Ethics Archives - Page 12 of 302 - State and Federal Communications

May 7, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Elections Missouri: “In This Missouri County, Republicans Go to ‘War’ Over Who Can Run as a Republican” by Eric Adler (Kansas City Star) for Yahoo News New York: “This Obscure N.Y. Election Law Is at the Heart of Trump’s Hush Money Trial” by David […]

May 6, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Candidates for Federal Office Can Raise Unlimited Funds for Ballot Measures” by Maggie Haberman (New York Times) for DNyuz Hawaii: “Lessons For Hawaii: Other states have strong pay-to-play laws” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat National: “Major Corporations Reluctant to Make […]

May 3, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – May 3, 2024

National/Federal Gateway Pundit to File for Bankruptcy Amid Election Conspiracy Lawsuits MSN – Will Sommer (Washington Post) | Published: 4/24/2024 Gateway Pundit, the popular far-right blog, is filing for bankruptcy as it faces lawsuits alleging it promoted bogus claims about the 2020 […]

National/Federal

Gateway Pundit to File for Bankruptcy Amid Election Conspiracy Lawsuits

MSN – Will Sommer (Washington Post) | Published: 4/24/2024

Gateway Pundit, the popular far-right blog, is filing for bankruptcy as it faces lawsuits alleging it promoted bogus claims about the 2020 election. Since its launch in 2004, the site has become a clearinghouse for conspiracy theories about the election, school shootings, and other topics, helping to funnel such flimsy stories from the fringes of the internet to the broader pro-Trump right thanks to its substantial audience.

Push to Restrict LGBTQ+ Rights Hits a Snag in State Legislatures

MSN – Casey Parks (Washington Post) | Published: 4/29/2024

State lawmakers introduced a record number of bills targeting gay and transgender Americans this year, but hardly any have passed, raising questions about whether the push to restrict LGBTQ++ rights is losing momentum. Similar bills sailed through state Legislatures in recent years. This year, they failed even in states where Republicans have supermajorities and governors demanded wins. Strategists on both sides say Republicans appear increasingly unwilling to stake their reelections on cultural issues. Polls have found the issues are not especially important to voters.

A Ukraine-Born Congresswoman Voted No on Aid. Her Hometown Feels Betrayed

MSN – Siobhán O’Grady, Anastacia Galouchka, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 4/25/2024

U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz grew up in a small town north of Kyiv, and later moved to America and became the first Ukrainian-born member of Congress. But after Spartz voted against a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, the esteem that locals held for her turned to anger and a sense of betrayal. Spartz’s “no” vote was the latest twist in her transformation from a pro-Ukraine advocate who toured war wreckage in her hometown to a critic of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in line with the Republican Party’s most right-wing camp.

Democrats, Political Figures Dogpile onto Trump VP Hopeful After Story of Animal Killings

MSN – Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) | Published: 4/27/2024

It does not matter if you are a Republican or Democrat, liberal or conservative – a growing number of elected officials and political groups all suddenly want you to know that they love their dogs. The outpouring of animal love from political social media is all in response to South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who is believed to be in the running to be Donald Trump’s running mate, admitting in her forthcoming book that she killed a family dog and goat in a gravel pit with a gun on the same day.

They Staffed the Jan. 6 Committee. Threats Still Follow Them

MSN – Chris Marquette and Michael Macagnone (Roll Call) | Published: 4/30/2024

Some staff members of the now-disbanded January 6 panel in Congress say their work exposed them to threats, raised doubts about their safety, and required additional safety precautions. Their experiences, recounted in interviews, serve as an example of concerns among Capitol Hill staffers about whether their work could make them a target for political violence.

Federal Elections Regulator from Texas Has Ted Cruz Campaign Sign in Front Yard

MSN – Joseph Morton (Dallas Morning News) | Published: 5/1/2024

A recent post on X shows a campaign sign for U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz in the yard of FEC member Trey Trainor. Cruz is the subject of a complaint filed with the agency over more than $630,000 in advertising revenue that flowed from the senator’s podcast to a super PAC backing his reelection. The public show of support for Cruz does not violate the law, but it could raise the appearance of bias by a government regulator, campaign finance lawyer Brett Kappel said.

After Weeks of College Protests, Police Responses Ramp Up

MSN – Danielle Paquette, Hannah Natanson, Joanna Slater, and Emily Wax-Thibodeaux (Washington Post) | Published: 5/1/2024

Colleges and universities reckoned with the aftermath of major shows of police force across the country that cleared some protest encampments and emptied a Columbia University classroom building in a turning point following two weeks of contagious pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Even after a fragile calm resettled over campuses that have seen the bulk of the chaos, footage of officers in riot gear extracting students from Columbia’s Hamilton Hall sparked debates nationwide as Americans struggled to make sense of it all.

House Passes Antisemitism Bill Over Complaints from First Amendment Advocates

MSN – Abigail Hauslohner (Washington Post) | Published: 5/1/2024

The House passed the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which its advocates said would empower the federal government to crack down on anti-Israel protests on campuses by codifying a definition of antisemitism that encompasses not just threats against Jews, but also certain criticisms of Israel itself. The definition has drawn opposition from First Amendment advocates such as the American Civil Liberties Union and liberal Democrats, who say it veers into the realm of restricting political views.

How Online Donations Are Fueling the Election

Politico – Jessica Piper, Paula Friedrich, Anna Wiederkehr, and Madison Fernandez | Published: 4/30/2024

The ease of giving online has dramatically expanded the pool of donors in just a few election cycles and helped campaigns bring in greater hauls than ever before. As online donations ballooned in recent years, they became a majority of funds raised by congressional candidates. A new analysis shows how it has helped establish new dynamics in campaigning and fundraising.

States Move to Label Deepfake Political Ads

Roll Call – Gopal Ratnam | Published: 4/24/2024

At least 39 states are considering measures that would add transparency to artificial intelligence (AI)-generated deepfake ads or calls as campaigns intensify ahead of the November election. The efforts are largely focused on identifying content produced using AI as opposed to controlling that content or prohibiting its distribution, according to Megan Bellamy, vice president of law and policy at the Voting Rights Lab.

When Judges Get Free Trips to Luxury Resorts, Disclosure Is Spotty

Texas Public Radio – Tom Dreisbach and Carrie Johnson (NPR) | Published: 5/1/2024

Dozens of federal judges failed to fully disclose free luxury travel to judicial conferences around the world, as required by internal judiciary rules and federal ethics law, an NPR investigation found. As a result, the public remained in the dark about potential conflicts-of-interest for some of the country’s top legal officials. Many judges defend these events as helpful forums to discuss important issues, and they reject criticism that a stay at a fancy hotel could influence their decisions. Critics call them “junkets” and glorified vacations that reward ideological allies.

Government Watchdog Alleges Trump Campaign Broke the Law Trying to Hide Legal Payments

Yahoo News – Zach Anderson (USA Today) | Published: 4/25/2024

A complaint filed with the FEC alleges Donald Trump’s 2024 White House campaign and its related political committees engaged in a scheme to conceal who is being paid for much of the former president’s legal work in a possible violation of federal law. The complaint centers on a company called Red Curve Solutions, which allegedly received $7.2 million from Trump’s campaign and four other related political committees.

Rep. Golden Doubles Down on Campaign Finance Reform with New Legislation

Yahoo News – Emma Davis (Maine Morning Star) | Published: 5/2/2024

U.S. Rep. Jared Golden introduced six bills aimed to increase transparency and limit spending in elections. These latest proposals build on Golden’s Government Integrity and Anti-Corruption Plan, an existing package of nine bills with similar objectives that he introduced or co-sponsored during the 118th Congress, though they have yet to receive votes.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – GOP Ethics Complaints Target 2 Arizona House Democrats for ‘Attempted Insurrection’

Arizona Republic – Mary Jo Pitzl | Published: 4/26/2024

Two House Democrats were hit with ethics complaints for behavior that Republicans characterized as “an attempted insurrection” in the aftermath of a debate about Arizona’s 1864 abortion law. The complaint names Reps. Oscar de los Santos and Analise Ortiz. They led fellow Democrats in chants of “shame, shame” after the House abruptly went into a recess rather than consider a motion to repeal the law. They also called out Rep. Matt Gress when he was answering questions about his attempt to get a repeal vote.

Arkansas – Gosses Sentenced in Bribery Scheme That Included Former Arkansas Lawmakers

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette – Ron Wood | Published: 4/29/2024

A Missouri couple was sentenced to federal prison in a Medicaid fraud scheme that saw five former Arkansas lawmakers convicted on bribery-related charges. Tommy Ray Goss, former chief financial officer of Preferred Family Healthcare, received six years in prison. Bontiea Goss, his wife and former chief operating officer of the same company, was sentenced to three years behind bars. They were ordered to jointly pay $4.35 million in forfeiture and restitution.

