March 13, 2025 •
Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Tennessee: “Ex-Tennessee Lawmaker Announces Trump’s Pardon 2 Weeks into Prison Time for Campaign Finance Scheme” by Jonathan Matisse (Associated Press) for MSN Elections Oregon: “Citizen-Driven Ballot Measures Could Become More Rare Under Proposals Taken Up by Oregon Lawmakers” by Dirk VanderHart for […]
Campaign Finance
Tennessee: “Ex-Tennessee Lawmaker Announces Trump’s Pardon 2 Weeks into Prison Time for Campaign Finance Scheme” by Jonathan Matisse (Associated Press) for MSN
Elections
Oregon: “Citizen-Driven Ballot Measures Could Become More Rare Under Proposals Taken Up by Oregon Lawmakers” by Dirk VanderHart for Oregon Public Broadcasting
Ethics
California: “Probe Finds Nonprofit’s Gift to Former Top S.F. Official Created ‘Appearance of a Bribe'” by Michael Barba and St. John Barned-Smith (San Francisco Chronicle) for MSN
National: “Judge Says Trump Jan. 6 Pardon Doesn’t Apply to Man Who Conspired to Kill Investigators” by Kyle Cheney (Politico) for MSN
National: “A New Role for the South Lawn of Trump’s White House: Tesla car lot” by Matt Viser (Washington Post) for MSN
Legislative Issues
National: “GOP Lawmaker Misgenders Democratic Rep. McBride, Derailing House Hearing” by Kelsey Ables (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “State Politics Has a Sexual Misconduct Problem” by Grace Panetta (The 19th) for Yahoo News
Lobbying
New York: “What New York State Aide’s Help Was Worth to China: More than $15 million” by James Avery (Wall Street Journal) for MSN
March 12, 2025 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Lawsuit Challenges Reporting Requirements for Conduit PACs” by Max Greenwood for Campaigns and Elections Elections Florida: “Florida Senate Committee Moves to Ban Using Tax Dollars on Ballot Initiative Campaigns” by Jeffrey Schweers (Orlando Sentinel) for Yahoo News Maine: “Committee Rejects Clean Elections […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Lawsuit Challenges Reporting Requirements for Conduit PACs” by Max Greenwood for Campaigns and Elections
Elections
Florida: “Florida Senate Committee Moves to Ban Using Tax Dollars on Ballot Initiative Campaigns” by Jeffrey Schweers (Orlando Sentinel) for Yahoo News
Maine: “Committee Rejects Clean Elections Expansion, Other Proposals to Alter Election Laws” by Emma Davis (Maine Morning Star) for Yahoo News
Ethics
Colorado: “Former State Senator Now Faces Investigation by Denver, Boulder District Attorneys After Resigning Amid Ethics Probe” by Seth Klamann and Nick Coltrain for Denver Post
National: “Musk’s Team Must Produce Documents to Comply with Open Records Laws, Judge Says” by Zach Montague and Minho Kim (New York Times) for Seattle Times
National: “Pleas on X, Biden Dirt and Attacks on the FBI: As Trump flexes his pardon powers, defendants angle for their get-out-of-jail free card” by Ben Schreckinger for Politico
Mississippi: “Federal Trial in Jackson Corruption Case set for Summer 2026” by Anna Wolfe for Mississippi Today
Lobbying
New Mexico: “Lobbyist Disclosure Bill Advances – Minus Cap on Lobbyist Spending on Lawmakers” by Daniel Chacón for Santa Fe New Mexican
March 11, 2025 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Maryland: “Maryland Democrats File Elections Complaint Against ‘Shadowy’ Campaign Targeting Gov. Wes Moore” by Sam Janesch (Baltimore Sun) for MSN New Jersey: “This Democrat Is Running for Governor with No Staff – but $35M in His Corner” by Dana DiFilippo for New […]
Campaign Finance
Maryland: “Maryland Democrats File Elections Complaint Against ‘Shadowy’ Campaign Targeting Gov. Wes Moore” by Sam Janesch (Baltimore Sun) for MSN
New Jersey: “This Democrat Is Running for Governor with No Staff – but $35M in His Corner” by Dana DiFilippo for New Jersey Monitor
Elections
New York: “For #MeToo Movement, Mayor’s Race in New York City Poses a Test” by Emma Fitzsimmons (New York Times) for DNyuz
Pennsylvania: “Helping to Run an Election in Pennsylvania Often Starts with Running for Election” by Carter Walker for Votebeat
Ethics
National: “Palestinian Protester Arrested by ICE Despite Green Card, Lawyer Says” by Susan Syrluga (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “CDC Posts ‘Conflicts of Interest’ Database on Vaccine Advisory Group Members” by Berkeley Lovelace (NBC News) for MSN
New York: “Adams Case Should Be Permanently Dismissed, Outside Legal Expert Recommends” by Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) for MSN
Lobbying
National: “Secretive D.C. Influence Project Appears to Be Running a Group House for Right-Wing Lawmakers” by Justin Elliott, Joshua Kaplan, and Alex Mierjeski (ProPublica) for MSN
March 10, 2025 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance California: “Contractors Might Have to Disclose Campaign Finance Violations in Santa Ana” by Hosam Elattar for Voice of OC Canada: “Supreme Court Strikes Down Doug Ford’s Controversial Campaign Finance Law” by Robert Benzie for Toronto Star National: “ActBlue, the Democratic Fund-Raising Powerhouse, Faces […]
Campaign Finance
California: “Contractors Might Have to Disclose Campaign Finance Violations in Santa Ana” by Hosam Elattar for Voice of OC
Canada: “Supreme Court Strikes Down Doug Ford’s Controversial Campaign Finance Law” by Robert Benzie for Toronto Star
National: “ActBlue, the Democratic Fund-Raising Powerhouse, Faces Internal Chaos” by Reid Epstein and Shane Goldmacher (New York Times) for DNyuz
Elections
New Jersey: “New Jersey’s Ballot Design That Gave Party Bosses Big Influence Is Officially Dead” by Ry Rivard (Politico) for MSN
Ethics
National: “Trump Expands Retribution Campaign Against Law Firms That Aided His Foes” by Perry Stein and Michael Birnbaum (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Fired Head of Federal Watchdog Agency Says He’s Ending His Legal Battle Over His Removal by Trump” by Alanna Durkin Richer (Associated Press) for MSN
Oklahoma: “LOFT Report Uncovers Outdated Complaints and Revenue Discrepancies at Ethics Commission” by Colleen Wilson (KOKH) for MSN
Legislative Issues
Montana: “Ravalli County Rep. Ron Marshall Resigns, Cites Influence of Lobbyists in Legislature” by Micah Drew (Daily Montanan) for Yahoo News
March 7, 2025 •
News You Can Use Digest – March 7, 2025

National/Federal Democrats Challenge Trump Effort to Control Federal Election Commission Courthouse News Service – Ryan Knappenberger | Published: 2/28/2025 The Democratic National Committee sued the Trump administration, challenging an executive order that ostensibly granted President Trump increased control over the executive branch, […]
National/Federal
Democrats Challenge Trump Effort to Control Federal Election Commission
Courthouse News Service – Ryan Knappenberger | Published: 2/28/2025
The Democratic National Committee sued the Trump administration, challenging an executive order that ostensibly granted President Trump increased control over the executive branch, including independent agencies like the FEC. The order requires independent agencies to submit any proposed rules to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs within the White House. That gives Trump final say over previously nonpartisan decisions. Democrats argue the move eviscerates the Federal Election Campaign Act and would allow the president to dictate to the FEC’s bipartisan board.
