Democratic FTC Commissioner for Now

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 9/8/2025

President Trump can fire a Democrat on the Federal Trade Commission while the Supreme Court considers whether to weigh in on a lawsuit challenging her dismissal, Chief Justice John Roberts ruled. Roberts did not offer a reason for the temporary ruling, but it signals the high court may be inclined to overturn an appeals court decision that affirmed Rebecca Slaughter’s reinstatement.

Paramount Picks Ombudsman to Review Complaints of Bias at CBS News

MSN – Jeremy Barr (Washington Post) | Published: 9/8/2025

Paramount selected Kenneth Weinstein, the former president and chief executive of the conservative-leaning Hudson Institute think tank, to serve as ombudsman and review editorial complaints raised against CBS News. The company agreed to appoint an ombudsman for at least two years as a condition of its merger with Skydance Media, which was approved by the Federal Communications Commission in July.

Rep. Luna’s Investment in a Donor’s Energy Firm Illustrates Potential Limits of a Stock Trading Ban

MSN – Scott Wong (NBC News) | Published: 9/8/2025

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has threatened to force a vote a bill banning lawmakers from owning or trading stocks. But Luna’s most recent financial disclosure shows she has a significant investment of her own, illustrating how lawmakers could hold assets that pose potential conflicts-of-interest, even if the stock trading ban becomes law. Luna invested $250,001 to $500,000 in America First Natural Resources (AFNR), a company founded by one of her political donors. Luna’s office said she owns no stock in AFNR, emphasizing she has another kind of “investment” and does not own stock in any company.

Judge Temporarily Halts Firing of Fed Governor Lisa Cook

MSN – Andrew Ackerman (Washington Post) | Published: 9/9/2025

A federal judge temporarily blocked President Trump from removing Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, an early victory in her push to remain on the central bank board while she challenges the president’s authority to dismiss her. Trump moved to fire Cook in August, citing allegations by a member of his administration that she had committed mortgage fraud. No criminal charges have been filed, and Cook denies wrongdoing. She sued to stop Trump from ousting her.

Defying Past Criticism, Trump Plans G-20 Summit at His Doral Resort

MSN – Natalie Allison and Michael Birnbaum (Washington Post) | Published: 9/5/2025

President Trump plans to host next year’s Group of 20 summit at his Doral golf resort in Florida, fulfilling his wish to host a major gathering of world leaders at one of his properties after bowing to criticism of self-dealing over a similar proposal during his first term. Trump’s decision reflects the unconstrained approach he has taken during his second term, rejecting the guardrails that once constrained him when it came to mixing personal business with his public office.

Trump Ally Charlie Kirk Gunned Down in Brazen Act of Public Violence

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck, Natalie Allison, Yvonne Wingett Sanchez, and Angie Orellana Hernandez (Washington Post) | Published: 9/10/2025

Charlie Kirk, a key ally of President Trump, was fatally shot during a campus event at a Utah university, a slaying that shook the worlds of politics and media and horrified a vast audience who watched viral video of the attack on their phones. Kirk was known as one of the right’s most prominent and polarizing figures after amassing a significant following through Turning Point USA, his conservative youth organization that has chapters on more than 3,500 college campuses.

Trump Administration Halts I.R.S. Crackdown on Major Tax Shelters

Seattle Times – Jesse Drucker (New York Times) | Published: 9/9/2025

The Trump administration is dismantling efforts by the IRS to shut down aggressive tax shelters used by America’s biggest multinational companies and wealthiest people. The administration, bowing to pressure from industry groups, right-wing activists, and congressional Republicans, is rolling back several IRS law enforcement efforts, including one aimed at a lucrative tax shelter used by companies. The IRS crackdown was projected to raise more than $100 billion over 10 years.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Horne Seeks Recusal of Justice Who Prosecuted Him Over Campaign Finance Laws

Yahoo News – Gloria Rebecca Gomez (Arizona Mirror) | Published: 9/5/2025

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne wants an Arizona Supreme Court justice who accused him of violating state campaign finance laws more than a decade ago to step away from a case that has the potential to give Horne drastically more power over how students are taught. In the motion, attorney Dennis Wilenchik argued that a political spat between Horne and Justice Bill Montgomery means the latter should not have any role in deciding the fate of Horne’s ongoing lawsuit.

