Ethics Archives - State and Federal Communications

March 12, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Elections National: “Smartmatic Says It’s Being Targeted by Justice Dept. to Bolster False 2020 Claims” by Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics California: “Andrew Do’s Corruption Went Far Beyond What Was Previously Known, Audit Finds” by Nick Gerda (LAist) […]

March 11, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Hawaii: “Audit: Sylvia Luke’s campaign missed thousands in donations” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat Elections Arizona: “FBI Obtains Voting Data from Arizona GOP’s 2020 Review That Confirmed Trump’s Loss” by Isaac Arnsdorf, Perry Stein, and Patrick […]

March 10, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Georgia: “Bill Requires Candidates to Raise at Least Half Their Money Within Georgia” by Mark Niesse for Capitol Beat National: “From St. Petersburg to Philly, Fraud Claims Piled Up Against Political Consultant” by Anna Orso (Philadelphia Inquirer) for […]

March 9, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance North Carolina: “Republican NC Elections Board Member Resigns Over Prohibited Campaign Donations” by Kyle Ingram (Raleigh News & Observer) for Yahoo News Oregon: “Oregon Lawmakers Approve Controversial Changes to Campaign Finance Law; Advocates Pledge to Bring Issue to […]

March 6, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – March 6, 2026

National/Federal New York Woman Who Duped Investors and Funneled Money to Trump Fundraiser Gets 9 Years in Prison MSN – Associated Press | Published: 2/27/2026 Sherry Xue Li was sentenced to nine years in federal prison over a financial scheme […]

National/Federal

New York Woman Who Duped Investors and Funneled Money to Trump Fundraiser Gets 9 Years in Prison

MSN – Associated Press | Published: 2/27/2026

Sherry Xue Li was sentenced to nine years in federal prison over a financial scheme that ripped off more than $30 million from foreign investors and funneled some of the stolen money into U.S. political campaigns, including a fundraiser for President Trump. Li pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the U.S. by obstructing the FEC’s administration of campaign finance laws. Her co-defendant, Lianbo Wang, also pleaded guilty to similar charges and was sentenced to five years in prison.

DOJ Sues 5 More States for Access to Voter Rolls

MSN – Jacob Wendler (Politico) | Published: 2/26/2026

The Department of Justice filed suit against five additional states, demanding they share election data with the Trump administration amid its nationwide push for access to state voter rolls. With the latest wave of legal action, the department has now sued more than two dozen states as a part of its push for access to voter files. Most of those states are controlled by Democrats, although the latest spate of suits includes four states that supported Donald Trump in 2020 and 2024 The fifth state sued was New Jersey.

Trump Admin Asked a Court to Drop Court Fights Against Law Firms Tied to Democrats. Now It’s Changing Its Mind

MSN – Katelyn Polantz (CNN) | Published: 3/3/2026

The Justice Department told four large law firms targeted by President Trump that its decision to withdraw from court fights with them is being reversed. The latest move appears to restart Trump’s attempts to try to block the firms from federal government access over their ties to Democrats. Trump had attempted to use the powers of the presidency to prevent the firms’ lawyers from accessing federal buildings, securing classified information, and meeting with federal agencies, all mainstays of Washington-based legal work. The firms challenged the executive orders and have so far won in court.

Trump Allies Claim Victory as the Ellisons Expand Their Media Empire

MSN – Will Oremus, Liam Scott, Cat Zakrzewski, and Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2026

Netflix’s withdrawal cleared the way for David Ellison’s Paramount Skydance to take the reins of CNN, whose coverage President Trump has labeled “fake news.” Among power players in politics and media, Paramount’s acquisition is widely viewed as a win for the right amid a broader push to rein in what many conservatives view as a liberal slant in the media and entertainment industries. In Washington, questions have swirled as to what role was played by a president who famously relishes dealmaking.

Trump, Seeking Executive Power Over Elections, Is Urged to Declare Emergency

MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2026

Pro-Trump activists who say they are in coordination with the White House are circulating a draft executive order that claims China interfered in the 2020 election as a basis to declare a national emergency that would unlock extraordinary presidential power over voting. President Trump has repeatedly previewed a plan to mandate voter ID and ban mail ballots in November’s midterm elections, and the activists expect their draft will figure into Trump’s promised executive order on the issue.

Trump Justice Department Aims to Limit Ethics Probes into Its Lawyers

MSN – Andrew Goudsward (Reuters) | Published: 3/4/2026

The U.S. Justice Department is seeking to constrain ethics investigations conducted at the state level into alleged misconduct by its lawyers, according to a proposed rule that would shield prosecutors pursuing President Trump’s agenda. The proposal would give the U.S. attorney general the right to review misconduct allegations against current or former Justice Department attorneys and request that disciplinary authorities at the state level suspend their investigations.

Cornyn, Paxton Reach Runoff; Other Takeaways from Big Election Night

MSN – Teo Armus (Washington Post) | Published: 3/3/2026

The 2026 midterm election season kicked off with primaries in Arkansas, North Carolina, and Texas, featuring several high-profile contests that will set the tone for November as voters weigh in on President Trump’s second administration and Democrats debate their party’s direction. Republicans are defending a thin majority in the House, and they have tried to bolster their efforts by redrawing congressional maps in several GOP-controlled states. The elections put a spotlight on those new maps in Texas and North Carolina, where the party has targeted six Democratic-held seats and prompted some intraparty battles in the process.

Judge Restores Lawmakers’ Unfettered Access to ICE Detention Facilities

Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 3/2/2026

The Department of Homeland Security may not bar members of Congress from making unannounced visits to Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities, a federal judge ruled, blocking a policy imposed in January. U.S. District Court Judge Jia Cobb ruled Noem’s policy was crafted with funds that Congress specifically said could not be used to impede lawmakers’ visits to detention facilities, even if those visits are not announced in advance.

Bill Clinton Says He ‘Did Nothing Wrong’ with Epstein as He Faces Grilling Over Their Relationship

Yahoo News – Stephen Groves (Associated Press) | Published: 2/27/2026

Former President Bill Clinton told members of Congress he “did nothing wrong” in his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and saw no signs of Epstein’s sexual abuse as he faced grilling from lawmakers over his connections to the disgraced financier from more than two decades ago. The closed-door deposition marks the first time a former president has been compelled to testify to Congress. It came a day after Clinton’s wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, sat with lawmakers for her own deposition.

Rep. Tony Gonzales, Forced into Runoff, Admits to Affair with Aide Who Died by Suicide

Yahoo News – Gabby Birenbaum (Texas Tribune) | Published: 3/4/2026

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales admitted to having an affair with Regina Santos-Aviles, a staff member who later died by suicide, after initially denying the allegation. The San Antonio Express-News had published a screenshot of a text sent by Santos-Aviles to a fellow staffer in which she said she had an ‘affair with our boss.” Gonzales’ admission comes after he was forced into a primary runoff against Brandon Herrera, who has criticized Gonzales on both policy and personal fronts.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Senate Passes Republican ‘Pay-to-Play’ Reform Bill, Not Hobbs’ Plan

KJZZ – Wayne Schutsky | Published: 3/3/2026

A bill designed to give the public more information about state contractors who also donate to political campaigns passed the Arizona Senate with just Republican support, despite bipartisan calls to reform the state’s procurement and campaign finance reporting laws. The legislation would require state contractors and companies bidding on state business to disclose “anything of value” they have given to a governor or related political efforts over the past five years.

California – Secret Payments, Win Bonuses Discussed for Angel Stadium Deal, Other Projects

Los Angeles Times – Gabriel San Roman | Published: 2/28/2026

Todd Ament, an Anaheim Chamber of Commerce leader, emailed a lobbyist confidant, Jeff Flint, and asked for a meeting to discuss more than $500,000 in payments from companies with proposed projects in Anaheim. A ledger with handwritten notes suggests the two men, who later emerged as central figures in a political corruption probe into a self-described “cabal” that ran Anaheim, met sometime after the email was sent to divvy up the money. The documents offer a glimpse into a shadowy world where lobbyists collect big bounties for influencing legislation or securing contracts for clients from local government agencies without full disclosure.