Who Paid for Trump’s Transition to Power? The Donors Are Still Unknown.
DNyuz – Ken Bensinger (New York Times) | Published: 3/6/2025
After six weeks in office, President Trump has not disclosed the names of the donors who paid for his transition planning, despite a public pledge to do so. Preparing to take power and fill thousands of federal jobs is a monthslong project that can cost tens of millions of dollars. Previous presidents used private contributions as well as federal money to foot the bill. Those presidents made public the names of donors and their contributions within 30 days of taking office, as required under agreements they signed with the departing administration.
‘We Will Not Falter.’ Trump-Era Resignation Letters Take Center Stage
MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2025
Dozens of federal officials and employees have quit in protest or been forced out amid the upheavals the Trump administration has unleashed across government agencies. A number of the departing have documented their discontent in resignation letters that have found their way into public view. Taken together, the letters from career bureaucrats who in many cases worked under Democratic and Republican presidents, amounts to a collective cry of frustration in response to an administration they feel has belittled and discounted their work.
MSN – Joshua Kaplan, Justin Elliott, and Alex Mierjeski (ProPublica) | Published: 2/28/2025
House Speaker Mike Johnson has been staying at a District of Columbia home with Steve Berger, an evangelical pastor. Berger’s stated goal is to minister to members of Congress so that what “they learn is then translated into policy.” The house is owned by a major Republican donor who has joined Berger in advocating for and against multiple bills before Congress. House ethics rules allow members of Congress to live anywhere, as long as they are paying fair-market rent.
Trump’s Opponents Decry a Sweeping Crackdown on Free Speech
MSN – Naftali Bendavid (Washington Post) | Published: 3/3/2025
Since taking office, Donald Trump has mounted what critics call a sweeping attack on freedom of expression. Some of the attacks are against diversity, equity, and inclusion, while others are aimed at media organizations that Trump dislikes. Also targeted are opponents who have spoken sharply about the administration. Together, critics – and in some cases, judges – have said Trump’s efforts have gone beyond shaping the message of the federal government to threaten the First Amendment rights of private groups and individuals.
The D.C. Power Broker Embroiled in a Global Hacking Scandal
MSN – Christopher Matthews and Jenny Strasburg (Wall Street Journal) | Published: 3/3/2025
A Washington strategist and lobbyist with deep connections to the Republican Party, Justin Peterson is accustomed to fighting aggressively on behalf of powerful clients such as Exxon Mobil. But at a November 2015 breakfast with an Israeli private investigator, Peterson launched a yearslong campaign that federal prosecutors now say crossed a line. As he put it in an email following the breakfast, Peterson wanted the investigator to “operationalize the research on the bad guys.” According to prosecutors, in practice that led to something very specific: hacking into the email accounts of Exxon’s enemies.
MSN – Robert Faturechi (ProPublica) | Published: 3/4/2025
Earlier this year, the Air Force revealed that Maj. Gen. Christopher Finerty, who oversaw the Air Force’s lobbying before Congress, had inappropriate romantic relationships with three women who worked on Capitol Hill. Sources say one of the women whose relationship with Finerty was scrutinized by the Air Force inspector general was Sen. Joni Ernst. She sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee, which oversees the Pentagon and plays a crucial role in setting its annual budget.
Republicans Advised to Avoid In-Person Town Halls After Confrontations Over Cuts Go Viral
MSN – Melanie Zanona (NBC News) | Published: 3/4/2025
Congressional Republicans are again being advised against holding in-person town halls after several instances of lawmakers being berated by attendees went viral. The cautions against town halls are just the latest warnings by top GOP leaders about participating in the events, which give constituents the opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns.
Musk’s Starlink Gets FAA Contract, Raising New Conflict of Interest Concerns
MSN – Chris Isidore (CNN) | Published: 2/25/2025
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) agreed to use SpaceX’s Starlink internet system to upgrade the information technology networks it uses to manage U.S. airspace, raising new concerns about conflicts of interest for Elon Musk in one of his other roles, that of recommending funding cuts at federal agencies, including the FAA. Musk’s SpaceX is a is dependent on federal contracts. Its Starlink satellite internet provides service for government and private customers around the world.
Supreme Court Says Judge Can Force Trump Administration to Pay Foreign Aid
MSN – Justin Jouvenal, Annie Gowan, and Ann Morrow (Washington Post) | Published: 3/5/2025
A divided Supreme Court denied the Trump administration’s request to block a lower court order on foreign aid funding, clearing the way for the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development to restart nearly $2 billion in payments for work already done. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined the court’s three liberal justices in the order, which was the high court’s first significant move on lawsuits related to President Trump’s initiatives in his second term.
Al Green Kicked Out of Trump’s Speech as Democrats Bring Signs, Heckle
MSN – Justine McDaniel (Washington Post) | Published: 3/5/2025
Within the first minutes of President Trump’s address to Congress, an extraordinary exchange unfolded as House Speaker Mike Johnson ordered the sergeant at arms to remove from the chamber Rep. Al Green, who protested the president’s remarks. Green shouted at Trump, shaking his cane and saying the president had “no mandate” to cut Medicaid. Democrats have worked to find their footing in resisting Trump, and the speech brought different approaches from lawmakers, a handful of whom skipped it altogether and some of whom walked out mid-address.
Appeals Court Allows Trump to Remove Watchdog Hampton Dellinger for Now
MSN – Derek Hawkins (Washington Post) | Published: 3/5/2025
A federal appeals court allowed President Trump to temporarily remove the head of an independent watchdog agency while the judges decide whether the president has the authority to fire him without cause. A lower court had blocked the president from firing Hampton Dellinger, head of the Office of Special Counsel. But the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit paused that ruling, saying the government had met the “stringent requirements” for securing a stay during the appeal.
From the States and Municipalities
California – Have Federal Agents Served Warrants at California’s Capitol? The Legislature Doesn’t Want You to Know
CalMatters – Ryan Sabalow | Published: 3/5/2025
The Legislative Open Records Act gives lawmakers and their staff members more discretion to withhold records than most other public agencies have under the similar California Public Records Act. But David Loy, legal director for the First Amendment Coalition, said even if they have a legal right to withhold records, public agencies usually have broad discretion to release them. “We should err on the side of disclosure. The public has a right to know,” Loy said.
California – Ethics Violation Lodged Against Former CalRecycle Director
MSN – Susanne Rust (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 3/4/2025
The former director of CalRecycle, Rachel Wagner – who oversaw, wrote, and promoted the single-use plastic legislation known as Senate Bill 54 – is now the executive director of the Circular Action Alliance, a coalition of plastic and packaging companies determined to delay, if not derail, the law. A whistleblower submitted a formal complaint to the California Fair Political Practices Commission, asking the agency to investigate Wagoner on the grounds she violated a ban that prevents former regulators from receiving compensation to work against the state on matters they once oversaw.
California – Jury Convicts Fired S.F. Building Inspector Who Approved Family Projects
MSN – Michael Barba (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 3/4/2025
Van Zeng, a former San Francisco building inspector who inspected projects linked to his family – including construction on his own home – was found guilty by a jury of breaking conflict-of-interest rules. Zeng’s father is a building contractor who allegedly arranged illegal payments for Bernie Curran, a disgraced former building inspector at the center of a larger corruption scandal. Zeng’s parents flip houses, and his sister is a real estate agent.
