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.

The 2026 legislative session adjourned sine die June 1 after lawmakers passed several campaign finance and ethics bills. Legislators passed several bills targeting electioneering communications, including House Bill 459, which prohibits certain communications portraying a candidate through the use of AI; House Bill 540, which adds a disclosure requirement for digital material broadcast within 60 days before an election; and House Bill 639, which prohibits certain automated calls using the voice of a public figure created using AI. Senate Bill 495, effective on January 1, 2027, if approved by the governor, increases in-kind contributions and expenditures from $50 to $200; changes the due date of committee supplemental reports; and raises the contribution limit to unsuccessful major office candidates from $20,000 to $24,000. Lawmakers also passed House Bill 260, which allows legislators to accept transportation to foreign countries for trade, cultural, diplomatic, educational, or humanitarian purposes under certain circumstances. Unless otherwise specified, bills approved by the governor or allowed to become law without his signature will become effective August 1.

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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.

ALAKSA: The 2026 legislative session ended yesterday evening. Lawmakers passed House Bill 16 which makes various changes to the state’s campaign finance laws. New contribution limits will be imposed. Individuals may contribute up to $2,000 each election cycle to a nongroup entity or candidate. Individuals will be able to contribute $5,000 each per year to a political party or group entity. A group that is not a political party may contribute not more than $4,000 each election cycle to a candidate or $5,000 each year to another group entity, or to a political party. A nongroup entity may not contribute more than $4,000 each election cycle to another nongroup entity or $5,000 to a political party or group. When contributions are being made to a joint campaign for governor and lieutenant governor an individual may not contribute more than $4,000 each election cycle, while a group may not contribute more than $8,000 each election cycle. House Bill 16 is waiting the governor’s approval. The bill will take effect 90 days from when it is enacted. The new limits would be in place for the upcoming 2028 elections. Lawmakers will also return to a special session today, May 21. The special session has been called by Gov. Mike Dunleavy to address legislation relating to the taxation of certain natural gas pipeline property, amongst other issues. No hard deadline to the end of the session was given and it will continue for as long as necessary. This may affect lobbying reporting dates if the special session continues into June.

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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.

City Council passed an ordinance limiting contributions by individuals to City Council candidates, candidate committees, PACs, or any set of related committees to $2,825 during any election cycle. Contributions were previously unlimited. Under Ordinance 2026-093, the Citizens’ Tax Oversight Committee will investigate violations of the campaign finance ordinance. The ordinance is effective June 3, and contribution limits will be adjusted per the Consumer Price Index every four years in the same manner as state contribution limits.

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The overtime session of the General Assembly adjourned sine die on May 3 after lawmakers worked 34 hours to wrap up and head home 12 days after their scheduled end date. The delay was due to disputes over property taxes and the state budget. Lawmakers passed House File 2601, which prohibits foreign nationals from contributing to ballot issue campaigns and requires committees to obtain certain affirmations from donors regarding foreign national status and source of contributions. Gov. Reynolds has 30 days to sign or veto the bill.

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Corporate Campaign Contribution Rules: What You Need to Know by State

Corporations looking to make campaign contributions from corporate funds must navigate a layered compliance process. The rules vary significantly by state, covering whether contributions are permitted at all, whether registration is required, and what reporting obligations apply. Here is a step-by-step breakdown.

Step 1: Determine Whether Corporate Contributions Are Permitted

Not all states allow corporations to give campaign contributions. Before committing funds, confirm whether the relevant jurisdiction permits corporate giving.

• Prohibited states: Arkansas, Missouri, Ohio, and Pennsylvania prohibit corporations from making contributions to candidates.
• Limited giving: In Kentucky, corporations may only contribute to political issue committees and independent expenditure-only committees.
• Broad permissibility: States like Delaware and Virginia allow corporations to contribute to most candidates and committees.
• Capped giving: In New York, corporations may give up to $5,000 per calendar year to candidates and committees.

Step 2: Determine Whether Registration Is Required

Many states do not require corporations to register simply to make contributions. However, some states do trigger registration requirements based on spending thresholds.

South Carolina: A corporation that receives contributions, makes expenditures, or makes independent expenditures exceeding $500 in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of an elective office is considered a committee and must register with the state.

Virginia: Any corporation that anticipates receiving contributions or spending more than $200 to influence the outcome of any nonfederal election must register as a political committee with the state Board of Elections. Corporations that contribute directly from operating funds are generally not required to register unless they make an independent expenditure benefiting a nonfederal Virginia candidate or political committee.

For corporations operating across multiple jurisdictions, tracking these thresholds is essential. State and Federal Communications’ corporate contribution compliance resources can help organizations stay current on registration obligations.