California – QAnon Darling, Perennial GOP L.A. Congressional Candidate Sentenced to 4 Years for Fraud

MSN – Cierra Morgan and Clara Harter (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/23/2026

A Republican who raised hundreds of thousands of dollars running unsuccessfully against U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters four times was sentenced to four years in federal prison for misusing campaign funds. Omar Navarro pleaded guilty to a single count of wire fraud for defrauding his own election campaign. The perennial candidate had raised hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years from prominent right-wing figures while promoting QAnon conspiracy theories but never cracked 25 percent of the vote.

California – These Public Documents Are Hidden from View. Two California Lawmakers Want to Change That

MSN – Ryan Sabalow (CalMatters) | Published: 3/3/2026

Two California lawmakers are trying to reveal legislative documents that are technically public records but are difficult for even the most seasoned Capitol insiders to access. The documents are letters registered lobbyists and advocacy groups send the Legislature to support or oppose bills. But having to separately request letters to legislative staff for each bill before lawmakers – more than 2,000 each year – is tedious and time-consuming. Each proposal can generate dozens of letters.

California – San Jose Mayor’s Social Media Use Faces Criticism

SFGate – Keith Menconi (San Jose Spotlight) | Published: 3/2/2026

Just weeks after announcing his run for governor, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan launched two new social media accounts on X and Instagram, each one designated as a city-backed account for official messaging. The move came amid City Hall grumbles about the mayor’s longstanding practice of using individual social media accounts for both city business and to promote his own personal brand. Such complaints have grown louder as Mahan’s personal channels have turned their focus more toward promoting his gubernatorial campaign.

Colorado – Former Colorado State Senator Sentenced to Probation for Fabricating Letters Amid Ethics Investigation

KUNC – Taylor Dolven (Colorado Sun) | Published: 2/27/2026

Former state Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis was sentenced to two years of probation for her attempts to mislead the Colorado Senate Ethics Committee by fabricating letters of support during an investigation into her alleged mistreatment of Capitol aides. She will also have to complete 150 hours of public service and pay a $3,000 fine.

Colorado – Colorado Governor Signals Willingness to Release Tina Peters from Prison Amid Trump Pressure

Yahoo News – Colleen Slevin and Nicholas Riccardi (Associated Press) | Published: 3/4/2026

Colorado’s Democratic governor, facing a pressure campaign from President Trump, is signaling his openness to granting clemency to a former county clerk who was convicted in a scheme that attempted to find proof of fraud in the 2020 presidential election. A social media post by Gov. Jared Polis brought swift rebuke from the state’s attorney general, secretary of state, and the association representing local election officials, who said such an action would send the wrong message to anyone seeking to interfere with elections ahead of this year’s midterms.

Illinois – Aurora Mayor John Laesch’s Proposed Ethics Reform Package Heads to a City Council Vote

Yahoo News – R. Christian Smith (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/4/2026

Aurora Mayor John Laesch’s promised campaign ethics reform package heads to a final City Council vote soon, but several aldermen have expressed concerns with it. The proposed regulations would prevent those who are doing business with the city or seeking a contract from donating more than $1,500 per year to candidates running for city office. It would also expand economic interest disclosures required of candidates and elected officials.

Kentucky – State Republicans Look to Reshape Louisville’s Ethics Commission

Louisville Public Media – Roberto Roldan | Published: 3/2/2026

A proposal currently before the Kentucky House would dissolve Louisville’s Ethics Commission at the end of this year, replacing all its members. House Bill 607 would require that the commission be evenly split between the two parties. One person would have to be a registered Independent or a member of a third party.

Maryland – Maryland Delegate’s Campaign Spending on Travel, Dining, and Resort Raises Legal Questions

WBFF – Gary Collins (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 3/3/2026

A review of campaign finance filings shows that first-term Del. Gary Simmons spent nearly all the money his campaign committee raised in 2025. That includes thousands of dollars on meals, out-of-state travel, and a casino. The reported expenditures raise questions about whether certain expenses complied with Maryland campaign finance law, which prohibits the personal use of donor funds.

Michigan – Up North Resort Ownership Poses More Oakland County Ethics Questions

Blue Water Healthy Living – Dave Boucher (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 2/27/2026

Royal Oak, Michigan is about 200 miles south of the Blue Haven Beach Resort on Lake Huron. But the owners of the resort are very familiar with Royal Oak and Oakland County. The owners and their families are some of that area’s most prominent elected officials. The Up North spot and the people behind it are another example of possible ethical issues in Oakland County, where relationships, investments, and votes on public deals are under scrutiny.

Mississippi – DraftKings and Entergy Spent Over $100K on a Super Bowl Weekend for Two Mississippi Politicians, Staffers and Spouses

Mississippi Today – Michael Goldberg and Taylor Vance | Published: 3/3/2026

Sports gambling giant DraftKings and energy company Entergy spent a combined $107,398 on a 2025 Super Bowl weekend for Speaker Jason White, House Public Utilities Committee Chairperson Brent Powell, White’s staff, and a couple of their spouses. The spending was only recently made public in official lobbying reports because of Mississippi’s weak reporting requirements. In 2025, days after House lawmakers voted to legalize online betting for the second time, the speaker’s staffers enjoyed the hospitality of DraftKings at its Super Bowl festivities.

Missouri – Missouri Bill Targets ‘Date Rape’ Drugs After Lawmaker Suspects She Was Drugged

Yahoo News – Jason Hancock (Missouri Independent) | Published: 3/3/2026

When state Rep. Elizabeth Fuchs first arrived in Jefferson City as a lobbyist, a woman who had been around the Capitol longer offered advice that sounded absurd for a statehouse job. Do not drink from the “special refrigerator” in someone’s office. Do not go for one-on-one drinks after hours. Do not accept an open beverage you did not see poured. Fuchs followed the rules and then won a seat in the House. During her first session last year, she broke one rule: she took a drink from someone she did not know well. After that, her memory collapses into gaps.

New Mexico – Miyagishima Says Secretary of State Guidance Led to $125K in Excess Campaign Contributions

New Mexico In Depth – Azure Mitchell | Published: 2/27/2026

Former Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima’s campaign for governor exceeded New Mexico’s contribution limits by more than $125,000 of in-kind support last year. He hopes to get on the fall ballot as an independent. Miyagishima said he received guidance from a staff member of the secretary of state that made him believe the amounts were allowed. In-kind contributions are goods or services provided to a candidate, rather than monetary donations.

New York – Election Officials Say Senate Candidate Defrauded State of Over $200,000

MSN – Emilie Munson (Albany Times Union) | Published: 2/26/2026

Former state Senate candidate Caleb Slater allegedly defrauded the state of more than $200,000 in a fundraising scheme during his 2024 campaign, a probe by the New York Public Campaign Finance Board concluded. A media investigation revealed Slater allegedly paid homeless people and other individuals to make donations to his campaign in exchange for prepaid cash gift cards. Slater then reported those contributions to collect generous matching funds from the state for his campaign.

New York – Supreme Court Blocks Redrawing of Republican-Held Congressional District in New York Over Liberal Dissent

Yahoo News – John Fritze (CNN) | Published: 3/2/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court approved an emergency appeal from a Republican member of Congress from New York who asked the justices to block a state court ruling that ordered her Staten Island-based district to be redrawn ahead of the midterm election. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and state GOP election officials had urged the Supreme Court to allow New York’s current map to be used, an outcome that will benefit Republicans in the midterm amid a flurry of mid-decade redistricting in other parts of the country.

Ohio – A Dead Man’s Actions Take Center Stage in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/2/2026

Two former FirstEnergy executives have spent weeks in court facing corruption accusations. Yet much of the conversation has focused on Sam Randazzo. His death has cast a wide shadow over the trial of the company’s ex-Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and ex-lobbyist Michael Dowling, who are accused of bribing Randazzo, a former state utility regulator. For more than a month, prosecutors and defense attorneys have sparred over Randazzo’s motivations, decisions, and his relationship with FirstEnergy.

