Federal:

As Campaigns Seek Delegates, Ordinary Voters Feel Sidelined
New York Times – Jeremy Peters | Published: 4/9/2016

For decades, both major parties have used a somewhat convoluted process for picking their presidential nominees, one that involves ordinary voters in only an indirect way. As Americans flock this year to outsider candidates, the kind most hindered by these rules, they are suddenly waking up to this reality. And their confusion and anger are adding another volatile element to an election being waged over questions of fairness and equality. Like with any private members-only club – political parties are not official government entities – party leaders exercise considerable control over which candidate gets their endorsement and the privilege of using their political infrastructure, financial support, and voter base, without which winning in November is all but impossible.

Big Bucks Spent Honoring Lawmakers
The Hill – Megan Wilson | Published: 4/14/2016

Although rules ban gifts to federal officials and place limits on campaign contributions, there is no cap on the amount of money that can be spent honoring lawmakers and top officials with plaques and events, nor are there limits on donations to charities and institutes that policymakers support. The so-called honorary expenses are central to the way Washington, D.C. works yet are rarely reported in the press. More than 240 of organizations shelled out $19.75 million on honorary expenses last year, according to disclosure records. The contributions were made to more than 100 different organizations, some of which have federal officials on their boards.

Inside a Consulting Giant’s Deep Roots in Clinton Land
Politico – Rachel Bade | Published: 4/13/2016

When Hillary Clinton became secretary of state, she sought out Declan Kelly to be her economic envoy to Northern Ireland. While serving as Clinton’s special envoy, reaching out to global corporations for those investments, he was also working for two of them as a private consultant. It was also during this time period that Kelly and Doug Band, a close aide to former President Bill Clinton, were preparing to launch a global consulting business. Teneo Holdings would go on to employ numerous Hillary Clinton associates, giving clients rare access to the couple and their network of world leaders. The fact that Kelly and Band were laying the groundwork for their enterprise while Kelly was working for the State Department represents a fresh illustration of the blurring of the lines between Hillary Clinton’s political network and her State Department that critics have long noted.

Puerto Rico’s Prosperous D.C. Power Couple
New York Times – Eric Lipton and Michael Corkery | Published: 4/12/2016

As Puerto Rico has spiraled toward possible bankruptcy, the island’s sole representative in Congress has seen his family wealth swell, thanks in part to Wall Street companies that have sought to capitalize on the island’s financial crisis and have hired his wife to advise them. The dual roles, those of a lawmaker and a spouse who are both involved in the financial affairs of their community, are hardly unusual in Washington, a city where power couples are increasingly common and, at times, celebrated. But legislation that Pedro Pierluisi, the resident commissioner to Congress from Puerto Rico, has introduced would benefit at least two of the companies that have hired his wife, María Elena Carrión, for financial advice.

Why Thousands of Americans Are Lining Up to Get Arrested in D.C. This Week
Rolling Stone – Ben Wofford | Published: 4/13/2016

More than 400 protesters participating in a recent sit-in on Capitol Hill were arrested and if organizers have their way, there will be more. Democracy Spring is mobilizing a week of sit-ins at the Capitol building – over 3,500 have pledged to be arrested – in what organizers hope will become a series of intensifying waves of protest meant to highlight the influence of money in politics. In an election cycle that has already seen Black Lives Matter and other protesters change the conversation among candidates, Democracy Spring is billing itself as 2016’s first full-stage activist production.

From the States and Municipalities:

Hawaii – A Cool Million Was Spent Lobbying Hawaii Lawmakers in Two Months
Honolulu Civil Beat – Nathan Eagle | Published: 4/7/2016

Nearly $1 million was spent lobbying Hawaii lawmakers during the first two months of the year, pushing the total expenditures to almost $14 million since 2013. Disclosure reports do not detail when a lobbyist had lunch with a legislator or had a private meeting to discuss a bill. The vast majority of lobbyists report spending no money. The filings do show what organizations have hired lobbyists, who they have hired, and how much they’re paying them. But even that information has its limits.

Indiana – Indy Council Approves Ethics Reforms
Indianapolis Star – Brian Eason | Published: 4/11/2016

The ethics code for the city of Indianapolis and Marion County was overhauled with new restrictions on lobbyists and tougher penalties for noncompliance. When the ethics ordinance was first approved in 2009, it set up a registry that required lobbyists to file annual disclosures. But in part because of lax reporting requirements, no enforcement actions have been taken and few gifts have been disclosed since it became effective. Now, lobbyists will have to report the value and recipient of all gifts worth $25 or more. Repeat violators would be subject to lifetime bans for themselves and the firms they represent.

Kentucky – Inside The Kentucky Firm at the Center of the FBI’s Corruption Probe
Kentucky Center for Investigative Reporting – James McNair | Published: 4/14/2016

FBI agents in March raided MC Squared Consulting’s office in Lexington. Today, visitors are greeted by a locked door and a paper sign saying “Out of town today.” MC Squared provided services to candidates, like conducting polls, setting up focus groups, developing campaign strategy, and buying ads. Although its offices were searched and employees interviewed by the FBI, MC Squared has not been accused of wrongdoing. Only one person was criminally charged the day of the raid: Tim Longmeyer, Kentucky’s former Personnel Cabinet secretary. Longmeyer is accused of taking more than $200,000 in bribes from an unnamed consulting company in exchange for sending it more than $2 million worth of market research work. Officials would not say if MC Squared is the firm mentioned in the Longmeyer complaint. But more and more, MC Squared appears to be the unnamed company.