Arizona – An Arizona Law Promised to End Secret Political Donations. Did It Work?

Yahoo News – Taylor Seely (Arizona Republic) | Published: 9/10/2025

A voter-approved law intended to force groups to reveal the “true sources” behind campaign spending, but a review of public records showed that often did not happen. In the first election where the disclosure law was in place, 40 percent of campaigns listed no donors at all. More often, the reports showed groups funneling tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to other groups, without reporting where the money originated.

California – How California Legislators Got More Than $820,000 in Travel in 2024

MSN – Jeremia Kimelman (CalMatters) | Published: 9/8/2025

Last year, corporations and nonprofits spent more than $820,000 to take dozens of California legislators on domestic and international trips. Nearly 100 groups sponsored trips for 92 lawmakers, about three-quarters of the Legislature, to destinations that included far-flung places such as Europe, Southeast Asia, and Israel. State law requires that organizations annually disclose any major donors who travel alongside elected officials, if the travel for elected officials in a year totals more than $10,000 or at least $5,000 to a single official and if the trip sponsorship accounts for at least one-third of the organization’s total expenses.

California – SF Eyes Subtle Spending Reform After Priciest Election Ever

San Francisco Examiner – Adam Shanks | Published: 9/9/2025

In an era of big money in local politics, watchdogs are proposing a set of changes to San Francisco’s campaign finance laws. The proposal comes less than a year after Mayor Daniel Lurie vastly outspent his opponents in a crowded mayoral race largely by funneling his own money into the campaign. In total, 2024 was the most expensive election year in San Francisco history, according to the city Ethics Commission.

California – Supreme Court Lifts Restrictions on ‘Roving’ ICE Raids in Los Angeles

Yahoo News – Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 9/8/2025

Los Angeles area based on broad criteria such as speaking Spanish or gathering at locations day laborers often congregate. The justices put on hold a lower court order that reined in what critics called “roving” raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. That judge found the tactics were likely unconstitutional because agents were detaining people without probable cause. Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote it was reasonable to briefly question people who meet multiple “common sense” criteria for possible illegal presence.

Florida – U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds Skirts Campaign Finance Laws in Dual Bids for Congress, Governor

WUSF – Melanie Payne (Florida Trident) | Published: 9/8/2025

In February, after an endorsement by President Trump, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds announced he was running to be Florida’s next governor. Donations began pouring into the Friends of Byron Donalds PAC totaling more than $22 million. But contributions to Byron Donalds for Congress did not stop, and the FEC has an issue with the Donalds’ campaign soliciting and collecting money for both.

Hawaii – Ex-Mitsunaga Secretary Charged for Illegal Political Donations

Honolulu Civil Beat – Christina Jedra | Published: 9/3/2025

A former secretary for a prominent Hawaii engineering firm was criminally charged with making illegal political contributions, a rare campaign finance indictment in a state with a history of “pay-to-play.” The attorney general’s office indicted Terri Ann Otani on four counts of making false name contributions. In July 2020, Otani allegedly donated a total of $2,000 to Honolulu mayoral candidate Colleen Hanabusa in the names of her sister and niece even though those family members were not the actual source of the money.

Illinois – ICE Launches ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ Targeting Immigrants in Chicago

MSN – Mariana Alfaro, Arelis Hernández, Marianne LeVine, and Kim Bellware (Washington Post) | Published: 9/8/2025

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said it launched an operation in Chicago as part of the Trump administration’s effort to target “sanctuary cities,” and immigrant advocates said several people in Hispanic communities have been detained. The number of reported arrests is relatively few, but immigrant rights advocates said the operation appears to mark a shift in tactics. Local activists said before this operation, agents presented warrants at specific homes or detained people at immigration court. They said stopping people on the street in what appeared to be a fairly random fashion is new.

Indiana – Remediation Document Reveals Ethics Concerns Before Indiana Cabinet Secretary Resignation

Yahoo News – Casey Smith and Niki Kelly (Indiana Capital Chronicle) | Published: 9/9/2025

A remediation agreement signed in July shows Jennifer-Ruth Green was already the subject of an inspector general investigation into alleged misuse of state resources and workplace misconduct before her sudden resignation as Indiana’s public safety secretary. Among the allegations against Green are claims she used state vehicles and travel cards for personal and political purposes and directed state employees to assist with those activities during work hours.

