National:

Bob and Maureen McDonnell Join the Club: Political spouses facing scandal

Washington Post – Krissah Thompson and Richard Leiby | Published: 1/28/2014

The latest scandal on the political scene is the indictment of former Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his wife, charged with trading on his office to provide assistance to a local businessperson in exchange for gifts and loans. Do such charges harden the resolve of political couples, who by definition are accustomed to facing adversaries, or does it tear the relationship apart?

Federal:

After ‘I’ll Break You in Half,’ House Member Apologizes

New York Times – Sarah Wheaton and Marc Santora | Published: 1/29/2014

U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) apologized after he physically threatened a reporter in the Capitol after President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address. In a video of the incident, Grimm can be heard telling Michael Scotto, a reporter for NY1, “I’ll break you in half.” Moments earlier, Grimm had walked away from an interview when Scotto began asking him questions about allegations of campaign finance violations. According to a transcript, Grimm also threatened to throw Scotto off a balcony.

How Lawmakers Skirt the Law to Keep Their Next Jobs Secret

National Journal – Billy House | Published: 1/21/2014

Critics say a law designed to prevent conflicts-of-interest and shed light on lawmakers who negotiate for post-Capitol Hill work while still in office has failed, worn thin by a series of administrative rulings and narrow interpretations. Because the law has yielded almost none of the public information it was designed to provide, it remains largely unknown whom lawmakers negotiate with, and whether their official duties present any conflicts with those employers.

From the States and Municipalities:

Colorado – Federal Court Overturns State Political-Funds Law

San Francisco Chronicle; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/24/2014

The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled a Colorado law imposing disparate campaign contribution limits for major-party vs. minor-party, unaffiliated, or write-in candidates violates the U.S. Constitution. The law allows Republicans and Democrats to collect an extra $200 per donor because they sometimes have intra-party primaries. But the law allows them to spend all their money on the general election if they wish. The court said that discriminates against donors to minor-party candidates.

Connecticut – Legislators Again Look to Lobbyists for Money

Hartford Courant – Jon Lender | Published: 1/28/2014

Connecticut lawmakers are soliciting campaign donations from lobbyists before the legislative session begins, when it becomes illegal for lobbyists to contribute for the duration of the session. This year, the lawyer for the Association of Connecticut Lobbyists is advising members of the group to refuse the legislators’ appeals in one lucrative area: buying advertisements for up to $250 each in so-called ad books that are printed for lawmakers’ fundraising receptions and used as programs for each event.

Georgia

Staffing Situation Worsens at Georgia’s Ethics Commission with resignation of Lead Assistant

Columbus Republic – Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) | Published: 1/27/2014

Lisa Dentler, the lead assistant to Georgia ethics commission Executive Secretary Holly LaBerge, has resigned and the agency’s staff attorney remains on administrative leave. LaBerge wrote in an email to commissioners that the departure “leaves the agency in a dire situation as she has been doing the work of two positions.” LaBerge has said six employees have either quit or been fired since she took over in September 2011.

Idaho – Why It’s Tough to Track What Lobbyists Give to Idaho Lawmakers

KBSU – Emilie Ritter Saunders | Published: 1/30/2014

Lobbyists in Idaho have spent more than $1 million over the last two years advocating for their clients at the Legislature. The law requires lobbyists to report the recipient of their generosity only when the value of the gift is more than $105. Even with that glimmer of disclosure, it is hard to find out which lawmaker accepted a gift above the threshold because Idaho does not have a searchable electronic database.

Louisiana – Nagin’s Trial a Coda to an Odd Political Career

Baton Rouge Advocate – Gordon Russell | Published: 1/26/2014

Former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin is now on trial, facing charges he accepted bribes and free trips among other things from contractors in exchange for helping them secure millions of dollars in city work. The charges are the product of a City Hall corruption investigation that already has resulted in several convictions or guilty pleas by former associates of Nagin.

Massachusetts – Court to Hear Supermarket Politics Challenge

Boston Globe – Denise Lavoie (Associated Press) | Published: 1/26/2014

For decades, supermarkets have been a favorite place for candidates in Massachusetts to shake hands, collect signatures, and offer a quick rundown of their views on the issues of the day. But not all supermarket chains are in favor of the tradition. The state’s highest court is being asked to decide whether a supermarket’s decision to turn away a political candidate violated his constitutional rights.

Michigan – Ethics Proposal Nixed in Warren

Macomb Daily – Norb Franz | Published: 1/28/2014

The Warren City Council rejected a proposed ethics law that would prohibit fraternization, including intimate relationships, between city bosses and subordinates. The nearly year-old measure was revived in the wake of clandestine video that surfaced of Mayor James Fouts with mayoral assistant Amanda Mika, including images of the duo holding hands. The video has triggered a firestorm because the mayor granted Mika a $5,000 pay raise in December.

