LobbyComply Blog

Campaign Finance

Hawaii: “Should Tax Dollars Be Used for Campaigns? These Election Reform Bills Are Still Alive” by Ashley Mizuo for Hawai’i Public Radio

Elections

National: “What’s in the Voting Bill That Republicans Are Pushing to the Senate Floor” by Mary Clare Jalonick (Associated Press) for MSN

Ethics

Ohio: “‘No Smoking Gun’: Defense slams prosecution in FirstEnergy bribery trial” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Pennsylvania: “Treasurer Garrity Bought Israel Bonds. Candidate Garrity Then Campaigned at the Firm’s Gala.” by Stephen Caruso for Spotlight PA

Ethics

National: “Court Blocks Probe of Fed Chair Jerome Powell, DOJ to Appeal” by Christopher Flavelle, Madeleine Ngo, and Georgia Gee (Politico) for MSN

Ohio: “FirstEnergy Execs ‘Rigged’ Regulator, Prosecutors Say in Closing Arguments” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Texas: “Texas Jury Convicts Protesters Charged with Plotting ‘Antifa’ Attack” by Molly Hennessy-Fiske (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

Hawaii: “The Most Influential People at the State Capitol Are Out in the Hallway” by Chad Blair for Honolulu Civil Beat

Redistricting

Virginia: “As States Scrap for Congressional Seats, Virginia Could Tip the Scales” by Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) for MSN

Campaign Finance

National: “AI Money Is Already Influencing the Midterms. And More Is Coming.” by Dan Merica and Clara Ence Morse (Washington Post) for MSN

Elections

National: “Democrats, Groups Sound Alarm on Trump Actions on Elections” by Michael Macagnone (Roll Call) for MSN

Nevada: “FBI Closes 2020 Election Fraud Inquiry Demanded by NV’s Top Federal Prosecutor” by Sarah Lynch (CBS News) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Trump Names New Head for VOA Parent After Court Rebukes Kari Lake” by Scott Nover and Adam Taylor (Washington Post) for MSN

Illinois: “Aurora Mayor John Laesch’s Ethics Reform Package Faces Further Delays” by R. Christian Smith (Chicago Tribune) for Yahoo News

Ohio: “Testimony Ends in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Lobbying

Texas: “‘The Public Should Know’: City Hall changes how lobbying is reported” by Chaya Tong (Austin American-Statesman) for MSN

Redistricting

Florida: “Can Florida Save Trump’s Plan to Keep GOP in Power?” by Kadia Goba and Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) for MSN

National/Federal

DOJ Clears the Way for Government to Hire Technologists Still Connected to Their Private Sector Employers

Government Executive – Natalie Alms | Published: 3/10/2026

The Justice Department issued an opinion authorizing the Trump administration’s plan to allow employees from tech companies to work for the federal government while remaining employed by their companies and keeping their not-yet-vested company stocks. The administration will be onboarding managers from twenty-plus companies as part of its U.S. Tech Force program, launched last year to recruit early-career engineers after the administration pushed over 20,000 technologists out of their government posts last year.

Trump DOJ Seeks Control Over Search of Washington Post Reporter’s Devices

MSN – Jordan Rubin | Published: 3/11/2026

The Justice Department escalated its bid to search a Washington Post reporter’s electronic devices, seeking to overturn a magistrate judge’s order that the court, not the government, lead the initial review. The department obtained a search warrant for reporter Hannah Natanson’s devices as part of an investigation into Aurelio Luis Perez-Lugones, who was charged with unlawfully retaining national defense information. The government said he gave Natanson top secret and other classified information that later appeared in her published articles.

Police Say Jan. 6 Plaque Is Unlawfully Hidden from Public at U.S. Capitol

MSN – Olivia George (Washington Post) | Published: 3/11/2026

Police officers who defended the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, asked a federal judge to allow their lawsuit over the long-delayed installation of a plaque honoring their service to continue, days after The Washington Post revealed it was quietly hung at the end of a hallway in the middle of the night. Former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn and District of Columbia police officer Daniel Hodges, who sued last summer after Congress blew past its own installation deadline, argue the placement of the plaque continues to violate federal law.