California – California Passed a Law to Stop ‘Pay to Play’ in Local Politics. After Two Years, Legislators Want to Gut It

CalMatters – Yue Stella Yu | Published: 5/1/2024

Described by its author as the “most significant political reform” in decades, a 2022 law designed to limit attempts by businesses and contractors to sway local elected officials with campaign contributions cleared the California Legislature without a single “no” vote. Two years later, some of the same lawmakers who backed the measure want to water it down, and they have the backing of developers and labor unions.

California – Legislative Non-Disclosure Agreement Bill Fails First Vote in California Committee

Courthouse News Service – Alan Riquelmy | Published: 4/25/2024

A bill in the California Legislature that would have banned non-disclosure agreements when crafting legislation, a response to the “Paneragate” scandal, failed to pass out of the Assembly Elections Committee. Assembly Bill 2654 would have prohibited certain people – including lobbyists, public officials, lawmakers, and employees of the governor’s office – from entering a non-disclosure agreement when drafting, negotiating, or discussing bills.

Florida – Florida’s ‘Pro-Corruption’ Ethics Bill Sits in Gubernatorial Limbo

Jacksonville Today – Casmira Harrison | Published: 5/1/2024

Florida lawmakers passed Senate Bill 7014, which would eliminate the ability of citizens to file anonymous ethics complaints against government officials. Local ethics regulators have said it would “reduce anti-corruption efforts and undermine the investigation process. Gov. Ron DeSantis has yet to act on the bill. The governor still has time to veto the bill or put the full weight of his office behind it by signing the legislation. He could just let it quietly become law. That is what Catherine Klancke, executive director of the Florida Ethics Institute, expects.

Hawaii – Ethics Chief Robert Harris: Give legislators their due, but keep pushing for more reform

Honolulu Civil Beat – Richard Wiens | Published: 4/28/2024

Robert Harris has had a front-row seat for efforts to reform government in Hawaii as executive director of the State Ethics Commission and a member of the special House commission created in response to a series of public scandals. As another legislative session winds down, Harris gave an interview on the ongoing effort to make state and local governments more transparent.

Illinois – At Secret Meeting, Right-Wing Radio Host Dan Proft Dangled $20 Million to Darren Bailey’s Governor Run

Yahoo News – Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 4/29/2024

A year and a half after Republican Darren Bailey lost his campaign to challenge Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, state election officials are weighing whether he illegally colluded with conservative radio show host and political operative Dan Proft in the 2022 campaign. If the board finds the two organizations did illegally coordinate, Proft’s organization and Bailey’s campaign could be on the hook for millions of dollars in fines. Proft has also faced criticisms and an FEC complaint over his publishing and use of a network of free “newspapers” and corresponding websites to support conservative candidates.

Indiana – ‘Wealthy Person’s Game’: Self-funders drive up the cost to win Indiana elections

MSN – Kayla Dwyer and Brittany Carloni (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 5/2/2024

This year, campaign spending has eclipsed gubernatorial primary expenditure records in Indiana by multitudes, and multiple wealthy candidates are self-funding their campaigns, both for governor and for Congress, to the tune of millions of dollars. Money has become a defining feature of this election cycle. Self-funders have risen to prominence in Indiana, a national trend that has surged dramatically in the last two decades.

Kentucky – This Oldham County Teen May Be Kentucky’s Youngest Lobbyist

Yahoo News – Krista Johnson (Louisville Courier-Journal) | Published: 5/1/2024

High school freshman Kiera Dunk has traveled to the state Capitol in Frankfort dozens of times, and her passion for advocacy led her to write her own bill – one that increased penalties for child abuse – and get it passed at age 13. She has met with some of the state’s most powerful politicians to garner their support. Dunk has successfully advocated for the passage of two bills, and she is working on a third. “She is certainly wise beyond her years – there’s a lot of lobbyists that could learn from her,” House Speaker David Osborne said.

Kentucky – Judge Reverses Ethics Charge Against Alison Lundergan Grimes

Yahoo News – Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 4/29/2024

Former Kentucky Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes was cleared of ethics charges against her related to her access and sharing of voter data. Judge Phillp Shepherd ruled against charges brought against Grimes by the Executive Branch Ethics Commission. The commission previously fined Grimes $10,000 and reprimanded her for ordering the downloading and distribution of voter registration data from her public office while she was secretary of state.

Louisiana – Federal Judges Strike Down La. Congressional Map with Second Black-Majority District

MSN – Maegan Vazquez and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 4/30/2024

A federal three-judge panel threw out Louisiana’s recently redrawn congressional map that included an additional majority-Black district, leaving the state without a settled map just months before the November elections. The ruling is the latest in a broader set of legal challenges to electoral maps across the South. The outcome of these suits is likely to play a crucial role in deciding which party controls the House next year.

Maryland – How Publicly Financed Campaigns Are Working in Baltimore

Baltimore Banner – Adam Willis and Emily Sullivan | Published: 4/23/2024

A new public financing system for Baltimore elections is now in effect. Under the system, publicly financed candidates commit to accepting no more than $150 from any donor, well below the $6,000 limit for traditionally financed campaigns, and no contributions from PACs, corporations, and unions. The city multiplies small-dollar contributions from Baltimore residents, with smaller donations being more heavily rewarded.

Massachusetts – Massachusetts Water Employees Pay Fines for Accepting Free Ski Trips, Red Sox Tickets, Rooftop Drinks at The Envoy Hotel

Boston Herald – Rick Sobey | Published: 4/29/2024

Four water services employees in Massachusetts paid fines for accepting free ski trips, Boston Red Sox tickets, rooftop drinks at The Envoy Hotel, and other gifts, according to the State Ethics Commission. The municipal workers in Danvers, Salem, Southampton, and Sudbury admitted to violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law multiple times by accepting valuable gifts from a water meter manufacturer and its distributor. The law bans public employees from receiving anything worth $50 or more that’s given to them because of their official positions.

Massachusetts – Cape Lawmaker Repeatedly Lied to State Regulators Investigating His 2022 Election

CommonWealth Beacon – Gintautas Dumicus | Published: 4/30/2024

Massachusetts regulators found state Rep. Christopher Flanagan violated campaign finance law and lied about it to officials. The infractions stemmed from a mailer sent out to local homes, ostensibly from a group called “Conservatives for Dennis,” in support of Flanagan, a Democrat who previously chaired the Dennis Select Board. In a letter to Flanagan, Office of Campaign and Political Finance (OCPF) Director William Campbell wrote that “OCPF’s review eventually revealed that you created an alias, ‘Jeanne Louise’, to conceal your financial role in the creation of the mailer in support of your election.”

Massachusetts – Massachusetts DA Pays Ethics Fine After Car Crash Response, Promoting Campaign Donor’s Rental Apartments to Staff

MSN – Rick Sobey (Boston Herald) | Published: 5/1/2024

Cape and Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois, who reportedly sped away from an accident scene and boosted a campaign donor’s rental apartments paid a $5,000 civil penalty for violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law. Following the crash, Galibois directed his staff to issue a statement that would promote a public narrative favorable to himself. He ended up referring two of his assistant district attorney’s to the donor for the apartments last year.

Massachusetts – DA Kevin Hayden Pays $5,000 Ethics Fine Over Controversial Primary

MSN – Molly Farrar (Boston.com) | Published: 4/24/2024

Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden will pay a civil penalty of $5,000 for violating a conflict-of-interest law when his office discredited an opponent in a press statement, resulting in a political advantage, the state Ethics Commission announced. Hayden’s conflict was regarding his response to sexual assault allegations against his then-opponent for district attorney, Ricardo Arroyo.

Minnesota – DFL Sen. Nicole Mitchell Returns to Capitol After Burglary Charge, Casts Votes Amid Criticism

MSN – Ryan Faircloth (Minneapolis Star Tribune) | Published: 4/29/2024

Minnesota Sen. Nicole Mitchell returned to the statehouse and began voting for the first time since she was arrested and charged with felony first-degree burglary. Mitchell voted on motions directly related to whether she should be allowed to vote going forward. Republicans offered a motion to prohibit any member who has been charged with a crime of violence from voting on bills until the chamber’s ethics committee has weighed in on their case. They argued other Minnesotans would be put on leave from their jobs if they faced such a serious criminal charge.