Montana – Political Practices Commissioner Accused of Using Questionable Tactics to Get Results

Billings Gazette – Mike Dennison | Published: 1/26/2014

The aggressive stance of Montana’s commissioner of political practices, Jonathan Motl, against what he sees as illegal campaign activity by so-called dark money groups and their favored candidates is raising eyebrows among supporters and critics alike, the latter of whom are calling Motl everything from a “partisan hack” to a misguided crusader on a “witch hunt.”

Nevada – Lawmakers Have to Declare Gifts But Aren’t Willing to Define Them

Las Vegas Sun – Andrew Doughmsn | Published: 1/26/2014

A few elected officials in Nevada who accepted gifts sometimes worth thousands of dollars declined to report them as required by state law. They dispute whether they legally need to file disclosers, in part because there is no explicit definition of a “gift” in state law. Secretary of State Ross Miller said there are likely numerous elected officials who are receiving reportable gifts and not listing them on disclosure forms. But “there’s no way for us to know” for sure, said Miller.

New York – Donor Secrecy Remains Big Issue

Albany Times Union – Rick Karlin | Published: 1/28/2014

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics declined to shield the financial reports of four advocacy groups that say public disclosure of their financial backers is likely to result in threats or even harm. The commission requires reports from state lobbyists, though it can withhold records of contributors to lobbying groups that show their donors would likely face danger if reported.

Pennsylvania – City Council Mulls Ban on Cash Gifts to Phila. Officials

Philadelphia Inquirer – Claudia Vargas | Published: 1/30/2014

A bill introduced in the Philadelphia City Council would ban all city employees and officials from receiving cash gifts. The proposed ordinance would also cap the total value of gifts received in a calendar year at $99. The bill is a result of discussions among various ethics officials and outside watchdog groups over how to interpret a vague section in the city code that deals with gifts.

Texas – Life Story of Wendy Davis Swings from Strength to Flash Point in Texas Campaign

New York Times – Manny Fernandez and Laurie Goodstein | Published: 1/29/2014

Since questions were raided about whether she had fudged some items in her biography, Texas Sen. Wendy Davis, who is running for governor, has been under attack for omitting the fact that her second husband helped pay for her Harvard Law School education and her two children mostly stayed in Texas while she was there. The controversy has prompted a debate over culturally charged questions about a woman’s balance of work, ambition, and parenthood.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

“Obama should praise lobbyists more, lobbyists say” by Zachary Roth in MSNBC.

“Lobbying falls for third year in a row” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Arizona: “Senator tries again to ban tickets from lobbyists” by Hank Stephenson and Ben Giles in the Arizona Capitol Times.

Campaign Finance

“Campaign finance: Parties gear up for 2014” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“Convention wipeout coming?” by Molly K. Hooper in The Hill.

Arkansas: “Report: Ark. Lt. Gov. cited ‘carelessness’ in campaign, office spending to ethics staff” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Arkansas: “Panel favors allowing fundraising for federal office during session” by John Lyon in the Arkansas News.

Ethics

New Jersey: “Lawyer with ties to Christie named to top spot on state Ethics Commission” by The Associated Press in the Press of Atlantic City.

Elections

Arkansas: “Beebe supports proposal to avoid special election for lieutenant governor” by John Lyon in the Arkansas News.

Government Tech and Social Media

“How the 2014 State of the Union Took Over Social Media” by Billy Mitchell in In the Capital.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“K Street wants less bashing of lobbyists” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“Lobbyist trades K Street for MLB” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

New York: “Ethics panel: Some groups can keep donors secret” by Michael Gormley in Newsday.

Campaign Finance

California: “San Bernardino County to revise its campaign finance reform ordinance” by Joe Nelson in the Daily Bulletin.

California: “Lobbyist accused in campaign finance scandal has bond approved, could be released” by Steve Fiorina in ABC 10 San Diego News.

Connecticut: “Legislators Again Look To Lobbyists For Money” by Jon Lender in The Hartford Courant.

Ethics

California: “State Sen. Roderick Wright found guilty of perjury, voter fraud” by Jean Merl in the Los Angeles Times.

Virginia: “Attorneys for former Va. governor McDonnell and his wife seek clarification of court order” by Matt Zapotosky in The Washington Post.

From the State Legislatures

“Alabama House goes home, Senate convenes” by Brian Lyman in the Montgomery Advertiser.

Ohio: “First-term Ohio House lawmakers finding their way” by Will Drabold in The Columbus Dispatch.

Lobbying

“K Street getting a big boost” by Kevin Bogardus and Erik Wasson in The Hill.