Ohio – US Sen. Jon Husted Expected to Testify in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial, Defense Attorney Says

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/4/2026

U.S. Sen. Jon Husted is expected to testify in the bribery trial of two former FirstEnergy executives accused of bribing a former state regulator. Husted’s potential testimony has long been a matter of speculation. He was Ohio’s incoming lieutenant governor at the time that prosecutors say Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling bribed Sam Randazzo, the pick of Husted and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine to chair the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. The commission regulates utilities such as FirstEnergy.

Ohio – Longtime FirstEnergy Lobbyist Accused of Paying a $4.3 Million Bribe Speaks Out for the First Time

Signal Ohio – Jake Zuckerman | Published: 3/2/2026

“It’s greased.” That is how Mike Dowling, the former senior vice president of external affairs of FirstEnergy, described a complex amendment to pending legislation worth tens of millions per year to the company in a text message to the utility’s then-chief executive officer. Not long after, Ohio lawmakers rolled the amendment into House Bill 6, which also included a $1.3 billion bailout for nuclear plants owned by FirstEnergy Solutions, and sent it to Gov. Mike DeWine who signed it into law. Dowling’s deposition on the matter was shown to jurors in his corruption trial.

Ohio – An Ohio Newspaper Has a New Star Writer. It Isn’t Human.

Yahoo News – Will Oremus and Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 3/1/2026

The Plain Dealer, Cleveland’s largest newspaper, has begun to feature a new byline. On recent articles about an ice carving festival, a medical research discovery, and a roaming pack of chicken-slaying dogs, a reporter’s name is paired with the words “Advance Local Express Desk.” It means this article was drafted by artificial intelligence (AI). As once-robust metropolitan newspapers across the country lay off reporters, shutter bureaus, and scale back ambitions, the Plain Dealer is at the forefront of an industry-wide push to reimagine journalism for the AI age.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Ethics Board Launches Temporary Portal for Local Campaign Finance Reporting

Yahoo News – Emma Murphy (Oklahoma Watch) | Published: 3/3/2026

Oklahoma’s local election candidates can now comply with a new state campaign finance law by using a temporary electronic filing system. Oklahoma Ethics Commission officials said candidates filing for local elections will ultimately be integrated into the existing Guardian system in the coming months once upgrades are completed, but for now they can file electronically using a temporary portal.

Oklahoma – Bill to Delay Ex-Lawmakers from Becoming Lobbyists Fails Committee Vote

Yahoo News – Spencer Humphrey (KFOR) | Published: 2/25/2026

A bill that would have required former Oklahoma lawmakers to wait several years before returning to the Capitol as lobbyists failed in committee, with concerns centering on the First Amendment rights of former legislators and the groups who may want them as lobbyists. The bill’s author argues the vote shows lawmakers are beholden to special interests.

Oregon – Oregon Lawmakers Advance Bill to Revise Campaign Finance Law Despite Significant Confusion About What It Would Do

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 3/4/2026

Oregon lawmakers are moving to revise the state’s landmark 2024 campaign finance law, even as significant confusion remains about which changes are necessary and good government advocates continue to say a proposed bill would weaken the law. Several lawmakers have acknowledged House Bill 4018 is not perfect. But with key provisions of the law set to go into effect in January, they say they are running out of time to provide the secretary of state’s office the funding and guidance needed to avoid a disastrous rollout.

Oregon – Oregon House Speaker Reprimands Republican Gubernatorial Candidate for Fundraising During Session

Yahoo News – Shaanth Nanguneri (Oregon Capital Chronicle) | Published: 2/27/2026

Oregon House Speaker Julie Fahey chided the chamber’s sole gubernatorial candidate, state Rep. Ed Diehl, for violating self-imposed House rules by collecting campaign donations during this year’s short legislative session. In a letter of correction sent to Diehl, Fahey urged him to return the money and refrain from accepting further contributions during the session, which must end by March 8.

Rhode Island – Ethics Panel Sets Hearing Date as Supervisor During Infamous Philly Trip Fights to Clear His Name

Yahoo News – Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) | Published: 3/2/2026

A quasi-judicial public hearing before the Rhode Island Ethics Commission will put former Director of Administration James Thorson on trial for his behavior during a now-infamous state business trip to Philadelphia. Thorsen and David Patten, former state properties director, toured a site to see the work of Scout Ltd., a design firm awarded a state contract to redevelop the Cranston Street Armory in Providence. A state investigation found “probable cause” for ethical misconduct by Thorsen on the trip. Thorsen is seeking to clear his name and using a rarely invoked option to contest the findings of ethics investigators.

South Carolina – New Bill Aims to Eliminate Statute of Limitations for Prosecuting Illegal Lobbying

WOLO – Lee Williams | Published: 2/26/2026

A new bill making its way through the state Legislature would get rid of the current four-year statute of limitations for prosecuting illegal lobbying. “If misconduct is uncovered five years from now or 10 years from now, the people of South Carolina still deserve justice …,” said House Bill 5247’s sponsor, Rep. Joe White.

South Dakota – Some Ethics Documents Meant to Reveal State Board Members’ Conflicts Are Missing

Yahoo News – Joshua Haiar (South Dakota Searchlight) | Published: 2/27/2026

Nearly half of the financial disclosure documents for South Dakota gubernatorial appointees requiring state Senate approval were not available on the secretary of state’s website, sparking contradictory claims from state offices. When South Dakota’s governor makes a board or commission appointment that requires Senate approval, the appointee is legally obligated to file a financial disclosure document that can be scrutinized for conflicts-of-interest.

Tennessee – Cothren Sent $80,000 Fine for ‘Strawwoman’ PAC

Nashville Scene – Eli Motycka | Published: 3/4/2026

Tennessee campaign finance officials levied an $80,000 fine against former top Republican aide Cade Cothren for obscuring his involvement in the Faith Family Freedom PAC during the 2020 election cycle. State proceedings were delayed due to a federal trial related to Cothren’s involvement in another campaign finance violation. Cothren faced prison time for the scandal before receiving a pardon from President Trump in November.

Tennessee – Conflict of Interest? Lobbying Firm on Metro Schools Payroll Never Revealed Its Work for Major Vendor

WTVF – Phil Williams | Published: 3/3/2026

A high-powered Nashville lobbying firm now admits that while it was getting paid to advise Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS), it was also secretly working for a longtime MNPS vendor that was vying for a multimillion-dollar contract. MNPS says the Ingram Group should have revealed the relationship, but the firm insists there was nothing to disclose since the person working on both contracts, former MNPS official Hank Clay, kept the clients separate.

Virginia – Virginia Court Allows a Referendum on Democratic-Led Redistricting That Could Flip 4 US House Seats

Yahoo News – Olivia Diaz (Associated Press) | Published: 3/4/2026

For the second time, Virginia’s Supreme Court ruled voters can cast ballots on a Democratic-led congressional redistricting plan that could help the party win four more U.S. House seats, as the justices review legal challenges to the effort. The court ruled a statewide referendum can be held on April 21 on whether to authorize mid-decade redistricting, upending a temporary restraining order put in place by a Tazewell County judge.

