Ethics Archives - Page 15 of 302 - State and Federal Communications

March 11, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Oregon: “Legislature Passes Historic Campaign Finance Bill” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN Elections National: “RNC Installs Trump’s Chosen Leaders in Merger with His Campaign” by Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics California: “S.F. Corruption Scandal: Mohammed Nuru’s partner in bribery […]

March 8, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – March 8, 2024

National/Federal Nikki Haley Suspends Her Campaign and Leaves Donald Trump as the Last Major Republican Candidate Associated Press News – Steve Peoples and Meg Kinnard | Published: 3/6/2024 Nikki Haley suspended her presidential campaign after being soundly defeated across the country on […]

National/Federal

Nikki Haley Suspends Her Campaign and Leaves Donald Trump as the Last Major Republican Candidate

Associated Press News – Steve Peoples and Meg Kinnard | Published: 3/6/2024

Nikki Haley suspended her presidential campaign after being soundly defeated across the country on Super Tuesday, leaving Donald Trump as the last remaining major candidate for the 2024 Republican nomination. Haley challenged Trump to win the support of the moderate Republicans and independent voters who supported her. Haley has made clear she does not want to serve as Trump’s vice president or run on a third-party ticket arranged by the group No Labels.

New Jersey Businessman Pleads Guilty and Agrees to Cooperate in Sen. Bob Menendez’s Corruption Case

MSN – Larry Neumeister (Associated Press) | Published: 3/1/2024

A New Jersey businessperson pleaded guilty to trying to bribe U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, agreeing to a deal with prosecutors that calls for him to testify in the corruption case against the senator and his wife. Jose Uribe was among three businesspeople charged in the corruption case against Menendez and his wife, Nadine Menendez. Authorities say the couple accepted bribes of cash, gold bars, and a luxury car in exchange for the senator’s influence over foreign affairs.

Appeals Court Ruling Means Over 100 Jan. 6 Rioters May Be Resentenced

MSN – Rachel Weiner and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) | Published: 3/1/2024

A federal appeals court overturned a sentencing enhancement used against January 6 defendants charged with felony obstruction, a decision that means that over 100 convicted rioters may have to be resentenced. The ruling could have an impact in plea negotiations, eliminating one bargaining chip used by prosecutors when encouraging defendants to plead guilty without a trial.

FEC Allows Candidates to More Easily Pay Themselves from Campaign Funds

MSN – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 3/1/2024

A new rule allowing federal candidates to more easily draw salaries from their campaign funds went into effect on March 1. The new rule aims to remedy a commonly cited barrier to working Americans considering running for office, which is often an all-consuming and expensive endeavor. Incumbent federal officeholders cannot receive compensation from campaign funds under the updated rule.

Supreme Court Keeps Trump on Ballot, Rejects Colorado Voter Challenge

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 3/4/2024

The Supreme Court restored Donald Trump to the Colorado primary ballot, ruling the state lacked authority to disqualify him after his actions during the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The justices warned of chaos if a candidate for nationwide office could be declared ineligible in some states, but not others, based on the same conduct. While the decision was unanimous, the court’s three liberal justices also wrote separately, saying the conservative majority went too far and decided an issue that was not before the court to “insulate all alleged insurrectionists from future challenges to their holding office.”

Trump Pulls Closer to GOP Nomination with Super Tuesday Wins

MSN – Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) | Published: 3/5/2024

Donald Trump won resounding primary victories in more than a dozen states, pulling closer to securing the Republican presidential nomination and catapulting more fully into a rematch with President Biden. More than a third of the delegates who eventually will vote on the GOP’s candidate were up for grabs on Super Tuesday, putting Trump on track to win a majority of delegates by March 19 at the latest, according to his team’s projections. Biden was quickly projected to notch decisive victories in almost every contest.

Sen. Menendez Faces New Charges in Bribery Case

MSN – Praveena Somasundaram and Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) | Published: 3/5/2024

Federal prosecutors charged U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez and his wife with extortion and obstruction of justice. Menendez; his wife, Nadine Menendez; and two associates, Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, were charged in an 18-count indictment that built upon the bribery charges they face in a case accusing them of conspiring to have the senator act as an illegal foreign agent on behalf of the Egyptian government.

The Fed Hates Politics. Now It’s Trying to Cut Rates in an Election Year.

MSN – Rachel Siegel (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2024

The Federal Reserve is eyeing multiple interest rate hikes starting sometime this year. As the months pass, the chances grow that those cuts end up juicing the economy in the run-up to Election Day, just as Republicans and Democrats fight to leverage the economy in their appeals to voters. Decisions about interest rates, Fed officials say, are based solely on how the economy evolves, and whether inflation keeps trending down.

Supreme Court Sets Trump Immunity Claim in D.C. Trial for April 25

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court scheduled argument for April 25 to review Donald Trump’s claim that he is immune from criminal prosecution on charges of trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election. The case will determine whether and how quickly Trump faces trial in the District of Columbia for allegedly trying to block Joe Biden’s election victory. The court’s decision to consider Trump’s claims, rather than letting stand a lower court decision that he can be prosecuted, drew criticism for further delaying the election obstruction trial.

Foreign Agent Law Faces Sweeping Changes

Yahoo News – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 3/5/2024

The Department of Justice is expected to propose sweeping updates to the Foreign Agents Registration Act. It has been decades since there have been major legislative or regulatory updates to the law, which imposed registration and reporting requirements for individuals and entities seeking to sway U.S. policy or the public on matters of foreign interests. The law has not kept up with societal changes in recent years, including the rise of social media, even as the Justice Department has been more aggressive in its enforcement, practitioners say.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Judge Dismisses Challenge to New Arizona Campaign Finance Law Exposing Dark Money Donors

MSN – Sasha Hupka (Arizona Republic) | Published: 3/1/2024

A Maricopa County judge rejected a lawsuit challenging a new law requiring so-called dark money groups to expose their political donors. Judge Scott McCoy ruled the Center for Arizona Policy and the Arizona Free Enterprise Club are not immune from Proposition 211, which was passed in 2022. The measure garnered wide support with its argument that the public has a right to know who is funding anonymous political messages from vaguely named committees.

Arizona – Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona Says She Won’t Seek Reelection, Avoiding 3-Way Race

MSN – Jonathan Cooper (Associated Press) | Published: 3/5/2024

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona announced she will not run for a second term after her estrangement from the Democratic Party left her politically homeless and without a clear path to reelection. Sinema’s decision avoids a three-way contest in one of the most closely watched 2024 Senate races, a hard-to-forecast scenario that spawned debate among political operatives about whether one major party would benefit in the quest for the Senate majority. Most analysts agreed Sinema had faced significant, likely insurmountable hurdles if she had decided to run.

Arizona – Arizona’s Trump Electors Subpoenaed in Grand Jury Investigation

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2024

A grand jury issued subpoenas to Republicans who took part in the attempt to overturn the 2020 presidential election by signing and transmitting paperwork that falsely purported to show Donald Trump had won Arizona’s 11 electoral votes. The subpoenas request each of the Republicans testify before the grand jury about their involvement in the elector plan. They are part of an investigation by Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, who has indicated her office would soon conclude the criminal probe.

California – Billionaire Flynn Says He Met Newsom Staff in Lobbying Effort Against Wage Bill

MSN – Eliyahu Kamisher, Daniela Sirtori-Cortina, and Josh Eidelson (Bloomberg) | Published: 3/1/2024

Billionaire Greg Flynn, who owns two dozen Panera Bread franchises in California, said he suggested excluding fast-casual restaurants from a bill raising minimum wages for fast-food workers in the state, but was surprised when chains that make and sell bread were specifically exempted from the final legislation. Flynn, a long-time Newsom campaign donor and one of the world’s largest restaurant-franchise operators, said he never met with the governor over the bill, though he “did meet with his staff in a group meeting with other restaurant owners.”

California – Ethics Overhaul Looks to Be Heading to Easy Victory

San Francisco Examiner – Troy Wolverton | Published: 3/5/2024

Voters approved Proposition D, a measure to overhaul San Francisco’s ethics laws, which was prompted by the corruption scandal involving former Department of Public Works Director Mohammed Nuru. It broadens the definition of people who are prohibited from giving gifts to city officials. The measure also greatly increases the number of city officials who would be required to undergo annual ethics training, among other provisions.