“Business eyes debt limit without fear” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Alabama: “Birmingham powerbrokers spending less on lobbying” by Anna McFall in the Birmingham Business Journal.

Arizona: “Arizona Lobbyist Gets Community Service, Probation” by Brian Skoloff (Associated Press) on ABC News.

Missouri: “Lawmakers question Normandy School District’s hiring of lobbyists” by Elisa Crouch in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Campaign Finance

“Places with the Highest Rates of Political Giving” by Sreekar Jasthee in Nerd Wallet.

California: “Dumanis won’t return more donations” by Trent Seibert and Joel Hoffmann in the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Texas: “Small donations add up for Texas politicians” by Anna M. Tinsley in the Star-Telegram.

Ethics

Alaska: “Fairbanks Mayor Eberhart attorney says APOC treating candidates differently” by Sam Friedman in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.

California: “Ethics panel briefed by independent counsel on Sen. Ronald S. Calderon” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.

California: “Mayoral Candidates Met with Man Charged in Campaign Finance Scandal” by Candice Nguyen and Wendy Fry in NBC 7 San Diego News.

Georgia: “Staffing situation worsens at GA ethics commission” by Christina A. Cassidy (Associated Press) in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Rhode Island: “RI House Speaker Fox fined $1,500 for violating ethics filing rules” by Tom Mooney in the Providence Journal.

Lobbying

“Lobbyist Spending Scaled Back 12 Percent In 2013” by Eric Brown in International Business Times.

“Lobbyists Take a Financial Hit With Do-Nothing Congress” by Eric Pianin in the Financial Times.

“Lobby firms sweep up new clients” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“The revolving door between Congress and K Street is moving faster than ever” by Chris Cilizza in The Washington Post.

Canada: “Strahl quits as federal spy watchdog, calls lobbying allegations ‘spurious’” by Jim Bronskill in the Global Post.

Kansas: “Washington Senate Bill Prohibits Political Contributions While Legislature is Out of Session” by Ben Unglesbee in the Lawrence Journal-World.

Minnesota: “New coalition lobbying for more transportation dollars” by Mike Rose in Finance & Commerce.

Campaign Finance

California: “Lobbyist Accused in Campaign Finance Scandal to Appear in Court” by Candice Nguyen and R. Stickney in NBC 7 San Diego News.

California: “Roundtable: Campaign Finance Scandal, PACs In Mayor’s Race, Draining Lake Morena” by Pat Finn and Alison St John on KPBS Public Broadcasting.

Colorado: “10th Circuit Overturns Disparate Contribution Limits in Colorado Campaign Law” by Matt Arnold in the Examiner.

Missouri: “Missouri wide open on political throttle; campaign finance, lobbying reforms build momentum in Jefferson City” by Eli Yokley in The Joplin Globe.

Montana: “Commissioner calls to remove state rep from office for campaign violations; files more complaints” by Mike Dennison in the Billings Gazette.

Nevada: “Secretary of state candidates urge tougher laws addressing gifts to officials” by Andrew Doughman in the Las Vegas Sun.

New York: “Dinesh D’Souza indicted on charges of violating election law” by Sarah Pulliam Bailey in The Washington Post.

New York: “Look up who is giving money to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s campaign war chest and how he is spending it” by Steve Billmeyer in The Post-Standard.

Utah: “Utah lawmakers rake in cash before Legislature begins” by Robert Gehrke in The Salt Lake Tribune.

Ethics

“It Only Seems That Political Corruption Is Rampant” by Michael Wines in The New York Times.

Alabama: “Courtland woman appointed to state ethics commission” on WAAY TV News.

Florida: “Fresen’s case before Ethics Commission” in the Florida Current.

Kentucky: “Senate bill would give subpoena power to county gov’t” on WHAS 11 News.

Massachusetts: “State House Ethics Committee given power to take witnesses into custody, laying groundwork for possible expulsion of Rep. Carlos Henriquez” by Matt Murphy in MassLive.com.

New York: “Good-government group calls JCOPE a ʹblack boxʹ” by Jimmy Vielkind in Capital New York.

Virginia: “McDonnells plead not guilty to corruption charges” by Jim Nolan and Olympia Meola in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

From the State Legislatures

California: “Number of women dropping in California Legislature” by Don Thompson in the Orange County Register.

Iowa: “Does Iowa have too few lawyers in Legislature?” by Jason Noble in the Des Moines Register.

Michigan: “Committee to ʹrestore Michigan’s part-time Legislatureʹ submits proposed ballot language” by Jonathan Oosting in Michigan Live.

Missouri: “Mo. lawmakers to begin floor debate this week” by The Associated Press in the News Tribune.

