National/Federal

Supreme Court Rules California Man Can’t Trademark ‘Trump Too Small’

Associated Press News – Mark Sherman | Published: 6/13/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled against a man who wants to trademark the suggestive phrase “Trump too small.” The justices upheld the government’s decision to deny a trademark to Steve Elster, who was seeking exclusive use of the phrase on T-shirts and other merchandise. Government officials said the phrase” could still be used, just not trademarked because Trump had not consented to its use. Elster’s lawyers argued the decision violated his free speech rights, and a federal appeals court agreed.

Republicans Challenge Party Expenditure Limits at Sixth Circuit

Courthouse News Service – Kevin Koeninger | Published: 6/12/2024

The full U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals will determine whether changes in the political landscape allow it to overrule Supreme Court precedent regarding limits on coordinated party spending in federal elections after oral arguments in the case. U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, and former Rep. Steve Chabot sued the FEC, seeking to invalidate portions of the campaign finance law that “limit a party committees’ campaign expenditures made in coordination with political candidates who are associated with the political party.” They say these spending limits violate the First Amendment.

Protesters Expected to Be Moved Away from Park Near GOP Convention

MSN – Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 6/12/2024

Protesters are no longer expected to be allowed in a large Milwaukee park near the arena where the GOP will host its July convention after a months-long pressure campaign by the party, according to a law enforcement official and another person familiar with the matter. The Secret Service is expected to expand its security perimeter around Fiserv Forum after the Republican National Committee said it would use another facility located near the park for some convention activities.

Sneakerheads in Congress Grow Their Footprint

MSN – Justin Papp (Roll Call) | Published: 6/12/2024

U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz launched the Congressional Sneaker Caucus with Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer not long after coming to Congress. For him, forming the group was a passion project. He owns more than 150 pairs of sneakers. The caucus recently held the second annual Congressional Sneaker Day. Democrats do not have a monopoly on sneaker wearing, but the gathering was a largely Democratic affair and featured heavy representation from Oregon, where Nike is headquartered.

The AI Election Is Here. Regulators Can’t Decide Whose Problem It Is.

MSN – Cristiano Lima-Strong and Eva Dou (Washington Post) | Published: 6/6/2024

The federal government is facing a dwindling window to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) on the campaign trail before the 2024 election. But a brewing turf war between federal agencies is threatening one of the most significant attempts to set new rules for the tools. The chair of the Federal Communications Commission announced a plan to require that politicians disclose AI use in TV and radio ads. But the proposal is facing opposition from a top official on the FEC, which has been considering its own new rules on AI use by campaigns.

Justice Thomas Discloses Two 2019 Trips Paid for by Harlan Crow

MSN – Ann Marimow, Justin Jouvenal, and Tobi Raji (Washington Post) | Published: 6/7/2024

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas disclosed for the first-time visits to Bali and to a private club in California in 2019 that were paid for by his friend and benefactor, billionaire Harlan Crow, according to financial disclosures released for eight of the nine justices. The required annual reports, covering activity in 2023, show three justices – Brett Kavanaugh, Neil Gorsuch, and Ketanji Brown Jackson – received six-figure book payments. Jackson also accepted four tickets worth nearly $4,000 from Beyoncé to one of her concerts.

Judge Cannon Strikes Paragraph in Trump Classified Document Indictment

MSN – Perry Stein and Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) | Published: 6/10/2024

U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon said she will delete a paragraph in the superseding indictment against Donald Trump that alleges he mishandled classified materials after he left the White House and thwarted officials’ attempts to retrieve them. The judge said prosecutors’ inclusion of paragraph 36, which alleges Trump showed a classified document in September 2021 about a military operation to someone without a security clearance, is inappropriate because it is not connected to a specific crime that Trump is accused of committing.

$800,000 Wire Transfer from Billionaire Donor to US Chamber Raises Curtain on Dark Money

MSN – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 6/11/2024

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce received a $800,000 wire transfer from billionaire donor Hank Meijer days after it endorsed his son, then-U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer, in a contentious 2022 primary. Within days of the transfer, the Chamber spent $381,000 on an ad for Rep. Meijer. Because the ad does not advocate for his election or defeat, the Chamber did not have to disclose the donation from Hank Meijer. It also did not have to disclose other potential contributions behind the $1.8 million it told the FEC it spent on “electioneering communications” that cycle.

Smartmatic Seeks to Depose Four Fox Officials as Part of 2020 Lawsuit

MSN – Jeremy Barr (Washington Post) | Published: 6/10/2024

Voting technology company Smartmatic subpoenaed four Fox Corporation board members as part of its $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News over its coverage of the 2020 election. The move follows a decision earlier by a judge ordering Fox to turn over relevant documents from the board members as Smartmatic requested. Smartmatic has argued the board members are relevant to the case the company is trying to make, that executives at Fox knew claims of election fraud made by Donald Trump allies were false but did nothing to stop the network’s coverage out of a desire to protect the company’s business fortunes.

Jared Kushner Hit with New Investigation

MSN – Katherine Fung (Newsweek) | Published: 6/12/2024

Senate Democrats are launching a new investigation into the foreign payments made to Jared Kushner’s investment firm. Finance Committee Chairperson Ron Wyden said the panel would investigate the billions of dollars that Affinity Partners manages from foreign sources. Kushner started Affinity in July 2021 after leaving the White House as a senior adviser to Donald Trump. The firm quickly attracted investors from the Middle East and within weeks, landed $2 billion from the Saudi public investment fund. Affinity continues to overwhelmingly derive the majority of its funds from the Saudi Arabian government.

Porter to Propose Bills to Modernize Lobbying Database, Extend ‘Cooling-Off’ Period

The Hill – Taylor Giorno | Published: 6/11/2024

U.S. Rep. Katie Porter introduced a package of bills intended to help Congress run more efficiently and curb influence-peddling by former members of Congress and government officials. The package of five bills includes legislation to modernize the federal lobbying disclosure database and enact a blanket two-year ban on lobbying by former members of Congress, senior congressional staff, and senior executive branch officials.

‘Intimidated and Discarded’: Fired female execs go after top K Street firm

Yahoo News – Daniel Lippman and Megan Wilson (Politico) | Published: 6/9/2024

Last year, Shanti Stanton and another female senior executive at were abruptly fired in what they were told was a cost-cutting move at the K Street firm Subject Matter, now known as Avog. Stanton and Audrey Chang prepared to sue the firm for gender discrimination and a hostile work environment, among other accusations. The two women claimed they had been terminated despite being top performers at the firm. In a draft complaint, they alleged a litany of bad behavior. Steve Elmendorf, a prominent lobbyist and Democratic donor, and Paul Frick, another one of the firm’s founding partners, were named as defendants in the draft lawsuit.

How the Federal Election Commission Went from Deadlock to Deregulation

Yahoo News – Shane Goldmacher (New York Times) | Published: 6/10/2024

In a series of recent decisions that are remaking the landscape of money in American politics, an ascendant new bloc of three Republicans and one Democrat on the FEC is voting together to roll back limits on how politicians, political parties, and super PACs raise and spend money. Those on both sides of the ideological divide agree on one thing: the changes amount to some of the most significant regulatory revisions since the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act was put in place two decades ago.

Justice Alito Caught on Tape Discussing How Battle for America ‘Can’t Be Compromised’

Yahoo News – Tessa Stuart and Tim Dickinson (Rolling Stone) | Published: 6/10/2024

Justice Samuel Alito spoke candidly about the ideological battle between the left and the right, discussing the difficulty of living “peacefully” with ideological opponents in the face of “fundamental” differences that “can’t be compromised.” He endorsed what his interlocutor described as a necessary fight to “return our country to a place of godliness.” Alito made these remarks in conversation at the Supreme Court Historical Society’s annual dinner. His comments were recorded by Lauren Windsor, a liberal documentary filmmaker.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Mayes Investigating Hobbs After GOP Accuses Gov of ‘Pay to Play’

Arizona Mirror – Jerod MacDonald-Evoy | Published: 6/7/2024

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes opened an investigation into Gov. Katie Hobbs at the request of a Republican lawmaker after a report revealed a group home business that donated to Hobbs’s campaign received rate increases. It was reported that Sunshine Residential Homes was approved for a nearly 60 percent increase in how much the state Department of Economic Security pays it. The rate increase came after Hobbs and the Democratic Party received hundreds of thousands of dollars in contributions from the company and its executives, including some donated after her election win.

California – Effort to Strengthen Ethics Panel Moves Toward Full San Diego City Council Vote

MSN – Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union-Tribune) | Published: 6/8/2024

An effort to boost the independence and authority of the San Diego Ethics Commission is moving forward to the city council, and potentially to voters this November. The council’s Rules Committee voted unanimously to advance a proposed charter amendment to the full council. The amendment would make sure a future city council could not do away with the panel responsible for regulating campaign finance, lobbyist disclosures, and other political activities.

California – Find Out Which Lobbying Groups Get Their Way Most Often in the California Legislature

MSN – Ryan Sabalow (CalMatters) | Published: 6/12/2024

Los Angeles and the Bay Area tend to get their way in the California Legislature. So do labor unions, social justice organizations, and defense attorneys. On the flip side, anti-tax, police, and business groups are much less successful. Those are the key findings from a data analysis of the organizations that have been most successful in passing their agendas during the current legislative session, according to CalMatters.