California – Huntington Park City Hall and Mayor’s Home Raided in Corruption Investigation
MSN – Ruben Vives (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/26/2025
Huntington Park City Hall and the homes of the mayor and current and former city council members were searched as part of a corruption investigation. Electronics, paperwork and records were seized as part of the probe, dubbed “Operation Dirty Pond.” Investigators have been looking into alleged misuse of millions of dollars allocated for the construction of a regional aquatic center at Salt Lake Park, according to the district attorney’s office. The city allocated more than $20 million to the project and has spent about $14 million even though nothing has been constructed yet.
California – SF Waives Ethics Rules in Asks for Private-Sector Help
San Francisco Examiner – Adam Shanks | Published: 3/5/2025
San Francisco is asking the private sector to step up and fund what city government cannot – or will not – as it faces a major budget deficit. The Board of Supervisors has approved special waivers to allow department heads to widely solicit donations to support city services. In doing so, they have won an exception to an ethics law that was tightened up just a few years ago – and, according to those who shepherded the new rules through, with good reason.
Connecticut – Kosta Diamantis and Chris Ziogas Charged in Corruption Scheme
Connecticut Mirror – Andrew Brown and Dave Altimari | Published: 2/28/2025
Former Deputy Budget Director Konstantinos Diamantis and former Connecticut Rep. Christopher Ziogas were indicted on federal corruption charges for allegedly pressuring state employees to cancel a 2020 audit that was examining an optometrist’s Medicaid billing practices. The indictment comes just weeks after Helen Zervas, the optometrist and Ziogas’ fiancée, pleaded guilty to defrauding Medicare and Medicaid and conspiring with two state officials to cancel the audit.
Connecticut – CT Lawmaker Eyeing PURA Seat Owes Struggling Ratepayers Over $1 Million
Energy and Policy Institute – Itai Vardi | Published: 3/4/2025
Connecticut Sen. John Fonfara, who is reportedly a candidate for commissioner at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), headed a delinquent electric supplier company that owes over $1.1 million to customers who are struggling to pay their electric bills. Fonfara has started multiple new companies whose interests could be affected by decisions made by PURA. At least one of them is in the electric supply industry. Another is invested in building data centers, which often require large investments in electricity infrastructure.
Georgia – Georgia Committee That Has Pursued Fani Willis Now Wants to Investigate Stacey Abrams
MSN – Jeff Amy (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2025
A Georgia Senate committee pursuing a thus-far fruitless investigation of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis wants to add Stacey Abrams to its list of targets. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and other Republicans say they want to further examine recent ethics findings that voter participation group New Georgia Project improperly coordinated with Abrams’ 2018 campaign for governor.
Hawaii – Hawaii Defense Contractor Exec Must Face Some Campaign Finance Conspiracy Claims
Courthouse News Service – Jeremy Yurow | Published: 3/3/2025
A federal judge in Hawaii dismissed racketeering claims against a defense contractor but allowed conspiracy and state law claims to proceed. Duke Hartman was formerly an executive at PacMar Technologies. PacMar claims he participated in a scheme to funnel illegal campaign contributions to a PAC. Hartman claims PacMar’s former chief executive, Martin Kao, along with his wife Tiffany and fellow executives, orchestrated an illegal donation scheme and subsequent cover-up.
Hawaii – Honolulu Officials Charged in Kealoha Retirement Payout Case
Yahoo News – Peter Boylan (Honolulu Star Advertiser) | Published: 3/4/2025
Honolulu’s former managing director, corporation counsel, and chairperson of the Police Commission were charged with conspiracy for their handling of a $250,000 retirement payment in 2017 to former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. The plea deal signals an end to a long-running public corruption probe by federal prosecutors in California that began with the Kealoha case and expanded to examine the intersections between politics, business, and law enforcement in Hawaii.
Illinois – Judge Grants Retrial on Four Bribery Counts in ‘ComEd Four’ Case Involving Madigan
Yahoo News – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/3/2025
A federal judge granted a partial retrial on several bribery counts in the case of four former executives and lobbyists for electric utility Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) who were convicted in 2023 for their roles in bribing former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. U.S. District Court Judge Manish Shah left intact the convictions on a number of other counts, including the lead count of conspiracy and charges alleging the defendants altered ComEd’s books to hide the scheme.
Kansas – Kansas Republican Dissidents Put Spotlight on Ethics Investigation and Effort to Rewrite State Law
Yahoo News – Sherman Smith (Kansas Reflector) | Published: 2/28/2025
A sudden burst of chatter around a three-year-old campaign finance investigation that has largely played out in the shadows, included the disclosure of a confidential document that details the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission’s findings of an alleged far-reaching scheme to circumvent campaign donation limits and the commission’s decision to clear a central figure in the investigation. But at least a handful of Republicans harbor a grudge over the alleged violations and an apparent attempt by others in the party to rewrite state ethics law.
Louisiana – More Louisiana Officials Can Shield Their Home Addresses, Ethics Board Decides
MSN – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 2/28/2025
The Louisiana Board of Ethics will allow statewide elected officials and more high-ranking government employees to keep their home addresses off forms posted online. Last year, the board’s staff redacted the home addresses of five executive office employees who work for Gov. Jeff Landry. The new ruling will allow 28 more officials to keep their home addresses off the ethics board website if they request it.
Louisiana – Bill Would Require Live Broadcast of Louisiana Ethics Board Meetings
The Center Square – Nolan McKendry | Published: 2/27/2025
A bill in Louisiana would mandate live broadcast and online archiving of meetings of the state Board of Ethics and the Supervisory Committee on Campaign Finance Disclosure. The legislation comes amid growing tension between the Legislature, the Board of Ethics, and Gov. Landry’s administration.
Baltimore Banner – Rona Kobell | Published: 3/5/2025
The Baltimore County Public Library appears to be closing the book on a county council candidate’s plan to host events there after two delegates complained to library officials about a campaign kickoff held at one of its branches. Sharonda Huffman held a campaign event in December and put down $60 to reserve a room for a second event in February. The library canceled the February after it was alleged that Huffman’s December event was a fundraiser. The library encourages political activity but does not allow fundraisers or parties.
Michigan – Judge Will Take Additional Briefs Before Deciding on Trial for Ex-Speaker Lee Chatfield
MSN – Arpan Lobo (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 2/28/2025
A hearing to decide if former Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield should stand trial over a series of alleged financial crimes related to his use of political funds wrapped up recently, although it could be months still before a judge issues a ruling. Chatfield was charged last year with embezzlement, conspiracy, and larceny. State Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office claims he knowingly used money from political funds to pay for vacations, dinners at upscale restaurants, and other non-permitted items when he was a lawmaker.
Mississippi – Mississippi Judge Vacates Her Order That a Newspaper Remove Its Editorial Criticizing Local Leaders
MSN – Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) | Published: 2/26/2025
A Mississippi judge vacated her order that a newspaper remove its editorial criticizing local officials, days after a city decided to drop the lawsuit that spurred it. The judge’s order had been widely condemned by free speech advocates as a clear violation of the paper’s First Amendment rights.
Montana – Judge Denies State Representative’s Request to Block Tobacco Lobbyists at MT Legislature
Longview News-Journal – Seaborn Larson | Published: 2/26/2025
A federal judge denied a state representative’s attempts to block lobbyists from major cigarette manufacturers from engaging lawmakers on his bill. Rep. Ron Marshall sued Altria and R.J. Reynolds, alleging the companies were violating anti-lobbying provisions set out in the 1998 settlement those companies made with several states.
New Mexico – No More Free Meals? House Approves Bill Restricting Certain Lobbyist Spending
Albuquerque Journal – Dan Boyd | Published: 3/4/2025
A bill expanding lobbyist reporting requirements was broadened before passing the New Mexico House. The change would also prohibit lobbyists from spending large amounts on food, beverages, or entertainment for state-elected officials, including lawmakers, during and just before legislative sessions.