Ohio: “State constitution panel has ʹhobbling startʹ” by Jim Siegel in the Columbus Dispatch.

Redistricting

Arizona: “GOP effort to void Independent Redistricting Commission continues” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Star.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Agencies ‘open the door’ to innovative uses of social media” by Shefali Kapadia in Federal News Radio.

ʹ

National:

More Compliance Chiefs Get Direct Line to Boss

Wall Street Journal – Gregory Millman and Ben DiPietro | Published: 1/15/2014

Many companies have responded to more aggressive government enforcement efforts by touting their compliance programs and even raising the rank of their chief in-house watchdog. But two surveys found the compliance department’s status within a company is often ambiguous.

Top U.S. Corporations Funneled $185 Million to Political Nonprofits

The Center for Public Integrity – Michael Beckel | Published: 1/16/2014

Scores of large companies gave at least $185 million to politically active nonprofits in 2012, according to the Center for Public Integrity. Shadowy spending has targeted elections at all levels, from the White House to state party committees. The extent of financial involvement from major corporations has been unclear, as there has been only a scant paper trail to examine.

Federal:

A Loophole Allows Lawmakers to Reel in Trips and Donations

New York Times – Eric Lipton | Published: 1/19/2014

A loophole in federal law allows members of Congress to hit hot spots like the Napa Valley wine country and famed golf courses, as well as five-star hotels in Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, and Florida, for campaign fundraisers. Campaigns and leadership PACs now pay the expenses for the catering and the lawmakers’ lodging at these events – so they are not gifts – with money collected from corporate executives and lobbyists, who are still indirectly footing the bill.

Super PAC, Outside Spending Chiefs Make Big Bucks

Roll Call – Eliza Newlin Carney | Published: 1/16/2014

New disclosures reveal details about the six- and seven-figure salaries reaped by the political consultants, lawyers, fundraisers, and media buyers who ran the top super PACs and politically active nonprofits in 2012. Such groups spent more than $1 billion in the first presidential contest since the U.S. Supreme Court deregulated independent campaign spending, shattering all previous records, and political professionals cashed in.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Three Men Charged with Funneling Illegal Campaign Funds

Los Angeles Times – Tony Perry | Published: 1/22/2014

Hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal campaign contributions from a wealthy Mexican businessperson supported San Diego politicians, according to a federal complaint. A retired San Diego police officer, the owner of a Washington, D.C.-based election services business, and a lobbyist have been charged with conspiring to funnel more than $500,000 in illegal donations into recent campaigns.

Florida – Ex-Sweetwater Mayor Manuel Maroño Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison

Miami Herald – Jay Weaver | Published: 1/23/2014

Former Sweetwater Mayor Manny Maroño was sentenced three years and four months in prison for his part in a kickback scheme. Maroño and lobbyist Jorge Forte pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge that accused them of illegally splitting $60,000 for official favors and concealing those payments from the public. Both men agreed to promote a sham federal grant program for economic development that was peddled by FBI undercover agents who paid them bribes for their political support in Sweetwater.

Georgia – Ethics Commission Strips Personnel Decisions from Exec. Director

WSB – Sandra Parish | Published: 1/16/2014

Members of the Georgia ethics commission voted to give themselves the power to hire and fire employees, a duty that had been the executive director’s. In addition, the commission took no action concerning its attorney, Elisabeth Murray-Obertein, who is also a key witness in a pair of whistleblower lawsuits against the agency, after a police report said she was intoxicated at work.

Illinois – State Official Returned to Work after Nearly 30 Months of Paid Leave

Chicago Tribune – Jared Hopkins | Published: 1/21/2014

Joel Campuzano was on paid administrative leave for nearly 30 months while investigators in Illinois examined allegations he used his position to benefit himself and his family. During this time, he received seven salary increases. The state lost its fight to fire Campuzano, who returned to work in December and now makes $92,424. State Rep. Jack Franks said he supports the need for thorough investigations but agency directors should be limited in how often they can extend paid leave.

New Jersey – Political Pressure in Zimmer Allegation May Not Constitute a Crime, Legal Experts Say

Bergen Record – Herb Jackson | Published: 1/22/2014

Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer accused New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s administration of tying Superstorm Sandy aid to a politically connected development proposal. If Zimmer’s allegations are true, lawyers said the government will need to prove Christie or his administration received or expected to receive some kind of benefit in exchange for pressuring the mayor for a federal crime to have occurred. Attorneys disagreed on how clear-cut that benefit has to be, however.