California – Confidential File Alleges Former Mayor Libby Schaaf Secretly Used Political Committee to Raise Money from City Contractor

MSN – Eli Wolfe (Oaklandside) | Published: 6/12/2024

The Oakland Public Ethics Commission is investigating former Mayor Libby Schaaf for secretly controlling a committee to raise money for a 2018 ballot measure. A legal analysis written by commission staff describes how Schaaf allegedly controlled a supposedly independent political committee called The Oakland Fund to raise money for Measure AA. They allege Schaaf broke the law by never disclosing her control of The Oakland Fund, as did developer Justin Orton by giving money to the campaign while his company was negotiating a business deal with the city.

Florida – Waste Management Scholarships Gifted to Cooper City Commissioner’s Twins May Violate Ethics Laws

Florida Bulldog – Dan Christensen | Published: 6/9/2024

In a recent special recognition ceremony, Cooper City Commissioner Lisa Mallozzi took the podium to hand out scholarship awards to four high school seniors provided by the city’s longtime, though recently replaced, trash hauler Waste Management. Two of the $1,250 scholarships went to Mallozzi’s twin daughters, who use their father’s last name. Acceptance of the scholarships appears to violate state law, and county and city ordinances.

Florida – Federal Judge Blocks Enforcement of Financial Disclosure Rules for Elected City Officials

MSN – Dave Berman (Florida Today) | Published: 6/11/2024

U.S. District Court Judge Melissa Damian issued a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of a state law that requires extensive financial disclosure by Florida’s mayors and city council members. A lawsuit filed by a group of city and town officials claimed the rule violates the First Amendment. Municipal officials feared the added disclosure requirement would discourage residents from running for municipal office, and potentially could create vacancies on city and town councils or commissions.

Florida – Central Florida Political Operative Admits Wrongdoing in ‘Ghost’ Candidate Scheme

MSN – Annie Martin (Orlando Sentinel) | Published: 6/6/2024

Florida political operative Eric Foglesong, a key player in the 2020 scheme to use “ghost” candidates to promote Republican politicians, pleaded no contest to campaign finance related charges. As part of the plea deal, Foglesong agreed to serve five years of probation and pay $14,175. Running as a “ghost” candidate who does not actively campaign or sincerely seek election to an office is not a crime in Florida. But incorrectly reporting contributions or donating to a candidate’s campaign in someone else’s name, the crime Foglesong acknowledged, is illegal.

Florida – Appeals Court Rejects DeSantis Push for Executive Privilege

Yahoo News – Gary Fineout (Politico) | Published: 6/12/2024

A Florida appeals court refused to go along with Gov. Ron DeSantis’s argument that he can shield public records due to executive privilege, a right that had not been recognized previously under state law that could have drastically expanded the governor’s ability to keep records from the public. The panel said there were sufficient procedural reasons to dismiss the lawsuit, without considering the executive privilege argument made by the DeSantis administration and endorsed by a Circuit Court judge.

Hawaii – Maui Ethics Board Could Get Overdue Boost Through 2 Reforms Under Review

Honolulu Civil Beat – Brittany Lyte | Published: 6/7/2024

Voters could decide this November if the Maui Board of Ethics should be able to hire its own full-time staff and whether appointed members should be able to serve two consecutive terms. The Maui County Council will consider approving the two ballot measures, but they are well on their way following a council committee vote in favor of them. The proposals came from the board, which is struggling to carry out its function as the county’s ethics watchdog amid a shortage of members, funds, and other resources.

Illinois – Aldermen Advance Ethics Reforms at Center of Tiff Between Johnson Ally and Mayor’s Office

MSN – Alice Yin (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 6/6/2024

Chicago aldermen advanced an ethics ordinance that would punish lobbyists for contributions to campaigns of mayoral candidates, in another instance of the city council moving to buck Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration. The Ethics Committee unanimously approved the measure to fine or suspend lobbyists who violate a rule already codified in a 2011 executive order banning them from making campaign contributions to a mayor’s political fund. The legislation now heads to a final council vote.

Indiana – ‘This Issue Is Going to Come Back to Haunt Us.’ Ratcliff’s Biggest Bet Yet Unravels

Yahoo News – Tony Cook (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 6/7/2024

Over a quarter century, Rod Ratcliffe had perfected the art of influence at the statehouse. The casino boss was a driving force behind nearly every expansion of gambling in Indiana. But one bet would be his boldest yet. Ratcliff sold his company, Centaur, and its two horse-track casinos to Caesars Entertainment for $1.7 billion. Ratcliff created a new company called Spectacle Entertainment. It purchased two riverboat casinos with plans to move the licenses to more lucrative locations. But the investment would only pay off if Indiana lawmakers and the new governor, Eric Holcomb, allowed Ratcliff and his partners to relocate the licenses.

Kentucky – Louisville Continues to Spend Less on Ethics Enforcement Than Similar Cities

MSN – Roberto Roldan (Louisville Public Media) | Published: 6/7/2024

Louisville now asks the Ethics Commission to do more than ever before, yet the majority of its work is done by a volunteer board. In 2022, metro council put the commission in charge of ensuring people who are paid to influence local officials register as lobbyists, for example. Ethics Commission Chairperson Dee Pregliasco said as the independent oversight body has been given more responsibilities in recent years, it has not received commensurate resources.

Louisiana – Louisiana Lawmakers Refuse to Endorse Child Care as Campaign Expense

Louisiana Illuminator – Julie O’Donoghue | Published: 6/12/2024

Five years ago, the Louisiana Board of Ethics told a candidate she could use her campaign funds to cover childcare costs as long as the expense was related to her efforts to get elected. But state legislators declined to insert codify that policy this year. They scuttled Senate Bill 153, which would have ensured candidates could use campaign dollars for election-related childcare. What is a legitimate campaign expense in Louisiana has been interpreted liberally over the years. Candidates are allowed to use their funds for Mardi Gras parades, charity golf tournaments, and vehicle maintenance.

Maryland – Baltimore Sun Republishes Reports from New Owner’s TV Station

MSN – Laura Wagner (Washington Post) | Published: 6/11/2024

When David Smith bought the Baltimore Sun in January, staffers worried about how the newspaper might change under an outspoken owner who has supported conservative candidates and right-wing culture war causes. Now, journalists say stories under their names have been changed without their permission, and the Sun has been reusing reporting from one of the 185 local television stations owned by the Smith family’s Sinclair Broadcast Group. Two reporters demanded their bylines be removed from a news report after it was significantly altered without their knowledge.

Massachusetts – Bill to Allow Campaign Funds for Child Care on the Move in Mass.

Yahoo News – Michael Jonas (CommonWealth Beacon) | Published: 6/7/2024

A bill in Massachusetts would allow campaign funds to be spent on a candidate’s childcare expenses. While everything from pricey dinners to travel to far-off conferences can be paid with campaign funds under the broad definition of allowable spending that furthers a candidate’s political career, childcare was deemed to fall outside that interpretation.

Missouri – Missouri Ethics Commission Finally Has a Quorum – but Still Can’t Meet or Take Action

Yahoo News – Jason Hancock (Missouri Independent) | Published: 6/7/2024

Gov. Mike Parson appointed a fourth person to serve on the six-member Missouri Ethics Commission, providing the board with a quorum for the first time since March. But because one member has been unable to attend meetings since last fall, the commission is still one person short of being able to hold a meeting or take action on complaints. “We do have a quorum, but we don’t have four commissioners who can meet,” said Elizabeth Ziegler, director of the commission.

New York – Judge Ices Ethics Commission’s Case Against Former Senate IDC Leader

Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 6/10/2024

A judge ordered the state ethics commission to halt its prosecution of former New York Sen. Jeffrey Klein, who filed a petition recently arguing the panel was formed in violation of the state constitution and lacks the authority to investigate allegations that he forcibly kissed a female staff member nine years ago. The temporary restraining order was granted by state Supreme Court Justice Thomas Marcelle, who last year ruled in favor of former Gov. Andrew Cuomo who argued the new ethics commission was unconstitutional and had no authority to investigate a $5 million deal he received for writing a book about his administration’s handling of the pandemic.

New York – A Candidate Got $162,000 in Public Money. His Secret: Fake donors.

DNyuz – Jay Root and Bianca Pallaro (New York Times) | Published: 6/10/2024

Scores of New Yorkers supposedly made small cash donations to Dao Yin, a businessperson running for the state Assembly. Despite his lack of name recognition, Yin is now one of New York’s top recipients of public matching funds – $162,800 at last count – after reporting the highest percentage of cash, the least traceable form of donation, of any state candidate who received matching funds this year. But after canvassing many of the homes associated with 55 people listed as cash donors to Yin’s campaign, the New York Times found at least 19 who said they had not contributed. Eleven others no longer lived at the addresses listed for them.