Trump Sons Back New Drone Company Targeting Pentagon Sales

MSN – Heather Somerville (Wall Street Journal) | Published: 3/8/2026

Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. are backing a new drone company, Powerus, that is vying to meet fresh demand from the Pentagon and fill a hole left by the administration’s ban on new Chinese drones in the U.S. The deal brings deeper involvement by the Trump family into a multibillion-dollar sector that has new opportunities for growth following changes imposed by the Trump administration.

Pentagon Bars Press Photographers Over ‘Unflattering’ Hegseth Photos

MSN – Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 3/11/2026

The Defense Department barred press photographers from briefings on the ongoing military conflict with Iran after they published photos of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that his staff deemed “unflattering,” according to sources. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has sparred with the press since being confirmed. In October, hundreds of Pentagon reporters turned in their credentials and dozens walked out of the building after refusing to sign a policy prohibiting journalists from soliciting any information the government did not authorize.

In Trump’s Washington, Congress Has Little Power Left

MSN – Liz Goodwin (Washington Post) | Published: 3/10/2026

Donald Trump’s second presidency has marked a major advance in the expansion of executive power at the expense of the legislative branch, an acceleration the president has not been shy about pursuing. That has raised concerns for some politicians, especially those who have left office, about maintaining the balance of powers seen as central to American democracy.

Smartmatic Says It’s Being Targeted by Justice Dept. to Bolster False 2020 Claims

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 3/10/2026

A voting machine company at the heart of President Trump’s conspiracy theories about the 2020 election accused the Justice Department of bringing a criminal case against it to further his administration’s baseless claims about that vote. The parent company of Smartmatic asked a federal judge to dismiss foreign bribery charges filed against it last year, alleging they amounted to little more than a vindictive and selective prosecution. The company also contends that Fox News and others it sued for defamation for statements about the firm’s voting machines are exploiting the criminal case.

Justice Department Publishes Documents with Sexual Assault Allegations Against Trump

MSN – Erica Orden (Politico) | Published: 3/6/2026

The Justice Department posted a trio of FBI interviews with a woman who alleged Donald Trump sexually assaulted her when she was a young teenager after she was introduced to him by Jeffrey Epstein. The files come as Democrats are investigating whether the department purposefully withheld materials that included sexual assault allegations against Trump. The president has denied wrongdoing in relation to the Epstein allegations and has not been charged with a crime in connection with them.

Rep. Gonzales Drops Reelection Bid After Admitting to Affair with Aide

MSN – Amy Wang and Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2026

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales dropped his bid for reelection after acknowledging he had an affair with a staff member who later set herself on fire and died. House Republican leaders had called on Gonzales to resign over the scandal. Under House rules, lawmakers are not permitted to engage in sexual relationships with staff members.

Judge Rules Kari Lake Unlawfully Ran U.S. Media Agency, Voiding Layoffs

MSN – Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 3/7/2026

A federal judge ruled Kari Lake has unlawfully served as chief executive of the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) and nullified many actions she has taken in the role, including mass layoffs of staff. The decision is the latest in a string of legal defeats to the Trump administration’s year-long effort to dismantle USAGM, the federal agency that in addition to Voice of America oversees other U.S.-funded international broadcasters including Radio Free Asia.

The Next Redistricting Battle Might Be Who Is Counted in State Legislative Districts

NPR – Hansi Lo Wang | Published: 3/9/2026

A potential front in the redistricting war could involve which citizens counted for state legislative districts. For decades, mapmakers have drawn the districts that state lawmakers represent based on the total number of people living in an area. But Republican officials in some states have called for using a narrower population: only “eligible voters.” Such a change would likely lead to a transfer of political influence away from urban areas that are younger and more racially diverse, and toward rural areas that are older and whiter.

Millions in the Mailbox: Why both political parties are still spending big on traditional mail

OpenSecrets – Emma Sullivan | Published: 3/8/2026

National party committees spent tens of millions of dollars on printing and mailing, much of which went to direct mail, during the 2024 election cycle, even as campaigns increasingly relied on digital tools to expand fundraising and voter outreach. Some campaign strategists say direct mail remains an effective way to reach and mobilize voters who may be less responsive to digital outreach. Along with newer tools, direct mail plays a distinct role in campaigns’ broader outreach strategies, particularly when targeting certain voter demographics.