Missouri – Missouri House Ethics Panel Drops Probe of Dean Plocher After Blocking Push to Release Evidence

Missouri Independent – Rudi Keller | Published: 4/29/2024

The Missouri House Ethics Committee dismissed allegations against Speaker Dean Plocher for misuse of taxpayer dollars, using his influence to push a pricey contract with a company with ties to his employer, and retaliating against staffers who raised complaints. The vote officially ended the committee’s months-long investigation into numerous scandals connected to Plocher, including revelations he received nearly $4,000 in government reimbursements for travel expenses already paid by his campaign.

New Jersey – This N.J. Agency Calls Out Political Corruption. Politicians Want More Control Over It.

MSN – Jelani Gibson and Susan Livio (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 4/26/2024

The Office of the State Comptroller, an independent government agency tasked with tracking government corruption, fraud, waste, and abuse in New Jersey, is facing organized pushback from county officials who are demanding state lawmakers rein in its authority and “bullying” tactics. The New Jersey Association of Counties sent a letter asking Senate President Nick Scutari to put the comptroller under more control and establish procedures that could challenge the agency’s findings.

New Jersey – Assembly Speaker’s Law Firm Has Made Millions Since He Took Power. Critics Cry Foul.

MSN – Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 4/25/2024

Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin’s law firm has seen explosive growth in the seven years since it opened its doors. Representing local governments, the firm has earned more than $38 million from public contracts since its inception, with annual revenues that now place it among New Jersey’s top law firms with public business. With the firm’s rise in revenue coinciding with Coughlin’s role as speaker, good government groups say the financial ties raise questions about whether he is profiting from his public role from municipalities seeking a friend in the speaker.

New Jersey – Elections Watchdog Asks for Daniel’s Law Tweaks, More Time to Investigate

New Jersey Monitor – Nikita Biryukov | Published: 5/1/2024

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission recommended lawmakers provide them more time to probe violations, expand reporting requirements for independent expenditure groups, and reconcile a state law that shields some addresses from disclosure with a statute requiring they be reported. The recommendations follow the enactment of the Elections Transparency Act last year.

New York – Judge’s Contempt Punishment Takes Aim at Trump’s Tendency to Lie

DNyuz – Alan Feuer, Ben Protess, Jonah Bromwich, and William Rashbaum (New York Times) | Published: 4/30/2024

The judge overseeing Donald Trump’s criminal case in New York held him in contempt, fining the former president $9,000 for repeatedly violating a gag order and warning he could go to jail if he continued to attack witnesses and jurors. Judge Juan Merchan determined Trump flouted the gag order by making public statements on social media and on his campaign website in which he attacked witnesses and the jury. He ordered Trump to remove the posts. The judge’s ruling and admonition came one week after a hearing in which prosecutors had argued Trump’s statements threatened the trial.

New York – State Campaigns Are About to Rake in $100 Million of Public Funding – While Also Spending All the Private Money They Want

New York Focus – Alyssa Katz | Published: 5/1/2024

A controversial aspect of New York’s new campaign finance system is that there is no limit to how much participating campaigns can spend outside the program – so candidates can benefit from small-dollar matching and big-donor spending at once. In contrast, New York City’s public finance system imposes a strict spending cap. “You have candidates who try to exploit the campaign finance system while spending their own and independent expenditure money …, which defeats the purpose of having a democratic matching system in the first place,” said state Assemblyperson Ron Kim.

New York – Emails Reveal Top Trump Accountant Had Secret Campaign Role

Yahoo News – Roger Sollenberger (Daily Beast) | Published: 5/2/2024

The prosecution is calling witnesses in Donald Trump’s New York criminal trial that can attest to Trump’s personal involvement in the underlying crime the case is built on, but one witness will not be at their disposal. Trump Organization financial controller Allen Weisselberg will not testify due to a plea agreement. But Weisselberg left behind a paper trail that could potentially incriminate Trump.

Ohio – FirstEnergy Document Trove Reveals Dark Money’s Extensive Influence Over Ohio Politics. Here’s How It Works.

MSN – Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 4/28/2024

Internal FirstEnergy documents offer a candid look at how and why operatives use anonymous political giving to influence Ohio’s elected officials. “Our preferred manner of giving is through section 501(c) groups as these are considered ‘dark money’ because they are not required to disclose where the donations come from,” then-company lobbyist Michael Dowling wrote. FirstEnergy admitted to using “dark money” groups to bribe ex-House Speaker Larry Householder and others to ensure a bill’s passage.

Oregon – Tina Kotek Staffers Raised Concerns About Using Powers, Perks of Governor’s Office for Wife, Records Show

MSN – Hillary Borrud (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 4/27/2024

Top staffers for Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek expressed concerns internally in recent months over the degree to which the governor and her wife, Aimee Kotek Wilson, sought to use the perks and powers of the governor’s office to benefit the first lady. In emails, the high-level aides worried about the impact that Kotek Wilson’s growing role might have on the governors’ office budget, as well as public trust, accountability, and the success of the administration.

Oregon – Portland Shelter Operator Urban Alchemy Accused of Violating City Lobbying Rules

OPB – Alex Zielinski | Published: 5/1/2024

Urban Alchemy, the nonprofit running many of Portland’s homeless shelters, violated the city’s lobbying rules two years ago, according to an audit. Urban Alchemy spent a significant amount of money and time with officials in 2022 to convince the city that the nonprofit should run Portland’s alternative shelter sites. But auditors found it failed to register and report the lobbying activity with the city.

May 2, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance California: “California Passed a Law to Stop ‘Pay to Play’ in Local Politics. After Two Years, Legislators Want to Gut It” by Yue Stella Yu for CalMatters National: “Federal Elections Regulator from Texas Has Ted Cruz Campaign Sign in Front Yard” by […]

May 1, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “How Online Donations Are Fueling the Election” by Jessica Piper, Paula Friedrich, Anna Wiederkehr, and Madison Fernandez for Politico Illinois: “At Secret Meeting, Right-Wing Radio Host Dan Proft Dangled $20 Million to Darren Bailey’s Governor Run” by Rick Pearson (Chicago […]

April 30, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Maryland: “How Publicly Financed Campaigns Are Working in Baltimore” by Adam Willis and Emily Sullivan for Baltimore Banner Ohio: “FirstEnergy Document Trove Reveals Dark Money’s Extensive Influence Over Ohio Politics. Here’s How It Works.” by Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN […]

April 29, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Government Watchdog Alleges Trump Campaign Broke the Law Trying to Hide Legal Payments” by Zach Anderson (USA Today) for Yahoo News Elections National: “States Move to Label Deepfake Political Ads” by Gopal Ratnam for Roll Call Ethics California: “Legislative Non-Disclosure Agreement Bill […]

April 26, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – April 26, 2024

National/Federal G.O.P. Intensifies Scrutiny of Voting: ‘We’re keeping a close eye on you’ DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti, Alexandra Berzon, and Michael Gold (New York Times) | Published: 4/20/2024 Donald Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee plan to dispatch more than 100,000 […]

National/Federal

G.O.P. Intensifies Scrutiny of Voting: ‘We’re keeping a close eye on you’

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti, Alexandra Berzon, and Michael Gold (New York Times) | Published: 4/20/2024

Donald Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee plan to dispatch more than 100,000 volunteers and lawyers to monitor and potentially challenge the electoral process in each battleground state. They will focus on every aspect of voting, including mail ballots, voting machines, and post-Election Day recounts. It is rooted in Trump’s false claims that Democrats cheated to win the 2020 election. His allies have helped turn that belief into Republican doctrine despite the overwhelming conclusion that no evidence of widespread fraud exists.

Cannon Denies Dismissal Motions by Trump Co-Defendants in Documents Case

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 4/18/2024

U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon rejected requests from Donald Trump’s two co-defendants to dismiss the charges against them in the classified document case, ruling federal prosecutors had met the legal threshold for the obstruction counts. Trump employees Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira had argued the charges should be dismissed, in part, because the indictment accused them of obstructing government efforts to retrieve classified materials from Trump’s property without providing clear evidence the two men were aware of an ongoing investigation or knew the boxes of documents contained classified materials.

As Meta Flees Politics, Campaigns Rely on New Tricks to Reach Voters

MSN – Naomi Nix, Michael Scherer, and Jeremy Merrill (Washington Post) | Published: 4/21/2024

After years of pitching its suite of social media apps as the lifeblood of campaigns, Meta is breaking up with politics. The company decreased the visibility of politics-focused posts and accounts on Facebook and Instagram as well as imposed new rules on political advertisers, undercutting the targeting system long used by politicians to reach potential voters. Meta’s shift away from current events is forcing campaigns to upend their digital outreach in a move that could transform the 2024 election.