Step 3: Determine Whether Reporting Is Required

Even where contributions are permitted, and registration is not required, reporting obligations may still apply.

Washington: Contributions made from general corporate funds to candidates and political committees are not required to be reported annually. However, reporting is triggered when a corporation meets all three of the following conditions during the preceding calendar year:

• Contributes more than $24,000 in the aggregate to legislative or state office candidates and statewide ballot committees
• Makes independent expenditures totaling more than $1,200 for political advertising supporting or opposing one or more legislative or state office candidates and statewide ballot measures
• Employs a registered lobbyist

California: Corporations that qualify as a recipient committee, major donor committee, or independent expenditure committee must file disclosure reports with the state.

Check the Rules Before You Give

Campaign contribution laws differ substantially from state to state, and noncompliance can carry serious consequences. It is always best practice to review the applicable laws in each jurisdiction before making any contribution.

State and Federal Communications maintains resources on contribution law and compliance consulting services to help corporations navigate these requirements with confidence. Jurisdiction-specific guidance is also available through the firm’s online compliance guidebooks.

FAQ Section

Nebraska LB 1075: Lobbying and Campaign Finance Law Updates

Nebraska Legislative Bill 1075, signed by Gov. Jim Pillen on April 15, 2026, amends several provisions of the state’s lobbying and campaign finance laws. The bill applies late fees to lobbyist principals, tightens restrictions on foreign national contributions, updates political committee reporting requirements, and increases several fee amounts. The bill took effect upon signature.

What Does Nebraska LB 1075 Change?

LB 1075 addresses Nebraska lobbying and campaign finance compliance. Here is a breakdown of each change.

Lobbying Late Filing Fees Now Apply to Principals

Prior Nebraska law required both lobbyists and principals to submit periodic and special lobbying disclosure reports, but late filing fees applied only to lobbyists. LB 1075 closes that gap by extending late filing fees to principals as well.

The updated fee schedule is as follows:

Report Type	Previous Fee	New Fee
Quarterly statements	$25	$50
Disclosure reports (during session)	$100	$200

Stricter Foreign National Restrictions on Ballot Question Committees

LB 1075 imposes new certification and affirmation requirements on ballot question committees regarding foreign national influence.

Registration statements must now certify that no preliminary activity was funded by foreign nationals. Covered preliminary activities include:

• Conducting focus groups
• Drafting proposed language
• Making phone calls

Campaign statements filed by ballot question committees must include an affirmation that:

• No donor is a foreign national, and
• No donor has intentionally received, solicited, or accepted contributions or expenditures from foreign nationals exceeding $100,000 in aggregate in the four-year period before the contribution

Penalties: A ballot question committee that solicits, accepts, or receives a prohibited foreign national contribution, directly or indirectly, will be subject to a fine equal to the amount of the contribution or $100,000, whichever is greater.

Political Committee Contribution Reporting Updates

LB 1075 makes two practical changes to how political committees submit campaign statements and late contribution reports.

Address requirements: Committees may now list either a street address or a post office box number for named contributors. If the contributor is a committee itself, a street address is still required.

Filing methods: Late contribution reports may no longer be submitted by telegraph.

H2- Committee Fee Increases

LB 1075 adjusts several committee-related fees:

Fee Type	Previous Amount	New Amount
Committee registration	$100	$150
Delinquent registration filing fee (standard)	$25	$50
Delinquent registration filing fee (committees formed within 30 days before an election)	$100	$200
updates and delinquent report filing	$25	$50
Delinquent late  contribution reports	$100	$200

Staying Compliant with Nebraska LB 1075

The changes introduced by LB 1075 affect lobbyists, principals, and political committees operating in Nebraska. Organizations should review current filing practices, fee schedules, and any ballot question committee activity to ensure compliance.

For jurisdiction-specific guidance, State and Federal Communications maintains regularly updated online compliance guidebooks covering Nebraska and other states. Hands-on support is also available through the firm’s lobbying compliance consulting services.

FAQ’s

The second regular session of the 132nd Legislature adjourned sine die after a veto session on April 29. Lawmakers passed two campaign finance bills, Legislative Documents 517 and 2000. Legislative Document 517 requires public communications that use synthetic media to include a disclaimer, and Legislative Document 2000 increased the monetary minimums for filing 24-hour PAC and independent expenditure reports. The general effective date for laws passed without an emergency designation is July 29. This does affect lobbying reporting; a registered lobbyist who anticipates no further lobbying for a client may file a request for a non-session waiver with their final monthly report for the session.

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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.