National/Federal

After Helping Prince’s Rise, Trump and Kushner Benefit from Saudi Funds
MSN – Michael Kranish (Washington Post) | Published: 2/11/2023

The day after leaving the White House, Jared Kushner created a company he transformed months later into a private equity firm with $2 billion from a sovereign wealth fund chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Kushner’s firm structured those funds in such a way that it did not have to disclose the source. A year after his presidency, Donald Trump’s golf courses began hosting tournaments for the Saudi fund-backed LIV Golf. The Trump Organization secured an agreement with a Saudi real estate company that plans to build a Trump hotel as part of a $4 billion golf resort in Oman.

Biden Fires Architect of the Capitol Over Alleged Abuses
Yahoo News – Lisa Mascaro and Colleen Long (Associated Press) | Published: 2/13/2023

President Biden fired the embattled Architect of the Capitol, Brett Blanton, following a scathing inspector general report on his personal and professional management and calls for his removal. An inspector general report found “administrative, ethical and policy violations” by Blanton, a Trump-era appointee, including that he abused his government vehicle and misrepresented himself as a law enforcement official.

Combating Disinformation Wanes at Social Media Giants
DNyuz – Steven Lee Myers and Nico Grant (New York Times) | Published: 2/14/2023

YouTube, like other social media platforms, spent years expanding its efforts to tackle misinformation after the 2016 election. Not anymore. The company quietly reduced its small team of policy experts in charge of handling misinformation. The cuts, part of the reduction of 12,000 employees by Google’s parent company left only one person in charge of misinformation policy worldwide. The cuts reflect a trend across the industry that threatens to undo many of the safeguards that social media platforms put in place in recent years to ban or tamp down on disinformation.

Election Deniers Face a Nationwide Wave of Pushback
MSN – Amy Gardner, Patrick Marley, and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 2/15/2023

There is a growing effort among state election officials, lawmakers, and private-sector advocates to push back against the wave of misinformation and mistrust of elections that sprang from Donald Trump’s false claim that his 2020 defeat was rigged. Since that vote more than two years ago, election administrators have regularly found themselves fending off false accusations, baseless lawsuits, and violent threats. Election administrators and their advocates say they are motivated to act because election denialism does not appear to be going away, even as the evidence has grown that most Americans have grown tired of it.

FBI Finds One Additional Document with Classified Markings at Pence Home
MSN – Perry Stein and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 2/10/2023

The FBI found one additional document with classified markings during a five-hour search of former Vice President Mike Pence’s Indiana home. The planned search follows revelations in January that Pence had turned over to the FBI “a small number” of documents bearing classified markings that his lawyers discovered at his home. Pence is the latest politician to face scrutiny for potentially mishandling classified materials after leaving elected office.

FEC Tells George Santos to Name Campaign Treasurer or Face Ban on Fundraising and Spending
CNBC – Kevin Breuninger | Published: 2/15/2023

The campaign of scandal-plagued U.S. Rep. George Santos will lose its ability to raise donations or make payments if it fails to appoint a treasurer, the FEC warned. The agency told Santos it “has received no information regarding a new treasurer” since the former person in that role, Nancy Marks, resigned in January. “… Failure to appoint a treasurer will result in the inability of the committee to accept contributions and make disbursements,” the FEC wrote to Santos.

Former FBI Agent’s Side Work Puts Bureau Under New Scrutiny
MSN – Shane Harris, Rosalind Helderman, and Catherine Belton (Washington Post) | Published: 2/13/2023

In January, Charles McGonigal, special agent in charge of counterintelligence for the FBI’s New York field office, was indicted on federal charges of money laundering, violating U.S. sanctions, and making false statements. He is one of the most senior FBI officials ever charged with criminal offenses, and his case has deeply concerned national security professionals, given the extraordinary access he had to sensitive government secrets.