Massachusetts – State Panel OK’s GOP’s Use of Federal Funds for Baker War Chest
Boston Globe – Frank Phillips | Published: 4/8/2016

The Office of Campaign and Political Finance (OCPF) ruled the state Republican Party can give federally raised resources to Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker’s campaign committee. OCPF Director Michael Sullivan said federal campaign finance laws trump state law. That means a political party is free to raise donations of up to $10,000 under federal guidelines, far above the state’s $1,000 annual limits, and then use those funds to support a state campaign committee. Typically, donations raised under federal guidelines have been used to support candidates for federal, not state, office. “It’s a loophole, but an avenue that can used by both parties; this has never been brought to our attention prior to this case,” Sullivan said.

Nebraska – Nebraska Senators Fail to Vote on Lobbyist Meal Ban
Grand Island Independent; Associated Press –   | Published: 4/13/2016

State senators engaged in a brief discussion about a resolution to end lunches paid for by lobbyists and served to senators in the Nebraska Capitol. But they moved on without taking a vote, to the chagrin of the sponsor, Sen. Ernie Chambers, who plans to reintroduce it next year as a bill instead of a legislative resolution. The resolution sought to stop lobbyists from buying catered meals for lawmakers during the final weeks of the legislative session. Served in the senators’ lounge behind the chamber, the lunches cost about $10,000 last year, according to the lobbyist who organizes them. State law caps gifts to senators or their family members at $50 in value, but places no limits on food and beverages.

New York – Donald Trump and New York Tabloids Resume Their Elaborate Dance
New York Times – Michael Grynbaum | Published: 4/11/2016

As the presidential spotlight swings to New York for the state’s primary contest, Donald Trump is reuniting with the press corps he knows best, a boisterous tabloid culture that spawned and nurtured the outsize Trump personality now known the world over. It is also the ink-stained caldron in which Trump, over decades, honed the method of media management – cajoling, combating, at times dissembling – that he has unleashed, to great effect, in this year’s national campaign. Some Americans have been caught off guard by Trump’s take-no-prisoners style, but New York’s media veterans detect the old Trump playbook at work.

New York – Federal Prosecutors Cast a Wider Net in New York City Hall Inquiry
New York Times – William Rashbaum and Al Baker | Published: 4/10/2016

A federal corruption investigation examining New York City police officials, a correction union leader, and businesspeople with fundraising ties to Mayor Bill de Blasio has expanded into a probe of the mayor’s campaign fundraising, people familiar with the matter said. One of the businesspeople held a fundraiser at his home for the Campaign for One New York, a nonprofit supporting the mayor’s agenda and run by his allies, and another bundled more than $40,000 in contributions to de Blasio’s 2013 campaign. Federal investigators are interested in whether major donors to the Campaign for One New York received special treatment from de Blasio’s administration, the sourced said. The investigators are looking at whether donations were made in exchange for some kind of official act.

Tennessee – Jeremy Durham’s Office Moved Across Street after AG Probe
The Tennessean – Joel Ebert | Published: 4/8/2016

Tennessee Rep. Jeremy Durham is effectively being quarantined from lawmakers, lobbyists, and interns after the state’s attorney general determined he could pose a risk to “unsuspecting women” at the state Capitol complex. House Speaker Beth Harwell announced she is moving Durham’s office to the ground floor of a building across the street and his access to committee rooms and the House chamber will be limited to when meetings are taking place. The move comes amid an investigation into the Durham’s “pattern of conduct” toward women. Interviews with 34 current and former lawmakers, lobbyists, staffers, and interns included allegations that Durham made sexual comments and inappropriate physical contact with women working at Legislative Plaza, according to Attorney General Herbert Slatery’s memorandum to Harwell.

Washington – Legislature Gets a C- Grade from Lobbyists. That’s Actually an Improvement.
Tacoma News-Tribune – Melissa Santos | Published: 4/12/2016

According to the annual poll of lobbyists, the Washington Legislature’s overall performance in 2016 was slightly better than in any year since 2011. On a 4.0 scale, the Legislature this year earned a grade point average of 1.78, an improvement from 1.73 last year and the six-year low of 1.54 in 2013. Lobbyists docked the Legislature for its work on certain issues, especially K-12 education. Grades were lower than last year in five of eight subject areas, according to the report. Lobbyists were even more critical of Gov. Jay Inslee, giving him the lowest rating they have since he took office in 2013.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has set a date for a special election to fill Virgil Smith’s former state senate seat. Smith’s resignation became effective after beginning a 10-month jail sentence related to a shooting incident involving his ex-wife.

A primary election for the vacant 4th district seat will be held August 2, 2016. The general election is scheduled for November 8, 2016.