Trump Campaign Asks for Cut of Candidates’ Fundraising When They Use His Name and Likeness

MSN – Alex Isenstadt (Politico) | Published: 4/18/2024

Donald Trump’s campaign has found a new way to press for badly needed cash. In a letter to Republican digital vendors, the Trump campaign is asking for down-ballot candidates who use his name, image, and likeness in fundraising appeals to give at least five percent of the proceeds to the campaign. The letter was sent the same week Trump’s hush-money trial began in New York. The trial is expected to last at least six weeks and will greatly hinder the former president’s ability to hit the campaign trail.

Unfinished Bills, Tax Law Preparation Push Lobbying Spending Up

MSN – Caitlin Reilly (Roll Call) | Published: 4/23/2024

Discarded deadlines on must-pass legislation drove lobbying activity and revenues, as expenditures by K Street’s biggest spenders ticked up in the first quarter of this year. Preparing for next year, including election outcomes and the expiring 2017 tax cuts, has also kept private sector interest in Congress high and K Street firms busy.

Ted Cruz Could Be Liable for Taxes on Payments from His iHeartMedia Podcast, Experts Say

MSN – Benjamin Wermund (Houston Chronicle) | Published: 4/23/2024

The peculiar payment scheme behind U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz’s podcast has raised ethical questions and drawn complaints about election law violations. Now tax experts say the deal involving a radio network that picked up the “Verdict with Ted Cruz” podcast in 2022 and a super PAC supporting his reelection effort could also raise red flags for the IRS.

Corporate Political Donations Poised to Spark Shareholder Lawsuits

MSN – Bill Allison (Bloomberg) | Published: 4/24/2024

Major American companies could face lawsuits from their own shareholders for making political donations, according to a new legal strategy that progressives are advocating to reign in corporate influence on elections. Some of the money used for a corporation’s hefty super PAC donations come from shareholders. That gives those investors standing to sue if they do not approve of how the money is spent, according to the latest Center for American Progress report.

Supreme Court Seems Skeptical of Trump’s Claim of Absolute Immunity but Decision’s Timing Is Unclear

Yahoo News – Mark Sherman (Associated Press) | Published: 4/25/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared likely to reject Donald Trump’s claim of absolute immunity from prosecution over election interference, but it seemed possible he could still benefit from a lengthy trial delay. Chief Justice John Roberts was among at least five members of the court who did not appear to embrace the claim of absolute immunity that would stop special counsel Jack Smith’s prosecution of Trump on charges he conspired to overturn his 2020 election loss. Roberts also was among several justices who suggested the case might have to be sent back to lower courts before any trial could begin.

Appeals Court Upholds Conviction of GOP Operative Who Steered Russian Money to Trump Camp

Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 4/19/2024

A federal appeals court upheld the conviction of campaign operative Jesse Benton for steering an illegal Russian contribution to Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. Benton, who was pardoned by Trump for other campaign finance crimes in the final weeks of Trump’s term, was convicted by a jury in 2022 of six felonies related to the contribution and falsified campaign finance records.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Juneteenth or Jefferson Davis? Ala. State Workers May Have to Choose.

MSN – Rachel Hatzipanagos (Washington Post) | Published: 4/22/2024

Black lawmakers in Alabama have lobbied for years to have the state recognize the Juneteenth holiday. This year, lawmakers may have reached a compromise. Under House Bill 4, Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, would become a state holiday. But state employees would be able to choose between recognizing Juneteenth or the birthday of the president of the Confederacy, Jefferson Davis, on June 3.

Arizona – Election-Denying Arizona Republican Ends Reelection Bid After Allegations of Forged Signatures

MSN – Mary Jo Pitzl (Arizona Republic) | Published: 4/20/2024

An Arizona lawmaker with a history of leveling unfounded allegations of fraud against election workers has dropped his reelection bid amid allegations he forged signatures on his nomination petitions and submitted dozens of ineligible signatures. The allegations against state Rep. Austin Smith also triggered a civil referral from the Arizona secretary of state to the attorney general.

Arizona – Meadows, Giuliani and Other Trump Allies Charged in Arizona 2020 Election Probe

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 4/24/2024

An Arizona grand jury indicted 18 allies of Donald Trump for their efforts to subvert the 2020 election, including former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and Rudy Giuliani. The indictment describes Trump as an unindicted co-conspirator. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes targeted not just local conservatives who carried out the plan in Phoenix, but also the out-of-state middlemen in Trump’s orbit who allegedly helped put it together.

California – Los Angeles City Council Committee Takes Steps on Ethics Reform at City Hall

Los Angeles Daily Breeze – City News Service | Published: 4/18/2024

A Los Angeles City Council committee advanced a series of proposed changes to the city charter intended to bolster the independence of the Ethics Commission and enhance its enforcement powers. The changes include doubling the penalties for violations of the Ethics Code; increasing the size of the five-member Ethics Commission to seven with the additional members appointed by the commission; and tightening conflict-of-interest rules.

California – California Bill Would Ban NDAs for Legislative Negotiations: ‘This should not happen again’

MSN – Nicole Nixon (Sacramento Bee) | Published: 4/22/2024

Nondisclosure agreements would be banned from future discussions or negotiations on legislation in California under a new bill. Nondisclosure agreements (NDA) are legally binding contracts that prevent information-sharing with unauthorized parties. They are typically used to protect proprietary information, financial data, or other sensitive information. The introduction of the bill was prompted by the use of NDAs during negotiations between fast food industry and labor groups over a landmark deal to raise California’s minimum wage for fast food workers.

California – San Diego Rejects Proposal to Limit Corporate, Labor Union Money in City Elections with Public Financing

MSN – David Garrick (San Diego Union Tribune) | Published: 4/25/2024

An effort to limit corporate and labor union money in San Diego elections had a setback when a key city council committee rejected a November ballot measure proposing a public financing program. The Rules Committee rejected the measure on concerns that it would not apply to the mayor or city attorney, and because advocates propose having the city Ethics Commission oversee the program.

California – San Jose Officials Not Reporting Lobbyists Meetings

San Jose Spotlight – Brandon Pho | Published: 4/22/2024

The San Jose Spotlight has reported on inadequate lobbyist disclosures for years, but a recent review shows the public is still in the dark due to incomplete and delayed documentation on elected officials’ calendars. Council members blame simple oversights, time constraints, and limited staff for outdated calendars. But that violates San Jose’s sunshine policies, giving the public an incomplete and untimely picture of what elected officials are discussing with people paid to influence policymaking.

California – California Rejects Bill to Crackdown on How Utilities Spend Customers’ Money

Yahoo Finance – Adam Beam (Associated Press) | Published: 4/22/2024

California lawmakers rejected a proposal aimed at cracking down on how some of the nation’s largest utilities spend customers’ money. California’s investor-owned utilities cannot use money from customers to pay for things like advertising their brand or lobbying for legislation. Instead, they are supposed to use money from private investors to pay for those things. Consumer groups accuse utilities of using money from customers to fund trade groups that lobby and for television ads disguised as public service announcements.

Georgia – Homeless Georgians Could Face Hurdles to Voting Under New Legislation

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 4/24/2024

A single-sentence provision in an election bill in Georgia could complicate voting for some of the state’s homeless population. The bill, which awaits Gov. Brian Kemp’s signature, would require all election-related mail for those “homeless and without a permanent address” – such as registration cards, sample ballots, and absentee ballots – to be sent to the county registrar office. The full impact of the change is unclear.

Hawaii – The Maui Ethics Board Has So Few Members That It’s Struggling to Even Meet

Honolulu Civil Beat – Brittany Lyte | Published: 4/18/2024

The Maui County Board of Ethics is confronting a dire shortage of resources, hampering its ability to investigate potential wrongdoing by public officials, educate and advise government workers on ethics, and even hold meetings. The nine-person board has four vacancies. As such, the county ethics watchdog is unable to summon a quorum unless all five members are present.

Kentucky – Louisville Mayor’s Office to Change Intern Hiring Practices After Courier Journal Reports

MSN – Josh Wood (Louisville Courier Journal) | Published: 4/24/2024

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg’s administration is changing how it hires interns following reporting last year that Metro Hall interns from powerful families with close ties to Greenberg were hired through a program the mayor’s office said “prioritized” disadvantaged youth. A lawyer representing Greenberg against an ethics complaint has said three of the mayor’s office’s eight SummerWorks interns last summer were “pre-identified” for jobs.

Louisiana – 55 Louisiana Lawmakers Raise Campaign Cash During Special Sessions

Louisiana Illuminator – Julie O’Donoghue | Published: 4/19/2024

Almost 40 percent of state lawmakers this year took advantage of an exception in the ethics law that allows them to raise campaign funds during special sessions of the Louisiana Legislature. State law prohibits legislators from accepting political donations during the annual regular session, except in certain cases when they are running for another office. But they do not face that restriction during special sessions the governor calls.