Free Speech vs. Disinformation Comes to a Head
Seattle Times – Steven Lee Myers (New York Times) | Published: 2/9/2023

The attorneys general of Missouri and Louisiana, both Republicans, have sued the White House and dozens of officials like Dr. Anthony Fauci, accusing them of forcing social media platforms to stifle the voices of its critics in violation of the constitutional guarantee of free speech. The outcome could help decide whether the First Amendment has become a barrier to virtually any government efforts to stifle a problem that, in the case of a pandemic, threatens public health and, in the case of the integrity of elections, even democracy itself. Government officials have long urged social media companies to fight illegal or harmful content online.

Pence to Fight Special Counsel Subpoena on Trump’s 2020 Election Denial
Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/14/2023

Former Vice President Mike Pence plans to fight a subpoena by the special counsel overseeing investigations into efforts by Donald Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Pence is set to argue that his former role as president of the Senate – therefore a member of the legislative branch – shields him from certain Justice Department demands. Pence allies say he is covered by the constitutional provision that protects congressional officials from legal proceedings related to their work, language known as the “speech or debate” clause.

Prosecutors Seek Trump Lawyer’s Testimony, Suggesting Evidence of Crime
Seattle Times – Alan Feuer, Maggie Haberman, and Ben Protess (New York Times) | Published: 2/15/2023

Federal prosecutors overseeing the investigation into former President Trump’s handling of classified documents are seeking to pierce assertions of attorney-client privilege and compel one of his lawyers to answer more questions before a grand jury, adding a new dimension to the inquiry and underscoring the legal peril facing Trump. The prosecutors sought approval from a federal judge to invoke what is known as the crime-fraud exception, which allows them to work around attorney-client privilege when they have reason to believe that legal advice has been used in furthering a crime.

Rep. Gaetz Won’t Be Charged in Sex-Trafficking Probe, His Lawyers Say
MSN – Devlin Barrett and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/15/2023

Federal prosecutors have closed a long-running sex-trafficking investigation into U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz and have decided not to press charges against him, attorneys for Gaetz said. It was reported that career prosecutors had recommended not charging Gaetz, telling Justice Department superiors that a conviction was unlikely in part because of credibility questions with the two central witnesses. Investigators set out to determine if Gaetz paid for sex in violation of federal sex-trafficking laws, people familiar with the matter have said.

Santos Was Charged with Theft in 2017 Case Tied to Amish Dog Breeders
Yahoo News – Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) | Published: 2/9/2023

U.S. Rep. George Santos was charged with theft in Pennsylvania in 2017 after a series of bad checks were written in his name to dog breeders. Just days after $15,125 in checks were made out for “puppies,” according to the memo lines, Santos held an adoption event at a pet store with his animal rescue charity Friends of Pets United. The charge was dismissed, and his record expunged after Santos claimed someone had stolen his checkbook. Santos has said he merely fabricated parts of his résumé and has denied breaking any laws.

They’re Trying to Topple Trump. But They Barely Utter His Name.
Yahoo News – Jonathan Weisman and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 2/15/2023

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley’s entry to the presidential race underscored how difficult it will be for many Republican candidates to persuade the party’s base they should bear the standard for the GOP, not former President Trump, who maintains the loyalties of so many voters. Haley’s announcement seemed like a calculated appeal to Republican voters who are ready to turn the page from the Trump era without burning the book of Trump’s presidency. But she never mentioned Trump by name, much less leveled any direct criticism at the only other major candidate in the presidential race.

Trump Campaign Paid Researchers to Prove 2020 Fraud but Kept Findings Secret
MSN – Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 2/11/2023

Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign commissioned an outside research firm in a bid to prove electoral-fraud claims but never released the findings because the firm disputed many of his theories and could not offer any proof he was the rightful winner of the election. Trump continues to falsely assert the 2020 election was stolen despite abundant evidence to the contrary, much of which had been provided to him or was publicly available before the Capitol assault.

Canada

Canada – Federal Ethics Commissioner Retiring After 5 Years, Citing Health Issues
CTV News – Rachel Aiello | Published: 2/14/2023

Federal Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner Mario Dion announced he is retiring, effective February 21, citing “persistent health issues.” Dion took on the role in 2018 and was set to serve a seven-year term after his predecessor Mary Dawson held the role for more than a decade. In 2019, Dion took a leave of absence from his role for medical reasons, but the work of his office continued.