Lobbying

Kentucky: “Bevin’s Five Veto Actions Most in 16 Years” by Joseph Gerth for Louisville Courier-Journal

Campaign Finance

“Why Thousands of Americans Are Lining Up to Get Arrested in D.C. This Week” by Ben Wofford for Rolling Stone

Alabama: “Bentley Scandal: Influence of ‘dark money’ a key issue as governor’s funding is scrutinized” by Connor Sheets for AL.com

Ethics

“Puerto Rico’s Prosperous D.C. Power Couple” by Eric Lipton and Michael Corkery for New York Times

“Inside a Consulting Giant’s Deep Roots in Clinton Land” by Rachel Bade for Politico

Arizona: “Advocacy Group Files Ballot Measure to Combat Dark Money” by Ryan Van Velzer (Associated Press) for Hastings Tribune

Elections

“Donald Trump, American Preacher” by Jeff Sharlet for New York Times

Legislative Issues

Tennesse: “Jeremy Durham’s Office Moved Across Street after AG Probe” by Joel Ebert for The Tennessean

Washington: “Legislature Gets a C- Grade from Lobbyists. That’s Actually an Improvement.” by Melissa Santos for Tacoma News-Tribune

Lobbying

“Curbing Corporate Lobbyists: Easier than you think” by Lee Drutman and Christine Mahoney for American Prospect

Virginia: “Jobs and Ethics: two areas where McAuliffe and GOP lawmakers disagree” by Jenna Portnoy for Washington Post

Campaign Finance

“Barrage of Attack Ads Threatens to Undermine Donald Trump” by Nick Corasiniti and Maggie Haberman for New York Times

Alaska: “Judge Hears Arguments as GOP Supporters Try to Loosen Campaign Donation Limits” by Alex DeMarban for Alaska Dispatch News

California: “Judge Recommends $160,000 Tow Company Fine” by Greg Moran for San Diego Union-Tribune

Georgia: “Lawmakers Support Replenishment of Maine’s Public Campaign Finance Fund” by Steve Mistler for mainecentral.com

Ethics

North Carolina: “When Musicians Boycott to Protest Politics” by David Graham for The Atlantic

Indiana: “Indy Council Approves Ethics Reforms” by Brian Eason for Indianapolis Star

Elections

New York: “Donald Trump and New York Tabloids Resume Their Elaborate Dance” by Michael Grynbaum for New York Times

Lobbying

Tennessee: “Lobbying Expenditures on Tenn. Lawmakers Increases in 2015” by Tom Humphrey (Knoxville News Sentinel) for Memphis Commercial Appeal

Campaign Finance

“FEC Deadlocks over Allegations Gingrich Used 2012 Campaign to Sell Books” by Matea Gold for Washington Post

Massachusetts: “State Panel OK’s GOP’s Use of Federal Funds for Baker War Chest” by Frank Phillips for Boston Globe

Montana: “Montana Campaign Finance Ruling Could Have ‘Ramifications Nationwide’” by James DeHaven for Billings Gazette

New York: “Federal Prosecutors Cast a Wider Net in New York City Hall Inquiry” by William Rashbaum and Al Baker for New York Times

Ethics

“Hastert Paid to Hide Sex Abuse, Then Lied about It, Federal Filing Alleges” by Jason Meisner, Jeff Coen, and Christy Gutowski for Los Angeles Times

“Washington Watchdog Adjusts to Life with Partisan Roommates” by Bill Allison for Bloomberg.com

Elections

“As Campaigns Seek Delegates, Ordinary Voters Feel Sidelined” by Jeremy Peters for New York Times

“A Portrait of Trump the Donor: Free rounds of golf, but no personal cash” by David Fahrenthold and Rosalind Helderman for Washington Post

Lobbying

“A Cool Million Was Spent Lobbying Hawaii Lawmakers in Two Months” by Nathan Eagle for Honolulu Civil Beat

“Dem Gets Free Penn State Tickets and Bills Taxpayers for the Mileage as Lobbying Soars in Pa.” by Candy Woodall for Harrisburg Patriot-News

Campaign Finance

“Unlimited Campaign Contributions in Pa. Create ‘Investments in Power’” by Candy Woodall for Harrisburg Patriot-News

“Yes, ‘Citizens United’ Gives Republicans an Electoral Edge. Here’s Proof.” by Tilman Klumpp, Hugo Mialon, and Michael Williams for Washington Post

Ethics

“The Pentagon Isn’t Tracking if Former Employees Violate Revolving Door Laws” by Eric Katz for Government Executive

“Emails Raise ‘Pay to Play’ Concerns” by Chris Sikich for Indianapolis Star

“Spat Escalates over Secret Legislative Records in NM” by Morgan Lee (Associated Press) for Las Cruces Sun-News

“New Executive Director Named for OK Ethics Commission” by Rick Green for The Oklahoman

Elections

“American Anger: It’s Not the Economy. It’s the Other Party.” by Lynn Vavrick for New York Times

“The Messy Way Colorado Is Picking Its GOP Delegates May Actually Matter This Year” by Ed O’Keefe for Washington Post

“Trump’s Rise Shows Religion Is Losing Its Political Power” by Eduardo Porter for New York Times

“In Reddit’s Unruly Corners, Trump Finds Support” by John Herrman for New York Times

Federal:

Could Republican Convention Delegates Be Bought? Legally, Maybe
CNN – Tal Kopan and Gregory Krieg | Published: 4/4/2016

There are federal and state laws prohibiting bribery of elected officials, and restrictions on campaigns themselves, but there is not much on the books governing what private citizens serving as delegates at their parties’ conventions can take in exchange for their votes on a nominating ballot. In a fight between Donald Trump, Ted Cruz, and perhaps an alternative not currently in the race, every delegate vote will matter in the race for the Republican presidential nomination. Campaigns and candidates are not the only entities that have funds to spend on the process, and there are a variety of laws and regulations that could come into play for delegates at this year’s convention.