New York – Trump Meets with N.Y. Probation Officer Over Video

MSN – Mariana Alfaro and Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 6/10/2024

Donald Trump met with his probation officer via a video conference call, a routine step following his conviction in the hush money trial in New York. The interview is a routine step for defendants after a guilty verdict. The probation department prepares presentencing reports for judges and is in charge of interviewing convicted felons on topics including their personal history, mental health, and the circumstances that led to the conviction.

North Carolina – Flood of Dark Money? What the New Campaign Finance Provision in NC’s Mask Bill Does

MSN – Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Kyle Ingram (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 6/12/2024

State lawmakers passed a controversial bill that would loosen regulations on the “dark money” groups that are likely to spend tens of millions of dollars in North Carolina this year. Democrats said it is a way to benefit Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, the GOP candidate for governor, and allow more donations where the source of the funding is not disclosed. Republican leaders said the bill would level the playing field for the two political parties when it comes to the national groups that fund state candidates for governor and attorney general.

North Carolina – Voters Have No Right to Fair Elections, NC Lawmakers Say as They Seek to Dismiss Gerrymandering Suit

Yahoo News – Will Doran (WRAL) | Published: 6/13/2024

Lawyers for the state Legislature were in court arguing to throw out an anti-gerrymandering lawsuit that targets North Carolina’s new political maps as a violation of a constitutional guarantee of fair elections. The lawsuit argues the state constitution guarantees the right to fair elections, which these maps violate. The Republican-led Legislature argues no such right exists, since it is impossible to define what “fair” means.

Ohio – Coal Bailouts Will Have Added $500M to Ohioans’ Electric Bills by the End of 2024

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 6/7/2024

Legislation from 2019 that a federal jury found passed as part of a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme has cost Ohioans $307 million through 2023 to bail out coal-fired power plants in the state and in Indiana. By the end of this year, projections say that will reach nearly $500 million, paid through add-on charges to monthly electric bills. Despite four criminal convictions, six more indictments, and an admission of guilt by FirstEnergy for bribing the state’s top utility regulator alongside a sitting House speaker to pass the legislation, the coal bailouts codified within that legislation remain on the books.

Pennsylvania – Pa. Legislators Introduce Bills Prohibiting AI Use in Political Campaigns

Government Technology – Maia Nehm (Lancaster Online) | Published: 6/8/2024

Two newly introduced bills in the Pennsylvania Legislature would prohibit the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to impersonate candidates in campaign literature and advertising. State Sen. Tracy Pennycuick said the legislation was prompted by the use of robocalls targeting New Hampshire Democratic voters in January. Those calls featured an AI impersonation of President Biden’s voice and discouraged recipients from voting in the state’s presidential primary.

Texas – This Catholic Leader Shelters Migrants. Texas Says He Runs ‘Stash Houses.’

MSN – Arelis Hernández (Washington Post) | Published: 6/6/2024

The patriarch of Annunciation House, a faith-based network of shelters based in El Paso, Ruben Garcia has taken in tens of thousands of undocumented immigrants he calls “guests.” Working in collaboration with immigration officials, he provides them food, clothes, and a first home in the U.S., and some of his expenses are reimbursed by the federal government. It is work he sees as a religious calling – to help the most vulnerable, no matter how they arrived. But as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott clamps down on immigration, state investigators are raising questions about Garcia’s humanitarian work.

Vermont – A Lawmaker’s Bag Was Repeatedly Drenched, and Now a Colleague Faces a Probe

Seven Days – Kevin McCallum | Published: 6/7/2024

Vermont Rep. Mary Morrissey is under fire after she was allegedly caught on video surreptitiously pouring water into a fellow lawmaker’s tote bag at the statehouse. Morrissey faces an ethics investigation into whether she harassed Rep. Jim Carrol by secretly soaking his stuff several times during the recent legislative session. Rep. Angela Arsenault said she has seen a video that clearly shows Morrissey leave her committee room, walk over to a bag outside Carroll’s committee room, and dump a cup of water into it.

Vermont – 6 Bills – Tackling Municipal Ethics, Animal Welfare and More – Become Vermont Law

VTDigger.org – Emma Cotton | Published: 6/10/2024

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott signed bills related to animal welfare, diversity in courts, and addiction recovery support. He allowed a bill dealing with local ethics codes ethics to pass into law without his signature. House Bill 875 establishes a “municipal code of ethics” that applies to local officials such as select board members, clerks, and planning commissioners, among others. It is similar to a code of ethics for state officials that took effect two years ago.

Campaign Finance

National: “Republicans Challenge Party Expenditure Limits at Sixth Circuit” by Kevin Koeninger for Courthouse News Service

Louisiana: “Louisiana Lawmakers Refuse to Endorse Child Care as Campaign Expense” by Julie O’Donoghue for Louisiana Illuminator

New York: “A Candidate Got $162,000 in Public Money. His Secret: Fake donors.” by Jay Root and Bianca Pallaro (New York Times) for DNyuz

Elections

National: “Smartmatic Seeks to Depose Four Fox Officials as Part of 2020 Lawsuit” by Jeremy Barr (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Jared Kushner Hit with New Investigation” by Katherine Fung (Newsweek) for MSN

Florida: “Waste Management Scholarships Gifted to Cooper City Commissioner’s Twins May Violate Ethics Laws” by Dan Christensen for Florida Bulldog

Maryland: “Baltimore Sun Republishes Reports from New Owner’s TV Station” by Laura Wagner (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

California: “Find Out Which Lobbying Groups Get Their Way Most Often in the California Legislature” by Ryan Sabalow (CalMatters) for MSN

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “Mayes Investigating Hobbs After GOP Accuses Gov of ‘Pay to Play'” by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy for Arizona Mirror

National: “How the Federal Election Commission Went from Deadlock to Deregulation” by Shane Goldmacher (New York Times) for Yahoo News

Florida: “Central Florida Political Operative Admits Wrongdoing in ‘Ghost’ Candidate Scheme” by Annie Martin (Orlando Sentinel) for MSN

Elections

Pennsylvania: “Pa. Legislators Introduce Bills Prohibiting AI Use in Political Campaigns” by Maia Nehm (Lancaster Online) for Government Technology)

Ethics

National: “Justice Alito Caught on Tape Discussing How Battle for America ‘Can’t Be Compromised'” by Tessa Stuart and Tim Dickinson (Rolling Stone) for Yahoo News

New York: “Judge Ices Ethics Commission’s Case Against Former Senate IDC Leader” by Brendan Lyons for Albany Times Union

Ohio: “Coal Bailouts Will Have Added $500M to Ohioans’ Electric Bills by the End of 2024” by Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Lobbying

National: “‘Intimidated and Discarded’: Fired female execs go after top K Street firm” by Daniel Lippman and Megan Wilson (Politico) for Yahoo News

Campaign Finance

North Carolina: “NC Senate Democrats Walk Out Before Vote on Surprise Bill That Could Benefit GOP Candidates” by Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan and Avi Bajpai (Raleigh News & Observer) for MSN

Elections

National: “The AI Election Is Here. Regulators Can’t Decide Whose Problem It Is.” by Cristiano Lima-Strong and Eva Dou (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

California: “Effort to Strengthen Ethics Panel Moves Toward Full San Diego City Council Vote” by Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union-Tribune) for MSN

National: “Justice Thomas Discloses Two 2019 Trips Paid for by Harlan Crow” by Ann Marimow, Justin Jouvenal, and Tobi Raji (Washington Post) for MSN

Kentucky: “Louisville Continues to Spend Less on Ethics Enforcement Than Similar Cities” by Roberto Roldan (Louisville Public Media) for MSN

Missouri: “Missouri Ethics Commission Finally Has a Quorum – but Still Can’t Meet or Take Action” by Jason Hancock (Missouri Independent) for Yahoo News

Texas: “This Catholic Leader Shelters Migrants. Texas Says He Runs ‘Stash Houses.'” by Arelis Hernández (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

Illinois: “Aldermen Advance Ethics Reforms at Center of Tiff Between Johnson Ally and Mayor’s Office” by Alice Yin (Chicago Tribune) for MSN

National/Federal

Multiple Trump Witnesses Have Received Significant Financial Benefits from His Businesses, Campaign

MSN – Robert Faturechi, Justin Elliott, and Alex Mierjeski (ProPublica) | Published: 6/3/2024

Nine witnesses in the criminal cases against Donald Trump have received significant financial benefits, including large raises from his campaign, severance packages, new jobs, and a grant of shares and cash from Trump’s media company. Defense lawyers say Trump’s dual role of defendant and the boss of many of the people who are witnesses to his alleged crimes is not uncommon. Even if the perks were not intended to influence witnesses, they could prove troublesome for Trump in any future trials. Prosecutors could point to the benefits to undermine the credibility of those aides on the witness stand.

Billions in Taxpayer Dollars Now Go to Religious Schools Via Vouchers

MSN – Laura Meckler and Michelle Boorstein (Washington Post) | Published: 6/3/2024

Billions in taxpayer dollars are being used to pay tuition at religious schools throughout the country, as state voucher programs expand dramatically and the line separating public education and religion fades. School vouchers can be used at almost any private school, but most of the money is being directed to religious schools. The growth follows a string of victories in the Supreme Court and state Legislatures by religious conservatives who have campaigned to tear down what once were constitutional prohibitions against spending tax money directly on religious education.