March 5, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Arizona: “Arizona Senate Passes Republican ‘Pay-to-Play’ Reform Bill, Not Hobbs’ Plan” by Wayne Schutsky for KJZZ California: “QAnon Darling, Perennial GOP L.A. Congressional Candidate Sentenced to 4 Years for Fraud” by Cierra Morgan and Clara Harter (Los Angeles […]

March 4, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Elections Texas: “Cornyn, Paxton Reach Runoff; Other Takeaways from Big Election Night” by Teo Armas (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics National: “Trump Admin Asked a Court to Drop Court Fights Against Law Firms Tied to Democrats. Now It’s Changing Its […]

March 3, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “New York Woman Who Duped Investors and Funneled Money to Trump Fundraiser Gets 9 Years in Prison” by Associated Press for MSN Oregon: “Oregon House Speaker Reprimands Republican Gubernatorial Candidate for Fundraising During Session” by Shaanth Nanguneri […]

March 2, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance New Mexico: “Miyagishima Says Secretary of State Guidance Led to $125K in Excess Campaign Contributions” by Azure Mitchell for New Mexico In Depth New York: “Election Officials Say Senate Candidate Defrauded State of Over $200,000” by Emilie Munson […]

February 27, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – February 27, 2026

National/Federal Texts Show Rep. Tony Gonzales Asked for Explicit Photos from Aide Who Later Died by Suicide MSN – Eleanor Klibanoff (Texas Tribune) | Published: 2/23/2026 A newly revealed 2024 text exchange appears to show that U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales […]

National/Federal

Texts Show Rep. Tony Gonzales Asked for Explicit Photos from Aide Who Later Died by Suicide

MSN – Eleanor Klibanoff (Texas Tribune) | Published: 2/23/2026

A newly revealed 2024 text exchange appears to show that U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales encouraged one of his aides to send him an explicit photo, leading the aide, Regina Santos-Aviles, to push back. Just over a year later, the staffer died after setting herself on fire. Her husband, Adrian Aviles, released these text messages to The San Antonio Express-News as evidence of an affair between Gonzalez and his staffer. Aviles said the relationship and the professional ostracization his wife faced after it was discovered led her to become despondent before her death.

Judge Says Government May Not Search Devices Seized from Post Reporter

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2026

A federal judge in Virginia rejected the Justice Department’s request to search through a Washington Post reporter’s electronic devices as part of a national security leak investigation, ruling the court would instead be responsible for conducting the search. Magistrate Judge William Porter admonished the Justice Department, saying the government could not be trusted to conduct the search on its own and prosecutors’ actions in obtaining a search warrant for reporter Hannah Natanson’s home had shaken the deference and latitude that judges typically afford to government attorneys.

Why More Lawmakers Are Quitting Congress, and What It Means for the Midterms

MSN – Eric Lau and Anna Liss-Roy (Washington Post) | Published: 2/22/2026

Like no time in recent memory, lawmakers are setting their sights anywhere but Capitol Hill, setting the stage for crucial midterm elections that will feature fewer incumbents than usual and ensure more fresh faces in Congress next year. As of late February, 68 Senate and House members have said they will not seek reelection. While looming midterms often prompt a swell of retirements, the number of announced departures at this point in the election cycle is notably higher than in other recent cycles.

Judge Cannon Orders Secrecy for Report on Trump Classified-Documents Case

MSN – Perry Stein and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2026

A federal judge in Florida blocked public release of special counsel Jack Smith’s extensive report on the classified-documents case against President Trump, a victory for Trump’s efforts to block public viewing of what probably would be damaging details about his retention of classified materials after he left the White House in 2021. U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon ruled that releasing the special counsel report could violate grand jury secrecy rules and could result in impugning the presumption of innocence for Trump and his co-defendants in a case that did not result in guilty verdicts.

Justice Department Withheld and Removed Some Epstein Files Related to Trump

NPR – Stephen Fowler | Published: 2/24/2026

The Justice Department has withheld some Epstein files related to allegations that President Trump sexually abused a minor, an NPR investigation found. It also removed some documents from the public database where accusations against Jeffrey Epstein also mention Trump. Some files have not been made public despite a law mandating their release. These include what appear to be more than 50 pages of FBI interviews, as well as notes from conversations with a woman who accused Trump of sexual abuse decades ago when she was a minor.

How AI Money Is Flooding into the Midterm Elections

Seattle Times – Theodore Schleifer and Matt Zdun (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2026

The artificial intelligence (AI) industry is well on the way to spending hundreds of millions of dollars on the midterm elections in an extraordinary demonstration of political power from Silicon Valley. The spending is broadly expected to benefit Republicans more than Democrats and, so far, it has. Republicans are seen as friendlier to the industry and more opposed to stringent AI regulations. But the analysis shows some Democratic politicians who represent the San Francisco Bay Area or have longtime ties to the tech industry were significant recipients of AI cash.

Kyrsten Sinema Accused of Illegally Spending $700,000 in Campaign Funds on Personal Expenses

Yahoo News – Jim Small (Arizona Mirror) | Published: 2/19/2026

A watchdog group accused former U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of illegally spending more than $700,000 in campaign cash on personal expenses, including on luxury hotel rooms, concert tickets, and fancy meals. In its complaint with the FEC, the Campaign Legal Center says Sinema spent the money in 2025, after she left the U.S. Senate, in violation of the Federal Election Campaign Act’s prohibition on personal use of campaign funds.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Political Feud Over Government Accountability in Arizona Gets Personal

Arizona Daily Star – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 2/22/2026

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs is launching a political attack on state Sen. T.J. Shope after his refusal to accept her plan for accountability in government contracts over his own. Gubernatorial staffers prepared a list showing Shope was the beneficiary of more than $4,900 in meals and other entertainment last year from lobbyists. Press aide Liliana Soto noted none of that showed up in the annual financial disclosure statement all elected officials file. That statement specifically requires the disclosure of all gifts with a cumulative value of more than $500.

California – Charter Reform Commission Recommends Sweeping Changes to City Government to Rebuild Public Trust

MSN – Frank Stoltze (LAist) | Published: 2/26/2026

The Los Angeles City Charter Commission approved a set of recommendations aimed at improving how the city operates, including streamlining the city attorney’s office and creating an anti-corruption office. The commission also recommended spelling out more clearly how to suspend any council member who is accused of a crime.

California – Oakland’s Most Influential Lobbyists

Oaklandside – Eli Wolfe | Published: 2/23/2026

Look behind most major city decisions in Oakland and you will probably find a lobbyist. There are dozens of lobbyists in the city who spend their days chatting up politicians, meeting with public employees, and doing their best to help their clients. Last year, there were 57 lobbyists registered in Oakland, the lowest of any year since the start of the pandemic. But some of these lobbyists were very busy, reporting 801 contacts with city officials in 2025. Seventy percent of all contacts with public officials were made by just 10 lobbyists.

Georgia – Ga. Gubernatorial Hopeful Burt Jones Suffers Setback in Funding Battle

MSN – Tim Darnell (WRDW) | Published: 2/20/2026

A federal court issued a temporary restraining order against Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ leadership committee, an organization which has been the target of every other Republican gubernatorial hopeful this election. Judge Thomas Thrash issued the order in response to a lawsuit filed by GOP candidate Rick Jackson. The lawsuit aimed to prevent Jones from using funds in his leadership committee for his gubernatorial campaign.

Hawaii – ‘I Want You to Hear the Facts’: Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke releases video clarifying campaign funding scandal

MSN – Cameron Macedonio (KHON) | Published: 2/23/2026

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke released a campaign video in which she addressed campaign funding questions in an ongoing corruption investigation. The questions come from a mystery $35,000 cash payment in a paper bag to an unknown lawmaker in 2022. Earlier this year, the state Legislature became aware of the possible bribery and adopted House Resolution 8 to call for an investigation into the payment.

Illinois – Ex-ComEd Executive Who Went Undercover for FBI in Madigan Bribery Probe Gets Probation

Yahoo News – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/19/2026

Fidel Marquez, Commonwealth Edison’s (ComEd) then-legislative affairs leader, learned his bosses had been running a secret scheme to influence then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan in a bid to win hundreds of millions of dollars in rate hikes. After being confronted by the FBI, he agreed to go undercover, helping to build a case that would rock the Illinois political landscape and land Madigan, ComEd’s former chief executive, and others in federal prison. Marquez was sentenced to probation for his role in a massive conspiracy to funnel hundreds of thousands of dollars in payments to do-nothing subcontractors favored by the speaker.

Indiana – Exclusive: Indiana township leaders and their families profit from contracts

USA Today – Hayleigh Colombo (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 2/24/2026

Across Indiana’s nearly 1,000 township governments, elected officials and public servants are earning thousands of dollars not just from their taxpayer-funded salaries, but also from business relationships their private businesses are inking with the government, according to an analysis of township documents. At least 100 conflict-of-interest disclosures were filed in 2024 and 2025 by township employees who reported everything from earning thousands of dollars from lawn care and training contracts, to collecting rent as a landlord from the township’s poor relief clients. The family members of township employees also benefit from such contracts.