Republicans on FEC Suggest They May Scrutinize Mystery Corporate Donors
Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 4/3/2016

The three Republican appointees on the FEC have indicated that campaign donors who give through private companies solely to shield their identities can be sanctioned, signaling the agency may scrutinize a rash of “pop-up” corporations giving large sums to super PACs. Their stance suggests the potential for movement by the polarized six-person panel, where a sense of stasis has been the norm. Democratic commissioners, however, reacted with skepticism, saying their GOP colleagues have until now delayed and actively blocked examination of such cases. But Lee Goodman, one of the Republican commissioners, said in an interview that contributors seeking to mask themselves through a privately held company or limited liability corporation should think twice.

Supreme Court Rejects Conservative Challenge to ‘One Person, One Vote’
Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 4/4/2016

The U.S. Supreme Court endorsed the way Texas draws its legislative districts based on total population and not just eligible voters, the same method used by all 50 states, rejecting a conservative challenge in a case focusing on the legal principle of “one person, one vote.” The justices unanimously rebuffed the challenge spearheaded by a conservative legal activist that could have shifted influence in state legislative races away from urban areas that tend to be racially diverse and favor Democrats to rural ones predominantly with white voters who often back Republicans. The court did not rule on a separate question of whether it would be constitutional for states to use the voter-eligible population for reapportionment if they chose to do so.

Trump Effect Hits Dem Convention
The Hill – Megan Wilson | Published: 4/5/2016

Businesses have long kept a big presence at the Democratic and Republican conventions, cutting checks for the festivities and sponsoring branded parties where their executives hobnob with the biggest names in the political world. But raising money for this year’s conventions is proving difficult, with many corporations wary of associating themselves with Donald Trump and his controversial campaign for the White House. Corporations are now considering sitting out the Democratic National Convention this summer for fear of looking partisan if they decide to skip the GOP’s event because of Trump.

From the States and Municipalities:

Alabama – Were the Gov. Robert Bentley Sex Scandal Tapes Legally Obtained?
AL.com – Keith Faulk | Published: 4/5/2016

It is not clear exactly who, how, and where the recordings were made of a few racy phone conversations purportedly between Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley and a woman on the other end believed to be his senior adviser Rebekah Mason. Apparently neither was the person who recorded the conversations. But if the conversations were recorded without the permission of either Bentley or the woman on the other end of the phone, the person who recorded it may run afoul of Alabama and/or federal eavesdropping laws, said Jenny Carroll, a professor at the University School of Law. She is interested in how it might play out in a court, before the Legislature, or the state Ethics Commission as to whether the tapes could be used. “It’s going to be very exciting,” Carroll said.

Arizona – AZ Governor Signs Bill Easing Dark Money Rules
Albuquerque Journal – Ryan Van Velzer (Associated Press) | Published: 4/1/2016

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey signed a bill that makes numerous changes to the state’s campaign finance rules. One provision cedes regulation of “dark money” and other nonprofit groups to the IRS, essentially doubling the amount that secretive organizations can spend on ballot measures and allowing nonprofits to spend more money influencing elections without having to reveal donors. Also gone are limits on how much someone can spend hosting a fundraising event for one or more candidates. In addition, Senate Bill 1516 allows candidates who have amassed large donations to transfer some of that money to others running for office.

California – Documentaries Like ‘Blackfish’ Influence California’s Capitol
Sacramento Bee – Alexei Koseff | Published: 3/31/2016

For advocates in California, movies have become a popular way to generate public awareness, promote legislation, and reach those who have a say on issues. These events largely highlight traditionally liberal causes, but it is a nonpartisan strategy. Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger once co-hosted a showing of “Waiting for Superman,” a film critical of public education. Jennifer Fearing, a lobbyist for animal rights groups, said it is a vital tool for nonprofits and other small organizations that have a less sophisticated presence in Sacramento. Documentaries send a message that something is “a mature problem that serious people are worried about and have put resources into,” while also providing an entertaining platform to educate the public and politicians, said Fearing.

Georgia – Friends in the Hall: How lobbyists use influence to help their clients
Atlanta Magazine – Max Blau | Published: 3/28/2016

Wayne Garner and Charlie Watts walked through the “revolving door” from legislating to lobbying and today are among nearly 1,000 badge-wearing lobbyists registered in Georgia. Their firm, Southeastern Resource Group, relies on their institutional knowledge, personal relationships with everyone from the state troopers guarding the Capitol doors to the governor, and a “good ol’ boy” sense of humor. Jokes aside, their expertise is valuable to clients, earning them up to $5,000 a month as contract lobbyists.