From the States and Municipalities

Arkansas – GOP Lawmaker Booed for Asking Trans Doctor About Her Genitalia at Public Hearing
MSN – LGBTQNation Staff | Published: 2/14/2023

In 2021, Arkansas became the first state to ban gender-affirming care for people under the age of 18. That law, however, is on hold pending a legal challenge. Pharmacist Gwendolyn Paige Herzig, who is trans, testified against the bill. One lawmaker shocked LGBTQ+ rights advocates and members of the public by asking Herzig whether she has a penis in front of the entire gallery.

California – Fresno Politicians Clash Over Campaign Money Rule That Critics Say Unfairly Protects Incumbents
MSN – Melissa Montalvo (Fresno Bee) | Published: 2/15/2023

County election rules say Fresno City Council candidates cannot transfer their council campaign funds to their supervisor campaign fund accounts. But city council members Garry Bredefeld and Luis Chavez, who are running for county supervisor, said they plan to transfer most or all of the money in their council accounts to their supervisor accounts. Fresno County officials weighed in on this debate, responding to what they called “incorrect and incomplete information about the county’s campaign contribution ordinance.”

California – Midway Rising Fined $5K for Disclosing Lobbying Activities After Selection
San Diego Union Tribune – Jennifer Van Grove | Published: 2/13/2023

The development team selected to lease and redo the city of San Diego’s sports arena site failed to properly report all its lobbying activities, as is required by law. The city Ethics Commission approved a stipulation order fining the Midway Rising development team $5,000 for failing to file on time what is known as expenditure lobbyist disclosure reports, which are required when an entity spends $5,000 or more in a calendar quarter to indirectly influence municipal decisions.

Colorado – 10th Circuit Tosses GOP Challenge to Colorado’s Campaign Spending Limits
Colorado Politics – Michael Karlick | Published: 2/14/2023

A federal appeals court rejected an attempt by a trio of Republicans to temporarily block enforcement of the voluntary campaign spending limits that voters enacted two decades ago as an anti-corruption measure. Article 28 limits donors’ contributions to candidates per election cycle, adjusted for inflation, to $400 per legislative candidate and $1,250 per statewide executive candidate. Candidates may collect twice those amounts per donor in exchange for voluntarily limiting their overall spending. The appeal focused only on the alleged unconstitutionality of the candidates’ spending limits.

Florida – The Rocky Path to the College Board’s A.P. Black Studies Course
DNyuz – Anemona Hartocollis, Dan Goldstein, and Stephanie Saul (New York Times) | Published: 2/13/2023

The College Board finalized its new Advanced Placement course in African American studies, altering an earlier draft that had become a lightning rod for conservative critics. The Florida Education Department asserted the course “lacks educational value” and violates state law amid a national debate over how topics like racism and history are taught. The state of Florida released a chronology of its communications with the College Board, seeming to take credit for the changes. The College Board, which relies on state participation to administer its tests, fired back, saying changes were made after hearing from teachers about what worked.

Hawaii – ‘Pay To Play’: Hawaii moves to expand the ban on contractor campaign donations
Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 2/8/2023

The Hawaii Legislature is setting its sights on campaign donations from state and county contractors, which have been the subject of public corruption cases in recent decades. Now, a law banning donations from government contractors only applies to the contracted business, not the owners, officers, or employees of those companies. Senate Bill 201 would close a loophole and ban owners, officers, employees, and immediate family from donating to campaigns for the duration of a state or county contract.

Illinois – Donors to Political Committee Supporting Paul Vallas Are Secret, but Leadership Has Ties to Current Campaign
MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/9/2023

A recently launched political committee has spent more than $165,000 on television and digital ads for Paul Vallas’ mayoral bid, and while its supporters so far remain a mystery, its spending and leadership have ties to a top Vallas strategist. Like all independent expenditure committees, the new Chicago Leadership Committee is not allowed under Illinois law to coordinate with any candidate or campaign it supports. One of the group’s ads shows it using the same messaging and word-for-word language that Vallas’ campaign has on the media page of its website, along with still images and video from the site.