New York – The Case of the Missing $3M: Eric Adams’ campaign finance woes grow
MSN – Joe Anuta (Politico) | Published: 2/27/2025
A mysterious $3 million sitting in New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ reelection account is the latest irregularity giving campaign finance officials cause to deny him public matching funds. The Campaign Finance Board nixed Adams’ request for $4.5 million in taxpayer-funded campaign dollars in December and has renewed its decision monthly. “The Campaign is not eligible for payment because the difference between the Campaign’s reported receipts and documented receipts is equal to or greater than [10 percent],” the board said.
New York – Andrew Cuomo Enters Crowded NYC Mayor Race, Says He Will Fix a City in Crisis
MSN – Ginger Adams Otis and Victoria Albert (Wall Street Journal) | Published: 3/1/2025
Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who resigned in disgrace three years ago, announced his return to politics with a bid to be New York City’s next mayor, joining a crowded primary field that includes embattled incumbent Eric Adams. Cuomo launched his comeback with a video that acknowledged past errors, without providing details, while outlining how he would tackle housing, crime, and other issues if elected to lead the city. He promised to work with his party’s progressive wing, as well as President Trump.
New York – N.Y. Ethics Watchdog Pressures Legislative Leaders to Fill Open Vacancies
Spectrum News – Kate Lisa | Published: 2/28/2025
The head of New York’s ethics watchdog said he is putting pressure on legislative leaders to quickly fill three vacancies on the Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (COELIG) after the state’s highest court affirmed the agency’s constitutionality. COELIG Executive Director Sanford Berland said commissioners will have a busy year with the case behind them, but legislative leaders must step in to make that possible.
Ohio – Neo-Nazis Targeted a Majority-Black Town. Locals Launched an Armed Watch.
MSN – Daniel Wu (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2025
For weeks, men carrying rifles have guarded the roads leading into Lincoln Heights, Ohio, stopping and questioning those who approach the small, majority-Black town near Cincinnati suburb. In February, a truck of neo-Nazis came to Lincoln Heights’s doorstep. Masked demonstrators, some carrying rifles, hurled racist slurs and waved flags with red swastikas on a highway overpass leading into town. Residents say they are distraught after being surrounded by hate and suspicious of police officers whom county officials criticized for not cracking down on the neo-Nazi march.
Oregon – Portland Voters Approved a Strict Campaign Finance Law. A City Watchdog Wants to Soften It
MSN – Shane Dixon Kavanaugh (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/28/2025
City Auditor Simone Rede is pushing to upend significant portions of Portland’s pioneering campaign finance law, alarming advocates who have worked to curb the influence of money in politics. Rede wants the mayor and city council to take actions that would allow potential changes to contribution limits and disclosure requirements, either by allowing state law to preempt the city’s stricter rules or by proposing a local ballot measure this fall.
Oregon – ‘Get the Junk Out of Our Rates’ Bill Could Limit How Oregon Utilities Pay for Lobbying, Ads
OPB – Monica Samayoa | Published: 3/4/2025
Legislation in Oregon aims to ensure customers are not paying for utilities’ lobbying and advertising expenses. Natural gas rates and electric rates are set through a process that allows utilities to charge rates that cover the cost of doing business, and then to turn a profit. Senate Bill 88 would create more clarity around utility spending, and when it must come out of those allowed profits. If they spend on advertising, political influence, litigation, or pay for trade associations or membership fees and fines, that spending would not be allowed to push up rates.
Pennsylvania – Former Dauphin County Employees Are Getting Contracts, Raising Ethical Questions
MSN – Juliette Rihl (PennLive) | Published: 3/5/2025
When government employees in Pennsylvania leave their jobs, state law prohibits them from getting a contract with their former agency for the first year. But in Dauphin County, some former employees are getting contracts anyway. Over the past year, the county hired at least four former employees as consultants almost immediately after they left their full-time government roles, some at a higher pay rate than they had as full-time employees. Several ethics experts said the practice is unethical and, in some cases, may have been illegal.
South Carolina – North Charleston Council Members, Others Charged in Money Laundering, Bribery Schemes
Yahoo News – John Monk (The State) | Published: 2/26/2025
Three North Charleston City Council members and five other people were accused of being involved in a variety of bribery, kickback, extortion, and money laundering schemes. The charges follow a yearlong investigation by the FBI code-named “Southern Shake.” Some of the charges have to do with the rezoning of a hospital site and others with a million-dollar-plus violence prevention grant program run by the city government.
Tennessee – Shelby County Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. Federally Charged with Bribery and Tax Evasion
Memphis Commercial Appeal – Lucas Finton | Published: 2/28/2025
An indictment charges Shelby County Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. with one count of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, and six counts of attempting to evade or defeat tax payments. Three nonprofits were named in the criminal complaint along with businesses owned and operated by Ford. The charges are connected to a nearly four-year-long investigation into Ford’s grant-funding habits.
March 6, 2025 •
Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Kansas: “Kansas Republican Dissidents Put Spotlight on Ethics Investigation and Effort to Rewrite State Law” by Sherman Smith (Kansas Reflector) for Yahoo News Maryland: “Much Ado About $60. How 2 Republicans’ Complaints Led the Library to Cancel a Democratic Candidate’s Event.” by […]
Campaign Finance
Kansas: “Kansas Republican Dissidents Put Spotlight on Ethics Investigation and Effort to Rewrite State Law” by Sherman Smith (Kansas Reflector) for Yahoo News
Maryland: “Much Ado About $60. How 2 Republicans’ Complaints Led the Library to Cancel a Democratic Candidate’s Event.” by Rona Kobell for Baltimore Banner
Ethics
California: “Jury Convicts Fired S.F. Building Inspector Who Approved Family Projects” by Michael Barba (San Francisco Chronicle) for MSN
National: “Musk’s Starlink Gets FAA Contract, Raising New Conflict of Interest Concerns” by Chris Isidore (CNN) for MSN
National: “Supreme Court Says Judge Can Force Trump Administration to Pay Foreign Aid” by Justin Jouvenal, Annie Gowan, and Ann Morrow (Washington Post) for MSN
Lobbying
California: “Ethics Violation Lodged Against Former CalRecycle Director” by Susanne Rust (Los Angeles Times) for MSN
New Mexico: “No More Free Meals? House Approves Bill Restricting Certain Lobbyist Spending” by Dan Boyd for Albuquerque Journal
Oregon: “‘Get the Junk Out of Our Rates’ Bill Could Limit How Oregon Utilities Pay for Lobbying, Ads” by Monica Samayoa for OPB
March 5, 2025 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Georgia: “Georgia Committee That Has Pursued Fani Willis Now Wants to Investigate Stacey Abrams” by Jeff Amy (Associated Press) for MSN Hawaii: “Hawaii Defense Contractor Exec Must Face Some Campaign Finance Conspiracy Claims” by Jeremy Yurow for Courthouse News Service Ethics Connecticut: “CT […]
Campaign Finance
Georgia: “Georgia Committee That Has Pursued Fani Willis Now Wants to Investigate Stacey Abrams” by Jeff Amy (Associated Press) for MSN
Hawaii: “Hawaii Defense Contractor Exec Must Face Some Campaign Finance Conspiracy Claims” by Jeremy Yurow for Courthouse News Service
Ethics
Connecticut: “CT Lawmaker Eyeing PURA Seat Owes Struggling Ratepayers Over $1 Million” by Itai Vardi for Energy and Policy Institute
National: “Republicans Advised to Avoid In-Person Town Halls After Confrontations Over Cuts Go Viral” by Melanie Zanona (NBC News) for MSN
Illinois: “Judge Grants Retrial on Four Bribery Counts in ‘ComEd Four’ Case Involving Madigan” by Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) for Yahoo News
Louisiana: “Bill Would Require Live Broadcast of Louisiana Ethics Board Meetings” by Nolan McKendry for The Center Square
Lobbying
National: “The D.C. Power Broker Embroiled in a Global Hacking Scandal” by Christopher Matthews and Jenny Strasburg (Wall Street Journal) for MSN
National: “Ethical Concerns Surround Sen. Joni Ernst’s Relationships with Top Military Officials Who Lobbied Her Committee” by Robert Faturechi (ProPublica) for MSN
March 4, 2025 •
Minnesota Bill Would Require Reporting of Campaign Contributions from Outside Districts

Minnesota lawmakers are considering a bill that would require reporting of campaign contributions from outside districts. House File 1447 would require legislative and statewide candidates to disclose the name, address, employer or occupation if self-employed, and registration number if registered […]
Minnesota lawmakers are considering a bill that would require reporting of campaign contributions from outside districts. House File 1447 would require legislative and statewide candidates to disclose the name, address, employer or occupation if self-employed, and registration number if registered with the board for each individual or association that has made one or more contributions to the reporting entity, including the purchase of tickets for a fundraising effort, if the individual or association resides or is located outside the area represented by the candidate. The proposed legislation is meant to provide greater transparency when outside groups or entities fund campaigns.