Ohio – Should Politicians Have the Right to Lie? U.S. Supreme Court Could Decide in Ohio Case

Cleveland Plain Dealer – Sabrina Eaton | Published: 1/22/2014

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging an Ohio law that bars candidates and issue groups from lying in their campaigns. The Susan B. Anthony List claims the state’s criminalization of false political speech violates First Amendment rights in a similar fashion to the Stolen Valor Act, which the Supreme Court overturned in 2012. The justices ruled the law that criminalized lying about receiving military honors or decorations violated constitutional free speech rights.

Pennsylvania – Judge Strikes down Pa. Voter ID; High Court Challenge Likely

Philadelphia Inquirer; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/17/2014

A Pennsylvania judge has found the state’s voter ID law unconstitutional. According to the ruling from Commonwealth Court Judge Bernard McGinley, the requirement to present an acceptable form of identification when voting in person “unreasonably burdens the right to vote.” Enforcement of the law has been blocked by court orders pending resolution of the constitutional challenge. Both sides had vowed to appeal an unfavorable decision to the state Supreme Court.

Virginia – Bob McDonnell and Wife Indicted in Gift Scandal

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman, Carol Leonnig, and Sari Horwitz | Published: 1/21/2014

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, were indicted on 14 counts of fraud, conspiracy, and obstructing federal investigators, stemming from a gift-giving scandal. McDonnell and his wife have acknowledged taking gifts from businessperson Jonnie Williams, including catering fees for the wedding of the McDonnells’ daughter. In exchange, authorities allege they worked in concert to lend the prestige of the governorship to Williams’ struggling company, which sells dietary supplements.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

“Whose former staffers make the most as lobbyists? Lott, Frist, Hoyer top the list” by Lee Drutman and Alexander Furnas in the Sunlight Foundation Blog.

“Most Top Communication Groups Increase Lobbying” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Alabama: “Alabama Legislature to take on two big issues on Thursday” by Max Reiss in WBRC News.

Connecticut: “Connecticut’s Big Spenders in Lobbying” by Joseph De Avila in The Wall Street Journal.

Campaign Finance

“Hillary Clinton foes file FEC complaint” by Byron Tau and Katie Glueck in Politico.

California: “Lobbyist charged in financing scheme” by Kristina Davis in The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Washington: “Senate Republicans want to alter makeup of state campaign finance regulator” by Brad Shannon in The Olympian.

Ethics

Louisville, Kentucky: “Senate panel votes to allow subpoena power for Louisville ethics commission” by Sebastian Kitchen in The Courier-Journal.

Virginia: “Experts: McDonnell’s corruption trial will test line between political favors, official action” by Carol D. Leonnig and Rosalind S. Helderman in The Washington Post.

Virginia: “Virginia Delegates Start Work on Ethics Legislation” on WVIR NBC News.

Redistricting

Illinois: “Group pushes for redistricting reform” by T.J. Fowler in The Southern Illinoisan.

Indiana: “House sends redistricting bill to Senate” by Erika Brock in The Reporter-Times.

Lobbying

“Nightmare on K St. — the 2013 sequel” by Kevin Bogardus and Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“K Street mines for gold in Silicon Valley” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“National Assn. of Realtorsʹ Lobbying Jumps 53%” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Iowa: “Public sector spending on lobbying Iowa state government up” by B.A. Morelli in The Gazette.

Campaign Finance

California: “2 Charged for Illegal Campaign Contributions in San Diego Mayor’s Race” by Candice Nguyen in NBC 7 San Diego News.

Maine: “‘Clean electionsʹ advocates push for 2015 referendum” by David Carkhuff in the Portland Daily Sun.

New Mexico: “Courts limit reach of NM campaign finance law” by Thomas J. Cole in the Albuquerque Journal.

New York: “Cuomo takes a first step toward campaign finance reform” by Jessica Alaimo in Capital New York.

Texas: “Texas ʹDark Moneyʹ debate rekindled” by David Rauf in the Houston Chronicle.

Ethics

Florida: “Local lawmaker’s bill could ease ethics-reporting requirements” by Andy Reid in the Sun Sentinel.

Virginia: “McDonnell, wife charged with corruption” by Rebecca Shabad and Cameron Joseph in The Hill.

Redistricting

Ohio: “Can Ohio erase partisan pencils?” by Chrissie Thompson in the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Open Government

West Virginia: “Ethics Commission works to rectify meeting violation” by Phil Kabler in the Charleston Gazette.

Lobbying

“Some Corporations and Associations Cut Lobbying Expenditures” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Top-Ranked Chamber of Commerce Increases Lobbying In 4th Quarter” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“K Street pays top dollar for revolving door talent” by Lee Drutman and Alexander Furnas in the Sunlight Foundation Blog.

Campaign Finance

“The Consequences of ‘Citizens United’” by Ian Vandewalker in The Brennan Center for Justice Blog.