California – San Francisco Commissioner Resigns After City Says She OK’d Nonprofit’s Fake Invoices

San Francisco Standard – Jonah Owen Lamb | Published: 2/29/2024

The chairperson of the commission that oversaw a new community center in San Francisco resigned after facing allegations she approved false invoices for a nonprofit that bilked the city for at least $100,000. Susan Murphy resigned after the city attorney’s office announced the findings of an investigation that alleged Murphy approved the invoices for a nonprofit called J&J Community Resource Center, which provides services for low-income families and youth. Murphy used to be the nonprofit’s secretary, according to tax filings.

Connecticut – CT Election Regulators Want More Oversight of Local Town and City Political Campaign Finances

CT Insider – Ken Dixon | Published: 3/5/2024

Local political candidates including mayors, selectmen, and school boards would be required to file their campaign finance statements electronically with the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) under legislation supported by Connecticut’s top election regulator. Michael Brandi, executive director and general counsel of the SEEC, said the current system, in which candidates for local office file their reports in local city and town halls, is hard to monitor by the SEEC, the public, and the news media.

Florida – Moms for Liberty’s Descovich Hit with Ethics Complaint as She Awaits Confirmation to Ethics Commission

Florida Bulldog – Dan Christensen | Published: 3/5/2024

Tina Descovich, co-founder of the controversial political group Moms for Liberty, awaits a confirmation vote before the state Senate for a seat on the Florida Commission on Ethics, even as a newly filed complaint could well lead to her ouster. Descovich is not registered to lobby in Tallahassee, or apparently anywhere else. But she has been an outspoken advocate pushing a variety of conservative public policy positions with Gov. Ron DeSantis and legislators. “Members [of the commission] are prohibited from lobbying state and local governments,” according to the commission’s rules.

Florida – Deegan’s Chief of Staff Says Questions About Consultant Are ‘Political Shenanigans’

MSN – David Bauerlein (Florida Times-Union) | Published: 3/7/2024

Jacksonville City Council members questioned how a consultant working on a city grant-writing contract got a badge for entry to City Hall and a cubicle in the mayor staff’s office without going through a background check since he had a misdemeanor conviction in 1989. At issue is how the city handles background checks for contract employees and what the policy is for providing entry badges to them so they are able to enter City Hall and designated offices within the building.

Florida – Appeals Court Blocks Fla. ‘Stop Woke Act,’ Says It’s a ‘First Amendment Sin’

MSN – Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) | Published: 3/4/2024

A federal appeals court upheld a ruling that blocked Florida from enforcing a law, backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that restricts how private companies teach diversity and inclusion in the workplace. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit ruled the Stop Woke Act “exceeds the bounds” of the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment right to freedom of speech and expression in its attempts to regulate workplace trainings on race, color, sex, and national origin.

Illinois – Ex-Illinois State Sen. Terry Link Gets Probation for Campaign-Cash Tax Conviction

MSN – Jason Meisner and Ray Long (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/6/2024

Former Illinois Sen. Terry Link, who wore a secret FBI wire in a sting against a colleague in the Legislature, was sentenced to three years of probation on tax evasion charges stemming from the withdrawal of campaign funds for personal use. Link pleaded guilty to failing to report income on his tax returns to the IRS and spending more than $73,000 in campaign funds on personal expenses.

Kansas – Wichita City Council Lifts Ban on Corporate Political Donations, with One Requirement

MSN – Matthew Kelly (Wichita Eagle) | Published: 3/4/2024

The Wichita City Council voted to lift a short-lived ban on corporate campaign contributions to city candidates. The rollback of the campaign finance reform was approved as council members supported an amendment requiring candidates to report the name of the principal owner of the company that gave to their campaign. Another amendment that would have banned the practice of giving multiple donations through different companies failed.

Kentucky – Appeals Court Sides with GOP Constitutional Officers on Ethics Commission Power

Kentucky Lantern – McKenna Horsley | Published: 3/1/2024

A ruling from a three-judge panel of the Kentucky Court of Appeals upheld a law allowing the state’s constitutional officers to each appoint a member of the Executive Branch Ethics Commission. Gov. Andy Beshear, whose office has said it will ask the state Supreme Court to hear the case, filed a lawsuit block the law that reduced his authority over appointments to the commission. The governor had been responsible for appointing the five commission members.

Maine – Judge Suspends Enforcement of New Maine Law Barring Foreign Spending on Referendum Elections

Maine Public – Steve Mistler | Published: 3/1/2024

A federal judge delayed the implementation of a voter-approved law in Maine that aimed to close an election law loophole by stopping foreign government spending on state referendum races. U.S. District Court Judge Nancy Torresen issued a preliminary injunction on the day before the new law was to go into effect. Torresen suggested she viewed significant portions of the law could include domestically held corporations and, as a result, is unconstitutional.

Maine – Measure to Limit PAC Contributions in Maine Could Be Headed for November Ballot

Portland Press Herald – Eric Russell | Published: 2/22/2024

An effort to limit individual and business contributions to PACs in Maine is likely headed for the November ballot. Although the proposal only applies to Maine-based PACs, the measure is seen as a test case for national supporters of campaign finance reform whose broader goal is to regulate PACs that have operated unchecked, and often in secret, for years. The citizen initiative as written would limit annual contributions to PACs from individuals, business, and other PACs to $5,000 in a calendar year. Right now, there are no limits.

Mississippi – Campaign Finance Reform Bill Gets Cold Response; Lawmakers Axe Transparency Component

Mississippi Today – Geoff Pender | Published: 3/6/2024

Campaign finance reform legislation in Mississippi would add transparency, increase penalties and fines, and allow the secretary of state to sidestep the attorney general office’s office if it refuses to go after alleged violations of the law. But lawmakers on the Senate Elections Committee were skeptical of the bill. They removed its main transparency component, and added a “reverse repealer,” ensuring it cannot be passed into law as is. Only then did they send it along to the full Senate.

Nevada – New Ethics Standards Coming to Clark County Government

MSN – Taylor Avery (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 3/5/2024

Clark County commissioners and some county employees have some new ethics rules to follow. Commissioners unanimously approved a handful of changes to the ethics law, including revisions to how conflicts-of-interest are disclosed, clarifications to language about waiting periods, and changes to required training on ethics standards.

Nevada – As CSN Taps Ex-Rep. Ruben Kihuen for Lobbyist Job, Some Lawmakers Question the Move

Nevada Independent – Jacob Solis | Published: 3/1/2024

Soon after the College of Southern Nevada announced it would hire former U.S. Rep. Ruben Kihuen, who left Congress amid an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations, as its top lobbyist, some lawmakers signaled concerns about working with him. As the college’s new executive director of government affairs, Kihuen’s job would require frequent, sometime one-on-one meetings with lawmakers and lobbyists. “To put us in a position where we’re making women uncomfortable in the building, I think, is unacceptable,” said a female lawmaker.

New Jersey – N.J. Was Once Heralded for Its Tough Pay-to-Play Laws. Not Anymore.

MSN – Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 3/4/2024

The Elections Transparency Act reworked New Jersey’s campaign finance system. While the reforms injected more money into politics, raising overall contribution limits for the first time in two decades, it also required “dark money” groups to disclose their major donors. Supporters of the new law insist the old rules were confusing, difficult to enforce, and rife with workarounds that made them ineffective. But critics maintain the changes only made things worse, all but dismantling “pay-to-play” rules once heralded as the strongest in the nation.

New York – Former Trump CFO Allen Weisselberg Pleads Guilty to Perjury in Deal That Doesn’t Require Cooperation

MSN – Jake Offenhartz and Michael Sisak (Associated Press) | Published: 3/4/2024

Allen Weisselberg, the former chief financial officer of Donald Trump’s company, pleaded guilty to lying under oath during his testimony in the ex-president’s New York civil fraud case. His plea deal will send him back to jail but does not require that he testify at Trump’s hush-money criminal trial. In pleading guilty, Weisselberg found himself caught again between the law and his loyalty to Trump.

New York – Meet the New York City Hall Community Liaison Whose House Was Raided by the FBI

MSN – Joe Anuta and Jeff Coltin (Politico) | Published: 3/4/2024

The FBI searched the two homes of Winnie Greco, a longtime aide to Ner York City Mayor Eric Adams, making her the second community liaison in the administration caught up in a federal probe. Greco is the administration’s director of Asian Affairs. Neither she nor anyone in the Adams administration has been accused of a crime, though the New York Post reported federal officials suspect Greco of potentially orchestrating straw donors who gave to the mayor’s campaign.