Kansas – Kansas House Passes Election Bills Targeting Noncitizens, Advanced Voting

Yahoo News – Anna Kaminski (Kansas Reflector) | Published: 2/23/2026

Kansas lawmakers could transform elections with a series of bills that squeeze advanced voting timelines, stamp out rare instances of noncitizen voting, and tinker with some candidate filing and advocacy rules. One bill sought to eradicate elections exclusively conducted by mail.

Maine – Ethics Commission Staff Say Maine Dems Failed to File Reports on Fall Campaign Spending

Maine Public – Kevin Miller | Published: 2/25/2026

The Maine ethics commission voted to continue investigating whether the state Democratic Party failed to file campaign finance reports as part of its efforts to defeat a Voter ID referendum last fall. But the commission disagreed with a complaint that the state party should have created a separate ballot question committee because of its heavy involvement in the campaign.

Maryland – Gov. Wes Moore’s Redistricting Plan Is Poised to Die. He’s Still Fighting.

MSN – Erin Cox (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2026

Gov. Wes Moore’s months-long fight to redraw Maryland’s congressional maps and oust its lone Republican member of Congress produced zero movement among Democrats in the state Senate. Despite a public pressure campaign, the unofficial deadline to act on mid-cycle redistricting ahead of the 2026 midterms passed without fellow Democrats heeding Moore’s demands for a vote.

Michigan – Michigan Lawmakers Use Political Funds for Rent, Car Expenses, Netflix

Blue Water Healthy Living – Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 2/19/2026

Michigan lawmakers have used money from political donors to rent housing near the Capitol, fund electricity bills, make car payments, and bankroll repairs to their vehicles, according to a review of how state leaders wield their campaign cash. State policies bar lawmakers’ campaigns from using their funds for personal benefit. Multiple lawyers said some of the expenditures uncovered by The Detroit News might violate that standard. But, according to others, the transactions raised different concerns about whether state law does enough to prevent interest groups’ money from flowing into the pockets of officials who are supposed to regulate them.

Minnesota – Trump Administration to Withhold $259M in Minnesota Medicaid Funds, Citing Fraud

MSN – Matt Viser and Dan Diamond (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2026

Vice President JD Vance announced Trump administration would withhold $259 million in Medicaid payments for Minnesota, escalating its fight with the state as the White House seeks to elevate health care fraud as an election-year issue. Vance said the decision could presage similar crackdowns in other states, including California, as part of a “war on fraud” that President Trump announced in his State of the Union address. Trump’s administration has been at odds on a wide range of fronts with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Missouri – Proposal Targeting Missouri Initiatives Lowers Penalties for Fraud, Foreign Donations

Yahoo News – Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) | Published: 2/25/2026

While a judge is rewriting the ballot summary for a proposal to put new barriers in front of Missouri initiative campaigns, opponents are focusing on a new line of attack as the ballot the measure cuts financial penalties for accepting foreign contributions or committing petition fraud. Opponents argue the problems go beyond the ballot summary. They point out the amendment would lower the maximum financial penalty for initiative petition fraud from $10,000 to $1,000 and would reduce the penalty for illegal foreign contributions from up to five times the contribution amount to three times the amount, while adding the possibility of up to a year in jail.

North Carolina – SBI Probing Kentucky Distillery Tours Taken by NC Lawmakers and Lobbyists

MSN – Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 2/20/2026

The State Bureau of Investigation has launched a probe into trips sponsored by a nonprofit with ties to a former powerful lawmaker that took North Carolina legislators and lobbyists on distillery tours in Kentucky in 2022 and 2024. The investigation follows a complaint by Carolina Forward that claimed lobbying, ethics, and charitable solicitation laws were violated by the nonprofit Greater Carolina, lawmakers who attended, and lobbyists who promoted and attended the 2024 tour.

North Carolina – State Auditor Says He Wants New Campaign Finance System Running by Next Summer

WUNC – Adam Wagner | Published: 2/24/2026

North Carolina Auditor Dave Boliek wants a new commission he appointed to suggest an overhauled campaign finance reporting system by next summer, if possible. Boliek announced the new Modernization of Elections Data Systems Commission in early February, saying its 22 members would be tasked with developing an election data management system. It is also set to overhaul how campaign finances are reported in North Carolina.

Ohio – Ohio Supreme Court Strikes Down Media Restrictions in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/17/2026

Media outlets fighting a judge’s press restrictions in the high-profile FirstEnergy bribery case marked a victory recently. The Ohio Supreme Court struck down part of an order blocking news outlets from hearings that would reveal why certain witnesses can testify without being photographed or recorded.

Ohio – DeWine, Husted Messages to Execs Come into Focus at FirstEnergy Trial

MSN – Bryce Buyakie (Akron Beacon Journal) | Published: 2/19/2026

Jurors viewed text messages and emails showing that high-ranking elected Ohio officials worked behind the scenes to pass a $1.3 billion nuclear bailout and appoint Sam Randazzo as chairperson of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and former lobbyist Michael Dowling are accused of paying Randazzo a $4.3 million bribe before his appointment to lead PUCO. Messages exchanged between Jones and Dowling showed an open line of communication with Gov. Mike DeWine, former House Speaker Larry Householder, and former Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, now a U.S. senator.

Ohio – FirstEnergy CEO Visited Ohio Regulator’s Florida Mansion After $4.3M Payment, Executive Testifies

Signal Ohio – Jake Zuckerman | Published: 2/24/2026

Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones stopped in at the Florida mansion owned by Ohio’s most senior utility regulator – the recipient of Jones’ alleged $4.3 million bribe four months prior – for a private conversation, an executive who was present at the meeting testified at a corruption trial. Dennis Chack, a FirstEnergy senior vice president, walked jurors through different intersections between the Jones and Sam Randazzo, the regulator accused of taking money under the table.

Ohio – FirstEnergy Trial Witness Says Randazzo Dodged Payment Disclosures

Yahoo News – Patrick Williams (Akron Beacon Journal) | Published: 2/25/2026

Ohio Ethics Commission Executive Director Paul Nick testified in the criminal trial of two former FirstEnergy leaders about a former top state utility regulator neglecting to report income from FirstEnergy in financial disclosures. Defendants Charles Jones and Michael Dowling are accused of bribing former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo with more than $4.3 million in exchange for favorable energy policy. Randazzo did not list the payment to the Ethics Commission when reporting his 2019 income.

Oklahoma – Committee Rejects Proposal to Stop Legislators from Quickly Becoming Lobbyists

Oklahoma Watch – Keaton Ross | Published: 2/23/2026

A bill aimed at stopping a “revolving door” of legislators becoming lobbyists was rejected in committee. House Bill 3727 would have required former lawmakers to wait at least four years after exiting office to register as lobbyists in Oklahoma. Several committee members questioned the bill, raising concerns that it would place undue restrictions on private citizens.

Oregon – Shut Out of Campaign Finance Bill, Good Governance Groups Tell Lawmakers to Vote Against It

MSN – Alex Baumhardt (Oregon Capital Chronicle) | Published: 2/23/2026

Good governance groups behind a historic 2024 campaign finance reform law are calling on lawmakers to vote against a proposal meant to provide technical fixes to the law. They say business and lobbying groups wrote it to render political spending limits moot, and fights over language in the bill have come to an apex in the Capitol. Supporters say it is needed to ensure contribution limits are enacted as scheduled in January 2027, and to give the secretary of state’s office enough time to roll out infrastructure needed to enhance reporting requirements.

Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania Holds Tons of Special Elections. That Costs Taxpayers Millions.

Votebeat – Carter Walker | Published: 2/24/2026

According to data from Ballotpedia, Pennsylvania has held 47 special elections for vacant state legislative and congressional seats since 2017. That is more than in any other state over that period. It is not clear why Pennsylvania has had so many special elections, though observers have pointed to the state’s large full-time legislature as a possible factor. But what’s more clear is the cost.