Maryland – Elections Board Orders Nick Mosby to Return ‘Excessive Contributions’ from BGE and Correct Other Errors

Baltimore Brew – Mark Reutter | Published: 4/24/2024

The Maryland Board of Elections has ordered city council President Nick Mosby to return potential “excessive contributions” from Baltimore Gas & Electric (BG&E) and correct the street addresses of more than two dozen contributors, some of them prominent names in Baltimore’s donor world. The rebuke by the elections board is the latest setback for Mosby, who is running for a second term in the Democratic primary. BG&E disputed the amount cited, saying the utility had contributed only $450 to Mosby in 2024.

Michigan – Trump Is a Co-Conspirator in Michigan’s 2020 False Electors Plot, State Investigator Says

Detroit News – Craig Mauger | Published: 4/24/2024

Former President Trump and some of his top aides were co-conspirators in the plot to submit a certificate falsely claiming he won Michigan’s 2020 election, an investigator for state Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office testified, as new details of the effort to prosecute the alleged scheme took shape in two battleground states. Howard Shock, a special agent for Nessel, said Trump; Mark Meadows, who was Trump’s chief of staff; and Rudy Giuliani, who was his personal lawyer, are considered “unindicted co-conspirators” in Michigan’s false elector case.

Michigan – Michigan House Hears Testimony on Campaign Finance, Lobbying Laws after Chatfield Charges

Yahoo News – Clara Hendrickson (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 4/18/2024

Michigan lawmakers held a hearing on legislation to overhaul the state’s campaign finance and lobbying laws after a high-profile public corruption probe resulted in charges brought against former House Speaker Lee Chatfield for allegedly using political funds for personal expenses. House Democrats introduced a reform package recently. During a House Ethics Committee meeting on two of the bills, lawmakers heard from public officials and transparency advocates, who said the legislation is a first step that would restore public trust in government.

Minnesota – Attempt to Expedite Ethics Probe of Minnesota State Senator Charged with Burglary Fails on Tie Vote

Yahoo News – Steve Karnowski (Associated Press) | Published: 4/24/2024

A Republican attempt to expedite an ethics investigation of a Democratic state senator who is facing a felony ethics charge failed on a tie vote. Minnesota Sen. Nicole Mitchell was absent as the Senate met for the first time since her arrest at her estranged stepmother’s home. Mitchell’s arrest has complicated the remainder of the 2024 legislative session because Senate Democrats hold just a one-seat majority.

Missouri – ‘Mishandled.’ Top Missouri Republican attempts to discredit ethics investigation

Yahoo News – Kacen Bayless (Kansas City Star) | Published: 4/23/2024

Attorneys for Speaker Dean Plocher sent a letter to the chairperson of the Missouri House Ethics Committee attempting to discredit the committee’s investigation into the speaker. The letter raises objections about the committee’s investigation as well as committee Chairperson Hannah Kelly’s decision for the panel to vote on a blistering report on Plocher.

New York – Judge Approves Safeguards for Donald Trump’s $175 Million Civil Business Fraud Appeal Bond

MSN – Bart Jansen (USA Today) | Published: 4/22/2024

Judge Artur Engoron approved a new agreement between Donald Trump’s lawyers and New York Attorney General Letitia James to reinforce the $175 million bond Trump posted to appeal a $454 million judgement in a civil trial for inflating the value of his real estate holdings in statements to lenders. James had asked the judge to void the bond by arguing Knight Specialty Insurance is not authorized to write bonds in New York.

New York – Adams Defense Trust Returns $22K in Improper Donations from Corporation, People with City Business

MSN – Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) | Published: 4/22/2024

New York City Mayor Eric Adams launched a legal defense trust in November to raise money for legal fees and other costs he incurs as part of a federal investigation into allegations that Turkey’s government infused illegal foreign cash into his 2021 campaign. The trust received $22,462 in prohibited donations from a corporate entity and 10 individuals with city government business interests. All 11 donations were returned in compliance with the law, said Vito Pitta, a lawyer for Adams’ trust.

Ohio – FirstEnergy Paid $300k to a Dark Money Org That a Lobbyist Tied to Senate President Matt Huffman

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 4/22/2024

At the height of its sweeping statehouse bribery scheme, FirstEnergy secretly paid $300,000 over five checks to a “dark money” nonprofit its lobbyist explicitly associated with now-Senate President Matt Huffman, new records show. In May 2019, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit FirstEnergy funded and controlled wrote the first of its checks to a fellow “dark money” group called Liberty Ohio, a group FirstEnergy lobbyist Ty Pine referred to in an email as “the Huffman C4.”

Ohio – Area County Among Highest in Open Ethics Probes as Ethics Commission Marks 50th Year

Yahoo News – Avery Kreemer (Dayton Daily News) | Published: 4/19/2024

The Ohio Ethics Commission is tasked with overseeing some 590,000 elected officials, contractors, and decision makers in the state. Over the past 50 years, the commission has been responsible for educating elected officials and government workers about Ohio’s ethics laws. It provides advice on ethically murky situations and investigates violations of the law. “I kind of see our mission as guiding public officials on what the law is, and then protecting the public from people who violate it,” said Paul Nick, executive director of the commission since 2011.

Oklahoma – State Audit Critical of Tourism Director Shelly Zumwalt. AG Calls for Director’s Resignation

MSN – M. Scott Carter and Jordan Gerard (Oklahoman) | Published: 4/23/2024

Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Cindy Byrd raised numerous questions about how the state spent millions in federal COVID-19 funds and said new purchasing rules established by the Office of Management and Enterprise Solutions were not in the best interest of Oklahoma. The audit harshly criticized the management of Oklahoma Employment Security Commission and the agency’s then-Executive Director Shelly Zumwalt, questioning how Zumwalt approved $8.5 million in contract payments to a firm where her husband is employed.

Pennsylvania – The Philly Ethics Board Has Changed Its Rules on Super PACs in the Wake of the 2023 Mayor’s Race

MSN – Sean Collins Walsh (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 4/17/2024

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics revised its campaign finance guidelines to make clear that a prohibition on candidates coordinating with super PACs applies even before the candidates launch their campaigns. That was the key issue in the board’s unsuccessful suit against mayoral candidate Jeff Brown during the 2023 Democratic primary. Super PACs are allowed to raise and spend money in unlimited amounts but are prohibited from working in coordination with candidates’ campaigns, which are subject to limitations on donations.

Pennsylvania – Philly Sheriff Used Money Meant to Hire Deputies for Executive Raises, Tried to Double Her Salary to $285K

MSN – Ryan Briggs and William Bender (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 4/22/2024

Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal appeared before the city council recently, seeking nearly $2 million in new support for an office she has described as “consistently underfunded,” and “severely short in deputies.” But finance records and an internal memo show Bilal diverted hundreds of thousands of dollars intended to hire more uniformed staff, including deputies, to fund hefty raises for her executive staff and other office workers. Bilal also tried to more than double her salary as part of a plan to dole out even larger raises using money meant for new hires.

Pennsylvania – Pa. House Approves Bills on Campaign Finance Reform, Aimed at Adding Transparency

Yahoo News – Eric Scicchitano (CNHI) | Published: 4/17/2024

Separate bills intended to add transparency to campaign finance in Pennsylvania elections advanced out of the state House with bipartisan support. One bill would add an additional reporting period for campaign spending and contributions. The other looks to broaden reporting requirements for all tax-exempt organizations and require reports for any level of contribution. Both bills advance to the Senate.

Rhode Island – RI Lawmakers Move to Ban Political ‘Deepfakes’ Ahead of Elections. What That Means.

MSN – Katherine Gregg (Providence Journal) | Published: 4/22/2024

A bill in Rhode Island would ban what it calls “deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media” in the 90-day run-up to any election. The legislation would not only ban “deepfakes,” it would give a candidate who felt wronged the right to seek an injunction and damages in court. The exception to the ban: if the spot contains a clearly written or spoken disclosure that the image “has been manipulated or generated by artificial intelligence.”

Tennessee – Tennessee Rep. Gino Bulso Faces Ethics Complaint Over Sponsoring of Book Bill

MSN – Melissa Brown (Tennessean) | Published: 4/19/2024

An ethics complaint was filed against Tennessee Rep. Gino Bulso alleging the lawmaker and practicing attorney violated conflict-of-interest rules after he filed legislation that could affect the outcome of a legal case he is currently involved in. Bulso represents a group of parents and the Citizens for Renewing America in a lawsuit against the Williamson County Board of Education. The group sued the board over Tennessee’s library book law, arguing they should be allowed to challenge books on the shelves even if their children do not attend Williamson County schools.