Ohio – Ohio AG to PUCO: HB6 subpoenas could let Randazzo, FirstEnergy execs escape prosecution

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/1/2024

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) significantly narrowed its investigations into the alleged bribery schemes of FirstEnergy, blocking subpoenas of its former chairperson and the two corporate executives accused of bribing him. The order from Attorney Examiner Megan Addison, came within 24 hours of a request from a top lawyer with the attorney general’s office to stop the subpoenas. She warned failure to do so could imperil the state’s criminal bribery cases against former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones, company lobbyist Mike Dowling, and PUCO Chairperson Sam Randazzo.

Ohio – Alicia Reece’s Convention Center Votes Raise Conflict of Interest Question

MSN – Sharon Coolidge and Scott Wartman (Cincinnati Enquirer) | Published: 3/6/2024

Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece has twice cast the lone “no” vote in matters related to the Duke Energy Convention Center’s renovation. In February, she abstained on a vote to spend $10 million in county money on the expansion. Her father, Steve Reece Sr., has been paid nearly $200,000 by the firm that runs the center, Oak View Group, to book events there. Any decisions the commissioners make about the convention center, including votes related to renovation, could impact her father’s contract.

Ohio – J.R. Majewski, Embattled Congressional Candidate, Exits Ohio House Race

Yahoo News – Ally Mutnick (Politico) | Published: 3/2/2024

J.R. Majewski announced he will bow out of the GOP primary for a key Ohio congressional seat after a week of waffling on his future in the race. His departure before the March 19 primary is welcome news for the House Republicans leaders who have maneuvered behind the scenes to nudge him out of the primary out of fear that he would lose the general election to U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, a Democrat.

Oregon – Ninth Circuit Rejects GOP Senators’ Appeal for Reelection After Walkouts

Courthouse News Service – Alanna Mayham | Published: 2/29/2024

Two Republican state senators who boycotted Oregon’s Legislature in 2023 lost an appeal after a three-judge panel ruled legislative walkouts are not a form of free speech. The lawsuit followed an order from Oregon Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade that upheld a voter-backed measure barring lawmakers from reelection if they accrued over 10 unapproved absences during a legislative session.

Oregon – Oregon House Passes Compromise Campaign Finance Reform Bill

Yahoo News – Dianne Lugo (Salem Statesman-Journal) | Published: 3/6/2034

The Oregon House passed a campaign finance bill that would establish new contributions limits. Oregon is one of five states without caps on campaign donations and one of 11 without limits on individual candidate contributions. Lawmakers adopted final amendments on House Bill 4024 after discussions during the session between labor unions, business groups and good-government advocates. If the bill is signed into law, backers of ballot initiative efforts said they would withdraw petitions that would bring reform to November’s ballot.

South Dakota – State House Bans Senator for Breach of Decorum

South Dakota Searchlight – Joshua Haiar and Makenzie Huber | Published: 3/4/2024

A state senator has been banned from the South Dakota House floor and lobby for the last week of the 2024 legislative session after placing a bottle of syrup on another lawmaker’s desk. Sen. Tom Pischke placed the bottle of syrup on Rep. Kristin Conzet’s desk days after Conzet motioned to defeat a commemoration celebrating the late Nancy Green, whose likeness was used to create the Aunt Jemima advertising character.

Tennessee – Another Tennessee Legal Battle Brews Over Bill Preventing Challenge of House Rules in State Court

Tennessee Lookout – Sam Stockard | Published: 2/29/2024

A Tennessee House committee passed legislation removing state courts from challenges of House rules despite the threat of another court battle. House Bill 1652 says circuit, chancery, and other lower state courts would no longer have jurisdiction over cases involving House and Senate rules. Rep. Gino Bulso contends the First Amendment does not apply to House rules and argues the Constitution allows the Legislature to hold floor sessions in secret without judicial review.

Virginia – Virginia Senator Who Does Legal Work for Skill Game Industry Will Help Write Skill Game Bill

Virginia Mercury – Graham Moomaw | Published: 2/29/2024

A state senator whose law firm has helped the skill game industry fight Virginia’s ban on the slots-like gambling machines is among the handful of senators picked to write legislation behind closed doors that could determine whether the industry remains profitable or ceases to exist in the state. Many members of the Virginia General Assembly are lawyers, and it is not uncommon for them to vote on legislation that could conceivably impact a client. Tangential associations are not usually enough to trigger the conflict-of-interest law.

Wisconsin – Pro-Trump Lawyers Central to Alternate-Elector Plot Settle Wisconsin Lawsuit

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 3/4/2024

Two attorneys who advanced a strategy to try to overturn the 2020 presidential election by organizing rosters of Republicans to falsely portray Donald Trump as the winner of several states, have reached a legal settlement in Wisconsin with the state’s two rightful electors and a Democratic voter, ending a lawsuit. As part of the settlement, James Troupis, a former Dane County judge who oversaw Trump’s legal efforts in Wisconsin, and Kenneth Chesbro, an architect of the plan to try to invalidate Joe Biden’s win by convening Republican electors in seven states, released a trove of their communications about their work after the 2020 election.

March 7, 2024 • Written by Ryan Silvestro

San Francisco Voters Approve Proposition D Changing City Ethics Law

Voters approved a ballot measure making changes to the city ethics law. Proposition D imposes more restrictive prohibitions on gifts to public officials and requires additional ethics training for public officials. Certain definitions such as bribery are amended to become […]

March 7, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Connecticut: “CT Election Regulators Want More Oversight of Local Town and City Political Campaign Finances” by Ken Dixon for CT Insider Elections National: “The Fed Hates Politics. Now It’s Trying to Cut Rates in an Election Year.” by Rachel Siegel (Washington Post) […]

March 6, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Kansas: “Wichita City Council Lifts Ban on Corporate Political Donations, with One Requirement” by Matthew Kelly (Wichita Eagle) for MSN Maine: “Measure to Limit PAC Contributions in Maine Could Be Headed for November Ballot” by Eric Russell for Portland Press Herald Elections […]

March 5, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “FEC Allows Candidates to More Easily Pay Themselves from Campaign Funds” by Taylor Giorno (The Hill) for MSN New Jersey: “N.J. Was Once Heralded for Its Tough Pay-to-Play Laws. Not Anymore.” by Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) for […]

March 4, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Arizona: “Judge Dismisses Challenge to New Arizona Campaign Finance Law Exposing Dark Money Donors” by Sasha Hupka (Arizona Republic) for MSN Maine: “Judge Suspends Enforcement of New Maine Law Barring Foreign Spending on Referendum Elections” by Steve Mistler for Maine Public Ethics […]

March 1, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – March 1, 2024

National/Federal Lawmakers Across the U.S. Seek to Curb Utility Spending on Politics, Ads and More Extras Arkansas Advocate – Robert Zullo | Published: 2/27/2024 After a string of scandals and amid rising bills, lawmakers in statehouses across the country have been pushing […]

National/Federal

Lawmakers Across the U.S. Seek to Curb Utility Spending on Politics, Ads and More Extras

Arkansas Advocate – Robert Zullo | Published: 2/27/2024

After a string of scandals and amid rising bills, lawmakers in statehouses across the country have been pushing legislation to curb utilities spending ratepayer money on lobbying, expert testimony in rate cases, goodwill advertising, charitable giving, trade association memberships, and other costs. At least a dozen states have considered bills to limit how gas, water, and electric utilities can spend customers’ money.

N.R.A. Stung by Corruption Verdict Tied to Millions of Misspent Dollars

DNyuz – Jesse McKinley, Liset Cruz, and Kate Christobek (New York Times) | Published: 2/23/2024

In a sweeping rebuke of the National Rifle Association (NRA), a jury ruled its leaders had engaged in a yearslong pattern of financial misconduct and corruption. The jury found the group’s former leader, Wayne LaPierre, had used NRA funds pay for personal expenses, including vacations, luxury flights for his relatives, and yacht rides, and that two other top executives had failed in their duties to the nonprofit organization.

Instagram’s Uneasy Rise as a News Site

DNyuz – Sapna Maheshwari and Mike Isaac (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2024

A crop of personalities figured out how to package information and deliver it on Instagram, increasingly turning the social platform into a force in news. Many millennials and Gen X-ers, in an echo of how older generations used Facebook, have grown more comfortable reading news on Instagram and reposting posts and videos for friends on Instagram Stories, which disappear after 24 hours. Traditional news organizations have large Instagram feeds where they share reporting, but these news accounts hold a different appeal and have become more visible in recent years.

RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel Will Leave Post on March 8 as Trump Moves to Install New Loyalists

MSN – Steve Peoples (Associated Press) | Published: 2/26/2024

Republican National Committee Chairperson Ronna McDaniel will leave her post on March 8, having been forced out of the GOP’s national leadership as Donald Trump moves toward another presidential nomination and asserts control over the party. McDaniel was a strong advocate for the former president and helped reshape the party in his image. But the MAGA movement increasingly blamed McDaniel for Trump’s 2020 loss and the party’s failures to meet expectations in races the last two years.

As Trump Continues to Trounce Haley, She Presses on as MAGA Antagonist

MSN – Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) | Published: 2/25/2024

Nikki Haley suffered another blow in the lopsided race for the Republican presidential nomination, losing to Donald Trump by about 20 points in her home state of South Carolina. Yet she promised to press on. As the last Republican candidate standing against Trump, she has drawn polarized reactions as she has become a vehicle for the deep discontent that some in the party feel about a Trump rematch with President Biden.

Court Battle Reveals Effort to Undermine No Labels Presidential Bid

MSN – Michael Scherer (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

Political operatives opposed to No Labels’ potential 2024 presidential ticket took over the NoLabels.com domain last year and purchased Google search ads aimed at spreading the misleading claim that the group supported Donald Trump and other right-wing causes, according to testimony. The court case comes amid ongoing debate over the goals of the No Labels effort, which aims to potentially place a yet-to-be-identified bipartisan presidential ticket on as many ballots as possible.

Supreme Court to Weigh Trump’s Immunity Claim in D.C. 2020 Election Trial

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2024

Donald Trump’s trial for seeking to subvert the 2020 election is likely to remain on hold for several more months while the U.S. Supreme Court takes up his argument that he is immune from prosecution for actions he took while president. The justices set arguments for the week of April 22 to consider a lower court ruling that rejected Trump’s sweeping assertion of immunity from prosecution. The move puts the Supreme Court in the politically fraught position of influencing the timing of an election obstruction trial for the leading Republican presidential candidate.

Justices Skeptical of Tex., Fla. Laws That Bar Platforms from Deleting Content

MSN – Ann Marimow and Cat Zakrzewski (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

A majority of the U.S. Supreme Court seemed broadly skeptical that state governments have the power to set rules for how social media platforms curate content, with both liberal and conservative justices inclined to stop Texas and Florida from immediately implementing laws that ban the removal of certain controversial posts or political content. A majority of the court seemed to think the First Amendment prevents state governments from requiring platforms such as Facebook and YouTube to host certain content.

McConnell Will Step Down as the Senate Republican Leader in November After a Record Run in the Job

Yahoo News – Michael Tackett (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2024

Mitch McConnell, the longest serving Senate leader in history who maintained his power in the face of dramatic turmoil in the Republican Party or almost two decades, will step down from that position in November. McConnell said he plans to serve out his Senate term, which ends in January 2027. His decision punctuates an ideological transition underway in the Republican Party, from Ronald Reagan’s brand of traditional conservatism and strong international alliances, to the fiery, often isolationist populism of Donald Trump.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Ethics Commission Pushes Back on Proposed Law Changes

Alabama Daily News – Mary Sell | Published: 2/29/2024

Alabama Rep. Matt Simpson said he is not giving up on efforts to add clarity to the state’s ethics law. During a public hearing, those speaking against Simpson’s reform bill included Alabama Ethics Commission Executive Director Tom Albritton, and commission member and former state Supreme Court Justice Lyn Stuart. “There are specific provisions which can be addressed and should be addressed, but an entire rewrite of the act would be overkill and would be bad for the people of Alabama.,” said Albritton.

California – California Lawmakers Can’t Take Lobbyist Donations – Unless They’re Running for Congress

MSN – Julia Wick, Anabel Sosa, and Gabrielle LaMarr LeMee (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/24/2024

State law forbids California lobbyists from donating to the campaigns of state lawmakers. But there are no such restrictions on lobbyists donating to campaigns for federal office, even when the candidate is a state lawmaker. So as state Sen. Susan Rubio runs for Congress this year, she can take donations for her federal campaign from lobbyists who may seek to influence her votes in Sacramento. Lobbyists are not required to publicly report which lawmakers they have attempted to influence on various bills, making it difficult to draw direct lines between their lobbying efforts and their donations.

California – Orange County’s Wild West of Campaign Finance: The Board of Education

Voice of OC – Noah Biesiada | Published: 2/28/2024

Almost every campaign for city, county and state government in Orange County has a limit on how much donors can give to their favorite candidates. But one big outlier is the county Board of Education, which has no limitations on political contributions. A review of the most recent election cycle found over $700,000 in contributions to the current board that would violate state campaign finance limits for cities and counties without their own campaign financing caps. But they are legal for school districts and boards of education.

Florida – The End of Public Campaign Finance? Senate Approves Referendum to Repeal Standing Law

Florida Politics – A.G. Gancarski | Published: 2/28/2024

Florida voters may soon decide whether to end a program providing matching state funds for candidates that agree to spending limits. The Senate approved a measure approving a ballot referendum asking voters to weigh in on repealing the Florida Election Campaign Financing Act. Accessing that money is one way that candidates who are not wealthy can get a leg up to make their cases to the voters.

Florida – DeSantis Staffers Blocked Public Records, Ex-Law Enforcement Officials Say

MSN – Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2024

Top aides to Gov. Ron DeSantis blocked the release of records detailing his taxpayer-funded travel and retaliated against those who favored making them public, according to sworn statements from two former Florida Department of Law Enforcement officials. The statements were filed as part of a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a new state law limiting release of the governor’s travel records. The officials describe DeSantis’s staff demanding a close review of many requests from media organizations, often hampering the release of public information.

Georgia – ‘Star Witness’ Testifies His Claims About Fani Willis Were Only ‘Speculation’

MSN – Holly Bailey and Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2024

A lawyer billed as the “star witness” in the case to disqualify Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis testified it was mere “speculation” when he told a defense attorney that Willis began a romantic relationship in 2019 with the outside lawyer that she appointed to lead the case against Donald Trump, years earlier than Willis has publicly acknowledged. Defense attorneys had claimed his testimony would “refute” claims by Willis and Wade that their romantic relationship began months after Wade was appointed to manage the Trump case.

Hawaii – City Ethics Commission Reviews Gift Prohibitions for Employees

Yahoo News – Ian Bauer (Honolulu Star-Advertiser) | Published: 2/22/2024

A proposal to prohibit city and county of Honolulu employees from accepting gifts related to their official duties is under scrutiny. But Bill 26 is on a tight two-year deadline, with a looming expiration date in April, to either pass or die while it awaits further council review. As drafted, it would prohibit gifts to the mayor, prosecuting attorney, council members, city administration officers, or any person employed by the city, to curb potential conflicts-of-interest or even prevent public corruption.

Illinois – Unlimited Funds Can Flow in State’s Attorney, Board of Review, Circuit Court Clerk Races

MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/27/2024

Retired Judge Eileen O’Neill Burke has opened the door for unlimited cash to flow into the Cook County state’s attorney primary, making that race the latest county contest without contribution limits. Candidates can also rake in as much cash as they want in the Circuit Court clerk and the county’s Board of Review races. The shattered contribution limits are thanks to the personal wealth of the candidates or in one case, their main benefactor.

Kentucky – ‘It’s the Metro Council That’s on Trial’: Opening arguments made on day one of Piagentini trial

MSN – Eleanor McCrary (Louisville Courier Journal) | Published: 2/27/2024

Louisville Metro Council Court began to weigh the removal of member Anthony Piagentini. He is accused of using his position to land a $40 million grant for the Louisville Healthcare CEO Council, a nonprofit, to receive federal American Rescue Plan money. He removed himself as a sponsor of the ordinance and did not vote on it, citing a conflict-of-interest. The day after the vote, he accepted a one-year consulting position with the organization.

Kentucky – $25 Million Was Spent in 2023 to Influence KY Legislators. Who Wrote the Biggest Lobbying Checks?

Yahoo News – Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 2/23/2024

How do you try to influence Kentucky’s Legislature and win their favor? Spending nearly $25 million to lobby lawmakers is one way, state records reveal. Despite the odd-numbered short session year, the spending topped the record set in 2022, which was about $22.4 million. Several lobbyists were paid well as a result.