Kansas – The Conservative Gladiator from Kansas behind Restrictive Voting Laws
Washington Post – Sari Horwitz | Published: 4/6/2016

Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach has emerged as a major figure in a movement to add more requirements for Americans to vote or register to vote. Since the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a key part of the Voting Rights Act, sixteen states have made changes that will be in effect for the first time in a presidential election, many of them requiring photo identification at the polls. Kobach, a Republican, has gone a step further by pushing for states to demand proof of citizenship, such as a passport or a birth certificate, before allowing people to even register. “The reason we have to do this is there is a significant problem in Kansas and in the rest of the country of aliens getting on our voting rolls,” Kobach said. Election law experts say there is no evidence of significant voter fraud and Kobach is intentionally trying to make it more difficult for minority voters who tend to vote Democratic.

Kentucky – Judge Tosses Kentucky’s Ban on Corporate Campaign Donations
Lexington Herald-Leader; Associated Press –   | Published: 3/31/2016

U.S. District Court Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove ruled the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance cannot enforce the state’s prohibition on corporate campaign donations, finding the disparate treatment of corporations and unincorporated organizations violates the Constitutional right to equal protection under the law. The ruling stems from the battle over “right-to-work” legislation in the state: the labor unions that oppose those measures are allowed to make political contributions, while a corporation that promotes them is not.

Mississippi – High Court Rejects Challenge to Miss. Campaign Finance Law
San Diego Union-Tribune; Associated Press –   | Published: 4/4/2016

The U.S. Supreme Court will not hear an appeal challenging the constitutionality of a Mississippi campaign finance law that requires reporting by people or groups spending at least $200 to support or oppose a ballot measure. The justices left in place an appeals court ruling that upheld the law over claims it is too burdensome.

New Jersey – Why Are N.J. Public Contractors Who Took in $8.2B Donating Less to Candidates?
Newark Star-Ledger – Samantha Marcus (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 4/7/2016

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) said the state’s “pay-to-play” laws are chilling campaign contributions from public contractors. While they received nearly $8.2 billion in public contracts in 2015, a $1.2 billion hike over 2014, political donations from contractors fell 15 percent, from $9.8 million in 2014 to $8.3 million in 2015, according to an analysis of annual disclosure reports. “Many contractors are so afraid of violating the law that they have just stopped making political contributions entirely; many contractor donations are now going to PACs and independent groups, which are not subject to ‘pay-to-play,'” said ELEC Executive Director Jeff Brindle.

Pennsylvania – Lobbying for Philadelphia, and Well Paid for It
Philadelphia Inquirer – Jonathan Tamari and Claudia Vargas | Published: 4/4/2016

One is a longtime Philadelphia-area member of Congress who quit in 2002. Another worked for U.S. Rep. Robert Brady (R-Pa.). A third was a powerful state senator from Delaware County until he went to federal prison. Yet years after they left their public jobs, all remain on the taxpayers’ tab as private lobbyists, paid to promote Philadelphia’s interests in Washington, D.C. and Harrisburg. It is a common arrangement for cities, but one that troubles some watchdogs. A review of city records found Philadelphia taxpayers paid private lobbyists $482,924 last year. And despite already working for City Hall, some of the same firms also collected additional amounts from public entities such as Visit Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation.

Tennessee – Bible Could Soon Be Tennessee’s Official Book
New York Times – Katie Rogers | Published: 4/5/2016

Derided by critics as everything from unconstitutional to sacrilegious, Tennessee lawmakers nevertheless moved ahead with designating the Holy Bible as the state’s official book. Sponsors argue the bill seeks to honor the historical significance of the Bible in Tennessee’s history rather than serving as a government endorsement of religion. But opponents say the measure trivializes the Scripture by placing it alongside other state symbols like the official flower, tree, reptile, or folk dance. It remains unclear whether opponents of the bill will take the issue to court should Gov. Bill Haslam sign the legislation.

Virginia – Virginia Lawmakers Banish Pricey Gifts – But Not Fundraisers
ABC News – Alan Suderman (Associated Press) | Published: 4/6/2016

An analysis shows Virginia’s elected officials have hosted birthday parties, hunting and fishing trips, and golf tournaments in efforts to raise money. The fundraising occurred while lawmakers were putting new limits on gifts they could take from lobbyists and others after a scandal involving a former governor. Many lawmakers said they need to throw attention-getting fundraisers to attract lobbyists and donors, who are inundated with constant requests. Critics say the limits on gifts have done little to change the political culture. Instead of spoiling legislators with sports tickets and vacations, businesses are helping subsidize luxurious fundraisers, and filings provide scant details on the events.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Lobbying
Missouri: “Missouri Lawmakers Strike a Deal on Revolving-Door Lobbyist Ban” by Jason Hancock for Kansas City Star

Campaign Finance

New York: “Vote to Close ‘LLC Loophole’ Deadlocks, but Could Impact Lawsuit” by Chris Bragg for Albany Times Union

Virgina: “Virginia Lawmakers Banish Pricey Gifts – But Not Fundraisers” by Alan Suderman (Associated Press) for ABC News

Ethics

“Ethics Watchdog Urges Full Probe of Senate Hopeful Grayson” by Cristina Marcos for The Hill

Alabama: “Lawmaker Takes First Step in an Effort to Impeach Alabama’s Governor” by Campbell Robertson and Alan Blinder for New York Times

Connecticut: “Former Investment Director for Quasi-Public Agency Fined In Ethics Probe” by David Altimari for Hartford Courant

Massachusetts: “Prosecutors Investigate Fees Collected by Joyce on Randolph Projects” by Andrea Estes and Shelley Murphy for Boston Globe

Elections

“Trump Effect Hits Dem Convention” by Megan Wilson Megan Wilson for The Hill

Legislative Issues

Tennessee: “Bible Could Soon Be Tennessee’s Official Book” by Katie Rogers for New York Times

Gov. Terry McAuliffe will soon set a special election to fill the District 1 seat of the state senate. Sen. John Miller, who passed away Monday, leaves the seat open less than a year into a four-year term.