Louisiana – Landry Pays Fine, Discloses $13,540 in Free Travel in Deal to Drop Ethics Charges

Yahoo News – Greg LaRose and Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 9/5/2025

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry admitted to failing to report 19 instances of free travel he accepted as attorney general and governor, worth more than $13,500, under a settlement reached with the Louisiana Board of Ethics. The board fined the governor $900, though Landry could have faced tens of thousands of dollars in penalties for failing to disclose the complementary travel. The decision to drop the charges against Landry ends more than two years of deliberations with Landry’s attorneys since the charges were filed.

Massachusetts – Former Boston Councilor Sentenced for Kickback Scheme

MSN – Tréa Lavery (MassLive) | Published: 9/5/2025

A former Boston city councilor convicted on federal corruption charges was sentenced to one month in prison after pleading guilty to a kickback scheme earlier this year. In addition to the prison time, Tania Fernandes Anderson will serve three years of supervised release, during which she cannot hold any position with financial discretion, among other conditions. She will also be required to pay restitution and forfeiture of $13,000 and special assessments of $200.

Michigan – Judge Throws Out Charges Against GOP Would-Be Electors in Michigan

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 9/9/2025

A Michigan judge dismissed criminal charges against a group of people who were accused of attempting to falsely certify President Trump as the winner of the 2020 election in the battleground state, a major blow to prosecutors as similar cases in four other states have been muddied with setbacks. District Court Judge Kristen Simmons said she saw no intent to commit fraud in the defendants’ actions. They “seriously believed” there were problems with the election, the judge said. “… I believe they were executing their constitutional right to seek redress,” Simmons added.

Michigan – Consultant Charged in ‘Dark Money’ Scheme Continues to Aid Several Michigan GOP Candidates

Yahoo News – Kyle Davidson (Michigan Advance) | Published: 9/5/2025

A Republican consultant accused of fundraising violations in connection to a “dark money” scheme remains a key financial advisor for several GOP candidates and causes. Last year, the attorney general’s office brought several charges against Bright Spark Strategies co-founder Heather Lombardini, following an investigation into an alleged scheme in which two nonprofits funneled $2.6 million into the Unlock Michigan campaign, which aimed to repeal the emergency powers Gov. Gretchen Whitmer utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lombardini faces three misdemeanor charges and a felony for allegedly failing to file campaign finance disclosures.

Minnesota – Minneapolis Election Door-Knocking Dispute: Council member, park candidate feud with developer

MSN – Deena Winter (Minneapolis Star Tribune) | Published: 9/8/2025

A Minneapolis City Council member and a Park Board candidate claim a developer violated state law by refusing to allow their campaign workers into his buildings to knock on doors of potential voters. The law enacted last year allows candidates and campaign workers to campaign door-to-door in apartments, condo buildings, townhouses, college dorms, nursing homes, and mobile home parks. Building owners or managers who violate the law can face a civil penalty of up to $5,000 per violation and a petty misdemeanor charge.

Mississippi – It’s Not Just Trump. Red States Are Cracking Down on Their Own Blue Cities.

MSN – Molly Hennessy-Fiske (Washington Post) | Published: 9/8/2025

Defendants who appear in Jackson’s dilapidated county courthouse often wait more than a year to have cases heard, a backlog that local officials blame on too few judges and a shortage of resources. Since January, though, some individuals charged under the same statutes have gotten their version of justice in a parallel operation created by the Republican-run Mississippi Legislature. State leaders defend the new system as necessary to address a spike in crime and court backlogs. Critics say it was imposed by White GOP lawmakers on an overwhelmingly Black, majority-Democratic city.

New Jersey – N.J. Comptroller Alleges Conflicts of Interest Involving George Norcross’ Firm and Local Government Insurance Funds

MSN – Andrew Seidman (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 9/9/2025

Health insurance funds that serve more than 100,000 local government employees in New Jersey have been hijacked by a single private company that effectively controls their contracts, a state watchdog agency said. The New Jersey Office of the State Comptroller said Conner Strong & Buckelew, the insurance brokerage founded by Democratic power broker George Norcross III, and a related entity have violated public contracting laws and failed to disclose conflicts-of-interest to state regulators.