Massachusetts – Suffolk DA Kevin Hayden Is Facing Two Ethics Probes from Separate State Entities

MSN – Danny McDonald (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/24/2024

Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden is facing two ethics investigations related to statements he made about his opponent during the 2022 race. The contest to serve a full term as district attorney was Boston city politics at its most bare-knuckled. One of the ethics probes is by the state’s Office of Bar Counsel, which investigates allegations of lawyer misconduct. Hayden is also being investigated by the state ethics commission for similar allegations.

Michigan – Indiana Man Andrew Nickels Indicted in Threats About 2020 Election Results Pleads Guilty

Detroit News – Robert Snell | Published: 2/27/2024

An Indiana man accused of threatening to kill former Rochester Hills Clerk Tina Barton for defending the integrity of the 2020 presidential election pleaded guilty, a development coinciding with Michigan’s 2024 presidential primary election. Andrew Nickels pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum five-year prison sentence.

Michigan – Biden Wins Michigan Primary but Faces Notable Showing by ‘Uncommitted’

MSN – Yasmeen Abutaleb and Marianne LeVine (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2024

President Biden won Michigan’s Democratic primary but faced a challenge from voted selecting “uncommitted” to protest his handling of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, a potential sign of vulnerability for Biden. Donald Trump continued his sweep of early primary contests, but former Nikki Haley appeared poised to garner a significant share of the vote, an indicator of Trump’s own potential vulnerabilities in November’s general election.

Missouri – ‘Dark Cloud’: Ethics investigation of Dean Plocher continues to hang over Missouri House

Missouri Independent – Jason Hancock | Published: 2/27/2024

Dean Plocher’s last year as Missouri House speaker was not supposed to go this way. He was riding high at the end of the 2023 legislative session, able to point to big wins while pinning any disappointments on continued dysfunction in the state Senate. Ploucher had amassed an impressive campaign fund he hoped would help carry him to the lieutenant governor’s office in the upcoming elections. But in the midst of the 2024 session, things could not get much worse.

Nevada – Judge Blocks 2024 Ballot Initiatives Seeking Independent Redistricting

MSN – Jessica Hill (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 2/20/2024

A judge ruled that two initiative petitions aiming to change how Nevada redraws state and federal legislative districts were legally deficient and cannot be placed on the 2024 November ballot. The judge sided with Clark County resident Eric Jeng, who argued the petitions violated the state constitution because they would require government funding.

New Hampshire – Democratic Operative Admits to Commissioning Biden AI Robocall in New Hampshire

MSN – Pranshu Verma and Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

Steve Kramer, a longtime Democratic consultant working for presidential candidate Dean Phillips, admitted he commissioned the artificial intelligence-generated robocall of Joe Biden that was sent to New Hampshire voters in January and triggered a state criminal investigation. After the robocall, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a ruling that clarified generating a voice with AI for robocalls is illegal and issued a cease-and-desist letter to Kramer.

New Jersey – N.J. AG Corruption Investigation Focuses on George Norcross’ Influence Over Camden Waterfront Developments, Sources Say

MSN – Andrew Seidman and Jeremy Roebuck (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/29/2024

South Jersey Democratic power broker George Norcross III has found himself under scrutiny from state and federal authorities repeatedly over the last two decades. They have tapped his phones, had an informant record his conversations, and reviewed scores of documents. But they have never filed criminal charges. Now, prosecutors appear to be trying again, this time with a wide-ranging probe by the state attorney general’s office and the FBI.

New York – Democrats Propose Slight Changes to N.Y. Congressional Districts

Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 2/27/2024

Democratic state lawmakers unveiled a slightly reconfigured map for New York’s 26 congressional districts they are proposing should be used for the remainder of the decade. The map was issued a day after they voted to reject a bipartisan commission’s map. Republican lawmakers, who had warned they would file new litigation if Democrats created new boundaries that would benefit their candidates, remained relatively quiet as the proposed maps would have only marginal impacts on either party.

New York – NYC’s Public Housing Agency Seeking ‘Restitution’ in Corruption Scheme

Gothamist – Dave Brand and Brittany Kriegstein | Published: 2/27/2024

New York City’s public housing agency will belatedly implement more than a dozen recommendations meant to stop low-level corruption within the next year while seeking “restitution” from employees implicated in a long-running kickback scheme, administrators said. Top officials from the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) made the commitments during a city council hearing, three weeks after 70 current and former NYCHA employees were charged with taking cash bribes from vendors in exchange for small repair contracts.

New York – Judge Won’t Delay Trump Financial Penalty but Lets Sons Remain atop Company for Now

MSN – Shayna Jacobs and Mark Berman (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2024

A judge rejected a request from Donald Trump to delay enforcement of a judgment totaling at least $4500 million while he appeals that order but allowed the former president’s adult sons to remain in leadership positions at the Trump Organization for the time being. New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron had determined Trump and others had given false data to financial institutions and insurance companies so they could borrow money at lower rates and save on costs.

New York – N.Y. Prosecutor Seeks Trump Gag Order, Jury Protections Ahead of 1st Criminal Trial

MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

Prosecutors preparing for Donald Trump’s first criminal trial in March are seeking a partial gag order to prevent the former president and those speaking on his behalf from disparaging witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case, and have asked a judge to protect jurors by shielding their names and addresses from public view. The motions show the high stakes and tensions surrounding the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president, one of four prosecutions Trump faces as he closes in on the 2024 Republican nomination for president.

Ohio – A Former Ohio House Speaker Is in Prison. A Top Regulator Is Indicted. But State Lawmakers Still Haven’t Touched Ethics Reform

MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/25/2024

There is little sign that Ohio lawmakers will pass legislation addressing the largest corruption case in the state’s history, even following the recent indictments of former top state utilities regulator Sam Randazzo and two former FirstEnergy executives, and a 20-year prison sentence for former House Speaker Larry Householder. Randazzo and Householder were charged with accepting millions of dollars in bribe money to secure FirstEnergy’s policy priorities. Democratic lawmakers, who are behind a majority of the reform bills, say it is a reflection of how dominant of a hold Republicans have on the statehouse.

Oklahoma – How Libs of TikTok Became a Powerful Presence in Oklahoma Schools

MSN – Taylor Lorenz (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2024

Far-right activist Chaya Raichik splits her time between California, where she is registered to vote, and Florida, where she often travels. But the place where she arguably is having the biggest impact these days is Oklahoma, a state she has visited only once. Raichik, who operates the social media account Libs of TikTok, has amassed an audience of millions on X, largely by targeting LGBTQ+ people. In January, Raichik was appointed to the Oklahoma Library Media Advisory Committee.

Oregon – Lawmakers Push to Pass Oregon Campaign Finance Limits in Next 2 Weeks, Amid Concerns About Loopholes

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/24/2024

Oregon lawmakers from both parties indicated that passing campaign finance limits has become a priority this legislative session. During a hearing in the House Rules Committee, lawmakers, union leaders, and lobbyists for business groups testified in support of House Bill 4024, a compromise to restrict campaign contributions and require additional disclosure of political spending.

Oregon – Portland, Businesses Push for Public Records Exemption Amid Pending Release of Which Firms Paid Clean Energy Tax

MSN – Shane Dixon Kavanaugh (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/28/2024

Oregon lawmakers are considering a change to the state’s public records law as Portland officials and business groups attempt to block the release of information related to the city’s voter-approved climate fund. But journalists have raised alarms that the proposal could have broad unintended consequences that would lessen government accountability.

Pennsylvania – McClelland’s Pa. Treasurer Campaign Raised and Spent Money Months Before It Officially Existed

Pennsylvania Capital-Star – Peter Hall | Published: 2/28/2024

Erin McClelland, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for state treasurer, campaigned and accepted donations months before registering a fundraising committee with the Pennsylvania Department of State, as candidates for state office are required to do. While McClelland’s campaign chairperson said the donations and spending were properly reported to Allegheny County, election law experts say Pennsylvania’s campaign finance reporting rules are clear that statewide candidates must report their campaign donations and spending to the state.

Pennsylvania – Philly’s Ethics Board Is Changing the Rules at the Heart of Its Fight with the ‘Super PAC’ That Backed Jeff Brown’s Bid for Mayor

Philadelphia Inquirer – Sean Collins Walsh | Published: 2/21/2024

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics is moving to amend city campaign finance regulations in the wake of its botched lawsuit against the super PAC that supported Jeff Brown’s unsuccessful campaign in last year’s mayoral election. A notable change would clarify what constitutes illegal coordination between candidates and independent expenditure committees. That issue was at the center of the legal fight between the ethics board, Brown, and the super PAC supporting him.