At Center of Alito Controversy, a Flag Celebrated by Extremists

MSN – Hannah Allen (Washington Post) | Published: 6/2/2024

From the earliest days of the republic, American radicals have drawn inspiration from a white flag emblazoned with a green pine tree and the words, “An Appeal to Heaven.” Extremism monitors say the self-styled revolutionaries of today’s Christian far right are reviving the idea that drastic action is again required to save the republic, and they have adopted the flag as their own. They say the “Appeal to Heaven” banner has taken on apocalyptic overtones that are increasingly present in the centers of American power.

Lawmakers Expensed Millions in 2023 Under New Program That Doesn’t Require Receipts

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany, Clara Ence Morse, and Liz Goodwin (Washington Post) | Published: 6/4/2024

A program started last year was intended to make it easier for members of Congress to cover the cost of maintaining separate homes in the District of Columbia and their home districts. But critics argue its reliance on the honor system and lack of transparent record-keeping makes it ripe for abuse. Lawmakers were reimbursed at least $5.2 million for food and lodging while on official business in Washington. The reimbursement scheme’s lack of receipt requirements is a “ridiculous loophole,” said Craig Holman, a lobbyist for Public Citizen.

Investors, Worried They Can’t Beat Lawmakers in Stock Market, Copy Them Instead

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 6/1/2024

Watchdog groups have long believed that some lawmakers use confidential information to make money in the stock market. Now a loose alliance of traders, analysts, and advocates is trying to let Americans mimic the trades elected officials make, offering tongue-in-cheek financial products that track purchases and sales after lawmakers disclose them. Collectively, these investment vehicles have attracted hundreds of millions of dollars. At times, congressional investigators have used them to keep tabs on suspicious trading activity.

As a Congressman Defended Trump, His 6-Year-Old Son Stole the Spotlight

MSN – Kyle Melnick (Washington Post) | Published: 6/4/2024

When U.S. Rep. John Rose approached the lectern on the House floor, he said he was going to “address the terrible precedent” set by Donald Trump’s criminal conviction. But only a few seconds into his speech, he no longer had everyone’s attention. Rose’s six-year-old son, Guy, smiled and leaned closer into C-SPAN’s camera shot while sitting behind his dad. As Rose called Trump the victim of a “politically driven” conviction, Guy stuck out his tongue with wide eyes and shook his head – a clip that has turned into a meme.

Judge Cannon Expands Hearing on Trump’s Request to Declare Special Counsel’s Appointment Invalid

MSN – Dan Berman and Katelyn Polantz (CNN) | Published: 6/5/2024

U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon is planning on holding a sprawling hearing on Donald Trump’s request to declare Jack Smith’s appointment as special counsel invalid, signaling the judge could be more willing than any other trial judge to veto the special prosecutor’s authority. Cannon said a variety of political partisans and constitutional scholars not otherwise involved with the case can join in the oral arguments on June 21.

Ethics Panel Probes Rep. Spartz Over Staff Abuse Claims

MSN – Daniel Lippman and Adam Wren (Politico) | Published: 6/4/2024

The House Committee on Ethics has made preliminary inquiries into U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz’s treatment of staff in response to multiple complaints filed about her alleged “abuse,” “general toxicity,” and “rage,” according to a current aide and a former aide who made complaints. She recently imposed pay cuts reaching into the tens of thousands of dollars for some staffers, which came amid her ongoing complaints about her staff’s performance. In April, Spartz sent a note to staffers forbidding them to talk to Politico reporters who were pursuing tips about her office.

Even as the Judicial System Finds Trump Guilty, His Attacks Take a Toll

MSN – Sarah Ellison and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 5/30/2024

Donald Trump and his team waged an all-out war against the judicial system before the expected guilty verdict in his New York trial was announced, hoping to blunt the political damage and position him as a martyr. The jury’s verdict upheld the democratic principle that no one is above the law. But amid the offensive by Trump and his allies on the legal infrastructure holding him accountable, the trial came with a substantial cost, according to those who study democracy, with the ultimate impact likely to be measured in November.

Chief Justice Robert Declines to Meet with Democrats on Court Ethics

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 5/30/2024

Chief Justice John Roberts turned down an invitation to meet with Senate Democrats to discuss what the lawmakers called an “ethics crisis” at the Supreme Court following reports of two politically charged flags displayed outside the homes of Justice Samuel Alito. In a letter to Sens. Dick Durbin and Sheldon Whitehouse, Roberts said such a meeting would be “inadvisable” in part because of the importance of preserving judicial independence.

PAC Run by Mark Meadows’ Wife Fined, Closing After Campaign Finance Violation

Yahoo Finance – Danielle Battaglia (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 5/31/2024

A PAC run by the wife of Mark Meadows, former President Trump’s last chief of staff, plans to close and faces a nearly $10,000 fine over accusations of violating federal election law. Brett Kappel, an attorney who focuses on campaign fiancé, lobbying, and government ethics law cases, said it is not unusual to see a super PAC terminate itself after paying a significant FEC penalty. “In fact, the commission sometimes makes termination a condition of settling the case for a lower penalty than the FEC would normally seek,” Kappel said.

Departing House Members Ask: ‘Why am I here?’

Yahoo News – Robert Draper (New York Times) | Published: 5/30/2024

A total of 54 U.S. House members will not be seeking another term this November. As a matter of numbers, the exodus is not history-making. What is striking are the names on the list. There are rising stars, seasoned legislators, and committee chairs. If anything, the malaise encompassing the House extends beyond those who have chosen not to serve another term. “You look around that chamber, there’s just a look of despair,” said Rep. Brian Higgins. “… I think a lot more members would be leaving if they had alternatives.”

Judge Rules Bannon Must Go to Prison by July 1 While Appealing Contempt Case

Yahoo News – Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) | Published: 6/6/2024

A federal judge ordered former Trump political adviser and right-wing podcaster Stephen Bannon to report to prison by July 1 to begin serving a four-month prison term for contempt of Congress after an appeals court upheld his conviction. Prosecutors had asked the judge to lift the hold on the sentence, arguing that no substantive legal questions remain over Bannon’s conviction for refusing to provide documents or testimony to a House committee probing the insurrection.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – 2 Democrats Who Yelled Were Disorderly in AZ Abortion Debate, Panel Says

Arizona Daily Star – Bob Christie (Capitol News Services) | Published: 6/4/2024

Two Democratic lawmakers who yelled at Republican House members after GOP legislators used a procedural maneuver to recess rather than allow a vote to repeal Arizona’s near-total abortion ban are guilty of disorderly conduct, the House ethics panel said. But any punishment Minority Whip Oscar De Los Santos and Rep. Analise Ortiz face for breaking internal House rules will be up to the entire House, and the report by the ethics committee did not recommend what action is merited.

Arkansas – U.S.Supreme Court Sends Arkansas Redistricting Case Back to Judges after South Carolina Ruling

Yahoo News – Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) | Published: 6/3/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court sent a lawsuit challenging Arkansas’ 2021 congressional map back to a three-judge panel, ordering it to review the suit in light of the high court’s decision against similar claims of bias in a redistricting case from South Carolina. The ruling is a setback for the lawsuit challenging the way Arkansas’ Republican Legislature redrew the lines for a Little Rock-area congressional district.

California – Ethics Probe Hangs Over Campaign to Recall Oakland Mayor as it Files Signatures

KQED – Annelise Finney | Published: 6/5/2024

As the campaign to recall Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao submitted signatures to put a recall on the ballot, the city agency tasked with enforcing campaign finance laws is investigating how the campaign handles donations. Simon Russell, the Public Ethics Commission’s enforcement chief, alleges Oakland United to Recall Sheng Thao is using Foundational Oakland Unites, a recently formed nonprofit and PAC, to hide the source of some contributions.

Colorado – Campaign Finance Reform Could Be Coming Next Election Cycle

Denverite – Rebecca Tauber | Published: 6/4/2024

The Denver Clerk and Recorder’s Office hopes to strengthen its ability to investigate campaign finance violations and make campaign contributions more transparent in the next election cycle. The ordinance would give the office authority to dismiss uncredible complaints, among other changes. It would also standardize reporting requirements, so any group that receives at least $50 from a donor must report that donor’s name, address, and employer.

District of Columbia – D.C. Ethics Board Recommends Rudy Giuliani Be Disbarred

MSN – Alexandra Marquez (NBC News) | Published: 6/2/2024

The District of Columbia Bar’s Board on Professional Responsibility recommended Rudy Giuliani be banned from practicing law in the nation’s capital. In their report, the Board cited Giuliani’s work in Pennsylvania following the 2020 presidential election, where he sought to have the results of the election there thrown out in favor of his former client Donald Trump.

Florida – Alex Díaz de la Portilla Under Investigation for Alleged Witness Tampering in Bribery Case

Yahoo News – Tess Riski (Miami Herald) | Published: 6/3/2024

Law enforcement is investigating possible witness tampering by former Miami City Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla in a bribery and money laundering case against him after his former chief of staff reported he had sent her text messages about her testimony. The former City Hall staffer, Karla Fortuny, alleged in a petition that Díaz de la Portilla’s messages were “intimidating and obviously meant to tamper with my presentation of complete and truthful testimony regarding my time as an employee of the City of Miami.”