Documents Reveal a Web of Financial Ties Between Trump Officials and the Industries They Help Regulate

ProPublica – Corey Johnson, Brandon Roberts, and Al Shaw | Published: 3/5/2026

On the first day of his second term, President Trump rescinded an executive order required his appointees to comply with an ethics pledge. The pledge barred them from working on issues related to their former lobbying topics or clients for two years. Weeks later, Trump fired 17 inspectors general across the federal government. He removed the head of the Office of Government Ethics. Against that backdrop, ProPublica used disclosure records to investigate how personal financial interests have intersected with government decision-making inside the Trump administration.

Bulletproof Vests and Rolex Watches: The rise and fall of Kristi Noem

Seattle Times – Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Hamed Aleaziz (New York Times) | Published: 3/6/2026

The display of a Rolex at a notorious prison in El Salvador. A self-promotional advertising campaign for mass deportations. The lingering story of the killing of her dog. Kristi Noem never appeared able, or particularly keen, to step out of the spotlight during her time leading the Department of Homeland Security. But even for a White House familiar with political crises, Noem’s streak of controversies, handling of government funding and flair for theatrics might have proved too much for President Trump.

From St. Petersburg to Philly, Fraud Claims Piled Up Against Political Consultant

Yahoo News – Anna Orso (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 3/5/2026

Chris Rabb, a congressional candidate from Philadelphia, is one of many people who say Yolanda Brown owes him money. But none of them have been able to find her and the allegations of impropriety against the political consultant are piling up. Brown, a Florida-based finance manager and campaign consultant who works primarily with Democrats and social justice groups, has over the last decade faced criminal charges for embezzlement and other allegations of financial fraud in at least four states totaling more than $500,000.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – Lawsuit Again Asks Alaska Election Officials to Change Language in RCV Repeal Ballot Measure

Yahoo News – Iris Samuels (Anchorage Daily News) | Published: 3/5/2026

A group working to repeal Alaska’s current voting system has sued state election officials, alleging language adopted by the state for a repeal ballot measure is not “true” and “impartial” as required under state law. It is the second lawsuit filed this year challenging the wording of the ballot measure. Repeal Now is seeking to undo laws enacted through a 2020 ballot initiative that implemented nonpartisan open primaries, ranked choice general elections, and new campaign finance reporting requirements.

Arizona – FBI Obtains Voting Data from Arizona GOP’s 2020 Review That Confirmed Trump’s Loss

MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf, Perry Stein, and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 3/9/2026

A federal grand jury in Arizona subpoenaed records from a review Republican lawmakers conducted of the 2020 presidential results and that confirmed President Trump lost. The subpoena opened a new front in the Trump administration’s expanding hunt for evidence that has never surfaced to support the president’s claims of widespread fraud. The law enforcement steps have alarmed election officials and Democrats who fear the administration is building an argument for interfering in this year’s midterm elections.

California – Andrew Do’s Corruption Went Far Beyond What Was Previously Known, Audit Finds

MSN – Nick Gerda (LAist) | Published: 3/10/2026

A forensic audit released by Orange County found ex-Supervisor Andrew Do and his top aide had a longstanding pattern of misspending public money far beyond the scandal that led to federal corruption charges and landed Do in prison. The report was the first phase of an audit the Board of Supervisors commissioned last fall into county contracts in the wake of LAist’s investigation of the Do meal money scheme and his corruption conviction.

District of Columbia – Ed Martin Faces Disciplinary Proceedings Over Actions as D.C. U.S. Attorney

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 3/10/2026

Senior Justice Department official and Trump ally Ed Martin is facing disciplinary proceedings over a letter he sent to Georgetown University’s law school asserting his then-office would not hire anyone affiliated with Georgetown because of its apparent diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. The District of Columbia Disciplinary Counsel filed a complaint that details Martin’s unusual communications with then-law school dean William Treanor. In his letter to Treanor, Martin questioned whether Georgetown was using DEI practices and, if so, demanded the school change its curriculum.

Florida – Miami-Dade Candidate Charged with Many Campaign Violations Could Catch a Break

MSN – Grethel Aguila (Miami Herald) | Published: 3/11/2026

The criminal charges against a failed Miami-Dade County Commission candidate accused of a slew of campaign finance violations might be significantly reduced, a judge said. Sophia Lacayo was charged in 2023 with 21 felonies and misdemeanors stemming from alleged violations of the law. During a hearing, Lacayo’s attorney and prosecutors sparred over conflicting interpretations of the statute used to charge her.