New York – The Secret Bundlers Behind Eric Adams’ Campaign Fundraising Revealed

MSN – Greg Smith and Yoav Gonen (The City) | Published: 9/5/2025

A loophole in the New York City law says campaigns do not have to disclose bundlers as intermediaries – money-raisers who choreograph multiple donations to campaigns – if they are doing this fundraising in connection to an event paid for by the campaign. A media investigation found Mayor Eric Adams did not disclose a slew of these secret bundlers to the Campaign Finance Board, a lapse that is legal, but ethically dubious, campaign finance experts say.

North Carolina – Campaign Watchdog Calls for Probe into Indian-American Group’s Fundraiser.

MSN – Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 9/3/2025

A campaign finance watchdog asked the State Board of Elections to investigate what he called an “eye-popping” fundraiser that he says drew more than $165,000 each to the campaigns of two of the state’s most powerful leaders. Bob Hall said he found evidence of “straw donors” and possible payments from business funds, both of which are illegal under North Carolina election laws. It was one of two complaints related to the fundraiser filed with the elections board.

Rhode Island – He’s a State Senator. She’s a Councilwoman. Why Controversy Follows Foster’s Power Couple.

USA Today – Katherine Gregg (Providence Journal) | Published: 9/8/2020

While Rhode Island Senate Minority Whip Gordon Rogers may be number two in the Republican leadership, his political influence is tempered by his party holding only four seats in the 38-member state Senate. But Rogers and his wife, Town Councilor Heidi Weston Rogers, are the political power couple in their hometown of Foster. That has led to an ethics complaint about what role, if any, she played in preventing his removal as the town’s $84,872-a-year director of public works.

Rhode Island – No Time Like the Present to Change Lobbyist Gift Rules, Open Government Advocates Tell Ethics Panel

Yahoo News – Alexander Castro (Rhode Island Current) | Published: 9/9/2025

The Rhode Island Ethics Commission heard public feedback on the possibility of changing state ethics rules to limit lobbyists’ influence on the lawmaking process. One change would increase the limit on individual gifts to public officials from $25 to $50 and from $75 to $150 annually in aggregate. The other would broaden the definition of “interested person” to explicitly cover lobbyists and their employers, filling a gap that lets public officials and employees accept potentially unlimited gifts from these parties.

Tennessee – Judge Acquits Casada, Cothren on 3 Charges for Insufficient Evidence, Other Counts Stand

Yahoo News – Vivian Jones (Tennessean) | Published: 9/9/2025

Months after a guilty verdict, a federal judge acquitted former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada and a former top aide on three counts of public corruption but declined to acquit the men on more than a dozen other charges. A jury found Casada and his former chief of staff, Cade Cothren, guilty on more than a dozen counts each of public corruption charges, including fraud, bribery, theft, conspiracy, and money laundering.

Utah – Utahns Love to Call Their Members of Congress – Now They May Dial State Lawmakers More Often

Yahoo News – Alixel Cabrera (Utah Dispatch News) | Published: 9/5/2025

5 Calls, a website and app that finds users’ U.S. representatives and senators and provides them with a phone number and a script to discuss some of the hottest issues on Capitol Hill, is now expanding to include members of the Utah Legislature in partnership with Elevate PAC. On the list of federal issues, platform users in the state may now notice items with a red banner, marking state-wide issues. The experience has also been different with Utah lawmakers, as many personally answer their phone calls, as opposed to delegating calls to a staffer.

Washington – What Happens to Money Set Aside for Unused Seattle ‘Democracy Vouchers’?

KNKX – Nate Sanford | Published: 9/9/2025

People who support Seattle’s “democracy voucher” program outnumber those who use it. In the August 5 primary election, about 114,000 Seattleites approved Proposition 1, which will renew the property tax funding Seattle’s unique public campaign financing system for another decade. It passed with 59 percent of the vote. But as of September 3, only 36,882 Seattleites had returned their vouchers. Voters still have up to November 28, nearly a month after the general election, to donate their vouchers, and participation may continue to grow. But if past elections are any indication, participation is unlikely to get significantly higher.

September 11, 2025 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance California: “SF Eyes Subtle Spending Reform After Priciest Election Ever” by Adam Shanks for San Francisco Examiner Elections Michigan: “Judge Throws Out Charges Against GOP Would-Be Electors in Michigan” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics National: […]

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