Texas – Court Rejects Texas AG Ken Paxton’s Bid to Dismiss Ethics Complaint Over 2020 Election Challenge

MSN – Philip Jankowski (Dallas Morning News) | Published: 4/19/2024

Ruling against Attorney General Ken Paxton, an appeals court declined to dismiss a State Bar of Texas ethics complaint accusing him of dishonesty when he sought to overturn Donald Trump’s 2020 election defeats in four swing states. Paxton argue he could not be sued by the state bar’s Commission for Lawyer Discipline because he petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court as part of his official duties.

Texas – Supreme Court Rejects Challenge to Vote-by-Mail Restrictions in Texas

MSN – Maureen Groppe (USA Today) | Published: 4/23/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected a challenge to voting rules in Texas that automatically let senior citizens, but not younger people, vote by mail. Mail-in balloting has become a partisan debate as Democrats champion it as a way to increase turnout and Republicans argue it increases the risk of voter fraud. The challengers argued the unequal treatment of voters is age-based discrimination prohibited by the 26th amendment.

Texas – Texas School Districts Violated a Law Intended to Add Transparency to Local Elections

ProPublica – Lexi Churchill (ProPublica) and Jessica Priest (Texas Tribune) | Published: 4/25/2024

The Texas Legislature mandated that school districts, municipalities, and other jurisdictions post campaign finance reports online rather than stow them away in filing cabinets. But many agencies appear to be violating the law that took effect in September. ProPublica and The Texas Tribune examined 35 school districts that held trustee elections in November and found none had posted all the required disclosures online that show candidates’ fundraising and spending.

Wyoming – It’s Getting More Expensive to Run for Statewide Offices in Wyoming, According to Report

Yahoo Finance – Hannah Shields (Wyoming Tribune Eagle) | Published: 4/17/2024

A report by the Equality State Policy Center (ESPC) shows statewide office campaigns are getting more expensive, and stakeholders are calling on policymakers to tighten Wyoming’s campaign finance laws. ESPC policy director Marissa Carpio speculated that political polarization, coupled with inflation and competition, played a role in driving up campaign costs for statewide positions over the last few election cycles. The 2018 gubernatorial race had a record $3 million in both campaign contributions and expenses from two candidates.

April 25, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Maryland: “Elections Board Orders Nick Mosby to Return ‘Excessive Contributions’ from BGE and Correct Other Errors” by Mark Reutter for Baltimore Brew Elections Arizona: “Meadows, Giuliani and Other Trump Allies Charged in Arizona 2020 Election Probe” by Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) […]

April 24, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Trump Campaign Asks for Cut of Candidates’ Fundraising When They Use His Name and Likeness” by Alex Isenstadt (Politico) for MSN Ohio: “FirstEnergy Paid $300k to a Dark Money Org That a Lobbyist Tied to Senate President Matt Huffman” by Jake […]

April 23, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Appeals Court Upholds Conviction of GOP Operative Who Steered Russian Money to Trump Camp” by Kyle Cheney (Politico) for Yahoo News New York: “Adams Defense Trust Returns $22K in Improper Donations from Corporation, People with City Business” by Chris Sommerfeldt (New […]

April 22, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Louisiana: “55 Louisiana Lawmakers Raise Campaign Cash During Special Sessions” by Julie O’Donoghue for Louisiana Illuminator Pennsylvania: “The Philly Ethics Board Has Changed Its Rules on Super PACs in the Wake of the 2023 Mayor’s Race” by Sean Collins Walsh (Philadelphia Inquirer) […]

April 19, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – April 19, 2024

National/Federal Ex-Congressman Asks 11th Circuit to Toss Six-Figure Campaign Finance Penalty Courthouse News Service – Kayla Gogging | Published: 4/16/2024 Former U.S. Rep. David Rivera took his fight against a six-figure campaign finance penalty to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, asking […]

National/Federal

Ex-Congressman Asks 11th Circuit to Toss Six-Figure Campaign Finance Penalty

Courthouse News Service – Kayla Gogging | Published: 4/16/2024

Former U.S. Rep. David Rivera took his fight against a six-figure campaign finance penalty to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, asking the panel to let a jury decide whether he made campaign contributions in another person’s name to undermine a Democratic rival in a Florida election. Rivera’s attorney told a three-judge panel that a federal judge ignored conflicting evidence in siding with the FEC and ordering Rivera to pay a $456,000 fine for violating the Federal Election Campaign Act.

Elections Have Gotten More Accessible for Disabled Voters, but Gaps Remain

DNyuz – Maggie Astor (New York Times) | Published: 4/18/2024

A series of laws – including the Help America Vote Act in 2022, which created new standards for election administration and grant for states to maintain those standards – have sought to make it easier for those facing physical challenges to vote. They have, but major gaps remain. While the gap has shrunk, disabled Americans still vote at much lower rates than those who are not disabled.

Conservative Broadcaster OAN Settles Defamation Claims by Voting-Machine Company Smartmatic

MSN – Erin Mulvaney (Wall Street Journal) | Published: 4/16/2024

One America News Network reached a confidential settlement to resolve a defamation lawsuit by voting-machine company Smartmatic over the conservative outlet’s broadcasting of false election-theft claims in the aftermath of the 2020 presidential contest. Smartmatic sued One America News in 2021, alleging the network provided a platform for false claims that voting machines helped tilt the election outcome for President Biden.

Senate Votes to Dismiss Impeachment Charges Against Mayorkas

MSN – Jaqueline Alemany and Liz Goodwin (Washington Post) | Published: 4/17/2024

The U.S. Senate voted to dismiss two articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, which allege he mismanaged an influx of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border. Both votes were along party lines. The impeachment trial ended a little more than three hours after it started, following a Republican senator’s move to quickly quash an offer for limited debate and the creation of an impeachment committee, marking a rapid close to the first impeachment of a sitting Cabinet secretary.

Judge Cannon Skeptical of Trump Co-Defendants’ Arguments to Dismiss Charges

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 4/12/2024

U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon seemed skeptical about dropping charges against Donald Trump’s two co-defendants in the classified documents case and suggested their arguments for dismissal would be better suited as a defense at trial. Attorneys for Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira argued the charges against them should be dismissed, in part, because the indictment accused them of obstructing officials’ efforts to retrieve classified materials from Trump’s property without providing clear evidence the employees were aware of an ongoing investigation or knew the boxes of documents contained classified materials.

Leo Rejects Senate Subpoena from Panel Probing Gifts to Supreme Court Justices

MSN – Tobi Raji (Washington Post) | Published: 4/11/2024

The Senate Judiciary Committee sent a subpoena to conservative judicial activist Leonard Leo as part of a months-long inquiry into undisclosed gifts to Supreme Court justices and he promptly rejected it, calling the move “politically motivated.” The committee authorized subpoenas for Leo and billionaire Harlan Crow following reports that Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito accepted and did not disclose free travel and gifts from Crow, Leo, and conservative donor Robin Arkley II.

DNC Uses Political Donations to Pay Biden’s Legal Fees in Special Counsel Probe

MSN – Soo Rin Kim, Isabelle Murray, and Lucien Bruggeman (ABC News) | Published: 4/13/2024

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has been paying President Biden’s legal fees incurred in connection with special counsel Robert Hur’s investigation into his handling of classified documents. The DNC said the money they have paid for Biden’s legal purposes is not coming from their grassroots donors. The Democratic Party providing financial support for Biden’s legal challenges comes amid their criticism of the Republican Party’s fundraising for and paying of Donald Trump’s mounting legal bills.

Supreme Court Snubs House Republicans Who Dodged Metal Detectors in Congress After Jan. 6

MSN – Dan Morrison (USA Today) | Published: 4/15/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court turned away an appeal by three Republican members of Congress who were fined $5,000 each by the House for dodging security scanners installed after the attack on the Capitol. The court’s decision comes months after justices snubbed the case of three other GOP members of Congress who had their pay docked in 2021 for flouting a mask mandate on the House floor during the COVID pandemic.

Corruption or Just Politics? Supreme Court Weighs New Bribery Case as More Clashes Are Brewing

MSN – Jan Wolfe and C. Ryan Barber (Wall Street Journal) | Published: 4/15/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court for years has been making it more challenging for prosecutors to bring corruption cases against public officials, guided by the belief that some of the dealmaking and fundraising in the political realm is unseemly but not illegal. A new batch of cases making their way through the courts shows that where to draw the line remains in flux. The court jumped back into the fray in a case that examines the viability of prosecutions against officials who take gratuities after performing actions that helped their benefactors.