Georgia – Bill Requires Candidates to Raise at Least Half Their Money Within Georgia

Capitol Beat – Mark Niesse | Published: 3/6/2026

The Georgia Senate passed a bill that bans candidates from raising more than half of their campaign money from outside of the state, a limitation that Democrats said inhibits their fundraising in nationalized elections. If the bill passes the state House and is signed by Gov. Brian Kemp, violations could be prosecuted as felonies with punishments up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Hawaii – Audit: Sylvia Luke’s campaign missed thousands in donations

Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 3/9/2026

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke’s campaign failed to report more than $7,800 worth of campaign contributions during the first six months of 2022, according to an audit of her campaign funds. The audit does not mention the $10,000 in checks Luke initially accepted from lobbyist Tobi Solidum and his stepdaughter during a dinner meeting with former Rep. Ty Cullen in January 2022. The campaign later reported returning those checks to Solidum and Kristen Pae but the donations were not recorded until the media asked about them in February.

Idaho – House Ethics Proceedings Would Be Secret Under New Bill

Boise State Public Radio – James Dawson | Published: 3/9/2026

Ethics proceedings in the Idaho House would no longer be open to the public under a new bill. The proposal would keep all ethics proceedings secret. That is unless the committee finds a member has violated the law, did not disclose conflicts-of-interest, or their conduct was unbecoming of a legislator.

Michigan – ‘No Correlation:’ Michigan lawmaker advances alcohol bills after $4.5K trip paid by industry

MLive – Danielle James | Published: 3/7/2026

State Rep. Joseph Aragona wants to increase the alcohol percentage allowed in Michigan’s canned mixed drinks. He introduced a bill to do so just months after a lobbying organization for alcohol wholesalers disclosed spending thousands on his travel expenses for a February 2025 conference. The same group has donated several thousand dollars more to Aragona’s reelection campaign over the past year.

Nebraska – Lincoln Police Now Investigating $2.5M No-Bid Contract Flagged by Nebraska Auditor

Yahoo News – Zach Wendling (Nebraska Examiner) | Published: 3/10/2026

The Lincoln Police Department is now investigating a $2.5 million no-bid emergency contract between the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and a contractor Gov. Jim Pillen recommended. State Auditor Mike Foley has said the deal “smacks of favoritism.” Part of Foley’s probe also questions actions by some top staff under Pillen’s direct control.

New Jersey – Trio Named to Replace Alina Habba as U.S. Attorney Is Also Serving Illegally, Judge Says

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 3/9/2026

A federal judge upended the leadership of New Jersey’s U.S. attorney’s office again, ruling for the second time in less than a year that the Trump administration had illegally sought to bypass Congress and install its own picks to head the prominent prosecutorial outpost. U.S. District Court Judge Matthew Brann decision escalates a battle that has been brewing across the country and among all three branches of government over who has the ultimate authority over U.S. attorney picks.

New York – Ethics Probe Finds State Agency Supervisor Accepted Cash, Luxury Handbag

MSN – Timothy Fanning (Albany Times Union) | Published: 3/9/2026

A supervisor at a state agency in the Capitol Region admitted taking more than $2,200 in cash and designer gifts, including money for a Louis Vuitton handbag, from a subordinate employee, according to state ethics investigators. Lolita Davis, a supervisor at the state Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, was demoted and suspended for 15 weeks without pay, resulting in $19,322 of lost pay.

North Carolina – Young NC Senator Is a Big Fundraiser. How a Lobbyist and His Wife Tie into That Success

MSN – Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 3/9/2026

For the 2024 election, North Carolina’s youngest Republican state senator pulled off a rare fundraising triumph for a lawmaker who had only served one full term. Sen. Dave Craven campaign attracted more than $1.3 million in contributions, more than any other lawmaker save for Senate leader Phil Berger. Craven gave away $784,800 to other Senate GOP candidates’ campaigns. A watchdog’s review of Craven’s campaign reports shows more than a fifth of the $1.3 million he raised has links to clients of one lobbyist – Kevin Wilkinson, a former congressional aide and state government official who began lobbying in 2020.

North Carolina – Republican NC Elections Board Member Resigns Over Prohibited Campaign Donations

Yahoo News – Kyle Ingram (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 3/5/2026

Bob Rucho, a member of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, announced his resignation after making what appear to be prohibited campaign contributions to two candidates running for election this year. Rucho donated roughly $1,200 to the reelection campaigns of Catawba County Sheriff Don Brown and Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell. State law prohibits election board members from donating to candidates.