March 4, 2025 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Michigan: “Judge Will Take Additional Briefs Before Deciding on Trial for Ex-Speaker Lee Chatfield” by Arpan Lobo (Detroit Free Press) for MSN New York: “The Case of the Missing $3M: Eric Adams’ campaign finance woes grow” by Joe Anuta (Politico) for MSN […]
Campaign Finance
Michigan: “Judge Will Take Additional Briefs Before Deciding on Trial for Ex-Speaker Lee Chatfield” by Arpan Lobo (Detroit Free Press) for MSN
New York: “The Case of the Missing $3M: Eric Adams’ campaign finance woes grow” by Joe Anuta (Politico) for MSN
Oregon: “Portland Voters Approved a Strict Campaign Finance Law. A City Watchdog Wants to Soften It” by Shane Dixon Kavanaugh (Portland Oregonian) for MSN
Ethics
Connecticut: “Kosta Diamantis and Chris Ziogas Charged in Corruption Scheme” by Andrew Brown and Dave Altimari for Connecticut Mirror
National: “Trump’s Opponents Decry a Sweeping Crackdown on Free Speech” by Naftali Bendavid (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Judge Says Trump Cannot Fire Head of Independent Watchdog Agency” by Derek Hawkins (Washington Post) for MSN
Louisiana: “More Louisiana Officials Can Shield Their Home Addresses, Ethics Board Decides” by Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) for MSN
South Carolina: “North Charleston Council Members, Others Charged in Money Laundering, Bribery Schemes” by John Monk (The State) for Yahoo News
March 3, 2025 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Democrats Challenge Trump Effort to Control Federal Election Commission” by Ryan Knappenberger for Courthouse News Service Elections New York: “Andrew Cuomo Enters Crowded NYC Mayor Race, Says He Will Fix a City in Crisis” by Ginger Adams Otis and Victoria Albert […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Democrats Challenge Trump Effort to Control Federal Election Commission” by Ryan Knappenberger for Courthouse News Service
Elections
New York: “Andrew Cuomo Enters Crowded NYC Mayor Race, Says He Will Fix a City in Crisis” by Ginger Adams Otis and Victoria Albert (Wall Street Journal) for MSN
Ethics
California: “Huntington Park City Hall and Mayor’s Home Raided in Corruption Investigation” by Ruben Vives (Los Angeles Times) for MSN
National: “Speaker Mike Johnson Is Living in a D.C. House That Is the Center of a Pastor’s Secretive Influence Campaign” by Joshua Kaplan, Justin Elliott, and Alex Mierjeski (ProPublica) for MSN
Mississippi: “Mississippi Judge Vacates Her Order That a Newspaper Remove Its Editorial Criticizing Local Leaders” by Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) for MSN
Ohio: “Neo-Nazis Targeted a Majority-Black Town. Locals Launched an Armed Watch.” by Daniel Wu (Washington Post) for MSN
Tennessee: “Shelby County Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. Federally Charged with Bribery and Tax Evasion” by Lucas Finton for Memphis Commercial Appeal
Lobbying
Montana: “Judge Denies State Representative’s Request to Block Tobacco Lobbyists at MT Legislature” by Seaborn Larson for Longview News-Journal
February 28, 2025 •
News You Can Use Digest – February 28, 2025

National/Federal On X, Conservative Activists Find a Direct Pipeline to Musk’s Team DNyuz – Zach Montague (New York Times) | Published: 2/26/2025 As his operation targets spending considered unaligned with President Trump’s agenda, Elon Musk has personally appealed to users of his […]
National/Federal
On X, Conservative Activists Find a Direct Pipeline to Musk’s Team
DNyuz – Zach Montague (New York Times) | Published: 2/26/2025
As his operation targets spending considered unaligned with President Trump’s agenda, Elon Musk has personally appealed to users of his social media platform X to help root out what he has termed “waste, fraud and abuse.” He has been responsive to complaints that go viral, with his team trumpeting the apparent changes pushed through as a result. For at least two prominent conservative activists, a Trump administration so carefully attuned to right-wing social media has created the opportunity to build an extraordinary pipeline of influence and access.
Justice Dept. Takes Broad View of Trump’s Jan. 6 Pardons
DNyuz – Alan Feuer (New York Times) | Published: 2/26/2025
When FBI agents searched the home of Jeremy Brown in connection with his role in the attack on the Capitol, they found several illegal items. Brown was ultimately convicted on charges of illegally possessing weapons and classified material and was sentenced to more than seven years in prison. Now, federal prosecutors say because the second case was related to January 6, it was covered by the clemency President Trump issued on his first day in office to all the people charged in connection with the Capitol attack.
She Lobbied for a Carcinogen. Now She’s at the E.P.A., Approving New Chemicals.
DNyuz – Hiroko Tabuchi (New York Times) | Published: 2/26/2025
Formaldehyde can cause cancer and severe respiratory problems. So, in 2021, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began a new effort to regulate it. The chemicals industry fought back. Its campaign was led by Lynn Dekleva, then a lobbyist at the American Chemistry Council, an industry group that spends millions of dollars on government lobbying. Dekleva is now at the EPA in a crucial job: She runs an office that has the authority to approve new chemicals for use.
MSN – Liam Riley (CNN) | Published: 2/26/2025
Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos announced a “significant shift” to the publisher’s opinion page that led David Shipley, the paper’s editorial page editor, to resign. The changes upended precedent and rattled a media company that has already been shaken by years of turmoil and leadership turnover. The Post will now publish daily opinion stories on two editorial “pillars”: personal liberties and free markets, Bezos said. The opinion section will cover other subjects, too, Bezos wrote, but “viewpoints opposing those pillars will be left to be published by others.”
Trump, Schmoozing Saudis, Plays Two Roles: President and mogul
MSN – Natalie Allison, Abigail Hausohner, and Cat Zakrzewski (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2025
In back-to-back events, President Trump held court with Saudi government officials and investors who do business with his family’s firms. The meetings demonstrated how Trump has blended the roles of president and business mogul. The Trump Organization has treated Saudi Arabia as a critical partner in its efforts to expand its empire of hotels and resorts.