Given the state’s rules on when special elections can be held, the November 8 general election is the date the governor will most likely choose. District 1, a historically Democratic-leaning district, encompasses several areas including Newport News, Hampton, and Suffolk.

Sen. Miller won the seat last year by more than 5,700 votes.

Campaign Finance

Wisconsin: “Ted Cruz Leans on Allied Super PAC as GOP Nomination Fight Rolls On” by Matea Gold and Sean Sullivan for Washington Post

Ethics

“The ‘Panama Papers’: Here’s What We Know” by Liam Stack for New York Times

Alabama: “Were the Gov. Robert Bentley Sex Scandal Tapes Legally Obtained?” by Keith Faulk for AL.com

Hawaii: “Why Was Ethics Director Suspended? Report Offers Few Details” by Nick Grube for Honolulu Civil Beat

New York: “Local Politics Take an Uncivil Turn, Roiling a Suburb of New York” by Lisa Foderaro for New York Times

South Carolina: “Attorney General’s Deputy Secretly Tried to Discredit Special Prosecutor” by John Monk for The State

Elections

“Control of State Courts Becomes Top Political Battleground” by Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) for Las Vegas Sun

Arizona: “U.S. Seeks Answers to Delays at Phoenix-Area Polls on Primary Day” by Fernanda Santos for New York Times

Wisconsin: “Bernie Sanders Wins Wisconsin Democratic Primary, Adding to Momentum” by Amy Chozick for New York Times

Wisconsin:“Wisconsin Goes to Cruz, Raising Chance of Fight at Convention” by Jonathan Martin and Matt Flegenheimer for New York Times

Lobbying

Georgia: “Friends in the Hall: How lobbyists use influence to help their clients” by Max Blau for Atlanta Magazine

Pennsylvania: “Lobbying for Philadelphia, and Well Paid for It” by Jonathan Tamari and Claudia Vargas for Philadelphia Inquirer

Campaign Finance

“Republicans on FEC Suggest They May Scrutinize Mystery Corporate Donors” by Matea Gold for Washington Post

Mississippi: “High Court Rejects Challenge to Miss. Campaign Finance Law” by The Associated Press for San Diego Union-Tribune

Montana: “Jury: Montana lawmaker coordinated with dark-money groups” by Matt Volz (Associated Press) for Winona Daily News

Ethics

“Could Republican Convention Delegates Be Bought? Legally, Maybe” by Tal Kopan and Gregory Krieg for CNN

Ohio: “Ohio Ethics Panel to Clarify Stance on Elected Officials Nonprofit Jobs” by Lucas Sullivan for Columbus Dispatch

Elections

“Early Missteps Seen as a Drag on Bernie Sanders’s Campaign” by Patrick Healy and Yamiche Alcindor for New York Times

Redistricting

“Supreme Court Rejects Conservative Challenge to ‘One Person, One Vote’” by Robert Barnes for Washington Post

Lobbying

“Annual GAO Report on Federal Lobbying Compliance Shows Mixed Enforcement Bag: Fewer audits, more and larger enforcement penalties” by Andrew Garrahan for National Law Review

California: “Documentaries Like ‘Blackfish’ Influence California’s Capitol” by Alexei Koseff for Sacramento Bee

California: “Lawmakers Act to Shine Light on California Coastal Commission, Other Key State Boards” by Patrick McGreevy for Los Angeles Times

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “AZ Governor Signs Bill Easing Dark Money Rules” by Ryan Van Velzer (Associated Press) for Albuquerque Journal

Kentucky: “Judge Tosses Kentucky’s Ban on Corporate Campaign Donations” by The Associated Press for Lexington Herald-Leader

Mississippi: “Senate Passes Campaign Finance Reform” by Geoff Pender (Jackson Clarion-Ledger) for Hattiesburg American

Ethics

Alabama: “Rebekah Caldwell Mason, and How Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley ‘Lost His Mind’ ‘” by Amber Phillips for Washington Post

California: “San Diego May Revamp Ticket Perk” by David Garrick for San Diego Union-Tribune

Elections

“The American Idea in 140 Characters” by Vann Newkirk for The Atlantic

“Targets of Trump’s Attacks Fight Back in D.C.” by Anna Palmer and Jake Sherman for Politico

“Who Are the Angriest Republicans?” by Thomas Edsall for New York Times

Legislative Issues

“Abortion, Guns and Gay Rights Offer Risks, Rewards for State Republicans” by Richard Fausset for New York Times

Missouri: “Political Insider Accused of Harassing Missouri Capitol Interns Can Return, with Conditions” by Alex Stuckey for St. Louis Post-Dispatch

A special election for House District 162, held on March 29, 2016, is headed for a runoff after no candidate received more than 50 percent of the vote. Voters will return to the polls on April 26, 2016 to choose between Rev. Carl Gilliard and Alicia Blakely.