Supreme Court Divided Over Key Charge Against Jan. 6 Rioters and Trump

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 4/16/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared divided over whether prosecutors improperly stretched federal law to charge hundreds of participants in the attack on the Capitol, a decision that will impact those rioters and, potentially, Donald Trump’s election interference trial in the District of Columbia. The court’s conservatives appeared most skeptical of the government’s decision to charge participants under a law that makes it a crime to obstruct or impede an official proceeding – in this case the joint session of Congress that convened to certify Joe Biden’s 2020 victory.

Red States Threaten Librarians with Prison – As Blue States Work to Protect Them

MSN – Hannah Natanson and Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) | Published: 4/16/2024

Legislation advancing nationwide seeks to do things like prohibit book bans or forbid the harassment of school and public librarians, the first such wave in the country, said John Chrastka, director of library advocacy group EveryLibrary. Legislators in 22 mostly blue states have proposed 57 such bills so far this year, and two have become law. But the library-friendly measures are being outpaced by bills in mostly red states that aim to restrict which books libraries can offer and threaten librarians with prison or thousands in fines for handing out “obscene” or “harmful” titles.

Trump Is Funneling Campaign Money into Cash-Strapped Businesses. Experts Say It Looks Bad.

Yahoo Finance – Zac Anderson and Erin Mansfield (USA Today) | Published: 4/17/2024

Donald Trump’s main campaign fundraising operation sharply increased spending at the former president’s properties in recent months, funneling money into his businesses at a time when he is facing serious jeopardy and desperately needs cash. Federal law and FEC regulations allow donor funds to be spent at a candidate’s business so long as the campaign pays fair market value, experts say. While the practice is legal, some campaign finance experts believe it raises ethical concerns when a candidate is generating personal revenue off running for office.

From the States and Municipalities

Europe – EU Auditors Say Lobbyists Can Easily Slip Under Bloc’s Radar

Yahoo Finance – Nette Noestlinger (Reuters) | Published: 4/16/2024

Lobbyists can easily bypass European Union (EU) transparency rules to influence policy, auditors said. The European Court of Auditors’ report comes as institutions discuss a new ethics entity to guide the conduct of officials and ahead of a planned review of the EU’s lobbyist register. That review follows a scandal at the heart of the European Parliament in which Qatar and Morocco have been accused of bribing decision-makers.

Canada – Federal Lobbying Commissioner Assessing Allegations Against Firm, Top Conservative Adviser

CBC – Benjamin Lopez Steven | Published: 4/16/2024

The federal lobbying commissioner confirmed that a “preliminary assessment” was opened into allegations against political strategist Jenni Byrne and a lobbying firm. It has been reported that a federal lobbying firm, Forecheck Strategies, is located at the same office as Jenni Byrne + Associates, a provincial lobbying firm. In addition to employing many of the same staff as Jenni Byrne + Associates, Forecheck Strategies is owned by Andrew Kimber and Simon Jefferies, who are also part-owners of Jenni Byrne + Associates. Although Byrne’s exact role with the Conservative Party is murky, she is viewed as one of the most powerful strategists in Canada.

Arkansas – Audit Says Arkansas Governor’s Office Potentially Violated Laws with $19,000 Lectern Purchase

Yahoo News – Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) | Published: 4/15/2024

Auditors found the purchase last year of a $19,000 lectern by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ office potentially violated state law. The auditors referred the findings to local prosecutors and the state attorney general, and lawmakers planned to hold a hearing on the report. It cited several potential violations, including paying for the lectern before it was delivered and the handling of records regarding the purchase.

California – L.A. Ethics Panel Approves Fine for Former CBS Exec Leslie Moonves Over Interference with LAPD Investigation

MSN – Richard Winston and Dakota Smith (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 4/17/2024

Former CBS President Leslie Moonves will pay $15,000 to settle an ethics complaint over his role in an alleged cover-up of sexual assault accusations against him. The Los Angeles City Ethics Commission unanimously approved the settlement after previously rejecting a proposal for $11,250 in fines as too low. Under the settlement, Moonves also admitted he violated city law by interfering with a police investigation into the sexual assault allegations.

California – Questions Swirled About Millions of Tax Dollars in OC. After Months of Silence, a Key Figure Weighs In

MSN – Nick Gerda (LAist) | Published: 4/17/2024

An Orange County supervisor’s daughter at the center of a controversy over what happened to millions of taxpayer dollars she had a limited role in the nonprofit that handled the money, despite records stating otherwise. Rhiannon Do also said she no longer works for the organization, Viet America Society (VAS). At Supervisor Andrew Do’s direction, VAS has received more than $9 million from the county to feed needy residents, plus $1 million to build a Vietnam War memorial. He also joined votes to fund up to $3.1 million in mental health subcontracts for the group, all without disclosing his close family connection.

Florida – Florida GOP Operative Admits Role in ‘Ghost’ Candidate Scheme That Defeated Utility-Targeted Dem

Floodlight – Mario Alejandro Ariza | Published: 4/12/2024

For the first time, the lead consultant to Florida Senate Republicans admitted to hiring a disgraced ex-senator and approving a dirty trick to recruit a third-party candidate to siphon votes from a South Florida Democrat. The scheme succeeded. In 2020, Jose Javier Rodriguez, the Democrat targeted by the GOP and by Florida Power & Light, lost by 32 votes to Ileana Garcia, the founder of Latinas for Trump. A third-party candidate who did not campaign and who shared the same last name as Rodriguez drew over 6,000 votes.

Georgia – New Prosecutor to Decide Fate of Georgia Lieutenant Governor in Trump Case

MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 4/11/2024

A state official tasked with finding a special prosecutor to investigate whether Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones should face criminal charges for his alleged role in seeking to overturn Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss in the state announced he had appointed himself to the case. Pete Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, was assigned 21 months ago to find someone to oversee the investigation into Jones after a judge disqualified Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from the case over a fundraiser she hosted for Jones’s political rival.

Hawaii – Retired State Ag Official’s Return to The Agency Has Critics Concerned Over Conflicts of Interest

Honolulu Civil Beat – Thomas Heaton | Published: 4/9/2024

The Department of Agriculture (DOA) is seeking to renew the contract of Hawaii’s acting biosecurity chief, Carol Okada, a controversial figure who many in the conservation community fear is protecting the industry she is supposed to be regulating. Okada, whose title is Acting Plant Industry Division Administrator, is the primary state official overseeing the plant nursery industry, whose products have been found to spread destructive pests throughout Hawaii. Okada retired in 2019 but returned to DOA last year. Her relationship with the nursery industry has fueled concern among lawmakers as well.

Hawaii – Inside the Late-Night Parties Where Hawaii Politicians Raked in Money

Honolulu Civil Beat – Eric Sagara and Irene Casado Sanchez (Big Local News), and Blaze Lovell | Published: 4/17/2024

In response to a series of scandals, Hawaii legislators in 2005 passed a law that barred government contractors from giving money to politicians. It was billed as one of the nation’s most ambitious efforts to end “pay-to-play” in contracting and designed to change the political culture of a state steeped in corruption. But the ban only applies to donations from the actual corporate entities that got contracts, but not to their owners, employees, or any related businesses.

Illinois – Giannoulias Calls for Disclosure of Lobbyist Contracts

NPR Illinois – Peter Hancock (Capitol News Illinois) | Published: 4/11/2024

Legislative lobbyists in Illinois are required to report how much they spend entertaining lawmakers. Currently, though, there is no law requiring lobbyists to disclose how much they are paid by corporations, industry groups, or other special interest organizations. That would change under a bill now pending in the Illinois House. It would, for the first time, require lobbyists to disclose how much they are paid by each of their clients.

Illinois – Chicago Lobbyists Escape Serious Punishment for Improper Donations to Mayor Johnson’s Campaign

WBEZ – Tessa Weinberg | Published: 4/17/2024

The Chicago Board of Ethics dismissed an enforcement action against four City Hall lobbyists who donated to Mayor Brandon Johnson’s campaign. The board said it lacks the authority to enforce a decade-old executive order meant to curb such contributions. An outside law firm found that enforcement language for former Mayor Rahm Emmanuel’s order is not codified in the law. It was the first time the board has been confronted with trying to enforce the order since it was issued, said Executive Director Steve Berlin.

Illinois – Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin Fined $60K for Violating Ethics Ordinance

WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 4/15/2024

The Chicago Board of Ethics fined City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin $60,000 for violating the government ethics ordinance by using city resources to host a prayer service. The board found Conyears-Ervin committed 12 total infractions for violating her fiduciary duty to the city, the unauthorized use of city property, and prohibited political activity. It levied the maximum fine of $5,000 for each individual violation of the ordinance.