Georgia – Georgia Appeals Court Pauses Lower-Court Proceedings in Trump Election Case

MSN – Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 6/5/2024

The Georgia Court of Appeals ordered a halt to the proceedings in the election interference case against Donald Trump and eight other defendants pending the outcome of their appeal seeking to disqualify Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. The order means the case will almost certainly not be scheduled for trial before the fall election or even the new year. It remains unclear if the case against the six remaining co-defendants who did not sign on to the appeal will proceed.

Illinois – Judge Tosses Out Illinois Ban on Drafting Legislative Candidates as ‘Restriction on Right to Vote’

MSN – John O’Connor (Associated Press) | Published: 6/5/2024

A judge rejected a law that Illinois Democrats adopted in May that prohibits political parties from drafting candidates when no one was on the party primary ballot. Sangamon County Circuit Judge Gail Noll ruled the law, passed to protect vulnerable Democrats in November’s general election, is unconstitutional. It improperly interferes with a person’s right to see access to the ballot and that, Noll wrote, “places a severe restriction on the fundamental right to vote.”

Kansas – Kansas Voters Have No Fundamental Constitutional Right to Vote, Supreme Court Rules

Yahoo News – Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel (Topeka Capital-Journal) | Published: 5/31/2024

Voters have no fundamental right to vote under the bill of rights in the state constitution, the Kansas Supreme Court ruled. Because voting is not considered a fundamental right, it means that courts will not use strict scrutiny when analyzing the impact of election laws. That will make it more difficult for plaintiffs to argue that a law affecting voting is unconstitutional.

Michigan – 2024 Michigan Elections: Nessel opinion tightens financial disclosure rules

Bridge Michigan – Lauren Gibbons | Published: 6/5/2024

State elections officials can require officeholders to provide more than the bare minimum on new personal financial disclosure forms, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel determined in a formal legal opinion. Lawmakers who finalized the rules last fall extended disclosure requirements to candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, and state Legislature but left what critics called loopholes allowing filers to obscure monetary values and other information about income sources, and assets held by spouses.

Michigan – Michigan Lawmaker Wants to Pay Reporters to Uncover Corruption

MSN – J.D. Davidson (Center Square) | Published: 5/30/2024

A Michigan lawmaker wants to pay reporters and news organizations to expose public corruption and save taxpayers money. Rep. Joseph Aragona developed the idea after The Detroit News recently exposed questionable spending surrounding a $20 million grant to businessperson Fay Beydoun. She was an executive committee member of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Spending included a $4,500 coffee maker, $11,000 for a plane ticket, $100,000 for a sponsorship, and $9,400 for annual membership dues in the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Missouri – After Investigation, Top MO House Republican Now Faces Scathing Whistleblower Lawsuit

Yahoo News – Kacen Bayless (Kansas City Star) | Published: 5/31/2024

Dana Miller, chief clerk of the Missouri House since 2018, filed a whistleblower lawsuit alleging Speaker Dean Plocher and his chief of staff, Rod Jetton, retaliated against her after she reported policy violations and wastes of public money. Miller’s suit paints a damning portrait, showing the lengths that Plocher and Jetton went to allegedly threaten and retaliate against Miller and other House staffers amid a slew of scandals Plocher faced in his final session as speaker that resulted in a months-long investigation.

Nevada – A Republican Election Clerk vs. Trump Die-Hards in a World of Lies

DNyuz – Eli Saslow (New York Times) | Published: 6/6/2024

Ever since Donald Trump lost the 2020 election, his denials and distortions spread outward from the White House to even the country’s most remote places, like Esmeralda County, Nevada. Trump won the county with 82 percent of the vote despite losing Nevada. In the days after the election, some county residents parroted Trump’s talking points and brought their complaints to the monthly commissioner meetings. When County Clerk Cindy Elgan continued to stand up at each meeting to dispute and disprove those accusations, they began to blame her, too.

New Jersey – Gov. Murphy Signs Legislation That Dismantles Access to Public Records in NJ

MSN – Katie Sobko (Bergen Record) | Published: 6/5/2024

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation overhauling access to the state’s public records, likely making it harder for the public and media to access some documents, according to critics. One provision permits officials to charge commercial interests as much as twice the cost of producing records. Other language authorizes agencies to sue requesters they accuse of interrupting “government function.” The new law also ends a requirement for towns to pay attorneys’ fees in court cases they lose over records requests.

New York – How Top N.Y. Officials Helped a Lobbyist Cash in on State Government

DNyuz – Jay Root (New York Times) | Published: 6/5/2024

In the midst of the pandemic in early 2021, New York state officials were hashing out how to build a mobile app to display users’ vaccination status when an unfamiliar face suddenly started joining the conference calls. The new participant, Michael Balboni, was a former state lawmaker and more recently had been working as a lobbyist in Albany. He was also a close friend of a top official in the budget office, the agency overseeing the app’s rollout. Soon after, one of the contractors overseeing the app’s development, Deloitte Consulting, signed Balboni as a consultant, then as a lobbyist.

New York – NYC Council Eyes Stricter Fundraising Rules Amid Legal Probes into Mayor Adams’ Campaign

Gothamist – Brigid Bergin | Published: 6/5/2024

New York City Councilperson Lincoln Restler will introduce legislation to give new power and added responsibilities to the watchdog agency running the city’s public campaign finance system. Restler’s package would empower the Campaign Finance Board to withhold matching money to campaigns that do not respond to the agency’s requests for information about their donors within 30 days. Another bill would impose stiffer restrictions on how much lobbyists and other individuals listed in the city’s Doing Business Database can raise as an intermediary on behalf of a candidate.

New York – Trump Verdict Vindicates N.Y. Prosecutor Who Quietly Pursued a Risky Path

MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 6/1/2024

Donald Trump was found guilty in New York on 34 counts for falsifying business records related to a hush money payment ahead of the 2016 election. Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, had weathered a tide of criticism for bringing charges against the former president. Those who know Bragg said he was undeterred by the constant political attacks and committed to pursuing a novel legal theory he believed made sense.

New York – Ethics Commission Subpoenaed Hochul Administration Over Bills Box Seats

New York Focus – Chris Bragg | Published: 5/31/2024

The New York Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government issued a subpoena to the state’s economic development agency for records related to state officials’ use of a Buffalo Bills luxury suite. Gov. Kathy Hochul, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, and others gained exclusive access to the state-owned suite. The officials brought several guests. A complaint argued attendees got premium tickets at a bargain price because of their close relationships to politicians. The complaint claimed the politicians did not have valid governmental reasons to attend the game.

Ohio – Ohio Senate Approves Fix Assuring President Biden Is on Fall Ballot

MSN – Bruce Shipkowski (Associated Press) | Published: 5/31/2024

A temporary fix allowing President Biden to appear on this fall’s ballot in Ohio cleared the Republican-dominated Legislature as it concluded a rare special session. Lawmakers also approved a ban on foreign nationals contributing to state ballot campaigns. Gov. Mike DeWine signed both bills.

Ohio – FirstEnergy, the Center Point of a Bribery Plot, Could Officially Beat the Rap This Summer

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 6/2/2024

Federal prosecutors are set to release FirstEnergy, the utility at the center of intersecting dollar bribery schemes, from a special cooperation agreement that offered prosecutors a roadmap of a compromised state government. Prosecutors charged the company with conspiracy in its efforts to bribe government officials in exchange for favorable treatment. But in exchange for FirstEnergy’s cooperation, payment of a $230 million fine, forfeiture of another roughly $7 million, some corporate reforms, and its issuance of a public statement of guilt, the government will drop that charge within 30 days of the agreement’s expiration date.

Ohio – Cleveland City Council Doubles Campaign Finance Contribution Limits, Some Residents Push Back

WVIZ – Abbey Marshall | Published: 6/3/2024

The Cleveland City Council quickly – and controversially – approved legislation that doubled campaign donation limits ahead of council elections in 2025. Those caps jumped from $1,500 to $3,000 for individuals and from $3,000 to $6,000 for PACs. Council President Blaine Griffin said it will allow candidates to tap into other sources aside from the Council Leadership Fund, a PAC controlled by Griffin that some members of the public have criticized.

Oregon – Lawmakers Approve $5 Million for Secretary of State Office to Overhaul Oregon Campaign Finance Filing System

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 5/31/2024

Lawmakers approved $5.41 million to modernize Oregon’s outdated campaign finance filing system by 2028. of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade asked for the funding after the Legislature in March passed a historic campaign finance bill that will limit the amount of money that individuals and groups can directly give to candidates.

Pennsylvania – Several Pa. House Republicans Boo Officers Who Defended Capitol on Jan. 6

MSN – Leo Sands (Washington Post) | Published: 6/6/2024

Two former law enforcement officers who defended the U.S. Capitol from rioters during the insurrection were jeered by state GOP lawmakers as they visited Pennsylvania’s House of Representatives, according to several Democratic lawmakers present. As former U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn and former sergeant Aquilino Gonell, both of whom were injured by rioters on January 6, were introduced, the House floor descended into chaos. Several GOP lawmakers hissed and booed, with a number of Republicans walking out in protest.