Utah – Redistricting: Federal panel denies bid to overturn Utah’s court-ordered congressional map

Yahoo News – Katie McKellar (Utah News Dispatch) | Published: 2/23/2026

Anti-gerrymandering groups in Utah’s yearslong redistricting battle celebrated another victory when a three-judge federal panel denied a bid to overturn the state’s new court-ordered congressional map. The ruling affirmed that District Court Judge Dianna Gibson had the power to set new congressional boundaries after she determined the Utah Legislature failed to adopt a lawful map.

Vermont – Corporate Requests for Public Records Are Weighing Down Already Burdened Town Officials in Vermont

VTDigger – Shaun Robinson | Published: 2/26/2026

In one of Vermont’s largest towns, most of the requests that officials get for public records are not coming from local residents. Instead, said Renae Marshall, Colchester’s deputy town manager, they are coming from people and companies around the country. She said the town is spending more time fielding requests from companies that are not based in Vermont but that collect and sell its public information for a profit. The volume of corporate requests, combined with a limited window of time officials have to respond under state law, has been making it hard to keep up, Marshall said.

West Virginia – Dems: WV ‘going backwards’ as House passes bill to shield political donors’ employer info

Yahoo News – Caity Coyne (West Virginia Watch) | Published: 2/20/2026

A bill to keep the public from accessing certain information about political donors could soon become law after the West Virginia House passed it recently. Senate Bill 640 would stop the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office or any other government agency from publicly posting information that some lawmakers say could be used by advocates to target donors. Under the legislation, a campaign treasurer’s and political donors’ house numbers and street names will be publicly redacted.

February 26, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “How AI Money Is Flooding into the Midterm Elections” by Theodore Schleifer and Matt Zdun (New York Times) for Seattle Times North Carolina: “State Auditor Says He Wants New Campaign Finance System Running by Next Summer” by […]

February 25, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Kyrsten Sinema Accused of Illegally Spending $700,000 in Campaign Funds on Personal Expenses” by Jim Small (Arizona Mirror) for Yahoo News Hawaii: “‘I Want You to Hear the Facts’: Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke releases video clarifying campaign […]

February 24, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Georgia: “Ga. Gubernatorial Hopeful Burt Jones Suffers Setback in Funding Battle” by Tim Darnell (WRDW) for MSN Michigan: “Michigan Lawmakers Use Political Funds for Rent, Car Expenses, Netflix” by Craig Mauger (Detroit News) for Blue Water Healthy Living […]

February 20, 2026 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – February 20, 2026

National/Federal Federal Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Slavery Exhibits to the President’s House MSN – Abraham Gutman and Fallon Roth (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/16/2026 A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restore the slavery exhibits the National […]

National/Federal

Federal Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Slavery Exhibits to the President’s House

MSN – Abraham Gutman and Fallon Roth (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/16/2026

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restore the slavery exhibits the National Park Service removed from the President’s House. The order does not give the government a deadline for the restoration of the site. It does require that the National Park Service take steps to maintain the site and ensure the safety of the exhibits, which memorialize the enslaved people who lived in George Washington’s Philadelphia home during his presidency and were abruptly removed in January.

Stephen Colbert Says CBS Blocked Interview with Texas Democrat Over FCC Concerns

MSN – Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 2/17/2026

CBS late-night host Stephen Colbert rebuked his own network, claiming lawyers for parent company Paramount Skydance prohibited him from airing an interview with Texas Rep. James Talarico, a U.S. Senate candidate, over concerns it would violate the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) equal time rule. The rule requires broadcasters to provide equal opportunity to candidates. News and talk show interviews have traditionally been exempt from the mandate. But in January, the FCC issued a public notice saying daytime and nighttime talk shows would have to apply for exemptions to the equal time rule for each of their programs.

Supreme Court to Use Software to Identify Justices’ Conflict of Interests

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 2/17/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court will begin using software to scan litigants’ filings to identify potential conflicts of interest that might require justices to step aside from cases. Parties before the court will be required to list stock-ticker symbols and make other disclosures to support the automated reviews. The software will compare information about parties and attorneys in a case with a list created by each justice’s chambers. The new rules will take effect in mid-March.

Democratic Lawmakers Ask Watchdogs to Probe Whether Former Lobbyists Serving in Trump Administration Violated Ethics Rules

MSN – Sara Lynch (CBS News) | Published: 2/18/2026

Four Democratic lawmakers are asking the top internal watchdogs at 16 different federal agencies to investigate whether former lobbyists appointed by the Trump administration may have violated ethics rules to benefit their own former clients. Federal ethics rules generally bar government employees for one year from working on matters involving their former employers or clients. During Trump’s first term in office, he extended the recusal period to two years, though he has not issued any sort of ethics pledge during his second term in office.

How the US Supreme Court Set the Stage for Partisan Gerrymandering Arms Race

MSN – John Kruzel (Reuters) | Published: 2/14/2026

Recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings allowing starkly partisan voting maps to be used in the November midterm elections crucial to Donald Trump’s presidency highlight how a 2019 decision by the justices helped supercharge a political practice that polling shows most Americans oppose. The ruling by the justices in a 2019 case called Rucho v. Common Cause stripped federal courts of their power to police a practice known as partisan gerrymandering. It involves states redrawing the boundaries of electoral districts based on the partisan leanings of voters to boost a political party’s candidates.

Democratic-Led Cities Move to Block ICE, Setting Up Clash with Trump

MSN – Tim Craig (Washington Post) | Published: 2/18/2026

Elected Democrats in major U.S. cities have banded together to try to block the Trump administration from aggressive immigration operations such as the one now winding down in Minneapolis, issuing a slate of policy changes and vowing to prosecute agents who violate local laws. The policies broadly seek to restrict Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from city property and parks and, in some cases, direct local police to monitor the activities of federal agents.

Federal Court Blocks Hegseth Effort to Punish Democratic Senator

MSN – Connor O’Brien and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/12/2026

A federal judge sided with U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly to stop Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth from punishing the former Navy captain for advising troops not to follow illegal orders. U.S. District Court Judge Richard Leon issued a preliminary injunction blocking the Pentagon’s effort to demote Kelly’s rank and reduce his retirement pay. The decision is the second legal setback for the Trump administration’s campaign to punish Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers, who released a video last fall telling military personnel they do not have to adhere to illegal orders.

Trump Nominates Two Republicans to FEC, Paving Path to End Monthslong ‘Shutdown’

NOTUS – Taylor Giorno and Dave Levinthal | Published: 2/11/2026

President Trump nominated two Republicans to seats on the FEC, the first step toward reopening the idled federal campaign finance regulator as the 2026 midterms get underway. Trump nominated Andrew Woodson, a lawyer at Wiley Rein who previously worked for former FEC Chairperson Lee Goodman, and Ashley Stow, who previously worked with former FEC Commissioner Trey Trainor, to fill two of the four vacancies on the commission.

Meta Begins $65 Million Election Push to Advance AI Agenda

Seattle Times – Theodore Schleifer and Matt Zdun (New York Times) | Published: 2/18/2026

Meta is preparing to spend $65 million this year to boost state politicians who are friendly to the artificial intelligence industry. The sum is the biggest election investment by Meta. The company was previously cautious about campaign engagements, making small donations out of a corporate PAC and contributing to presidential inaugurations. It also let executives like Sheryl Sandberg, who was chief operating officer, support candidates in their personal capacities.

House Speaker Condemns Trump Justice Department Monitoring of Lawmakers’ Epstein Document Review

Yahoo News – Holmes Lybrand, Annie Grayer, and Manu Raju (CNN) | Published: 2/12/2026

Attorney General Pam Bondi obtained U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal’s search history of the unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files. House Speaker Mike Johnson said the Justice Department’s tracking of lawmakers’ search history was inappropriate, a rare rebuke from the Republican who is usually in lockstep with the Trump administration. Jayapal said she did not know the Justice Department had surveilled her search until CNN contacted her for a comment on the matter.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – In Call, Alabama Power Lobbyist Sought Nonprofit’s Support for Bill Ending PSC Elections

Yahoo News – Ralph Chapoco (Alabama Reflector) | Published: 2/17/2026

A lobbyist for Alabama’s largest electric utility approached a nonprofit to persuade the organization to support legislation that would end popular elections to the state’s utility regulation board. R.B. Walker, director of state and federal governmental affairs for Alabama Power, told John Dodd, policy manager for Energy Alabama, the utility would not take an official position on the proposed legislation but said cited possible advantages for appointing members of the Alabama Public Service Commission. Dodd said in an interview he believed Alabama Power wanted the nonprofit to work for the bill without bringing the utility into the matter.