Maine: “Campaign watchdogs: Private groups will spend 80 percent more on Maine elections in 2014” by Mario Moretto in the Bangor Daily News.

New Mexico: “Report: PAC spending doubles after Citizens United” by Steve Terrell in the Santa Fe New Mexican.

Ethics

Washington: “Senate bill would shift control of Public Disclosure Commission to top legislators” by John Stark in The Bellingham Herald.

Lobbying

“Obama lobbying ban faces setback in court” by Andy Sullivan (Reuters) in the Chicago Tribune.

“Federal court orders rehearing on lobbying ban” by Byron Tau in Politico Influence.

“Congress and Lobbyists Are Going Downhill” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Missouri: “Missouriʹs secretary of state proposes his own lobbyist restriction plan” by Phil Brooks in the South County Mail.

West Virginia: “Statehouse beat: Lobbyist spending for 2013” by Phil Kabler in the Charleston Gazette.

Campaign Finance

California: “Two groups that used secret political donations haven’t paid penalties” by Chris Megerian in the Los Angeles Times.

Louisiana: “Ethics board limits Vitter fundraising” by Marha Shuler in The Advocate.

Massachusetts: “Candidates cough up campaign costs” by Erin Smith in the Boston Herald.

New York: “Cuomo’s Budget Is Said to Include Ethics and Campaign Finance Reforms” by Thomas Kaplan in The New York Times.

New York: “205 campaign finance reports not posted because of errors” by Jessica Alaimo in Capital New York.

Rhode Island: “RI Board of Elections fines NRA for campaign law violation” by Philip Marcelo in the Providence Journal.

Utah: “Utah Senator Calling For Campaign Finance Reform” by Christine L. McCarthy in KUTV News.

Ethics

California: “Senate ethics chief calls allegations against Sen. Calderon troubling” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.

Kentucky: “Legislative Research Commission pay to join larger ethics push” by Kevin Wheatley in The State Journal.

Massachusetts: “Mass. panel OKs new conflict of interest rule” by The Associated Press in The Boston Globe.

Virginia: “Gilbert introduces ethics reform bill” by Joe Beck in The Northern Virginia Daily.

Congress

“Welcome Back, Congress” from Roll Call.

From the State Legislatures

“Introducing ʹGetting Thereʹ: NCSL’s new mobility newsletter” by NCSL.

Government Tech and Social Media

Kansas: “Bill would put legislative committee meetings a mouse click away” by Scott Rothschild in the Lawrence Journal-World.

Missouri legislators made ethics a top priority at the start of their legislative session. The Legislature convened on January 8 and members filed at least 10 bills addressing issues such as lobbyist registration, gifts to public officials, campaign contribution limits, and revolving door provisions.

Although Missouri is one of few states placing no restrictions on campaign donations or lobbyist gifts, reform appears to be of bipartisan concern. Secretary of State Jason Kander announced the most comprehensive approach to ethics reform with HB1340, introduced by Rep. Kevin McManus. The proposal establishes contribution limits, closes the revolving door for legislative officials, and establishes a lobbyist gift ban.

Kander’s proposal is unique in that it also adds mandatory registration requirements for paid political consultants as well as whistle-blower incentives. Those who provide information about ethics violations could receive 10 percent of the fines collected for the violation they revealed.

The Legislature discounted opportunities in the past to address ethics reform. With momentum building, many are hoping this is the year for change.

National:

A National Strategy Funds State Political Monopolies

New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 1/12/2014

A sophisticated political apparatus was designed by Republicans to channel political money from around the country into states where conditions were ripe for a GOP takeover. In 2010, the effort achieved striking success, moving a dozen states to sole Republican control. In 2012, a resurgent Democratic version began to catch up, spearheading Democratic takeovers in Minnesota and Colorado. Their combined work has helped remake the nation’s political landscape.

Federal:

How Lobbyists Still Fly Through Loophole

National Journal – Shane Goldmacher | Published: 1/9/2014

A National Journal investigation found that despite efforts to clip the wings of congressional travel planned and paid for by special interests, lawmakers are again taking flight. The reality is that lobbyists who cannot legally buy a lawmaker a sandwich can still escort members on trips all around the world.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Arizona Lobbyist Pleads Guilty to Misdemeanor

San Francisco Chrionicle – Jacques Billeaud (Associated Press) | Published: 1/13/2014

Two years ago, the Arizona attorney general’s office and FBI raided the Phoenix office of lobbyist Gary Husk as part of a sweeping investigation into a campaign finance scandal involving the Fiesta Bowl. Husk recently pleaded guilty to a single misdemeanor charge and will pay $30,000 to offset part of the cost of the criminal investigation. The state will drop 15 felony charges against him and his firm in the plea deal.