Ohio – Prosecution Wraps Its Case in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial. What’s Next?

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/5/2026

Prosecutors wrapped up their case in the bribery trial of former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and top lobbyist Michael Dowling. Jones and Dowling are accused of paying $4.3 million to former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo in exchange for favorable regulatory actions worth more than $1 billion. Over five weeks, jurors heard from 24 witnesses, watched two video depositions, and reviewed extensive emails and text messages. Five former FirstEnergy employees testified under immunity.

Ohio – Defense: FirstEnergy execs backed rival to man they’re accused of bribing

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/6/2026

Two former FirstEnergy executives accused of bribery launched their defense, arguing their preferred candidate to lead the state’s utility regulator was not the man they are accused of bribing. Jason Rafeld was the first witness to testify on behalf of former Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and ex-top lobbyist Michael Dowling, who are accused of bribing the man who beat Rafeld out for the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio chairperson in 2019, Sam Randazzo.

Ohio – Judge Dismisses Money Laundering Charges Against Former FirstEnergy Executives in HB 6 Bribery Trial, Leaves Rest of Indictment Intact

MSN – Tyler Carey (WKYC) | Published: 3/10/2026

A Summit County Judge dismissed the money laundering charges against two former FirstEnergy executives who are currently on trial in connection with the Ohio House Bill 6 bribery scandal. After the state rested its case, Judge Susan Baker Ross acquitted Chuck Jones Michael Dowling of each of the four money laundering charges against them, declaring the evidence presented by the prosecution was “insufficient to sustain a conviction” on those specific accusations. Ross denied the defense’s motion to throw the entire case out.

Ohio – US Sen. Jon Husted Testifies Remotely in Ex-FirstEnergy Executives’ Corruption Trial

Yahoo News – Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) | Published: 3/11/2026

U.S. Sen. Jon Husted testified he was present at a 2018 dinner with Ohio’s then-Gov.-elect Mike DeWine and two former FirstEnergy executives who are accused of bribing a top utility regulator, whom DeWine appointed shortly thereafter. But Husted said he recalled little of what was discussed that night and he was not aware that former Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and former lobbyist Michael Dowling planned to meet with DeWine’s ultimate choice to lead the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, Sam Randazzo, right afterward.

Oregon – Oregon Lawmakers Approve Controversial Changes to Campaign Finance Law; Advocates Pledge to Bring Issue to Ballot

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 3/6/2026

After ignoring warnings from campaign finance reform advocates, Oregon lawmakers approved a variety of changes to a 2024 law that establishes limits on political contributions starting next year. If Gov. Tina Kotek signs the bill, the advocates say they will bring forward a ballot measure to pass a stronger version of Oregon’s campaign finance law. Two years ago, lawmakers only moved to set contribution limits after it became clear the same advocates would likely succeed in getting a campaign finance measure on the ballot.

Pennsylvania – As Josh Shapiro Seeks Reelection, His Business-Friendly Brand Has Drawn Millions from CEOs – Including Some with Interests in Harrisburg

MSN – Andrew Seidman and Joe Yerardi (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 3/4/2026

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s gubernatorial campaign raised at least $8.5 million last year from nearly 240 chief executive officers, founders, business owners, and other top executives. During his first three years in office, Shapiro sought to build a profile as a pragmatic, business-friendly governor. At the same time, the governor has proven adept at raising campaign money from people who have business interests before state government in Harrisburg. The practice could invite scrutiny for Shapiro in a White House run, particularly among voters and activists who are dismayed by the role of money in politics.

Pennsylvania – A Silicon Valley Firm Offered Gift Cards as Part of a Campaign to Defeat Pa. Regulation. Lawmakers Say That’s Unethical.

Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 3/4/2026

A home financing firm offered its customers Amazon gift cards if they submitted testimony to a Pennsylvania House committee ahead of a hearing on a bill the company opposed. The offer, made in a February email by Palo Alto-based company Point to its users, has upset the committee members, who argue it calls into question the firm’s argument. Lobbyists must disclose who pays them, said Rep. Arvind Venkat, and Point is not yet registered to lobby the General Assembly.