Arizona – Hobbs Releases Proposal to Reform Arizona’s Campaign Finance, Procurement and Lobbying Laws

KJZZ – Wayne Schutsky | Published: 2/17/2026

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs released long-awaited proposals to reform the state’s campaign finance and procurement laws in response to “pay-to-play” allegations lobbed against her administration by critics. But the governor is pairing those reforms with a ban on lobbyists entertaining state officials, including the lawmakers in the Republican-led Legislature that would have to vote to approve her proposal.

California – County Funds for Stopping Overdoses Instead Went to Personal Vacations, Prosecutors Say

MSN – Blake Nelson (San Diego Union-Tribune) | Published: 2/18/2026

At least $132,000 in San Diego County funds were illegally spent on plastic surgery, streaming subscriptions, and trips to Disneyland and Hawaii, among other personal expenses, prosecutors alleged. That money was supposed to go toward preventing and reversing drug overdoses amid an ongoing opioid epidemic. Officials announced six felony charges against Amy Knox, the former chief operating officer of the Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego. If convicted, she faces up to seven years in prison.

California – Ex-San Leandro City Council Member Pleads Guilty in East Bay Bribery Case, Agrees to Work with Feds

MSN – Megan Cassidy (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 2/11/2026

Two days after announcing his retirement, San Leandro City Councilperson Bryan Azevedo pleaded guilty to two felony charges connected to a far-reaching corruption case intended to help a powerful East Bay family win contracts in Oakland in exchange for kickbacks. Azevedo was the last defendant to be charged and the first to have their case adjudicated in what prosecutors described as a bribery scheme tied to former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and leaders of a Bay Area recycling company.

California – Southern California Air Board Rejected Pollution Rules After AI-Generated Flood of Comments

MSN – Hayley Smith (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/17/2026

The opposition appeared overwhelming as thousands of emails poured into Southern California’s top air pollution authority as its board weighed proposal to phase out gas-powered appliances. But many of the messages that may have swayed the regulatory agency to scrap the plan were generated by a platform that is powered by artificial intelligence (AI). More than 20,000 public comments submitted in opposition to last year’s proposal were generated by a company called CiviClick, which bills itself as “the first and best AI-powered grassroots advocacy platform.”

Colorado – Colorado Capitol Caucuses Would Have to Disclose Their Donors, Spending Under Democratic Unity Bill

Colorado Sun – Taylor Dolven | Published: 2/13/2026

Colorado lawmakers would have to report who is donating to their caucuses and how they are spending that money under a bill brought in the wake of a dark money-funded retreat attended by a group of Democrats. Senate Bill 108 would require caucuses, committees, clubs. and other groups of lawmakers to file monthly reports with legislative staff detailing all money they received, accepted, or spent. The reports would then be posted online.

Georgia – Rick Jackson Sues Burt Jones Over Campaign Finance in Governor’s Race

MSN – Irene Wright (USA Today) | Published: 2/12/2026

Healthcare executive and political outsider Rick Jackson has been in the race for Georgia governor for just 10 days, but he Is already charging forward in the polls and taking on his opponents in court. Jackson’s campaign filed a lawsuit against Lt. Gov. Jones, and Attorney General Chris Carr (both running for governor), and other state officials alleging Jones’ campaign financing is unconstitutional.

Hawaii – Gov. Green Cancels Out-of-State Work Trip ‘to Ensure Steady Leadership’

Hawai’i Public Radio – Ashley Mizuo | Published: 2/12/2026

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green canceled his annual trip to the National Governors Association meeting. When a Hawaii governor physically leaves the state, the lieutenant governor becomes acting governor in their absence. This schedule change comes after Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke became the center of a story involving allegations an “influential lawmaker” accepted $35,000 in a paper bag during a January 2022 meeting. The claim came to light during the federal bribery investigation into former Rep. Ty Cullen and Sen. Kalani English.

Illinois – AIPAC Accused of Covert Campaigning as Democratic Support Falters

MSN – Matthew Choi (Washington Post) | Published: 2/18/2026

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a powerful pro-Israel organization, is masking its involvement in competitive Democratic primaries in Illinois, according to candidates in those races, who accuse the interest group of trying to quietly maintain its influence as Democrats reexamine their stance on Israel. AIPAC describes itself as a bipartisan organization; through its political arm, it has long supported Democrats and Republicans aligned with its mission.

Maine – Maine Legislature Asks Courts to Weigh in on Potential Ranked-Choice Voting Expansion

Yahoo News – Lauren McCauley (Maine Morning Star) | Published: 2/10/2026

Amid a pivotal election year, Maine lawmakers are asking the state’s highest court whether it would be legal to expand ranked-choice voting. The House and Senate passed Legislative Document 1666, which would expand the voting method to special and general elections for governor, state senator, and state representative. The governor had intended to veto the bill but was open to a solemn occasion, a rarely used action in which lawmakers can ask the Supreme Judicial Court to produce a nonbinding decision on the legality of pending legislation.

Massachusetts – Former State Police Union Head, Lobbyist Get More Prison Time for Fraud, Racketeering

MSN – Darin Zullo (Boston.com) | Published: 2/18/2026

Dana Pullman, a former Massachusetts State Police union president, and the union’s former lobbyist, Anne Lynch, were sentenced for racketeering, fraud, obstruction of justice, and tax crimes. Pullman was sentenced to two years in prison and Lynch was sentenced to 15 months in prison. After the defendants initial sentencing in 2023, The U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals reversed some of the convictions while letting the others stand.

Michigan – Lobbyists Spent Record Amount on Free Meals for Michigan Lawmakers in 2025

Bridge Michigan – Simon Schuster | Published: 2/13/2026

Lobbyists spent a record amount of money providing free food and drink for Michigan lawmakers in 2025. Advocates for special interests in Lansing reported spending more than $485,000 entertaining legislators and members of the executive branch. More than $180,000 was spent toward meals with individual legislators, a record amount and nearly $40,000 more than was spent in 2024, the next-highest year.

Nevada – Nevada Ethics Panel Advances Complaints Against AG Aaron Ford

Las Vegas Sun – Kyle Chouinard | Published: 2/17/2026

A review panel from the Nevada Commission on Ethics advanced a complaint against Attorney General Aaron Ford to the rest of the commission. The complaint accuses Ford of using his position to “benefit his private interests,” including by accepting more than $35,000 in “luxury” trips from the Attorney General Alliance (AGA). Ross Armstrong, executive director of the commission, wrote in the complaint that the AGA was “largely funded by corporations, some of which are subject to regulation or litigation before his office.”

Nevada – Nevada Staffer Faces Ethics Complaints for Federal Official’s Visit

MSN – McKenna Ross (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 2/16/2026

Two complaints filed with the Nevada Commission on Ethics allege the lieutenant governor’s chief of staff used his position in state government to promote a charter school network and its software platform to a Trump administration cabinet member. The complaint says Rudy Pamintuan used his government role to benefit his private position with the charter school by inviting Education Secretary Linda McMahon to a local event where his business partner demonstrated their artificial-intelligence software.

New Jersey – Bombshell Corruption Case Is Over. N.J. Fails to Prove Dem Power Broker Did Anything Wrong.

Yahoo News – Ted Sherman (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 2/17/2026

The state attorney general’s office said it will not appeal the dismissal of a sweeping corruption indictment against political powerbroker George Norcross III before the New Jersey Supreme Court. Nearly three weeks after an appellate panel upheld the tossing criminal charges, officials said the state was turning the page on the long-fought and controversial investigation, bringing an end to the politically charged case involving the powerful Democratic boss.