Firings of Some Federal Workers Should Be Halted, Watchdog Recommends
MSN – Justine McDaniel (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2025
A federal watchdog agency argued the Trump administration’s firings of probationary federal workers were likely illegal, recommending the terminations be halted pending an investigation. The request for the halt was issued by Hampton Dellinger, the embattled head of the independent Office of Special Counsel, whom Trump has tried to oust but a judge has temporarily kept in place. It is now in the hands of the Merit Systems Protection Board, another independent agency whose head Trump has tried to depose.
White House Will Decide Which Journalists Get Access to It in an Unprecedented Step
MSN – Justine McDaniel (Washington Post) | Published: 2/25/2025
The Trump administration is stripping the White House Correspondents’ Association of its role in managing the White House Press Pool, taking control of deciding who will be a part of the small rotating group of journalists and photographers who accompany the president. It is an aggressive move by the government to control which news outlets have access to the president, one that is unprecedented in modern American politics and comes amid President Trump’s long-standing efforts to erode Americans’ trust in fact-based reporting.
Experts Say Trump Comes Close to the Red Line of Openly Defying Judges
MSN – Justin Jouvenal, Leo Sands, and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 2/20/2025
Federal judges have blocked President Trump’s attempts to freeze trillions of dollars in federal grants and loans, halt billions in foreign assistance, and dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development. But in each case, the administration has said it still has legal authority to do at least some of those things, prompting judges and those challenging Trump’s actions to accuse him of failing to comply. Legal experts said the administration’s aggressive maneuvers have approached the red line of openly flouting court orders.
Trump Loyalist Kash Patel Becomes Director of FBI, Which He Vows to Remake
MSN – Jeremy Robuck and Mark Berman (Washington Post) | Published: 2/20/2025
The Senate narrowly voted to confirm Kash Patel as FBI director, installing a close ally of President Trump and a staunch critic of the bureau. Patel will take command of an organization with far-reaching surveillance powers and access to sensitive intelligence at a moment when it is engulfed by turbulence and uncertainty. Since Trump’s inauguration, at least eight top officials have been forced out, and people familiar with the FBI’s workforce say morale has plummeted amid fears of further staffing shake-ups.
As Trump Pursues His Policies, Democratic States Block His Path
MSN – Maeve Reston, Reis Thebault, Janna Slater, and Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 2/22/2025
Amid a barrage of executive orders from President Trump and dramatic steps by billionaire Elon Musk to downsize the federal government, Democratic attorneys general have emerged as the new administration’s most persistent, and effective, adversaries. While congressional Democrats who lack control of either chamber have struggled to respond to Trump’s first weeks, state attorneys general have marched into court, pledging to rein in an administration intent on pushing the limits of presidential power.
Trump Wants More Power Over Agencies. Experts Worry About Campaign Finance Regulators
NPR – Ashley Lopez | Published: 2/20/2025
There are currently about 80 agencies across the federal government that were designed by Congress to be independent of the White House. An executive from President Trump seeks to require these agencies to run all new policies, rulings, and regulations by the president. Campaign Legal Center Executive Director Adav Noti said the FEC, in particular, was created following the Watergate scandal to be both bipartisan and independent, so it would not be “beholden to any particular president.” It is a view contested by the Trump administration.
FEC Clears Ted Cruz of Wrongdoing Over Podcast Syndicator’s Donations to Super PAC
Yahoo News – Jasper Scherer (Texas Tribune) | Published: 2/21/2025
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz did not run violate campaign finance laws when the company that syndicates his podcast contributed nearly $1 million through a series of payments to a super PAC supporting Cruz’s reelection bid, the FEC ruled. The agency dismissed a complaint filed by watchdog groups, who alleged Cruz could have violated campaign funding rules if he played any role in iHeartMedia’s contributions to the pro-Cruz Truth and Courage PAC. Under federal law, candidates can only direct or solicit up to $5,000 in donations to super PACs, which can otherwise raise unlimited sums to support candidates.
From the States and Municipalities
California – In Huntington Beach, Politics on a Plaque
Seattle Times – Orlando Mayorquin (New York Times) | Published: 2/24/2025
The Huntington Beach City Council, all of whom are Republicans, commemorated the 50th anniversary of the city’s central public library into a political statement, using their favorite acronym. The council-approved design of the plaque describes the library in this bold-letter fashion: Magical Alluring Galvanizing Adventurous. The wording of the plaque has thrown Huntington Beach into the national spotlight. But the dispute is part of a yearslong battle over the city’s political and cultural identity.
California – California Agrees to Drop Parts of Social Media Law Challenged by Elon Musk’s X
Yahoo News – Tyler Katzenberger (Politico) | Published: 2/24/2025
California agreed to drop portions of a law that requires large social media companies to disclose their policies for handling hate speech, disinformation, harassment, and extremism. A settlement between state Attorney General Rob Bonta and Elon Musk’s social media platform X stops short of tossing the entire law, as X demanded when it first filed the case, citing First Amendment complaints. But it deals a blow to California’s push to publicize how social media platforms define and referee speech on their platforms.
Colorado – Appeals Court Says State Campaign Finance Enforcement Framework Is Constitutional
Colorado Politics – Michael Karlik | Published: 2/26/2025
Colorado’s second-highest court said the state’s current method of adjudicating campaign finance complaints is constitutional and is not the “very definition of tyranny.” State law allows any person to file a complaint alleging a campaign finance violation, which the secretary of state’s office then screens, decides whether to dismiss or investigate, and potentially imposes a penalty. Campaign Integrity Watchdog argued the process consolidated legislative, executive, and judicial functions within “a single, partisan elected office.”
Connecticut – New Head of IT at CT Election Enforcement Agency Raises Conflict of Interest Concerns
CT Insider – Joshua Eaton | Published: 2/25/2025
Mann Hasen left the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) in 2014. Since then, he founded a company that processes online credit card donations for campaigns, a process SEEC oversees. Hasen was also treasurer for a failed state Senate campaign that is now the subject of an open complaint with SEEC over allegations of improper in-kind donations. Hasen is named in that complaint. The SEEC recently re-hired Hasen as head of IT at the agency, which was his former position. “I have to really question the decision to hire from the very start, given the entanglements he has,” said Bilal Sekou of Common Cause Connecticut.
Florida – Florida Lobbying Ban Likely to Survive 11th Circuit Scrutiny
Courthouse News Service – Alex Pickett | Published: 2/26/2025
An attorney for a Florida mayor and county commissioner asked an appeals court to strike down part of a state constitutional amendment that restricts lobbying by elected officials. The amendment prohibits elected officials from paid lobbying of any government bodies “on issues of policy, appropriations or procurement” during their terms in office. The Florida Legislature then passed a law putting the amendment into effect and adding penalties. Plaintiffs argue the ban violated their First Amendment right to free speech.
Florida – Florida Appeals Court Overturns Ethics Committee’s Decision on Doug Underhill. Here’s Why.
MSN – Mollye Barrows (Pensacola News Journal) | Published: 2/26/2025
A state appeals court overturned decisions by the Florida Commission on Ethics that former Escambia County Commissioner Doug Underhill should have been removed from office over allegations he misused his public office and that he owed $35,000 for ethics violations while serving as commissioner. The appeals court ruled the ethics commission “abused its authority” in the case.