Tennessee – Tennessee Lawmakers Push Bill That Could Make Them, and Their Donors, Richer by Triggering CVS Closures

MSN – Robert Schmad (Washington Examiner) | Published: 3/10/2026

A bill working its way through the Tennessee Legislature could serve the interests of the pharmacy industry-linked lawmakers sponsoring it by reducing competition for them and their donors. Senate Bill 2040, according to CVS, would force it to close every pharmacy it maintains in the state. Some of the lawmakers pushing the bill own pharmacies that could potentially benefit from the resulting dearth of competition, whereas others supporting the law are funded by business interests that themselves could gain from knocking out the state’s CVS locations.

Virginia – Virginia Moves to Forbid Schools from Teaching That Jan. 6 Was Peaceful

MSN – Gregory Schneider and Lauren Lumpkin (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2026

Virginia lawmakers passed a bill that prohibits schools from teaching the Capitol insurrection was a peaceful demonstration or there was massive fraud in the 2020 presidential election, the first Democratic state to try to shape how such events are taught. It raises questions about how far government should go in dictating how historical events are portrayed, particularly in an era when even basic facts are increasingly treated as matters of partisan debate.

Virginia – Civil Rights Imagery in Anti-Redistricting Mailers Draws Outrage in Virginia

Yahoo News – Markus Schmidt (Virginia Mercury) | Published: 3/9/2026

A PAC opposing Virginia’s April 21 redistricting referendum is facing sharp criticism after sending mailers to voters that invoke imagery and language from the civil rights movement, a tactic voting rights advocates and state officials say distorts history and risks misleading voters. There appears to be little publicly available information online about a group called Justice for Democracy, the organization listed on the mailer disclaimer.

Washington – Judge Denies Restraining Order for Conservative Media Figures Who Sought Press Passes

Yahoo News – Martha Bellisle (Associated Press) | Published: 3/10/2026

State lawmakers in Washington were within their rights when they declined to issue press passes to three conservative media figures, a federal judge ruled in a case that echoes a national discussion over who qualifies as a journalist. The House said they were not bona fide journalists because they are participants in the political arena, advocating for certain agendas and hosting or speaking at rallies.

Elections

National: “Smartmatic Says It’s Being Targeted by Justice Dept. to Bolster False 2020 Claims” by Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

California: “Andrew Do’s Corruption Went Far Beyond What Was Previously Known, Audit Finds” by Nick Gerda (LAist) for MSN

Washington DC: “Ed Martin Faces Disciplinary Proceedings Over Actions as D.C. U.S. Attorney” by Perry Stein (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “DOJ Clears the Way for Government to Hire Technologists Still Connected to Their Private Sector Employers” by Natalie Alms for Government Executive

National: “Trump DOJ Seeks Control Over Search of Washington Post Reporter’s Devices” by Jordan Rubin for MSN

Ohio: “US Sen. Jon Husted Testifies Remotely in Ex-FirstEnergy Executives’ Corruption Trial” by Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Ohio: “Judge Dismisses Money Laundering Charges Against Former FirstEnergy Executives in HB 6 Bribery Trial, Leaves Rest of Indictment Intact” by Tyler Carey (WKYC) for MSN

Legislative Issues

Washington: “Judge Denies Restraining Order for Conservative Media Figures Who Sought Press Passes” by Martha Bellisle (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Procurement

Nebraska: “Lincoln Police Now Investigating $2.5M No-Bid Contract Flagged by Nebraska Auditor” by Zach Wendling (Nebraska Examiner) for Yahoo News

Campaign Finance

Hawaii: “Audit: Sylvia Luke’s campaign missed thousands in donations” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat

Elections

Arizona: “FBI Obtains Voting Data from Arizona GOP’s 2020 Review That Confirmed Trump’s Loss” by Isaac Arnsdorf, Perry Stein, and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Documents Reveal a Web of Financial Ties Between Trump Officials and the Industries They Help Regulate” by Corey Johnson, Brandon Roberts, and Al Shaw for ProPublica

New Jersey: “Trio Named to Replace Alina Habba as U.S. Attorney Is Also Serving Illegally, Judge Says” by Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) for MSN

New York: “Ethics Probe Finds State Agency Supervisor Accepted Cash, Luxury Handbag” by Timothy Fanning (Albany Times Union) for MSN

Ohio: “Attorneys for Former FirstEnergy Execs Call on Judge to Throw Out Case” by Patrick Williams (Akron Beacon Journal) for MSN