Illinois – Right After Landing a Big Deal with the CTA, Businessman Helps Lightfoot’s Reelection Effort
WBEZ – Dan Mihalopoulos | Published: 2/10/2023

Less than a month ago, the Chicago Transit Authority – whose leaders are appointed by the mayor – announced a lucrative new contract with a company founded by real-estate magnate Elzie Higginbottom. Another company tied to Higginbottom then gave a $50,000 contribution to a new political fund created by a close ally of Mayor Lori Lightfoot. That independent expenditure committee recently spent more than $70,000 to attack Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson, who is one of Lightfoot’s main challengers for mayor. A chain of events like this was supposed to have become a thing of the past.

Iowa – ‘Zoom Bombings’ Disrupt Iowa Senate Meetings with Profanity, Pornography and Racial Slurs
Yahoo News – Katie Akin (Des Moines Register) | Published: 2/13/2023

In the first few minutes of a meeting about restructuring state government in the Iowa Senate, a Zoom user took over the television monitor and showed a sexually explicit video. Garbled racial slurs blared from the monitor’s speaker. “… Just hit the ‘leave meeting,'” said Sen. Jason Schultz, the subcommittee’s chairperson. Schultz said the Senate has taken “all the precautions that we could think of” to prevent future interruptions. But he suggested Zoom access may be sacrificed if issues continue.

Maryland – Gov. Wes Moore Recuses Himself from Under Armour Contract Vote as Team Creates Blind Trust to Manage Financial Assets
MSN – Sam Janesch (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 2/14/2023

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore recused himself from a scheduled vote by the state Board of Public Works to decide whether to extend a warehousing contract with Under Armour. Moore served on the athletic apparel maker’s board, resigning after he won the election in November, and owned thousands of shares of the company’s stock. A millionaire several times over after previous careers that included investment banking and running a national nonprofit, Moore faces numerous potential conflicts-of-interest between his holdings and the business of running the state.

Maryland – Judge Upholds Two Ethics Violations Against Nick Mosby, but Rules Council President Didn’t Take Money
Baltimore Banner – Emily Sullivan | Published: 2/13/2023

A Baltimore Circuit Court judge upheld two out of three findings in an administrative ruling that city council President Nick Mosby violated Baltimore’s ethics code for elected officials. Judge Lawrence Fletcher-Hill agreed with the Baltimore City Ethics board that Mosby solicited donations from controlled donors to a legal defense fund established for him and his wife, former City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby. While neither Mosby served as an officer of the fund, the council president erred by not explicitly disavowing himself from the trust.

Michigan – Nessel Requests Greater Transparency from Utilities on Lobbying [Spending]
Detroit News – Breana Noble | Published: 2/15/2023

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office is requesting the state regulator of utilities demand more transparency around the money spent to influence public policy when electric and gas companies file their rate cases. The current requirements are not sufficient, according to the office. It suggests requiring details around the utilities’ and affiliates’ expenses for influencing regulation or legislation directly or indirectly and for influencing public opinion.

Montana – Senate Confirms Gallus as State’s Top Political Cop
Flathead Beacon – Blair Miller (Daily Montanan) | Published: 2/15/2023

Montana’s new commissioner of political practices, Chris Gallus, was confirmed by the state Senate. Despite a lengthy political history that includes working closely with the Montana Republican Party and conservative causes, Gallus only received three “no” votes. Commissioners are limited to a single, six-year term under state law.

New Mexico – Ethics Board Fines Ex-Commissioner for Taking Lobbyist’s Contribution
Albuquerque Journal – Jessica Dyer | Published: 2/8/2023

The Code of Conduct Review Board publicly censured former Bernalillo County Commissioner Charlene Pyskoty and fined her $500. At issue is the $5,000 in-kind contribution Pyskoty’s 2022 reelection campaign reported receiving from lobbyist Vanessa Alarid’s firm.  A complaint maintained Alarid is a “restricted donor,” and county code prohibits officials and candidates from accepting campaign contributions over $1,000 from such contributors.