Florida – Centners’ Ex-Lobbyist Sues Them, Alleges They Let Him ‘Take the Fall’ in His Criminal Case
MSN – Tess Riski (Miami Herald) | Published: 2/25/2025
Miami lobbyist and attorney Bill Riley Jr. filed a lawsuit against his former clients David and Leila Centner, alleging the couple let him “take the fall” and failed to provide information to prosecutors that would have exonerated him in a now-dismissed money laundering and bribery case involving Miami City Commissioner Alex Díaz de la Portilla. Prosecutors had alleged that nearly $250,000 in campaign contributions was channeled from the Centners to Díaz de la Portilla-controlled political committees to secure his support for an arena the Centners wanted to build.
Florida – In Trump’s DC, K Street Clamors for Florida-Linked Lobbyists
MSN – Kimberly Leonard (Politico) | Published: 2/20/2025
Powerful interest groups are moving to hire lobbyists with ties to Florida to influence the Trump administration. The president has chosen officials from the state for top positions, and he continues to spend plenty of time in Florida, making appearances at galas, hosting Republicans at Mar-a-Lago, and signing executive orders. Because the state legislative session in Tallahassee lasts only 60 days, some lobbyists say adding work in Washington is easy enough to juggle.
Georgia – Giuliani’s Legal Battle with Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss Has Finally Ended
MSNBC – Clarissa-Jan Lim | Published: 2/25/2025
After a protracted legal saga in which he was held in contempt twice, Rudy Giuliani has finally put an end to the defamation case brought by two former Georgia election workers, having “fully satisfied” the judgment against him. According to the federal court filing, Giuliani satisfied the judgement that required him to pay Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss nearly $150 million for spreading lies about them after the 2020 election.
Idaho – Idaho Legislators Address ‘Monetization of Politics’ in New Campaign Finance Bills
Yahoo News – Mia Maldonado (Idaho Capital Sun) | Published: 2/21/2025
House leadership introduced four bills to address the influx of out-of-state spending involved in Idaho elections. House Bill 309 would require lobbyists to disclose expenses on a weekly basis during the legislative session and a monthly basis outside of session.
Illinois – Rift Widens Between Johnson and Inspector General He Inherited
WBEZ – Fran Spielman | Published: 2/25/2025
The rift between Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the inspector general he inherited increased over efforts to remove what chief watchdog Deborah Witzburg views as roadblocks impeding her internal investigations. Corporation Counsel Mary Richardson-Lowry responded after Wirtzburg accused Johnson and his predecessor Lori Lightfoot of withholding documents, selectively enforcing subpoenas, and demanding to have the Law Department sit in on interviews that “risk embarrassment” to the mayor.
Kentucky – Questions Spur Further Investigation of London Mayor’s Improper Contributions to Beshear Campaign
Yahoo News – Tom Loftus (Kentucky Lantern) | Published: 2/21/2025
The Kentucky Registry of Election Finance wants more information in the investigation of whether London Mayor Randall Weddle made illegal contributions to help Gov. Andy Beshear win reelection in 2023. The registry staff recommended the board find Weddle violated the law by making numerous contributions in the names of other people to Beshear’s campaign for governor and the state Democratic Party, but Weddle did not know his actions violated the law. Registry members said they were unsure of many important details of what happened and could not make any findings for now.
Maine – Maine House Votes to Censure Lawmaker Over Social Media Posts Showing Transgender Minor
Maine Public – Kevin Miller | Published: 2/26/2025
The Maine House voted to censure Rep. Laurel Libby, whose social media posts about a transgender high school athlete have drawn national attention to the student and to Maine’s policies. The censure resolution accuses Libby of “reprehensible” actions as part of an effort to “advance her political agenda” – actions the resolution and Democrats said could endanger the student.
Maine Wire – Libby Palanza | Published: 2/18/2025
Two lawmakers want to increase the campaign contribution cap for unenrolled candidates running for office in Maine. Under state law, candidates are limited in the amount of money from any given individual or PAC during an election. Legislative Document 390 would double these limits for candidates who are not associated with one of the officially recognized political parties.
Maine – Portland Establishes Ethics Commission More Than 2 Years After Voters Approved It
Yahoo News – Grace Benninghoff (Portland Press Herald) | Published: 2/24/2025
The Portland City Council passed an order that establishes a city ethics commission. Ever since voters approved the creation of the commission more than two years ago as a part of an overhaul of the city charter, the council has been working to put it in place. In the intervening years there have been multiple workshops, more than two dozen proposed amendments, and several opportunities for public comment.
Maryland – Maryland Lawmakers Want Governors to Face Stronger Ethics Laws
MSN – Natalie Jones (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 2/27/2025
Lawmakers want Maryland governors to place their personal financial holdings into a blind trust months after conflicts-of-interest were raised during the state’s U.S. Senate race between former Gov. Larry Hogan and now-Sen. Angela Alsobrooks. Companion bills in the House and Senate would require the governor to either place their financial interests into a certified blind trust approved by the State Ethics Commission or divest from any interest the commission determines may pose a conflict with the governor’s public duties.
Michigan – Michigan House Passes Plan to Close ‘Revolving Door’ of Lawmakers, Lobbyists
MSN – Arpan Lobo (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 2/20/2025
The Michigan House passed legislation that would impose a waiting period on themselves before they could become lobbyists. The bills would ban executive officeholders, including the governor and heads of state departments, from engaging in lobbying for the first two years after they leave office.
Mississippi – Mississippi City Stuns Newspaper with Restraining Order Over Editorial
MSN – Ann Branigin (Washington Post) | Published: 2/20/2025
A newspaper in Mississippi was ordered to take down an editorial that criticized public officials. The city of Clarksdale filed a defamation lawsuit against the Clarksdale Press Register following the editorial that called out the mayor and city council for holding a meeting about a proposed tax without alerting the media. City leaders said they were “chilled and hindered” in their efforts to lobby for the tax in the state capital “due to libelous assertions and statements” made in the article. The order was condemned by free-speech advocates.
New Jersey – In Stunning Development, Corruption Charges Against N.J. Political Boss Dismissed
MSN – Ted Sherman (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 2/26/2025
The indictment against one of the most powerful political figures in New Jersey was thrown out of court in a startling decision by a judge who found no crime had been committed. George Norcross, a wealthy insurance executive from Camden who has never held elected office but held far-reaching sway over government and politics, was accused of orchestrating a wide-ranging corruption scheme. Authorities charged that enterprise diverted state-funded tax breaks intended to spark economic development in the state’s poorest city.
New Mexico – Lobbyist Transparency Bill Clears First Hurdle
New Mexico In Depth – Marjorie Childress | Published: 2/25/2025
Legislation in New Mexico that would bring more transparency to lobbying behind the scenes at the statehouse began moving through the legislative process with almost four weeks to go in the session. Senate Bill 248 would require more details about the money lobbyists spend to achieve policy goals.
New York – Hochul Announces Guardrails Around Eric Adams
MSN – Nick Reisman and Joe Anuta (Politico) | Published: 2/20/2025
Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled guardrails hemming in New York City Mayor Eric Adams in light of his alliance with President Trump and Trump’s leverage over Adams. The governor, facing pressure to remove the mayor, is proposing a series of oversight measures she said are meant to prevent undue influence by the White House. Hochul left open the possibility of forcing Adams from office.
New York – Judge Appoints Outside Lawyer to Argue Against Dropping Adams Charges
MSN – Shayna Jacobs and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 2/21/2025
The federal judge overseeing the corruption case against New York Mayor Eric Adams appointed an outside lawyer to present arguments in opposition to the Justice Department’s efforts to dismiss the charges. U.S. District Court Judge Dale Ho declined a request from top leadership at the department to immediately close the case. Instead, he appointed Paul Clement, U.S. solicitor general under President George W. Bush, to advise the court on the matter.