Pennsylvania – Former Philly Councilmember Bobby Henon’s Bribery Conviction Upheld by Federal Appeals Court

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck and Oona Goodin-Smith (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 5/31/2024

Former Philadelphia City Councilperson Bobby Henon’s bid to overturn his 2021 bribery conviction fell short as a federal appeals court rejected his contention that prosecutors had failed to fully prove their case. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit found jurors had been presented with enough evidence to conclude the former council majority leader sold the powers of his office to labor leader John Dougherty in exchange for a $70,000-a-year salary from his politically powerful union.

Rhode Island – R.I. Ethics Panel Rules Sen. Lawson Can Vote on Pension-Related Bills

Yahoo News – Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) | Published: 6/4/2024

One-third of Rhode Island lawmakers collect, or could eventually receive, a state pension. Yet only one, Sen. Majority Whip Valarie Lawson, consulted with the state ethics panel on whether her former teaching career and current job as president of one of the state teachers’ unions preclude her from voting on pension-related legislation. The Ethics Commission ruled she could vote, citing a clause in the ethics code letting public officials participate in actions that may benefit them personally if enough other people also receive the same benefit.

Texas – Former Houston Public Works Official Charged in Corruption Case Involving Waterline Repair Contracts

MSN – Yilun Cheng (Houston Chronicle) | Published: 6/1/2024

A former employee of Houston’s Public Works Department was arrested for allegedly taking bribes from vendors and funneling city dollars to herself through a shell company. The department first suspended Patrece Lee, a former manager of the department’s water operation, in November 2023 after a media report alerted the city of possible conflicts-of-interest in her handling of emergency contracts for water leak repairs. The internal probe later turned into a criminal investigation.

Wisconsin – Former Trump Aides Charged in Wisconsin Over 2020 Elector Plot

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 6/4/2024

Wisconsin’s attorney general filed conspiracy charges against a former aide and two attorneys who advised Donald Trump over a meeting of Republicans claiming to be the state’s 2020 presidential electors even though Trump had lost the state. The charges are the first in Wisconsin related to the meeting of electors. Prosecutors have separately charged Republicans who were involved in similar efforts in Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, and Georgia.

Campaign Finance

New York: “NYC Council Eyes Stricter Fundraising Rules Amid Legal Probes into Mayor Adams’ Campaign” by Brigid Bergin for Gothamist

Elections

Wisconsin: “Former Trump Aides Charged in Wisconsin Over 2020 Elector Plot” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Judge Cannon Expands Hearing on Trump’s Request to Declare Special Counsel’s Appointment Invalid” by Dan Berman and Katelyn Polantz (CNN) for MSN

National: “Ethics Panel Probes Rep. Spartz Over Staff Abuse Claims” by Daniel Lippman and Adam Wren (Politico) for MSN

Michigan: “2024 Michigan Elections: Nessel opinion tightens financial disclosure rules” by Lauren Gibbons for Bridge Michigan

Rhode Island: “R.I. Ethics Panel Rules Sen. Lawson Can Vote on Pension-Related Bills” by Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) for Yahoo News

Legislative Issues

Arizona: “2 Democrats Who Yelled Were Disorderly in AZ Abortion Debate, Panel Says” by Bob Christie (Capitol News Services) for Arizona Daily Star

National: “As a Congressman Defended Trump, His 6-Year-Old Son Stole the Spotlight” by Kyle Melnick (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

New York: “How Top N.Y. Officials Helped a Lobbyist Cash in on State Government” by Jay Root (New York Times) for DNyuz

Sometime before November 30, 2024, a by-election will be announced for the seat in the Canadian Federal House of Commons representing Cloverdale–Langley City in the province of British Columbia.

On June 3, the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, Stéphane Perrault, received official notice from the Speaker of the House of Commons that the seat for Cloverdale–Langley City (British Columbia) became vacant following the resignation of John Aldag, who resigned on May 27 in order to run in the provincial elections this fall in British Columbia.

Under the law, the by-election date must be announced between June 14 and November 30, 2024, and will signal the start of the by-election period.

According to Elections Canada, the earliest date the by-election can be held is July 22, 2024.

Campaign Finance

Colorado: “Campaign Finance Reform Could Be Coming Next Election Cycle” by Rebecca Tauber for Denverite

Ohio: “Cleveland City Council Doubles Campaign Finance Contribution Limits, Some Residents Push Back” by Abbey Marshall for WVIZ

Elections

Kansas: “Kansas Voters Have No Fundamental Constitutional Right to Vote, Supreme Court Rules” by Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel (Topeka Capital-Journal) for Yahoo News

Ethics

National: “Lawmakers Expensed Millions in 2023 Under New Program That Doesn’t Require Receipts” by Jacqueline Alemany, Clara Ence Morse, and Liz Goodwin (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Investors, Worried They Can’t Beat Lawmakers in Stock Market, Copy Them Instead” by Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) for MSN

New York: “Trump Verdict Vindicates N.Y. Prosecutor Who Quietly Pursued a Risky Path” by Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) for MSN

Ohio: “FirstEnergy, the Center Point of a Bribery Plot, Could Officially Beat the Rap This Summer” by Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Redistricting

Arkansas: “U.S.Supreme Court Sends Arkansas Redistricting Case Back to Judges after South Carolina Ruling” by Andew DeMillo (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Elections

Georgia: “A Court Might Hear Arguments Before the Election on Fani Willis’ Role in Trump’s Georgia Case” by Kate Brumback (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Ethics

Washington DC: “D.C. Ethics Board Recommends Rudy Giuliani Be Disbarred” by Alexandra Marquez (NBC News) for MSN

Florida: “Alex Díaz de la Portilla Under Investigation for Alleged Witness Tampering in Bribery Case” by Tess Riski (Miami Herald) for Yahoo News

Michigan: “Michigan Lawmaker Wants to Pay Reporters to Uncover Corruption” by J.D. Davidson (Center Square) for MSN

National: “Multiple Trump Witnesses Have Received Significant Financial Benefits from His Businesses, Campaign” by Robert Faturechi, Justin Elliott, and Alex Mierjeski (ProPublica) for MSN

National: “Billions in Taxpayer Dollars Now Go to Religious Schools Via Vouchers” by Laura Meckler and Michelle Boorstein (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “At Center of Alito Controversy, a Flag Celebrated by Extremists” by Hannah Allen (Washington Post) for MSN

Texas: “Former Houston Public Works Official Charged in Corruption Case Involving Waterline Repair Contracts” by Yilun Cheng (Houston Chronicle) for MSN

Lawmakers passed a bill modifying the restrictions and penalties for using deep fakes to influence elections before adjourning May 20.

Effective August 1, House File 4772 changes the standard from reasonably knowing to acting with reckless disregard about whether the item being disseminated is a deep fake.

The bill also changes the applicable timeframe for violations to within 90 days before a political party nominating convention or after the start of absentee voting prior to a presidential primary or state or local primary or general election.

Penalties for candidates using deep fakes include forfeiting their nomination or office and disqualification from being appointed to that office or any other office.

On June 24, a Canadian federal by-election will be held in the electoral district of Toronto–St. Paul’s (Ontario) to fill a vacancy in the House of Commons.

On January 16, the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, Stéphane Perrault, had received official notice from the Speaker of the House of Commons that the seat for Toronto—St. Paul’s (Ontario) became vacant following the resignation of Carolyn Ann Bennett.

Bennett officially resigned from her seat in the House of Commons on January 16, 2024, and was appointed on the same day as Canada’s Ambassador to Denmark.

The date for the election was not announced until May 19, which signaled the start of the by-election period.

Campaign Finance

National: “PAC Run by Mark Meadows’ Wife Fined, Closing After Campaign Finance Violation” by Danielle Battaglia (Raleigh News & Observer) for Yahoo Finance

Oregon: “Lawmakers Approve $5 Million for Secretary of State Office to Overhaul Oregon Campaign Finance Filing System” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN

Elections

Ohio: “Ohio Senate Approves Fix Assuring President Biden Is on Fall Ballot” by Bruce Shipkowski (Associated Press) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Chief Justice Robert Declines to Meet with Democrats on Court Ethics” by Ann Marimow (Washington Post) for MSN

Missouri: “After Investigation, Top MO House Republican Now Faces Scathing Whistleblower Lawsuit” by Kacen Bayless (Kansas City Star) for Yahoo News

National: “Even as the Judicial System Finds Trump Guilty, His Attacks Take a Toll” by Sarah Ellison and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN

New York: “Ethics Commission Subpoenaed Hochul Administration Over Bills Box Seats” by Chris Bragg for New York Focus

Legislative Issues

National: “Departing House Members Ask: ‘Why am I here?'” by Robert Draper (New York Times) for Yahoo News

National/Federal

Former FTX Executive Ryan Salame Sentenced to 7.5 Years for Election Donor Scheme with Sam Bankman-Fried

Courthouse News Service – Josh Russell | Published: 5/28/2024

A federal judge sentenced former FTX executive Ryan Salame to 90 months in prison for his role in straw donor conspiracy with convicted cryptocurrency mogul Sam Bankman-Fried that flooded both Democrat and Republican campaigns with tens of millions of dollars in illegal contributions. As part of his plea deal, Salame agreed to pay a $6 million penalty and more than $5 million in restitution, in addition to forfeiting his Porsche 911 Turbo and two properties in Massachusetts.