New Mexico – Lawmakers Seek to Close Big Transparency Gap
New Mexico In Depth – Sarah Childress | Published: 2/9/2023

A 2019 New Mexico law sought to force independent groups who are not required to register as political committees to disclose the money they spend in elections. The changes were quickly put to the test during the 2020 election cycle, when a new independent expenditure group found a loophole to evade reporting who donated hundreds of thousands of dollars it spent on political advertising. A new bill gives more details about when donations or spending would have to be disclosed. It also changes reporting by independent groups.

New Mexico – Ousted Election Clerk Hit with Ethics Lawsuit in New Mexico
Yahoo News – Morgan Lee (Associated Press) | Published: 2/10/2023

A local elections regulator in rural New Mexico who was recently declared missing from work and replaced is now facing possible sanctions from the State Ethics Commission. The lawsuit alleges Yvonne Otero used her office for personal gain and to exchange favors, seeking sanctions that include fines of up to $5,000.

New York – Developer Seeks Aid from Adams’ Housing Commissioner After Scandal That Ensnared Both of Them
The City – Greg Smith | Published: 2/9/2023

A decade ago, real estate developer Peter Fine was banned from New York City housing subsidy programs after one of his firms pleaded guilty to criminal charges following a scandal that involved former Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión Jr. Now, Carrión is Mayor Eric Adams’ housing commissioner. Public records reveal Fine has for the last year been paying lobbyists to seek support for his proposed housing project in The Bronx from Carrión. For his part in the scandal, Carrión had to pay a $10,000 penalty for violating city ethics rules.

Oregon – Top OLCC Officials Kept Popular Booze – Including Pappy Van Winkle – for Themselves, Diverting It from Public
MSN – Noelle Crombie (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/8/2023

Top executives and managers at the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) diverted specialty bourbons away from public consumption for their own personal use for years. The internal investigation revealed a practice within the agency of reserving bottles of the popular bourbon Pappy Van Winkle for multiple employees, including the former executive director, Steve Marks. The OLCC has a monopoly on liquor sales in the state. Some brands are often difficult for the public to buy in Oregon because demand outpaces supply.

Pennsylvania – Shapiro Sat Courtside at a Sixers Game with a Donor. His Campaign Called It a ‘Political Meeting.’
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 2/14/2023

Then Gov.-elect Josh Shapiro sat next to a longtime campaign donor and co-chair of his inaugural committee at the January 4, 2023, NBA game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers at the Wells Fargo Arena. Manuel Bender, a spokesperson for Shapiro’s transition who now works for the administration, said the outing was a “political meeting.” He did not say who paid for the tickets, which conservatively cost $3,000. Bonder did say related expenses will be reported as an in-kind campaign contribution. Political veterans and campaign finance experts called the classification unusual.

South Dakota – South Dakota Lawmakers Want to Ban Spouses from Being Registered Lobbyists
Yahoo News – Annie Todd (Sioux Falls Argus Leader) | Published: 2/13/2023

South Dakota lawmakers want to prevent their spouses from being employed as registered lobbyists in a bill that was passed out of a Senate committee. Senate Bill 197 addresses two problems by providing better clarity about the role of legislative spouses and preventing them from having an advantage that other lobbyists and everyday people do not.

Tennessee – After Wearing Traditional Garment on the House Floor, TN Lawmaker Told to Look for a New Career
WKRN – Adam Mintzer | Published: 2/10/2023

Tennessee Rep. Justin Pearson wore a dashiki – a traditional West African loose-fitted shirt – in the House chamber. On the floor that day, a lawmaker made a statement on the importance of dress code without naming Pearson. Then the House GOP addressed the issue on Twitter, saying, “If you don’t like rules, perhaps you should explore a different career opportunity that’s main purpose is not creating them.”