Kentucky – Ethics Commission Urges Metro Council to Amend Laws Following Greenberg Complaint

Yahoo News – Eleanor McCrary (Louisville Courier Journal) | Published: 4/16/2024

In its opinion dismissing the complaint against Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg, the Ethics Commission called on Metro Council to specify local guidelines concerning the mayor’s spouse and other volunteers. Media reports said Rachel Greenberg had a Metro Hall office, a government email account, and gave orders to staffers. Ethics experts said the arrangement might violate the city’s ethics rules, which the administration denied.

Maryland – Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott Issues Refunds, Amends Donations After Reporting 9 Over $6K Max

MSN – Emily Opilo (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 4/14/2024

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott amended several of his state campaign finance reports to correct errors regarding five individual contributors and issued refunds to four other donors after it was reported the campaign accepted donations above the $6,000 maximum limit from nine entities. Scott’s campaign manager said the campaign’s mistakes were likely due to donations submitted via company credit cards.

Michigan – Nessel Accuses Ex-Speaker Chatfield of Stealing Political Funds in Criminal Charges

Detroit News – Craig Mauger | Published: 4/16/2024

State Attorney General Dana Nessel unveiled 13 criminal charges against former Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield, saying he misused nonprofit dollars to pay off his personal credit card and fund purchases at wineries and luxury retail stores. Chatfield’s wife, Stephanie, was also charged for her role in the alleged scheme. Lee Chatfield got kickbacks from his associates and used $132,000 from his nonprofit organization to pay off his personal Chase credit card, Nessel said. Lee Chatfield’s actions were the product of a “dark money fueled culture” in Michigan’s capital, said Nessel.

Michigan – Democratic Majority in Michigan House Restored with Special Elections

MSN – Clara Hendrickson (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 4/17/2024

Democrats in the Michigan House saw their majority restored with a pair of victories in special elections. The Democratic victories could end the legislative gridlock that has defined the tied chamber for the past several months. The pair of seats have sat empty since late November last year after former state Reps. Kevin Coleman and Lori Stone were sworn in as mayors of their respective hometowns.

Mississippi – Lawmakers Update Public Service Commissioner Campaign Finance Law

Magnolia Tribune – Frank Corder | Published: 4/16/2024

Mississippi Public Service Commission members and candidates for the three offices have been required to adhere to strict guidelines regarding direct and indirect gifts and campaign contributions, specifically related to any person acting in any respect for utilities they regulate. But renewable energy lobbyists or company executives were not specifically covered by the campaign finance restrictions. The Legislature passed a bill changing the language to “covered person” to capture all entities or persons that may come before the commission.

Missouri – Speaker Dean Plocher Accused of ‘Absolute Obstruction’ in House Ethics Investigation

Missouri Independent – Jason Hancock | Published: 4/15/2024

Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher obstructed an investigation of his official acts through pressure on potential witnesses and refusing to issue subpoenas, leaders of the chamber’s Ethics Committee alleged. Details of the alleged obstruction were contained in a report laying out findings from the committee’s months-long investigation. The report concluded the committee lacked direct evidence of ethical misconduct in Plocher’s advocacy for a six-figure software contract, in his firing of a former staffer, or in years of filing false expense reimbursement reports.

New Jersey – Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. and His Wife Are Accused of Assaulting Their Teenage Daughter

MSN – Jesse Bunch (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 4/15/2024

Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. and his wife, schools superintendent La’Quetta Small, were charged with assaulting their daughter, including an incident in which the mayor allegedly knocked the teenager unconscious with a broom, prosecutors announced. They are alleged to have physically and emotionally abused the 16-year-old “on multiple occasions” in December and January.

New York – How a Hush Money Scandal Tied to a Porn Star Led to Trump’s First Criminal Trial

Associated Press News – Michael Sisak and Eric Tucker | Published: 4/13/2024

It was the kind of tawdry tale that Donald Trump might have relished before politics: an adult film actress claiming they had sex. But on the eve of the 2016 presidential election, Trump feared the story, which he says is false, would cost him votes. So, prosecutors say, he arranged to pay Stormy Daniels to keep quiet. Now, after years of fits and starts before an indictment last year, Trump is on trial New York on state charges related to the scandal.

New York – Charged With Regulating Conflict of Interests, Ethics Commission Hides Its Own

New York Focus – Chris Bragg | Published: 4/17/2024

The chairperson of New York’s ethics watchdog agency praised its staff for their quick processing of Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests. The achievement, he said, showed the body’s commitment to “ultimate transparency in how we do our business.” But Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government staff fulfilled a FOIL request about the commissioners’ personal potential conflicts-of-interest and redacted all information about relationships that could force commissioners to recuse themselves from votes.

Ohio – Randazzo’s Death Clouds Path Forward on Criminal, Civil FirstEnergy Bribery Cases

MSN – Jake Zuckerman and Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 4/11/2024

The death of a former Ohio regulator has wrenched state and federal criminal cases accusing him of accepting a $4.3 million bribe from a power company before doing its bidding inside the government. Sam Randazzo was found dead in what officials said was a “suspected suicide.” The state also charged two top officials at FirstEnergy for allegedly orchestrating the bribes.

Oklahoma – Will You have to Vote on Your State Lawmaker in November? Most Races Will Already Be Decided

Oklahoma Watch – Keaton Ross | Published: 4/11/2024

For the third consecutive general election cycle, most Oklahoma voters will not elect their state lawmakers in November. Fifty of the 127 Senate and House seats up for re-election were decided on April 5, when just one candidate filed for office. Thirty-five races will be settled in the June 18 primary or August 27 runoff election. Uncompetitive races can cause voters to become apathetic and less interested in the democratic process, research has found.

Pennsylvania – Pa. House Amends Campaign Finance Bills to Cover All Nonprofits and Require More Detailed Reports

Pennsylvania Capital-Star – Peter Hall | Published: 4/15/2024

Lawmakers approved amendments to a pair of Pennsylvania House bills to make campaign finance reporting requirements for state lawmakers more robust and increase the transparency of independent expenditures in elections. House Bill 1472 would require campaign finance reports from civic leagues and 501(c)(4) tax-exempt social welfare organizations that independently advocate for or against candidates. The amendment would make the bill more broadly cover all tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c) of the federal tax code.

South Dakota – Four South Dakota Tribes Bar Gov. Kristi Noem, Trump V.P. Contender, From Lands

Spokane Spokesman-Review – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 4/13/2024

Four of South Dakota’s federally recognized Native American tribes have barred the state’s governor, Kristi Noem, from their reservations. Three of the tribes barred Noem in April, joining another tribe that had sanctioned the governor after she told state lawmakers in February that Mexican drug cartels had a foothold on their reservations and were committing murders there. Noem further angered the tribes by appearing to suggest the tribes were complicit in the cartels’ presence on their reservations.

Virginia – Unleash America Was Supposed to Be About Supporting Va. Candidates. But the Money Didn’t Go There.

Yahoo News – Elizabeth Beyer (Staunton News Leader) | Published: 4/14/2024

Robert Landrum thought he was supporting Republicans in Virginia’s statehouse elections when he donated $500 to a federal super PAC in April 2023. Unleash America had one stated goal: to get Republicans elected during Virginia’s 2023 contests to support Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s agenda. But according to the FEC and State Board of Election, not a single Republican candidate for state or local office received any direct financial support from Unleash America.

Washington – Lobbying the Legislature from Behind Bars

Oregon Capital Chronicle – Grace Deng (Washington State Standard) | Published: 4/16/2024

The Department of Corrections (DOC) recorded 32 requests from prisoners to testify on bills during this year’s legislative session in Washington, and at least 18 got to testify. Advocates say testimony from prisoners has grown in Olympia since virtual testimony became common during the pandemic. But some prisoners allege the DOC has made it difficult for them to engage with lawmakers. Activists in prison say they feel silenced by what they describe as the agency’s lack of support for – and sometimes even interference with – their political advocacy.

Wisconsin – Business Group Challenges Evers’ Creative Veto That Extended School Aid for 400 Years

Yahoo News – Jessie Opoien (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) | Published: 4/15/2024

Attorneys with Wisconsin’s largest business lobby asked the state Supreme Court to strike down Gov. Tony Evers’ use of his partial veto authority to increase funding for public schools for the next four centuries. Wisconsin gives its governors some of the most sweeping executive powers in the country, although partial veto authority has been scaled back over time.

April 18, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Ex-Congressman Asks 11th Circuit to Toss Six-Figure Campaign Finance Penalty” by Kayla Gogging for Courthouse News Service Hawaii: “Inside the Late-Night Parties Where Hawaii Politicians Raked in Money” by Eric Sagara and Irene Casado Sanchez (Big Local News), and Blaze Lovell […]

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