Tennessee: “Tennessee Lawmakers Push Bill That Could Make Them, and Their Donors, Richer by Triggering CVS Closures” by Robert Schmad (Washington Examiner) for MSN

Legislative Issues

National: “In Trump’s Washington, Congress Has Little Power Left” by Liz Goodwin (Washington Post) for MSN

Campaign Finance

Georgia: “Bill Requires Candidates to Raise at Least Half Their Money Within Georgia” by Mark Niesse for Capitol Beat

National: “From St. Petersburg to Philly, Fraud Claims Piled Up Against Political Consultant” by Anna Orso (Philadelphia Inquirer) for Yahoo News

North Carolina: “Young NC Senator Is a Big Fundraiser. How a Lobbyist and His Wife Tie into That Success” by Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) for MSN

Pennsylvania: “As Josh Shapiro Seeks Reelection, His Business-Friendly Brand Has Drawn Millions from CEOs – Including Some with Interests in Harrisburg” by Andrew Seidman and Joe Yerardi (Philadelphia Inquirer) for MSN

Elections

National: “Millions in the Mailbox: Why both political parties are still spending big on traditional mail” by Emma Sullivan for OpenSecrets

Ethics

National: “Judge Rules Kari Lake Unlawfully Ran U.S. Media Agency, Voiding Layoffs” by Scott Nover (Washington Post) for MSN

Ohio: “Defense: FirstEnergy execs backed rival to man they’re accused of bribing” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Redistricting

National: “The Next Redistricting Battle Might Be Who Is Counted in State Legislative Districts” by Hansi Lo Wang for NPR

Campaign Finance

North Carolina: “Republican NC Elections Board Member Resigns Over Prohibited Campaign Donations” by Kyle Ingram (Raleigh News & Observer) for Yahoo News

Oregon: “Oregon Lawmakers Approve Controversial Changes to Campaign Finance Law; Advocates Pledge to Bring Issue to Ballot” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN

Elections

National: “Rep. Gonzales Drops Reelection Bid After Admitting to Affair with Aide” by Amy Wang and Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Bulletproof Vests and Rolex Watches: The rise and fall of Kristi Noem” by Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Hamed Aleaziz (New York Times) for Seattle Times

National: “Justice Department Publishes Documents with Sexual Assault Allegations Against Trump” by Erica Orden (Politico) for MSN

Ohio: “Prosecution Wraps Its Case in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial. What’s Next?” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Virginia: “Virginia Moves to Forbid Schools from Teaching That Jan. 6 Was Peaceful” by Gregory Schneider and Lauren Lumpkin (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

Pennsylvania: “A Silicon Valley Firm Offered Gift Cards as Part of a Campaign to Defeat Pa. Regulation. Lawmakers Say That’s Unethical.” by Stephen Caruso for Spotlight PA

National/Federal

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

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

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

DOJ Sues 5 More States for Access to Voter Rolls

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

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

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

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

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

Trump Allies Claim Victory as the Ellisons Expand Their Media Empire

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

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

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

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

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

Trump Justice Department Aims to Limit Ethics Probes into Its Lawyers

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

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

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

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

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

Judge Restores Lawmakers’ Unfettered Access to ICE Detention Facilities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the States and Municipalities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “Arizona Senate Passes Republican ‘Pay-to-Play’ Reform Bill, Not Hobbs’ Plan” by Wayne Schutsky for KJZZ

California: “QAnon Darling, Perennial GOP L.A. Congressional Candidate Sentenced to 4 Years for Fraud” by Cierra Morgan and Clara Harter (Los Angeles Times) for MSN

Oklahoma: “Oklahoma Ethics Board Launches Temporary Portal for Local Campaign Finance Reporting” by Emma Murphy (Oklahoma Watch) for Yahoo News

Oregon: “Oregon Lawmakers Advance Bill to Revise Campaign Finance Law Despite Significant Confusion About What It Would Do” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Rep. Tony Gonzales, Forced into Runoff, Admits to Affair with Aide Who Died by Suicide” by Gabby Birenbaum (Texas Tribune) for Yahoo News

National: “Trump Justice Department Aims to Limit Ethics Probes into Its Lawyers” by Andrew Goudsward (Reuters) for MSN

Ohio: “US Sen. Jon Husted Expected to Testify in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial, Defense Attorney Says” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Lobbying