The Washington Post Said It Had the Alito Flag Story 3 Years Ago and Chose Not to Publish

MSN – David Bauder (Associated Press) | Published: 5/28/2024

Nine days after the New York Times reported about the political symbolism of an upside-down American flag that flew at U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito’s home, the Washington Post acknowledged it had the same story more than three years ago and decided not to publish it. The Post’s story was both an example of journalistic introspection and an illustration of how coverage of the Supreme Court has changed since the incident itself, shortly after the Capitol insurrection.

Voter Outreach Groups Targeted by New Laws in Several GOP-Led States Are Struggling to Do Their Work

MSN – Ayanna Alexander (Associated Press) | Published: 5/28/2024

Florida is one of several states where Republicans enacted voting restrictions that created or enhanced criminal penalties and fines for those who assist voters. The laws have forced some voter outreach groups to cease operations, while others have greatly altered or reduced their activities. Cecile Scoon, co-president of the League of Women Voters in Florida, said the law stripped the personal connection between its workers and communities. Digital tools are not easy to use when registering voters and can be expensive, she said.

RFK Jr. Files Complaint Over Potential Exclusion from Debate Stage

MSN – Amy Wang and Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 5/29/2024

The presidential campaign of independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. filed a complaint with the FEC about Kennedy’s potential exclusion from a planned June 27 debate on CNN between President Biden and Donald Trump. Kennedy’s campaign alleges Biden, Trump, and CNN “colluded” to leave Kennedy off the debate stage. The complaint also alleges CNN’s decision to hold the debate could be tantamount to the network making “prohibited corporate contributions” to Biden and Trump’s campaigns.

Supreme Court Revives NRA’s Lawsuit Alleging That New York Violated Its First Amendment Rights

MSN – Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 5/30/2024

The National Rifle Association (NRA) scored a major victory at the U.S. Supreme Court as the justices unanimously ruled that appeals judges were too quick to dismiss the NRA’s claims that New York officials violated its First Amendment rights by targeting its insurance business. The decision reinstated a lawsuit the NRA filed against New York state’s top financial services regulator, Maria Vullo, after she announced a plan to pressure banks and insurance companies to stop doing business with the organization.

Trump Electors in Key States Want to Serve Again, Despite Criminal Charges

MSN – Amy Gardner and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 5/23/2024

Republican activists in at least three states where Donald Trump tried to reverse his defeat in 2020 – nearly all of them under criminal indictment for casting electoral votes for him despite his loss – are poised to reprise their roles as presidential electors this year. Their eagerness to serve, and encouragement to do so from their parties, reflects a widespread belief among Republicans the electors did nothing wrong in 2020, raising the question of what they might do or say if Trump once again loses any of those states.

Judge Rejects Request to Restrict Trump’s Speech on FBI, Says Motion Was Faulty

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 5/28/2024

U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon denied a request from federal prosecutors that she order Donald Trump to stop making incendiary claims about law enforcement personnel, saying the government should have more thoroughly consulted with Trump’s attorneys before coming to her. The judge, who is overseeing Trump’s classified documents criminal case in Florida, strongly rebuked special counsel Jack Smith, who submitted his motion after the former president and his political campaign issued statements that said, “Biden’s DOJ was authorized to shoot me!”

DNC Prepares to Nominate Biden Via ‘Virtual Roll Call’ Before Convention

MSN – Patrick Svitek (Washington Post) | Published: 5/28/2024

President Biden will be chosen as the Democratic presidential nominee through a virtual roll call ahead of the party’s official convention in Chicago in August, a maneuver that will allow Biden to appear on the November ballot in Ohio. The in-person roll call of states, culminating with the official nomination of a presidential candidate, is typically a focal point of political conventions. The convention is still expected to feature the roll call, but the formal nomination of Biden will be during the virtual proceedings.

A.I. Promised to Upend the 2024 Campaign. It Hasn’t Yet.

Yahoo News – Shane Goldmacher, Tiffany Hsu, and Steven Lee Myers (New York Times) | Published: 5/23/2024

The era of artificial intelligence (AI) has arrived on the campaign trail. But the much anticipated, and feared, technology remains confined to the margins of American campaigns. With less than six months until the 2024 election, the political uses of AI are more theoretical than transformational, both as a constructive communications tool or to spread dangerous disinformation.

Experts Question Alito’s Failure to Recuse Himself in Flag Controversy

Yahoo News – Adam Liptak (New York Times) | Published: 5/30/2024

In a letter to Democratic leaders in the House and Senate, Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito said he was not only permitted but also obligated to sit on two cases arising from the attack on the Capitol despite controversies over flags displayed outside his houses associated with the “Stop the Steal” movement. Experts in legal ethics said they welcomed Alito’s decision to explain himself. But they were not persuaded by the reasoning in the letters, which said the flags had been flown by his wife and so did not require him to step aside in the pending cases.

From the States and Municipalities

California – More Independence, Sharper Teeth: Elliott’s ethics plan would overhaul how campaign, lobbying rules are enforced

MSN – Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union Tribune) | Published: 5/27/2024

The San Diego Ethics Commission has been constrained by some of the very rules and practices that were written into its governing documents in 2001. If the plan by City Attorney Mara Elliott wins approval from the city council, voters will decide this year whether to give the commission sharper teeth in overseeing hundreds of public officials, campaigns, and the donors and lobbyists who seek to influence them.

California – More Orange County Cities Overhaul Campaign Finance Rules

Voice of OC – Hosam Ellatar | Published: 5/29/2024

A couple of Orange County cities are increasing limits on how much a person can donate to campaigns ahead of the November 2024 election. Officials in one of the smallest cities in the county, Stanton, moved in the opposite direction, directing staff to look at reducing the campaign contribution limit. The changes come after a corruption scandal broke out in Anaheim, where investigators last year accused Disneyland resort interests of having outsized influence over City Hall.

Colorado – Jenna Ellis, Trump Lawyer Who Pleaded Guilty in Georgia Case, Is Barred from Practicing Law in Colorado for Three Years

Colorado Sun – Jessed Paul | Published: 5/28/2024

Jenna Ellis, the former lawyer for Donald Trump who pleaded guilty last year in Georgia to a felony charge for trying to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in that state, is barred from practicing law for three years in Colorado. She will have to file a petition to reinstate her law license at the end of the suspension. Ellis was sentenced to five years’ probation and ordered to perform 100 hours of community service in the Georgia case.

District of Columbia – Lobbying Is the Lifeblood of DC’s Anemic Office Market

WTOP – Jeff Clabaugh | Published: 5/20/2024

The District of Columbia’s office market is struggling with record vacancy rates, but there is one tenant it can always count on: government affairs. The demand for office space from those tenants is growing. “We just looked at the big three – that’s the lobbyists for hire, the corporate government affairs groups, and associations,” said Tammy Shoham, research director at commercial real estate firm JLL. “And of those three groups, there are over 1,500 entities here in D.C.”

Florida – Disney Starts Giving to Florida Politicians Again, Sen. Thompson Says

MSN – Steven Lemongello (Orlando Sentinel) | Published: 5/24/2024

Disney’s Princess Tiana appears on the invitations to state Sen. Geraldine Thompson’s June fundraiser, and with that image comes the return of a major player in Florida politics. The Walt Disney Co. provided theme park tickets, Thompson said, in what is known as an in-kind contribution It could be the first contribution to a Florida politician in more than two years from the company, once one of the biggest donors to Democrats and Republicans alike.

Hawaii – Mitsunaga Secretary Acquitted for Bribery Could Still Face State Campaign Violations

Honolulu Civil Beat – Christina Jedra | Published: 5/23/2024

For a decade, Terri Ann Otani made tens of thousands of dollars in donations to candidates in the names of her family members, according to her relatives. During her recent trial, prosecutors showed the jury how Otani purchased cashier’s checks with the memo line filled out with her relatives’ names and submitted them to campaigns. Otani was acquitted of charges that some of those donations amounted to bribery, but the information could expose her to new criminal and civil liability. The Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission is now investigating the matter.

Hawaii – Conflict of Interest? Some Hawaii Lawmakers Work for or Even Own Companies That Get State Contracts

Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 5/27/2024

An examination of current state legislators’ business interests found at least a dozen sitting Hawaii lawmakers are paid by or own entities that have won more than $56 million in government contracts since 2006. The findings have prompted the State Ethics Commission to begin exploring proposals that could rein in lawmakers pulling double duty. The idea of a “citizen Legislature” can cause tension between a lawmakers’ private business interests and their duties as a public servant.