North Dakota – House Defeats Bill to Streamline North Dakota Ethics Commission
Yahoo News – Mary Steurer (North Dakota Monitor) | Published: 2/25/2025
The North Dakota House overwhelmingly defeated a bill that aimed to give the state’s Ethics Commission more freedom over how it investigates potential violations. The Ethics Commission pushed for House Bill 1360 as a way to simplify the rules and laws that govern its work. Commission staff said this would both help reduce the commission’s backlog of complaints, as well as make the process easier to navigate for the public.
Ohio – Vivek Ramaswamy Launches Campaign for Ohio Governor
MSN – Patrick Svitek and Dylan Wells (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2025
Vivek Ramaswamy, the 2024 Republican presidential candidate and short-lived co-chairperson of President Trump’s government efficiency commission, launched his campaign for Ohio governor, joining a contested primary that will test his star power in the Trump-led GOP. Ramaswamy’s candidacy could add to a major period of transition for Republicans in Ohio, a onetime battleground state in presidential elections that has become more comfortable territory for Republicans under Trump.
Oregon – Questions Over Oregon Politician’s Pay Lead Defense Department to Terminate Agency Funding
Portland Oregonian – Les Zaitz (Malheur Enterprise) | Published: 2/23/2025
State Rep. Greg Smith’s unsupported pay claims and effort to boost his own pay resulted in the federal government pulling funding for an agency that was supposed to create jobs, preserve parts of the Oregon Trail, and protect wildlife on a former military base in eastern Oregon. That could cost the Columbia Development Authority nearly $800,000 a year, a loss that local governments may have to make up if they want the small agency to survive.
Oregon – Multnomah County Awards a Billion Dollars in Contracts Each Year Without Lobbying Rules
Willamette Week – Anthony Effinger | Published: 2/26/2025
Unlike the state of Oregon, the city of Portland, and many large counties on the West Coast, Multnomah County does not require contractors or their lobbyists to register or report hours spent pitching their services to public officials. People familiar with the county’s operations say the lack of lobbying requirements opens the door for abuse. County Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards is working on lobbying rules for the county. She oversaw compliance with lobbying and ethics rules across the country as a senior director at Nike.
Pennsylvania – Johnny Doc’s Bribery Conviction Just Cost His Former Union Local 98 Another $25,000 in Ethics Fines
MSN – Chris Palmer (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/20/2025
The union that convicted labor leader John Dougherty once molded into one of the state’s most powerful political forces agreed to pay nearly $25,000 to the Philadelphia Board of Ethics to resolve issues that stemmed from Dougherty’s criminal conduct a decade ago. The penalties relate to Dougherty’s failure to register as a lobbyist as he and the union he directed sought to influence government officials between 2014 and 2016.
Texas – Texas Lawmaker Is Targeting Publicly Funded Lobbying. Will Restrictions Pass This Session?
MSN – Alex Driggars (Austin American-Statesman) | Published: 2/26/2025
State Sen. Mayes Middleton is taking aim at local taxing entities’ long-standing ability to hire lobbyists to help them navigate the Texas Legislature. Middleton filed Senate Bill 19, which would prevent local governments, such as school districts and cities, from hiring lobbyists with public money or paying dues to organizations that lobby on their behalf. One such organization is the Texas Association of School Boards, a named target of Middleton’s bill, which drew the ire of some Republican lawmakers last session for its opposition to school vouchers.
February 27, 2025 •
Anaheim, CA City Council Passes Ordinance Increasing Contribution Limits

The Anaheim City Council recently passed Ordinance 6603, which raises the city’s campaign contribution limit for the 2025-2026 two-year election cycle. The limit will increase from $2,500 to $2,700 for corporations, PACs, individuals, and labor unions who give to local […]
The Anaheim City Council recently passed Ordinance 6603, which raises the city’s campaign contribution limit for the 2025-2026 two-year election cycle. The limit will increase from $2,500 to $2,700 for corporations, PACs, individuals, and labor unions who give to local candidates and their controlled committees. The increase reflects the 7% rise in the consumer price index for the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim urban area, as required by Anaheim Municipal Code. The ordinance is effective retroactively beginning on January 1.
February 25, 2025 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “FEC Clears Ted Cruz of Wrongdoing Over Podcast Syndicator’s Donations to Super PAC” by Jasper Scherer (Texas Tribune) for Yahoo News Idaho: “Idaho Legislators Address ‘Monetization of Politics’ in New Campaign Finance Bills” by Mia Maldonado (Idaho Capital Sun) for Yahoo […]
Campaign Finance
National: “FEC Clears Ted Cruz of Wrongdoing Over Podcast Syndicator’s Donations to Super PAC” by Jasper Scherer (Texas Tribune) for Yahoo News
Idaho: “Idaho Legislators Address ‘Monetization of Politics’ in New Campaign Finance Bills” by Mia Maldonado (Idaho Capital Sun) for Yahoo News
Kentucky: “Questions Spur Further Investigation of London Mayor’s Improper Contributions to Beshear Campaign” by Tom Loftus (Kentucky Lantern) for Yahoo News
Maine: “Should Unenrolled Candidates Be Able to Take Twice as Much from Contributors? These Lawmakers Think So.” by Libby Palanza for Maine Wire
Ethics
National: “AP Sues 3 Trump Administration Officials, Citing Freedom of Speech” by David Bauder (Associated Press) for Yahoo News
National: “As Trump Pursues His Policies, Democratic States Block His Path” by Maeve Reston, Reis Thebault, Janna Slater, and Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) for MSN
New York: “Judge Appoints Outside Lawyer to Argue Against Dropping Adams Charges” by Shayna Jacobs and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) for MSN
Oregon: “Questions Over Oregon Politician’s Pay Lead Defense Department to Terminate Agency Funding” by Les Zaitz (Malheur Enterprise) for Portland Oregonian
February 24, 2025 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Trump Wants More Power Over Agencies. Experts Worry About Campaign Finance Regulators” by Ashley Lopez for NPR Ethics National: “Experts Say Trump Comes Close to the Red Line of Openly Defying Judges” by Justin Jouvenal, Leo Sands, and Ann Marimow (Washington […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Trump Wants More Power Over Agencies. Experts Worry About Campaign Finance Regulators” by Ashley Lopez for NPR
Ethics
National: “Experts Say Trump Comes Close to the Red Line of Openly Defying Judges” by Justin Jouvenal, Leo Sands, and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) for MSN
Mississippi: “Mississippi City Stuns Newspaper with Restraining Order Over Editorial” by Ann Branigin (Washington Post) for MSN
New York: “Hochul Announces Guardrails Around Eric Adams” by Nick Reisman and Joe Anuta (Politico) for MSN
Legislative Issues
National: “Trump Loyalist Kash Patel Becomes Director of FBI, Which He Vows to Remake” by Jeremy Robuck and Mark Berman (Washington Post) for MSN
Lobbying
Florida: “In Trump’s DC, K Street Clamors for Florida-Linked Lobbyists” by Kimberly Leonard (Politico) for MSN
Michigan: “Michigan House Passes Plan to Close ‘Revolving Door’ of Lawmakers, Lobbyists” by Arpan Lobo (Detroit Free Press) for MSN
Pennsylvania: “Johnny Doc’s Bribery Conviction Just Cost His Former Union Local 98 Another $25,000 in Ethics Fines” by Chris Palmer (Philadelphia Inquirer) for MSN
State and Federal Communications, Inc. provides research and consulting services for government relations professionals on lobbying laws, procurement lobbying laws, political contribution laws in the United States and Canada. Learn more by visiting stateandfed.com.