Tennessee: “Conflict of Interest? Lobbying Firm on Metro Schools Payroll Never Revealed Its Work for Major Vendor” by Phil Williams for WTVF

Elections

Texas: “Cornyn, Paxton Reach Runoff; Other Takeaways from Big Election Night” by Teo Armas (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Trump Admin Asked a Court to Drop Court Fights Against Law Firms Tied to Democrats. Now It’s Changing Its Mind” by Katelyn Polantz (CNN) for MSN

National: “Trump Allies Claim Victory as the Ellisons Expand Their Media Empire” by Will Oremus, Liam Scott, Cat Zakrzewski, and Scott Nover (Washington Post) for MSN

Ohio: “Longtime FirstEnergy Lobbyist Accused of Paying a $4.3 Million Bribe Speaks Out for the First Time” by Jake Zuckerman for Signal Ohio

Rhode Island: “Ethics Panel Sets Hearing Date as Supervisor During Infamous Philly Trip Fights to Clear His Name” by Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

California: “These Public Documents Are Hidden from View. Two California Lawmakers Want to Change That” by Ryan Sabalow for CalMatters

Mississippi: “DraftKings and Entergy Spent Over $100K on a Super Bowl Weekend for Two Mississippi Politicians, Staffers and Spouses” by Michael Goldberg and Taylor Vance for Mississippi Today

Redistricting

New York: “Supreme Court Blocks Redrawing of Republican-Held Congressional District in New York Over Liberal Dissent” by John Fritze (CNN) for Yahoo News

Campaign Finance

National: “New York Woman Who Duped Investors and Funneled Money to Trump Fundraiser Gets 9 Years in Prison” by Associated Press for MSN

Oregon: “Oregon House Speaker Reprimands Republican Gubernatorial Candidate for Fundraising During Session” by Shaanth Nanguneri (Oregon Capital Chronicle) for Yahoo News

Elections

National: “DOJ Sues 5 More States for Access to Voter Rolls” by Jacob Wendler (Politico) for MSN

Ethics

Kentucky: “State Republicans Look to Reshape Louisville’s Ethics Commission” by Roberto Roldan for Louisville Public Media

Ohio: “An Ohio Newspaper Has a New Star Writer. It Isn’t Human.” by Will Oremus and Scott Nover (Washington Post) for Yahoo News

Ohio: “A Dead Man’s Actions Take Center Stage in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

South Dakota: “Some Ethics Documents Meant to Reveal State Board Members’ Conflicts Are Missing” by Joshua Haiar (South Dakota Searchlight) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

California: “Secret Payments, Win Bonuses Discussed for Angel Stadium Deal, Other Projects” by Gabriel San Roman for Los Angeles Times

Campaign Finance

New Mexico: “Miyagishima Says Secretary of State Guidance Led to $125K in Excess Campaign Contributions” by Azure Mitchell for New Mexico In Depth

New York: “Election Officials Say Senate Candidate Defrauded State of Over $200,000” by Emilie Munson (Albany Times Union) for MSN

Elections

National: “Trump, Seeking Executive Power Over Elections, Is Urged to Declare Emergency” by Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

Colorado: “Former Colorado State Senator Sentenced to Probation for Fabricating Letters Amid Ethics Investigation” by Taylor Dolven (Colorado Sun) for KUNC

National: “Bill Clinton Says He ‘Did Nothing Wrong’ with Epstein as He Faces Grilling Over Their Relationship” by Stephen Groves (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Michigan: “Up North Resort Ownership Poses More Oakland County Ethics Questions” by Dave Boucher (Detroit Free Press) for Blue Water Healthy Living

New York: “Refugee Released by Border Patrol Found Dead, Sparking Outrage” by Evan Hill and Joanna Slater (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

South Carolina: “New Bill Aims to Eliminate Statute of Limitations for Prosecuting Illegal Lobbying” by Lee Williams for WOLO

National/Federal

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

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

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

Judge Says Government May Not Search Devices Seized from Post Reporter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Justice Department Withheld and Removed Some Epstein Files Related to Trump

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

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

How AI Money Is Flooding into the Midterm Elections

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

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

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

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

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

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Political Feud Over Government Accountability in Arizona Gets Personal

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

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

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

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

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

California – Oakland’s Most Influential Lobbyists

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ohio – FirstEnergy Trial Witness Says Randazzo Dodged Payment Disclosures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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