The winner will become the office’s incumbent for the May 24 primary. Josey Sheppard, Jr., who came in third, plans to run against Gilliard and Blakely in the May primary to determine who will hold the seat for the 2017-2018 term, as all three are running as Democrats.

National:

Feeling G.O.P. Peril, Muslims Try to Get Out Vote
New York Times – Alan Rappeport | Published: 3/24/2016

American Muslims are watching in growing horror as Donald Trump and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz battle for the Republican presidential nomination, outdoing each other with provocative proposals that have included Muslim registries, immigration bans, and fleets of police patrolling their neighborhoods. National advocacy groups are planning to fend off policies they consider hostile to Muslims with a more proactive strategy: driving up the Muslim vote. Organizations are encouraging mosques to turn themselves into voter registration centers before the November election so Muslims can make their voices heard at the polls. Registration drives are expected to ramp up significantly in June, during Ramadan, when attendance at Islamic centers peaks. Although Muslims make up only about one percent of the U.S. population, civil rights groups have set a goal of registering a million new voters.

Federal:

How Clinton’s Email Scandal Took Root
Washington Post – Robert O’Harrow, Jr. | Published: 3/27/2016

Since Hillary Clinton’s private email account was brought to light a year ago, the matter has been a source of nonstop national news. The FBI is now trying to determine whether a crime was committed in the handling of that classified material. It is also examining whether the server was hacked. The Washington Post reviewed documents and interviewed more than a dozen knowledgeable government officials to understand the decisions and the implications of Clinton’s actions. The resulting scandal revolves around questions about classified information, the preservation of government records, and the security of her email communication.

Surprising Source of GOP Petition
CBS News – Arden Farhi | Published: 3/29/2016

A man who says he authored a petition to allow open carry of guns at the Republican National Convention says he did it to test the limits of the party’s support for the Second Amendment. The petition, which has attracted national attention, reads as if it was written by a supporter of gun rights. Instead, the man behind the petition is a self-professed liberal Democrat and gun control advocate. In response to questions about the petition, the Secret Service said only law enforcement personnel will be allowed to carry firearms at the event.

Union ‘Persuader’ Rule to Offer Rare Look inside DC Consulting
The Hill – Megan Wilson | Published: 3/27/2016

The U.S. Department of Labor finalized the so-called union persuader rule that requires third-party lawyers and outside consultants to disclose when they are paid to advise businesses on resisting union-organizing campaigns. The rule takes effect on July 1. The rule covers activities like conducting union-avoidance seminars, providing materials for employers to distribute to workers, and writing talking points. Registered lobbyists in Washington, D.C. often lament that while their activities are heavily regulated, other professionals in the advocacy industry do similar work without any disclosure requirements at all. Craig Holman, a lobbyist for Public Citizen, said the Labor Department’s persuader rule could show the value in expanding advocacy disclosure beyond registered lobbyists.

From the States and Municipalities:

Alabama – Governor of Alabama, Robert Bentley, Says He Won’t Quit
New York Times – Alan Blinder | Published: 3/30/2016

Rebekah Caldwell Mason announced her resignation, saying she would no longer serve as Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley’s senior political adviser after he publicly admitted making inappropriate remarks to her but denied the two ever had an affair. It was uncertain whether it would be politically feasible for Bentley to remain in office. Some lawmakers are talking of impeaching the governor. His former pastor said Bentley was no longer a member of the Tuscaloosa congregation where he was once a deacon. The Alabama Ethics Commission said it would investigate whether Bentley and Mason had committed wrongdoing.

Arizona – Bill Overhauling Campaign Finance Laws Heads to Arizona Governor
Arizona Daily Star – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 3/29/2016

The Arizona Legislature passed a bill that rewrites campaign finance law, including a provision that would remove food, beverages, and invitations from the list of what is considered a political contribution or expenditure under state law. It also eliminates existing law that requires groups that spend money to influence elections to register first with the state. Critics call the legislation a back-door attempt to expand the influence of anonymous political spending in elections. Senate Bill 1516 now goes to the governor.

Arkansas – Ex-Judge Gets 10-Year Sentence for Taking Bribe
Arkansas News – John Lyon | Published: 3/24/2016

A former Arkansas judge was sentenced to 10 years in prison in federal court after he pleaded guilty to lowering the amount of damages a jury awarded in a civil suit in exchange for campaign contributions. Michael Maggio, a former state District Court judge, reached a plea deal where he admitted to receiving the bribes to reduce a $5.2 million judgment in a civil negligence case against a nursing home company to $1 million. Maggio met with an unidentified person who said he could provide about $50,000 in campaign funds in return for a favorable ruling in the civil case. Maggio was removed from office in 2014 after admitting he disclosed information about the adoption of a child by actress Charlize Theron, which was handled by another judge in the state.

California – Lobbying Class Teaches Sacramento State Students ‘Rough and Tumble’ Politics
Sacramento Bee – Taryn Luna | Published: 3/28/2016

Richie Ross is best known as a campaign consultant for many of California’s highest ranking Democrats and a longtime lobbyist and ally of the United Farm Workers. But he has a side job that few have heard about: helping to teach undergrads at Sacramento State University how to develop and carry an actual bill through the state Legislature. In the course description, “Making a New Law” is defined as “hands-on and grounded in rough and tumble politics.” Few universities offer lobbying majors or programs specifically geared for students interested in the profession. Ross said internships can provide valuable experience, but do not necessarily give students an insider’s perspective.