Arkansas – Embattled Ark. Lt. Gov. Ran for Office as Outsider

San Francisco Chronicle – Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) | Published: 1/10/2014

Lt. Gov. Mark Darr, who was facing the threat of impeachment in the aftermath of a settlement with the Arkansas Ethics Commission, said he would resign on February 1. Although Darr had resisted bipartisan demands for his resignation, he agreed to quit as lawmakers openly discussed removing him from office. State investigators determined Darr had repeatedly broken the law by using campaign money for personal reasons, accepting improper contributions, and maintaining faulty records.

Delaware – Veasey Report Underscores ‘Pay to Play’ as Real Fear for Residents

Wilmington News Journal – Maureen Milford | Published: 1/15/2014

For some in Delaware, a special prosecutor’s depiction of Delaware’s “pay-to-play” culture has only further diminished their trust in government. While E. Norman Veasey outlined many cases of the corrupt culture, no public official will be prosecuted, either because the statute of limitations had expired on the offense or the investigators could not find credible evidence to prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt.

Massachusetts – Ethics Rules Bar Wellesley Firefighters from Cruise

Boston Globe – Jaclyn Reiss | Published: 1/15/2014

Four Boston area firefighters that talk show host Ellen DeGeneres rewarded with Caribbean cruise tickets for rescuing a dog from an icy river had to return them because of conflicts with Massachusetts ethics law. State law prohibits municipal officials from accepting gifts worth $50 or more because of something they have done in their official job capacity, including payment of travel expenses, which the cruise would probably have fallen under.

Missouri – Approaches Vary for Strengthening Missouri’s Ethics Laws

St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 1/14/2014

Missouri lawmakers have filed at least 10 bills so far to address various ethics issues. The most comprehensive approach was announced by Secretary of State Jason Kander. House Bill 1340 would reinstate campaign contribution limits, ban lobbyist gifts, require legislators to wait three years before becoming lobbyists, and give the state Ethics Commission more power and resources to enforce the law.

Nevada – Political Groups in Nevada Continue Stubborn Fight against Disclosing Donors

Las Vegas Sun – Andrew Doughman | Published: 1/14/2014

Groups unaffiliated with any candidate will likely spend millions of dollars to bankroll advertisements aimed at Nevada voters, and it is unclear what, if anything, these groups need to say about who is paying for the ads. Judges in several cases are considering whether groups sending political messages must disclose their donors in the state.

Pennsylvania – Cash Gifts Banned in New Philadelphia Board of Ethics Proposal

WHYY – Dave Davies | Published: 1/15/2014

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics has now crafted a proposed standard for gifts that bars a city employee from taking anything worth more than $50 from someone whose interests the employee could affect, and prohibits cash gifts entirely. City law bars employees from accepting gifts “of substantial economic value” from people whose interests they could affect and for months, the board has worked to clarify just what that means.

Texas – Statewide Hopeful Sid Miller Shifted Stocks from Campaign Account to Personal Use to Pay off Loans

Dallas Morning News – David Barer | Published: 1/12/2014

The Texas Ethics Commission is investigating a complaint alleging state Rep. Sid Miller, who is running for agriculture commissioner, improperly loaned his campaign candidate  $10,000 at a 10 percent interest rate in order to personally collect more than $31,000 years later. It appears the ethics agency is also looking into his former campaign’s investment of close to $100,000 in the stock market, which he then transferred to himself after his failed 2012 re-election bid.

Vermont – Vt. Senate Approves Political Money Bill

WCAX; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/16/2014

The Vermont Legislature passed Senate Bill 82, which sets new limits on campaign contributions to candidates, political committees, and parties. The legislation now goes to Gov. Peter Shumlin for his approval.

Virginia – McAuliffe Imposes Far-Reaching Gift Limit on Himself and His Staff

Washington Post – Rachel Weiner | Published: 1/11/2014

Hours after his inauguration, Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe signed an executive order that establishes a gift limit of $100 for all administration officials and their families, including the governor himself. Gifts from lobbyists are banned altogether, although anything under $25 is not classified as a gift. The order also creates a three-person ethics commission, including $100,000 in start-up funds, with the authority to monitor compliance and recommend discipline for violators.

Washington – Food Industry Lobby Challenges State Disclosure Law as Unconstitutional

Seattle Post-Intelligencer – Joel Connelly | Published: 1/13/2014

The Grocery Manufacturers Association filed a legal challenge to Washington’s campaign finance disclosure laws. The state has argued GMA ran a money-laundering operation in the 2013 campaign, shielding identities of food manufacturers pouring more than $10 million into the campaign against Initiative 522. The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of requiring GMA to register a political committee before requesting and receiving contributions to oppose the ballot measure.