Pennsylvania – Transparency and Accountability: Pennsylvania lawmakers target dark money in campaigns

WESA – Ben Wasserstein | Published: 2/26/2024

In 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court opened the floodgates for corporations and nonprofits to make unlimited hidden contributions to political causes. While Pennsylvania cannot override this federal decision, one state lawmaker believes it can make those entities more transparent with their spending. Rep. Joe Webster is proposing legislation that would require the disclosure of corporate expenditures on elections and limit donations, among other provisions.

Rhode Island – Providence NAACP President Found Guilty of Violating Campaign Finance Laws

MSN – Steph Machado (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/28/2024

The president of the Providence NAACP was found guilty of violating state campaign finance laws when he ran for city council in 2022. District Court Judge Anthony Capraro sentenced Gerard Catala to 20 hours of community service and a one-year filing, which means the case can be expunged if Catala stays out of trouble for a year. In handing down the sentence, Capraro noted Catala was given ample time and latitude to come into compliance with campaign finance laws, but it appeared “he just didn’t seem to want to.”

Virginia – Virginia’s Finance Reform Bill to Prevent Personal Use of Campaign Funds Defeated Again

MSN – Sarah Rankin (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2024

Virginia lawmakers defeated campaign finance reform legislation that would have prohibited elected officials from spending donations on personal expenses such as mortgages, vacations, or gym memberships. Virginia – which allows unlimited donations from individuals, corporations, and special interest groups – is a national outlier for lacking such a ban, and advocates at the General Assembly have been trying for more than a decade to put personal use restrictions on candidates’ spending.

Wisconsin – Wisconsin Ethics Commission Alleges Illegal Scheme by Trump Fundraising Committee and Rep. Janel Brandtjen

MSN – Molly Beck (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) | Published: 2/23/2024

The Wisconsin Ethics Commission recommended that state prosecutors file felony charges against a fundraising committee for Donald Trump and a state lawmaker related to an effort to unseat Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. The commission alleges Save America PAC and Rep. Janel Brandtjen conspired in a scheme to evade campaign donation limits to support the Republican primary challenger to Vos in 2022, steering at least $40,000 to the bid.

February 29, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance California: “Orange County’s Wild West of Campaign Finance: The Board of Education” by Noah Biesiada for Voice of OC Illinois: “Unlimited Funds Can Flow in State’s Attorney, Board of Review, Circuit Court Clerk Races” by A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) for MSN Pennsylvania: “McClelland’s […]

February 28, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Pennsylvania: “Transparency and Accountability: Pennsylvania lawmakers target dark money in campaigns” by Ben Wasserstein for WESA Elections National: “RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel Will Leave Post on March 8 as Trump Moves to Install New Loyalists” by Steve Peoples (Associated Press) for MSN […]

February 27, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Oregon: “Lawmakers Push to Pass Oregon Campaign Finance Limits in Next 2 Weeks, Amid Concerns About Loopholes” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN Elections National: “Court Battle Reveals Effort to Undermine No Labels Presidential Bid” by Michael Scherer (Washington Post) for […]

February 26, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Pennsylvania: “Philly’s Ethics Board Is Changing the Rules at the Heart of Its Fight with the ‘Super PAC’ That Backed Jeff Brown’s Bid for Mayor” by Sean Collins Walsh for Philadelphia Inquirer Wisconsin: “Wisconsin Ethics Commission Alleges Illegal Scheme by Trump […]

February 23, 2024 • Written by Allyson Smith

Alabama Bill Would Amend Ethics Act

A bill to be introduced by Representative Matt Simpson would transfer oversight of public officials from the Ethics Commission to district attorneys and the attorney general. The bill also allows for unlimited gifts from friends; allows officials to solicit gifts […]

February 23, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – February 23, 2024

National/Federal The Quiet Way Democrats Hope to Expand Their Power at the State Level DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 2/20/2024 Locked out of power on the U.S. Supreme Court and still playing catch-up against Republicans in the federal […]

National/Federal

The Quiet Way Democrats Hope to Expand Their Power at the State Level

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 2/20/2024

Locked out of power on the U.S. Supreme Court and still playing catch-up against Republicans in the federal judiciary, Democrats are hoping to gain a political advantage on a less visible but still important playing field: the state courts. Governors have the power to appoint judges in nearly every state. These responsibilities are set to take center stage in political campaigns this year, as the Democratic Governors Association begins a multimillion-dollar effort, called the Power to Appoint Fund, aimed at key governor’s races.

Election Deniers Seek to Rewrite the Law

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2024

More than three years after the 2020 election, the lies and falsehoods about President Biden’s victory persist, and they continue to influence efforts to pass election laws across the country. More than 70 bills in at least 25 states draw some connection to conspiracy theories about the 2020 election. Those theories include falsehoods about the security of ballot drop boxes and voting by undocumented citizens, as well as questions about fraudulent absentee ballots and corrupted election machines, all of which have been debunked.

Mike Lindell Must Pay Man $5M in ‘Prove Mike Wrong’ Challenge, Judge Says

MSN – Praveena Somasundaram (Wahington Post) | Published: 2/22/2024

In 2021, MyPillow founder Mike Lindell offered $5 million to anyone who could disprove his claim he had data showing voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election. Now, he must pay a man from Nevada that award, a federal judge ruled. If someone could “Prove Mike Wrong,” as the challenge was called, and show the data was unrelated to the election, they would get the payout, Lindell said ahead of an August 2021 “cyber symposium.” Robert Zeidman, a computer forensics expert did just that, a federal judge determined, upholding a previous ruling from a private arbitration panel.

Informant Charged with Lies About Bidens Also Claimed Russian Contacts, Feds Say

MSN – Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) | Published: 2/21/2024

A former FBI informant charged with making up a bribery scheme involving President Biden had contacts with Russian intelligence-affiliated officials, prosecutors said. Alexander Smirnov was charged with lying to the FBI when he claimed to have knowledge of corruption by Biden and his son Hunter. The accusations, memorialized in an FBI document, were championed by congressional Republicans but Smirnov’s indictment and detention memo suggest the allegations were not only false, but possibly a Russian-inspired smear.

Tax Records Reveal the Lucrative World of Covid Misinformation

MSN – Lauren Weber (Washington Post) | Published: 2/21/2024

Four major nonprofits that rose to prominence during the coronavirus pandemic by capitalizing on the spread of medical misinformation collectively gained more than $118 million between 2020 and 2022, enabling the organizations to deepen their influence. The influx of pandemic cash sent executive compensation soaring, boosted public outreach, and seeded the ability to wage legislative and legal battles to weaken vaccine requirements and defend physicians accused of spreading misinformation.

Juul’s Internal Playbook Opens a Rare Window into Influence in Washington

STAT News – Nicholas Florko | Published: 2/15/2024

Juul spent significant sums on registered lobbyists and political donations in 2018 and 2019, when the head of the Food and Drug Administration declared youth vaping an epidemic. Documents show Juul tried everything from orchestrating untraceable campaign contributions to paying think tanks for favorable research, to revamp its image and prevent both Congress and the FDA from taking action that could cost the company financially. The strategies are not necessarily surprising themselves, transparency advocates said. But it is rare to see them laid out like this.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – House Bill Would Close ‘Loophole’ Regarding Campaign Finance Reports

Eastern Arizona Courier – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 2/18/2024

Legislation in the Arizona House would amend the law that allows anyone who serves a four-year term to file the required annual reports on who gave them money and how they have spent it once after they get elected, and then not until January of the year they are on the ballot again. The issue arose after it was revealed that Gov. Katie Hobbs, first elected in 2022, did not file reports this January, which is different from what is required of members of the Legislature.

California – Fight Continues Over Whether Nonprofits Should Have to Disclose Lobbying Activity

Long Beach Post – Jason Ruiz | Published: 2/17/2024

The Long Beach Ethics Commission is continuing to revise its proposal to overhaul Long the lobbying disclosure law, something it plans to eventually present to city council, which will have the final say over any changes. The commission met to discuss the most recent draft addressing who must disclose meeting with city officials and attempts to influence policy, but the commission was again met with concerns from nonprofit leaders whose organizations might be included under the new rules.