Florida – Opa-locka’s ‘Shadow’ Force Moves Millions in City Contracts
Miami Herald – Jay Weaver, Michael Sallah, and Katie Lepri | Published: 3/28/2016

In a community where money begets political favors at City Hall, Dante Starks has known few equals in pulling the levers of government in Opa-locka, Florida. The lobbyist has helped steer millions of dollars in public works projects to clients, shut down police investigations, and pushed successfully for the firing of a city manager – all after his own arrest on public bribery charges nearly a decade ago. Now, Starks is at the center of a federal investigation that threatens to topple him and a cadre of elected leaders in the most comprehensive corruption probe in Miami-Dade County in decades. A federal grand jury has issued 18 subpoenas to current and former City Hall employees in a kickback investigation involving nearly every public works project in Opa-locka in the past 10 years.

Kentucky – Beshear Aide Charged in Kickback Scheme
Louisville Courier-Journal – Joseph Gerth, Andrew Wolfson, and Tom Loftus | Published: 3/26/2016

The former secretary of the Kentucky Personnel Cabinet allegedly took more than $200,000 in kickbacks to steer business to a consulting company and make illegal campaign contributions. Timothy Longmeyer was charged with bribery. The alleged kickback scam involved the Kentucky Employees’ Health Plan, which is administered by the department that Longmeyer headed. The state contracts with private insurance companies such as Humana and Anthem to provide services to employees. The affidavit alleged Longmeyer abused his authority over the health plan in order to get Humana and Anthem to give business to a consulting company in return for bribes from the company.

Michigan – Feds Charge 12 Detroit School Principals with Bribery
USA Today – Katrease Stafford and Tresa Baldas (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 3/29/2016

Thirteen former or current principals with the Detroit Public Schools (DPS) system face federal conspiracy and bribery charges in an alleged scheme to receive kickbacks from Allstate Sales, a school supplies vendor. According to the charges, the principals approved fraudulent invoices from the vendor in order to receive payment from DPS for supplies that were ordered. Allstate Sales reportedly provided cash, checks, or gift cards to the principals in many cases as kickbacks, instead of delivering the full amount of supplies that were ordered. The payments for all of the defendants total more than $800,000. U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade said DPS suffered a loss of $2.7 million in the scheme.

Missouri – Lawmakers Bunking with Lobbyists Show More Cozy Connections in Capitol
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Kurt Erickson | Published: 3/30/2016

A review of data collected by the Missouri Ethics Commission shows at least 13 state legislators have had business relationships in the past year with lobbyists, ranging from the renting of sleeping rooms to the use of lawmaker-owned businesses. It is all perfectly legal for lawmakers to have business dealings with lobbyists under Missouri’s ethics laws, where candidates can take unlimited amounts of campaign money and be entertained by the companies and groups seeking to influence policy. The housing data comes from business relationships reported by lobbyists on their monthly reports. Along with reporting how much they spend on legislators, lobbyists must note any direct business relationships or partnership with any public official.

Montana – Montana Lawmakers Rarely Refrain from Voting on Personal Interests
Helena Independent Record – James DeHaven | Published: 3/27/2016

Montana law requires the disclosure of potential conflicts-of-interest for state lawmakers only ahead of votes that “have a direct and distinctive personal impact on the legislator.” The law also leaves questions about the determination and enforcement of such conflicts up to each lawmaker and a pair of partisan legislative ethics committees that have not met for at least the past decade. An analysis of more than 900,000 floor and committee votes over the past four legislative sessions found just 20 recorded instances of a lawmaker announcing a conflict-of-interest ahead of a vote. Records point to only three documented instances when a legislator abstained from a vote in light of that conflict.

Ohio – City Hall Scandals Prompt Ginther to Propose New Ethics Rules
Columbus Dispatch – Lucas Sullivan | Published: 3/28/2016

The Columbus City Council approved new ethics regulations that center on more accountability for lobbyists, increased campaign finance reporting for city candidates, and more disclosure of gifts and trips by elected officials. The rules, which go into effect in April, will increase the penalties for noncompliance. Under the reforms, lobbyists will be required to disclose expenditures and interactions with any elected city officials and some of their staff three times a year. Lobbyists who make false statements or disclosures will be subject to first-degree misdemeanors. There will also be additional disclosure beyond the state requirement for gifts provided to city officials, including the type of gift, who gave it, and the value.

South Carolina – Wilson Defends Firing of Pascoe, Johnson Refuses Job
Greenville News – Tim Smith | Published: 3/30/2016

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson defended his decision to fire David Pascoe, a special prosecutor he had appointed to investigate corruption within South Carolina’s Legislature. Pascoe filed a petition with the state Supreme Court asking it to immediately hold a hearing and rule on whether Wilson has the authority to remove him. Meanwhile, the man tapped by Wilson to lead the inquiry, Dan Johnson, is refusing to take the job until the Supreme Court issues a decision in the matter. Wilson said he was shocked and disappointed to learn of the plea deal with House Speaker Bobby Harrell that Pascoe had negotiated. Harrell pleaded guilty to six misdemeanor counts of misusing his campaign funds and avoided jail time with his sentence.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.