New Mexico – Lobbying Transparency Bill Awaits House Floor Hearing

New Mexico In Depth – Marjorie Childress | Published: 2/13/2026

A bill that would require lobbyists in New Mexico to publicly disclose which legislation they are working to influence and whether they support or oppose passed its final House committee, but has since lingered, waiting for a floor vote before it can move to the Senate. Meanwhile, the legislative clock is ticking.

New York – White House Fires U.S. Attorney in N.Y. Hours After Judges Appointed Him

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 2/12/2026

Federal judges in Albany, New York, appointed a new U.S. attorney recently, exercising a rarely invoked legal authority to appoint top prosecutors in regions without a Senate-confirmed nominee. Their choice lasted less than five hours on the job. Donald Kinsella, a former prosecutor, was summarily fired via an email from the White House later that evening. Kinsella’s termination sent a signal to judges in several other federal court districts who have announced plans to make similar replacements of Trump-installed prosecutors whose appointments have been deemed invalid by the courts.

Ohio – Ex-Ethics Chief: FirstEnergy CEO blessed payment at heart of bribery trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/12/2026

Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones signed off on a $4.3 million payment that prosecutors say was a bribe to a man who was about to become the state’s top utility regulator, a former company official testified. Ebony Yeboah-Amankwah, who was the company’s chief ethics officer until she was fired in 2020, also said the company’s then-top lobbyist, Mike Dowling, pushed other officials to speed up the payment. Jones and Dowling face corruption charges centered around accusations they bribed former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo in 2018 and 2019.

Ohio – Misconduct Accusations, Conflicting Testimony Roil FirstEnergy Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/17/2026

The trial of two former FirstEnergy executives accused of bribery turned messy. Two major snags and an Ohio Supreme Court ruling against the presiding judge overshadowed testimony and slowed the trial of former Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and top lobbyist Michael Dowling, who are accused of bribing a former state utility regulator. The day unfolded outside the jury’s view and included defense attorneys asking a judge to toss out the case and a rare request from prosecutors to allow defense attorneys to view a key witness’ grand jury testimony.

Ohio – Witness Details How Ohio Regulator’s Decisions Enriched FirstEnergy in Bribery Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/18/2026

A former FirstEnergy executive testified that decisions by former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo helped the utility avoid an estimated $150 million “haircut” to its annual revenue and reap roughly $79 million in additional profits over two years. Eileen Mikkelsen, FirstEnergy’s former vice president of rates and regulatory affairs, gave her testimony on the 10th day of the bribery trial of former Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and former company lobbyist Michael Dowling.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Commission Seeking Fix as Local Candidates Can’t File Finance Reports

MSN – Alex Gladden (Oklahoman) | Published: 2/13/2026

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission is combating a new hurdle with its troubled campaign finance website, as it cannot accept reports from local candidates, though officials hoped a solution would have been in place months ago. This comes after months of problems with the state’s website that logs campaign donations. The site was down for three months in 2025 as the commission waited on RFD & Associates to build a new website. The site, Guardian 2.0, never materialized.

Oregon – Can Oregon Officials Text Each Other About City Business? State Lawmakers Want to Clarify

MSN – Austin De Dios (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/17/2026

Oregon legislators are considering making changes to a law that bars city councils and other government bodies from secretly hashing out decisions via private text messages, chats, or other means, after elected officials complained the law was too confusing and a city lobbying group bashed state trainings on the rules. At issue is a section of state law that prohibits local officials from effectively bypassing Oregon’s open government mandate through “serial communications” by texting, calling, or otherwise talking to each other outside of public meetings.

Pennsylvania – Treasury Officials Question Whether Taxpayers Can Legally Pay for Security Upgrades at Shapiro’s Family Home

Yahoo News – Angela Couloumbis (Spotlight PA) | Published: 2/18/2026

Last year, Pennsylvania’s top law enforcement agency revealed taxpayers would pick up the tab for more than $1 million in security upgrades to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s privately owned family home in Montgomery County. But the plan to use public dollars for the entirety of the work there has hit a roadblock. The state Treasury Department is questioning whether procurement rules permit public money to be used for construction work on a non-state-owned property like Shapiro’s house.

Texas – Voting Controversy: Pastor on ballot raises concerns for conflict of interest at Dallas polling site

Yahoo News – Brittani Moncrease (WFAA) | Published: 2/16/2026

Friendship-West Baptist Church is a voting location in Dallas. The polling site has come into question with some calling it a conflict-of-interest. Mallory Caraway, a candidate in Texas’s 30th Congressional District race, said voting at the church raises concern because its senior pastor, Frederick Haynes III, is on the ballot.

Virginia – Va. Supreme Court Paves Way for Democrats to Add Four Seats in Congress

MSN – Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) | Published: 2/13/2026

The Virginia Supreme Court paved the way for state Democrats to move forward with a plan that would enable them to add four Democratic-leaning congressional districts, but the effort’s fate will still be under court review. The ruling means the Virginia General Assembly can hold an April 21 statewide referendum on redrawing the state’s congressional map. A circuit court judge in Tazewell County had blocked the referendum, which seeks to amend the state constitution to temporarily allow mid-decade redistricting in time for this fall’s congressional midterm elections.

Virginia – ‘Us Versus Them’: The battle that’s tearing a small Virginia town apart

MSN – Paul Schwartzman (Washington Post) | Published: 2/16/2026

Small towns often are known for their quirky, insular intrigue, but the drama unfolding in Purcellville, a Virginia exurb that is a 50-mile drive west of the District of Columbia, is a brass-knuckled version of quaint. The battle is rooted in tensions that often divide communities across the country – change versus status quo, growth versus no growth – only in Purcellville the weapons are lawsuits, an attempted citizen revolt, and the kind of ferocious rhetoric that defines much of public life in contemporary America.

West Virginia – WV Senate Passes Bill to Keep Employer Info for Political Donors Off Public Campaign Finance Reports

Yahoo News – Caity Coyne (West Virginia Watch) | Published: 2/16/2026

The West Virginia Senate approved a bill that will stop the public from accessing certain information about people who donate to candidates and campaigns. Senate Bill 640 would stop the secretary of state’s office or any other government agency from publicly posting information that some lawmakers say could be used by advocates to target political donors.

Wyoming – ‘Strapped at the Cap’: Lawmakers and lobbyists take advantage of the Wyoming Capitol’s repealed gun-free zone

MSN – Maya Shimizu Harris (WyoFile) | Published: 2/16/2026

The 2026 budget session is the first time that lawmakers and others are allowed to bring concealed firearms into the Capitol while the Wyoming Legislature conducts its business. Rep. Jeremy Haroldson sponsored the bill that allows this. Haroldson had run bills to repeal gun-free zones in Wyoming every year since becoming a lawmaker in 2021.

Wyoming – Wyoming Lawmakers Will Investigate Checks Activist Gave to Legislators on House Floor

MSN – Maggie Mullen (WyoFile) | Published: 2/12/2026

The Wyoming House voted to launch an investigation after a conservative activist handed out campaign contributions to lawmakers on the chamber floor. The unanimous vote in a legislative body that is normally heavily divided illustrates how much, and how quickly, the incident reverberated through the state Capitol and beyond. Rebecca Bextel, who unsuccessfully sought the top leadership spot of the state Republican Party last year, admitted to handing out checks on the House floor. Bextel said there was no wrongdoing in “delivering lawful campaign checks from Teton County donors when I am in Cheyenne.”

Wyoming – Gov. Mark Gordon Bans Campaign Contributions in State Buildings in Response to Wyoming Check Controversy

MSN – Jasmine Hall (Jackson Hole News&Guide) | Published: 2/17/2026

Gov. Mark Gordon signed an executive order banning campaign contributions in state buildings, bringing the executive branch into an expanding controversy centered on checks handed to lawmakers in the Wyoming Capitol. The ban applies to state facilities and commercial buildings where the state leases space, including the Capitol. It does not apply to areas controlled by the Wyoming Legislature, including the Senate and House floor, which is where the controversy started after a conservative activist was photographed handing checks to lawmakers.

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