California – L.A. Ethics Panel Rejects Proposed $11,250 Fine for Leslie Moonves as Too Low

MSN – Dakota Smithand Meg James (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/21/2024

The Los Angeles Ethics Commission rejected a proposed settlement between the city and former CBS Chief Executive Officer Leslie Moonves, saying a tougher penalty was warranted for Moonves, who had been accused of interfering with a police investigation into sexual assault allegations against him. Moonves had agreed to pay $11,250 to settle a complaint that accused him of inducing a government official to violate laws so Moonves would have a tactical advantage in a police complaint against him.

California – Anaheim Begins Implementing Changes from Fall of Reform Debates

Voice of OC – Hosam Elattar | Published: 2/20/2024

A corruption report alleged Disneyland resort interests and lobbyists exert enormous influence on Anaheim’s policy making. Investigators painted a picture of loose oversight on lobbyists, developer favoritism, and influence peddling by Disneyland Resort interests through the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce. Their findings led Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and city Councilperson Natalie Rubalcava to call for a series of reform proposals to be developed and debated, and which are now being implemented.

California – Anaheim Changes How Political Candidates Fundraise in Wake of Corruption Scandal

Voice of OC – Hosam Elattar | Published: 2/15/2024

Anaheim City Council members are changing campaign finance laws to limit how long candidates can fundraise debt repayment and how much they can loan themselves during elections. Two council members are calling for city staff to explore making it easier for residents to see who is spending in local elections and the financing behind the mailers they receive in their mailbox every election season.

Florida – Orange County Mayor Demings Fires Lobbyist Over Conflict of Interest

MSN – Stephen Hudak (Orlando Sentinel) | Published: 2/15/2024

Orange County fired lobbying firm GrayRobinson less than a week after the Orlando Sentinel revealed the lobbyist assigned to represent the county’s interests was behind legislation directly conflicting with its top legislative priority. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings labeled as “disturbing” the involvement of lobbyist Chris Carmody in a bill to limit the county’s authority over the Visit Orlando tourism marketing agency. But Demings moved more quickly than many expected.

Florida – Florida Law Blasted After Permission Slip Sent to Hear Black Author’s Book

MSN – Kim Bellware (Washington Post) | Published: 2/15/2024

A controversial law in Florida is facing renewed scrutiny after a rule about parental permission slips sparked confusion at a Miami elementary school when it asked parents to sign a slip allowing their children to hear a guest speaker read a book “written by an African American.” The state rule in question is an extension of a law Gov. Ron DeSantis touted as a way to help parents combat what he and other conservative figures claimed was “liberal indoctrination” woven through the K-12 and higher education system.

Georgia – Fani Willis’ Testimony Evokes Long-Standing Frustrations for Black Women Leaders

MSN – Matt Brown and Jocelyn Noveck (Associated Press) | Published: 2/17/2024

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is used to prosecuting high-profile, challenging cases. But as she parried questions about her own personal conduct from the witness stand against the legal teams for defendants her office has accused of election interference, many Black women recognized a dispiriting scene. Willis testified during an extraordinary hearing that could result in her office being removed from the state’s case against Donald Trump.

Hawaii – Hawaii Has a Voter Enthusiasm Problem, Could Publicly Funded Campaigns Help?

Yahoo News – Jeremy Yurow (USA Today) | Published: 2/15/2024

Hawaii taxpayers could soon find themselves footing a $30 million bill to fund state political campaigns. Could this initiative breathe new life into local elections by ensuring more diverse candidates? Several lawmakers, activists, and residents say the answer is yes. The current system in Hawaii is seen as favoring a small group of donors, who often gain undue access to candidates and officials, according to the bill. Despite recent reforms, voter turnout is among the nation’s lowest.

Idaho – Support This Bill or Else: Idaho lawmakers cite pressure from ‘wealthy’ campaign donor

MSN – Ian Max Stevenson (Idaho Statesman) | Published: 2/20/2024

As a controversial bill to implement mandatory minimum prison sentences for fentanyl crimes made its way through the House, several key lawmakers reported having uncomfortable experiences with interested parties that amounted to a pressure campaign. They recounted receiving a clear, straightforward threat: vote against this bill, and I will bankroll your next opponent. House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel said Republicans have been threatened by “a very wealthy individual.”

Illinois – In Last-Minute Reversal, Former Sen. Sam McCann Pleads Guilty to Corruption Charges

Capitol News Illinois – Hannah Meisel | Published: 2/13/2024

As federal prosecutors were preparing to rest their case in the corruption trial of former state Sen. Sam McCann plead guilty on all counts. In the trial, prosecutors accused McCann of “greed, fraud and arrogance” in illegally using campaign funds for personal expenses, including paying two mortgages, financing multiple vehicles and vacations, fraudulently cutting himself checks for work not performed, and double-dipping on reimbursement for miles driven.

Illinois – Illinois Democratic PAC Loses Appeal of Massive Fines for Not Timely Reporting Campaign Spending

MSN – Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/21/2024

The State Board of Elections rejected a request to reconsider or lower more than $100,000 in fines levied against a PAC that helped expand the Democratic Party’s majority on the Illinois Supreme Court. The board’s unanimous vote followed a request by All for Justice, an independent expenditure PAC backed by Senate President Don Harmon, after it was fined $108,500 last year for failing to timely file detailed expenditure reports in spending $7.3 million. The fines were among the largest ever levied by the election board.

Illinois – As Corruption Trials Continue, Illinois Lobbyist Reform Effort Pushed in General Assembly

Yahoo News – Ray Long and Dan Patella (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/19/2024

As the Illinois General Assembly begins its spring session, legislation is being proposed that aims to tackle two key issues around lobbying – requiring statehouse lobbyists to report the compensation they receive from their clients and giving the secretary of state’s office the power to boot bad actors. Following a string of corruption trials, including a bribery scandal involving Commonwealth Edison and lobbyists trying to influence ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said, “The timing is ripe for this legislation to be acted on and passed.”

Indiana – Four Goshen School Board Members Criminally Charged with Campaign Finance Violations

WVPE – Mark Mazurek | Published: 2/21/2024

A campaign mailer for the 2022 Goshen School Board elections resulted in criminal charges against five candidates. The mailer endorsed Jose Elizalde, Mario Garber, Roger Nafziger and Andrea Johnson in the general election and denigrated an opposing slate of candidates. The candidates were fined by the election board last year, but now they face felony criminal charges for not disclosing the names of their donors.

Kentucky – Ethics Experts Say Kentucky Lawmaker’s Push to Ease Pollution Penalties for Local Companies – Including His Employer – Is a Problem

Louisville Public Media – R.G. Dunlop | Published: 2/16/2024

State Rep. Jared Bauman asked the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission if he could sponsor and vote on legislation that could benefit his employer. Commission Executive Director said because his proposed bill would affect “other, similarly situated businesses in the same way” it applied to Lubrizol Corp., there was no conflict-of-interest. Ethics experts said while Bauman’s involvement in the bill may not violate state law, it nevertheless highlights questions that arise when the perception of a conflict exists.

Maine – Special Funds Let Maine Lawmakers Raise and Spend with Few Limits

centralmaine.com – Randy Billings (Portland Press Herald) | Published: 2/18/2024

While restrictions remain for campaign contributions to a legislative candidate in Maine, businesses and individuals can donate unlimited amounts to PACs run by candidates after they are elected. More than a dozen lawmakers who have their own committees do not appear to have broken any rules. But disclosures highlight the widely diverging uses of the money and the loose regulations around so-called leadership PACs, which traditionally have been used by lawmakers to help elect political allies and build influence.

Maryland – Ethics Board Won’t Require Last Names of Mayor Scott’s Baby Registry Donors

Baltimore Brew – Mark Reutter | Published: 2/16/2024

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and fiancée Hana Pugh will not be required to fully identify the people or organizations that donated more than $12,000 worth of baby merchandise, gift cards, and cash to an online baby registry they set up, the city Ethics Board decided. Many of the people who sent presents and cash through the Babylist.com portal were identified only by their first names or nicknames, such as Weasel, Garfield, and Aunt Fuff. Others had untraceable organization names.

Michigan – Nessel Levels Charges Against Two GOP Political Fundraisers in Campaign Against Whitmer

Detroit News – Craig Mauger | Published: 2/21/2024

State Attorney General Dana Nessel charged two political operatives connected to the group Unlock Michigan, which protested COVID-era health orders, for their part in a “dark money” scheme. Heather Lombardini faces multiple criminal charges for allegedly violating Michigan campaign finance law by soliciting contributions for the petition drive utilizing two nonprofits to skirt disclosure requirements. Sandy Baxter was charged with perjury for allegedly lying about her involvement in the scheme.