Illinois – Lawmakers OK Bill to Require ‘Faithful’ Electors in 2024, Loosen Campaign Finance Rules

Capitol News Illinois – Andrew Adams | Published: 5/30/2024

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Illinois appears likely to join most of the rest of the country in requiring that the state’s Electoral College votes go to the winner of the state’s popular election. It is part of a broad package of election-related legislation which includes a provision loosening restrictions on what political parties can do with campaign funds.

Illinois – Judge Temporarily Blocks Hastily Passed Election Law That Favored Democrats in November

Yahoo News – Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 5/23/2024

A judge issued a temporary injunction blocking a law passed by Democrats that would have prevented Republicans from slating candidates for legislative races not filled in the March primary. Previously, local committees for the political parties could fill legislative ballot spots in which their party did not field a primary candidate after the primary election. The slated candidate was still required to obtain candidacy petition signatures to appear on the general election ballot.

Iowa – Auditor: Ethics board made ‘no attempt’ to collect fines and can’t force payment

Iowa Capital Dispatch – Clark Kaufman | Published: 5/24/2024

The state auditor’s office faulted the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board for having made no attempt to collect penalties imposed on politicians and their campaigns. The notice sent to violators did not include information on how to pay the penalty and it did not include language requesting payment within a certain time frame. Once the initial notice was sent, the auditor found, there were “no attempts made to follow-up on the unpaid penalties.”

Iowa – Iowa Ethics Board Fines Candidate Melissa Vine, Former Campaign Manager for Illegal Contributions

Yahoo News – Robin Opsahl (Iowa Capital Dispatch) | Published: 5/23/2024

Democratic congressional candidate Melissa Vine and her former campaign manager Lou McDonald were each fined $500 by the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board after an investigation found the two made contributions to a state PAC in other people’s names. Federal law may have been violated by using congressional campaign money to make donations on behalf of individuals to a PAC.

Louisiana – Lawmakers Give Landry Control Over Ethics Board Amid Dispute Over Discipline

Louisiana Illuminator – Julie O’Donoghue | Published: 5/28/2024

Louisiana lawmakers overwhelmingly voted to give Gov. Jeff Landry control over the state Board of Ethics, just a few months after its members charged him with violating the ethics law. Landry could gain the ability to appoint ethics board members directly on August 1 under legislation that looks likely to pass in the next few days. The bill must return to the Senate for at least one more vote before going to Landry’s desk.

Maryland – Marilyn Mosby Sentenced to 1 Year Home Detention for Perjury, Mortgage Fraud

MSN – Jasmine Hilton and Katie Mettler (Washington Post) | Published: 5/23/2024

A federal judge sentenced Marilyn Mosby, Baltimore’s former top prosecutor convicted of perjury and mortgage fraud, to 12 months of home detention followed by two years of supervised release after a highly publicized criminal prosecution that spurred tensions over race, politics, and justice. Mosby was convicted of lying to withdraw money from her retirement account under a program built to help those struggling during the coronavirus pandemic. Prosecutors said she used that money to purchase two vacation properties in Florida.

Massachusetts – Massachusetts DPW Director Pays $17,000 Fine for Accepting Free Ski Trips, Other Gifts

Boston Herald – Rick Sobey | Published: 5/28/2024

Yet another Bay State municipal worker has paid a big fine for accepting free ski trips and other gifts from a water meter manufacturer and its distributor. Danvers Department of Public Works Director David Lane paid a $17,000 civil penalty for violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law. Lane admitted to accepting free ski trips, a golf outing, and a steakhouse dinner from a water meter manufacturer and its distributor.

Nevada – Who’s Funding Negative Campaign Mail? Legal Loophole Helps Some Groups Avoid Disclosure

Nevada Independent – Riley Snyder and Tabitha Mueller | Published: 5/29/2024

Thanks to a 2017 change in how often candidates and PACs are required to report their contributions and expenditures in Nevada, political operators now have a two-month window during which to set up PACs and spend money on the state’s June primary election without having to report how much they are raising or who is funding them until July 15. An analysis found at least 20 new PACs and political nonprofits were registered between April 1 and May 15.

New Mexico – State Ethics Commission Sues Apodacas Dark Money Operation

Yahoo News – Marjorie Childress (New Mexico In Depth) | Published: 5/26/2024

The New Mexico Ethics Commission filed a lawsuit against a dark money political group and its founder, former gubernatorial candidate Jeff Apodaca, to force the disclosure of the organization’s expenditures and donors. The New Mexico Project registered as a domestic nonprofit corporation and has spent thousands of dollars on political advertising. But the group has not identified its donors.

New York – Lobbying Loophole Bill Pushed Again, This Time Without LaSalle Lookback

Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 5/28/2024

More than 15 months after an historic fight over the selection of the chief judge for New York’s highest court revealed a loophole in the state’s lobbying laws, a second attempt by lawmakers to address that issue is being waged in the final days of the legislative session. The late push comes after a key change to the language intended to address a concern Gov. Kathy Hochul noted in her veto message. It would no longer require lobbying disclosure for nominations since 2023 and only apply to those moving forward.

New York – New York State’s Matching Funds Program Debuts. What Does It Mean for This Year’s Election

City Limits – Mary Cunningham | Published: 5/28/2024

New York’s Public Campaign Finance program allows candidates running for state office to qualify for matching funds for contributions between five dollars to $250 made by in-district donors. This year’s elections is the first time candidates for the Assembly and Senate will be able to take part. During the next election cycle in 2026, those running for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, and state comptroller will also be able take advantage of matching funds if they qualify and choose to opt in.

Oregon – Will Oregon Department of Justice Ever Open a Criminal Investigation of Democrats’ 2022 Misreported Donation?

Portland Oregonian – Hillary Borrud | Published: 5/30/2024

The Oregon Department of Justice crossed the one-year mark on its review of whether to open a criminal probe into the state Democratic Party for misreporting the donor who gave the party $500,000 in the final weeks of the 2022 election. The party admitted the money was from Nishad Singh, an executive at the disgraced cryptocurrency exchange FTX. Under Oregon law, it is a felony to make or accept a campaign contribution under a “false name.”

South Carolina – 76 Ethics Allegations Say Ex-Clerk of Court Becky Hill Abused Post for Own Gain

Yahoo News – John Monk (The State) | Published: 5/29/2024

The South Carolina Ethics Commission found probable cause in 76 different incidents to believe that former Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill repeatedly misused her position to enrich herself and promote a book she wrote on the Alex Murdaugh murder trial. A complaint says Hill also directed hundreds if not thousands of dollars to go for things like “candy, tea and lemonade” for office parties such as “Lori’s 50th Birthday.” Other public money went for dog food and picnic tables.

Virginia – Some Legislative Aides in Virginia Do Double Duty as Campaign Staff

Virginia Mercury – Graham Moomaw | Published: 5/29/2024

In Congress, elected representatives are supposed to keep their taxpayer-funded offices mostly separate from their campaigns. In the Virginia General Assembly, rules walling off legislative offices from campaign activity are less clear. In one of Virginia’s congressional primary races, the campaign website for state Sen. Suhas Subramanyam previously listed the names of five people working as campaign staff. Four of those five were also identified as publicly funded legislative staffers for Subramanyam this year. But no campaign-side pay for those four Senate staffers has been disclosed on Subramanyan’s federal campaign finance reports.

Washington – Washington State GOP Contributions to Congressional Hopefuls Suggest Party May Have Helped Candidates Circumvent Election Law

Spokane Spokesman-Review – Emry Dinman | Published: 5/26/2024

Campaign finance reports and a text appear to show a GOP candidate for Congress circumvented federal election law with the aid of the Washington State Republican Party. Days before the March 31 cutoff for first-quarter campaign finance reports, as candidates tried to rake in any last-minute cash to demonstrate their momentum, the Washington GOP donated the legal maximum for the primary election, $5,000, to state Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber. Later, Maycumber donated $5,500 to the state party, not from her campaign account for Congress, but a surplus account from her prior runs for state office.

Campaign Finance

California: “More Orange County Cities Overhaul Campaign Finance Rules” by Hosam Ellatar for Voice of OC

Iowa: “Auditor: Ethics board made ‘no attempt’ to collect fines and can’t force payment” by Clark Kaufman for Iowa Capital Dispatch

Nevada: “Who’s Funding Negative Campaign Mail? Legal Loophole Helps Some Groups Avoid Disclosure” by Riley Snyder and Tabitha Mueller for Nevada Independent

Elections

National: “Voter Outreach Groups Targeted by New Laws in Several GOP-Led States Are Struggling to Do Their Work” by Ayanna Alexander (Associated Press) for MSN

Virginia: “Some Legislative Aides in Virginia Do Double Duty as Campaign Staff” by Graham Moomaw for Virginia Mercury

Ethics

National: “Justice Alito Tells Congress He Will Not Recuse from Jan. 6-Related Cases” by Ann Marimow and Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) for MSN

Louisiana: “Lawmakers Give Landry Control Over Ethics Board Amid Dispute Over Discipline” by Julie O’Donoghue for Louisiana Illuminator

Massachusetts: “Massachusetts DPW Director Pays $17,000 Fine for Accepting Free Ski Trips, Other Gifts” by Rick Sobey for Boston Herald