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Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“How do people become lobbyists? Ask USA TODAY” by George Hager in USA Today.

“K Street’s Ogilvy adds firepower on taxes” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Arizona: “Lobbyist pleads guilty to misdemeanor” by The Associated Press in the Casa Grande Dispatch.

Campaign Finance

“Schock donor tied to campaign finance case” by Catherine Skiba in the Chicago Tribune.

“Super PAC Boom Marginalizes Women, Report Says” by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.

“Super PAC, Outside Spending Chiefs Make Big Bucks” by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.

Delaware: “Veasey, task force to discuss campaign finance reform in Delaware” by Jonathan Starkey in The News Journal.

Mississippi: “Incomplete campaign-finance reports accepted in Mississippi” by Anita Lee in the Sun Herald.

New Mexico: “Poll: Big money in politics equals serious problem” by Thomas Cole in the Albuquerque Journal.

Utah: “House committee hears suggestions to change campaign finance law” by Billy Hesterman in the Daily Herald.

Vermont: “Vermont Senate to vote whether to ratify agreement on campaign finance bill” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Wisconsin: “Dark money: How Wisconsin’s most politically influential organizations avoid disclosing their donors” by Jack Craver in The Capital Times.

Ethics

Arizona: “State legislator floats ban on free tickets” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Sun.

Missouri: “Missouri secretary of state unveils proposal on campaign finance, ethics” by Jordan Shapiro (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Missouri: “Ethics in politics? Missouri legislators will try, again, to tighten laws” by Virginia Young in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

South Carolina: “Don’t pay ethics fine, don’t get on the ballot?” by Andrew Shain in The State.

From the State Legislatures

Colorado: “Colorado lawmakers mourn death of ʹ101st lawmakerʹ Clarence Miller” by Lynn Bartels in the Denver Post.

Delaware: “Legislators return to Dover with full slate” by Jonathan Starkey and Jon Offredo in  The News Journal.

Hawaii: “Legislature honors its past” by Sarah Zoellick in the Honolulu Star Advertiser.

Missouri: “Missouri House Democrats pick new leaders” by The Associated Press in The News Tribune.

Oklahoma: “Oklahoma lawmaker’s plan would effectively eliminate the state House” by Graham Lee Brewer in The Oklahoman.

South Carolina: “SC speaker: Legislative session will go on despite ethics ʹsmear campaignʹ” by Jamie Self in The State.

Tennessee: “TN lawmakers begin session with tribute to Lois DeBerry” by Chas Sisk in The Tennessean.

Tennessee: “Tennessee Legislature opens with revenue worries” by Andy Sher in the Times Free Press.

West Virginia: “Lawmakers meet again after delay from chemical spill” by Dave Boucher in the Charleston Daily Mail.

Open Government

Mississippi: “Ethics chief Tom Hood wants more authority over public records law” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Lobbying

“Bottom Line” in The Hill.

“Lobbyists Ask, Then Write, ʹWhere The Jobs Areʹ” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call.

“Gillespie Senate run tests stigma of ʹlobbyistʹ label” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

“Why Campaign Finance Laws Make Things Worse” opinion piece by Jonathan Bernstein in Bloomberg News.

Louisiana: “Democratic Super PAC Funnels More Funds Into Louisiana” by Emily Cahn in Roll Call.

Missouri: “Missouri Democrats to outline campaign finance plan” in the Kansas City Star.

Nevada: “Political groups in Nevada continue stubborn fight against disclosing donors” by Andrew Doughman in the Las Vegas Sun.

New Hampshire: “Campaign finance reformers march through N.H.” by John Toole in the Eagle-Tribune.

Ethics

Georgia: “Grand jury scheduled to meet in Georgia ethics case” by The Associated Press in the Athens Herald-Banner.

South Carolina: “State grand jury to investigate ethics allegations against SC House Speaker Bobby Harrell” by Jamie Self in The State.

From the State Legislatures

South Carolina: “Legislature kicks off with old issues on agenda” by Seanna Adcox (Associated Press) in GoUpstate.com.

South Carolina: “Dueling rallies to greet returning S.C. legislators” by Adam Beam in The State.

South Dakota: “5 things to know about SD 2014 legislative session” by The Associated Press in the Capital Journal.

Washington: “Washington Legislature Convenes With Election Year Issues On Agenda” by Austin Jenkins in Northwest Public Radio.

Wisconsin: “Wisconsin Legislature begins session Tuesday: 5 things to know” by The Associated Press in the Post Crescent.

Government Tech and Social Media

“How Government Leaders Can Stay Out of Social Media Hell” by Mark Schlossberg in Governing.