Michigan – Sidney Powell and Other Trump-Aligned Lawyers Will Face Legal Penalties

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2024

Sidney Powell, L. Lin Wood, and several other lawyers who advanced Donald Trump’s false claims of a stolen election will face legal penalties after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to take up their appeal. The penalties, upwards of $130,000 in legal fees incurred by the election officials they sued, plus referrals to their state bar associations for potential discipline, stem from a lawsuit the lawyers filed in Michigan in November 2020.

Missouri – Missouri Treasurer Under Fire Over Ads on Slot Machines

St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Kurt Erickson | Published: 2/21/2024

The chairperson of a House budget panel said the state treasurer is refusing to appear before his committee to answer questions about links he may have to one of the top gas station gambling companies in Missouri. Rep. Scott Cupps had requested that Treasurer Vivek Malek appear before his House Budget subcommittee but was told the treasurer would not be available. Photos and videos taken by Cupps show payout kiosks for the slot machines now include advertisements for the state’s unclaimed property program, which is operated by Malek’s office.

New Mexico – Lawmakers for Second Year Kick Ethics Fixes Down the Road

New Mexico In Depth – Marjorie Childress | Published: 2/16/2024

An effort to fix the state’s anti-corruption statute after the New Mexico Supreme Court barred prosecutors from bringing criminal charges under several of its provisions was defeated in the Senate. The court ruled that three of the statute’s four provisions used by prosecutors were too vaguely written to result in criminal charges. The lack of action comes at a time when former Rep. Sheryl Williams Stapleton is reportedly negotiating a plea deal after being indicted on numerous criminal counts, including racketeering, money laundering, and fraud.

New Mexico – Lobbyists Spent Tens of Thousands of Dollars Wining, Dining Lawmakers

Yahoo News – Daniel Chacón | Published: 2/20/2024

Lobbyists spent close to $150,000 entertaining New Mexico lawmakers during this year’s 30-day legislative session. The spending is almost certainly much higher. Not only does the secretary of state’s office rely on voluntary compliance, but lobbyists are only required to report single expenditures of $500 or more during a legislative session.

New York – Appellate Court Hears Cuomo’s Challenge to Fledgling Ethics Agency

Albany Times Union – Dan Clark | Published: 2/16/2024

Judges on a state appellate court tasked with deciding the constitutionality of New York’s fledgling ethics agency expressed skepticism during a hearing on whether its investigative and enforcement powers should be restored. The case brought by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, centers on the constitutionality of the Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government, which was formed in 2022 and tasked with regulating and enforcing ethics rules in state government.

New York – New York Congressional Map Would Make Modest Tweaks to Swing House Seats

MSN – Colby Itkowitz (Washington Post) | Published: 2/15/2024

A congressional map for New York would make it easier for Democrats to flip at least one seat this year in a state critical to Democrats’ hopes of retaking the U.S. House majority. But an independent commission otherwise left the lines similar to those used in 2022 when Republicans picked up four House seats in New York. Democratic leaders in Albany can choose to instead advance a map that is more favorable to their party but would almost certainly face legal challenges.

New York – Judge Orders Trump to Pay More Than $350 Million after Civil Fraud Trial

MSN – Shayna Jacobs and Mark Berman (Washington Post) | Published: 2/16/2024

A judge ordered Donald Trump to pay more than $350 million in penalties, plus interest, following a civil fraud trial, finding he and others had carried out a years-long scheme to use “blatantly false financial data” to borrow money at lower rates. New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron issued a deluge of punishments, including years-long bans on Trump and his adult sons taking top jobs in companies in the state.

New York – A Family Affair: Carones give to legal defense fund in the nick of time

MSN – Irie Sentner (Politico) | Published: 2/20/2024

Employees of a firm run by Mayor Eric Adams’ former chief of staff registered as lobbyists weeks after he and his relatives gave $15,000 to Adams’ legal defense fund. The arrangement highlighted the murky ethics of contributing to a politician’s attorney fees. People in the city database, along with their spouses, are barred from giving to legal defense trusts. But because the Carones donated before appearing on the list, they were able to evade the prohibition.

Ohio – Summer Homes and (Attempted) Florida Trips. FirstEnergy Bribery Case Puts Millionaires on Trial

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/18/2024

Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones, the company’s former top lobbyist Mike Dowling, and former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo sat at the defense tables in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas at a recent hearing. They face charges including engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity. The defense arguments previewed what the state of Ohio is up against in a white-collar prosecution alleging a corrupt pipeline between FirstEnergy’s C-suite and Ohio’s top utility regulator: the kind of legal firepower that wealthy defendants can buy from well-heeled law firms.

Oklahoma – Bill Preventing Foreign Contributions to Ballot Initiatives, Now Going to Ethics Commission

Yahoo News – M. Scott Carter (Oklahoman) | Published: 2/21/2024

House Bill 3815 in Oklahoma prevents foreign contributions to ballot initiatives. After the state Ethics Commission expressed concern, the bill was withdrawn from the House Rules Committee and is now being considered by the commission. Since the legislation created a new rule for the commission, its staff asked the sponsor to make the measure a rule request instead of going through the legislative process.

Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania Supreme Court Rules That GOP Subpoena for Voter Information Cannot Be Enforced

MSN – Megan Lebowitz (NBC News) | Published: 2/21/2024

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that Republicans’ subpoena of voter information after the 2020 election was unenforceable, overturning a previous court ruling. The justices said the subpoena was unenforceable because the 2021-2022 legislative session had already ended. The move is the latest legal defeat for Republicans who took to courts nationwide over the 2020 election.

Pennsylvania – Mayor Cherelle Parker Racked Up a $1 Million Campaign Payroll – but It’s Not Clear Who Got Paid

MSN – Ryan Briggs and Anna Orso (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/20/2024

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker’s campaign and transition committee took advantage of a gray area in campaign finance laws by filing financial reports that list staff costs as withdrawals by third-party payroll services, rather than payments to specific people. Those companies then cut paychecks to the staffers. Lauren Cristella, president of the Committee of Seventy, said the growing practice of campaigns reporting payments to third-party services instead of to individuals undermines the intent of the rules by obfuscating the recipients of the funds.

Tennessee – New TN House Ticketing Policy Allowable Under State Constitution, Attorney General Says

MSN – Melissa Brown (Tennessean) | Published: 2/19/2024

The Tennessee House’s new ticketing policy for its public galleries is permissible under the state constitution, Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti said. House Republican leadership began enforcing an unwritten, surprise rule in January requiring tickets to access the west gallery of the House chamber. The east gallery remains open on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Texas – Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson Paid Campaign Money to Firm Tied to His New Republican Group

MSN – Everton Bailey Jr. (Dallas Morning News) | Published: 2/21/2024

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson woman reelection in May, then started paying a consulting firm run by his former chief of staff thousands of dollars a month in campaign funds. Adept Strategies, which was registered with the state on the same day the mayor reported making his first payment to it, is also tied to a group created by Johnson to promote Republican mayors.

Wisconsin – Wisconsin’s Democratic Governor Signs His New Legislative Maps into Law after Republicans Pass Them

Yahoo News – Scott Bauer (Associated Press) | Published: 2/19/2024

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers signed new legislative district maps into law that were passed by Republicans who control the Legislature to avoid having the liberal-controlled state Supreme Court draw the lines. Democrats are almost certain to gain seats in the Assembly and Senate under the new maps, which be in place for the November election. Republicans have been operating since 2011 under maps they drew that were recognized as among the most gerrymandered in the country.

Wyoming – Legislative Housing Task Force Member Denies Conflict of Interest

WyoFile – Angus Thuermer Jr. | Published: 2/21/2024

A member of a legislative housing task force who has plans for an accessory housing unit on his own lot says he does not have a conflict-of-interest, even after recommending the state strip local government control over such developments. Former Jackson Mayor Mark Barron voted last year to remove local control over accessory residential units, essentially making their construction a state-guaranteed right.

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

News You Can Use Digest – March 8, 2024

San Francisco Voters Approve Proposition D Changing City Ethics Law

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News You Can Use Digest – March 1, 2024

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Alabama Bill Would Amend Ethics Act

News You Can Use Digest – February 23, 2024

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