Texas – Attorney General Ken Paxton Agrees to Apologize and Pay $3.3 Million to Whistleblowers in Settlement
Texas Tribune – James Barragán | Published: 2/10/2023

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and four of his former top deputies who said he improperly fired them after they accused him of crimes have reached a tentative agreement to end a whistleblower lawsuit that would pay those employees $3.3 million. The agreement would bring an end to the lawsuit over the firing of the staffers but would not end Paxton’s legal troubles. The allegations by the former aides of bribery and abuse of office prompted an FBI investigation, though no charges have been filed and Paxton has denied wrongdoing.

West Virginia – WV Senate Passes Bills That Would Decrease Political Contribution Transparency
Logan Banner – Mike Tony | Published: 2/13/2023

The West Virginia Senate passed two bills that would lower transparency in state elections. The House will now consider the bills, which would increase contribution limits that trigger reporting requirements for those spending money to influence legislation coming before state lawmakers or advocate electing or defeating a candidate without a candidate’s support.

Wisconsin – Democrats Meddle Again in a G.O.P. Primary, This Time Down-Ballot
DNyuz – Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 2/13/2023

Last year, Democrats spent millions of dollars elevating far-right candidates in Republican primary contests for governor and Congress – betting, it turned out correctly, that more extreme opponents would lose general elections. Now Wisconsin Democrats are trying to do it again, this time with mail and television ads before a GOP primary in a special election for a state Senate seat that carries ramifications far beyond the district in suburban Milwaukee.

Wyoming – Wyoming State Rep. Says No Truth to Ethics Complaint
Cowboy State Daily – Leo Wolfson | Published: 2/8/2023

An ethics complaint was filed against state Rep. Jon Conrad, alleging his status as a registered lobbyist in Wyoming, along with his occupation and source of campaign donations, creates a conflict-of-interest for the lawmaker. Conrad is an active registered lobbyist for TATA Chemicals. He is also an Environmental, Health, Safety, and Governmental Affairs Manager for TATA. Conrad is a member of the House Business, Minerals, and Economic Development and Agriculture, State, and Public Lands & Water Resources Committees. There are not explicit rules against serving as a lobbyist while being a legislator.

Campaign Finance

California: “Fresno Politicians Clash Over Campaign Money Rule That Critics Say Unfairly Protects Incumbents” by Melissa Montalvo (Fresno Bee) for MSN

Colorado: “10th Circuit Tosses GOP Challenge to Colorado’s Campaign Spending Limits” by Michael Karlick for Colorado Politics

Elections

National: “Election Deniers Face a Nationwide Wave of Pushback” by Amy Gardner, Patrick Marley, and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Prosecutors Seek Trump Lawyer’s Testimony, Suggesting Evidence of Crime” by Alan Feuer, Maggie Haberman, and Ben Protess (New York Times) for Seattle Times

Maryland: “Gov. Wes Moore Recuses Himself from Under Armour Contract Vote as Team Creates Blind Trust to Manage Financial Assets” by Sam Janesch (Baltimore Sun) for MSN

Montana: “Senate Confirms Gallus as State’s Top Political Cop” by Blair Miller (Daily Montanan) for Flathead Beacon

Texas: “Attorney General Ken Paxton Agrees to Apologize and Pay $3.3 Million to Whistleblowers in Settlement” by James Barragán for Texas Tribune

Legislative Issues

Arkansas: “GOP Lawmaker Booed for Asking Trans Doctor About Her Genitalia at Public Hearing” by LGBTQNation Staff for MSN

Tennessee: “After Wearing Traditional Garment on the House Floor, TN Lawmaker Told to Look for a New Career” by Adam Mintzer for WKRN

Campaign Finance

Illinois: “Donors to Political Committee Supporting Paul Vallas Are Secret, but Leadership Has Ties to Current Campaign” by A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) for MSN

Elections

Wisconsin: “Democrats Meddle Again in a G.O.P. Primary, This Time Down-Ballot” by Reid Epstein (New York Times) for DNyuz

Ethics

National: “Combating Disinformation Wanes at Social Media Giants” by Steven Lee Myers and Nico Grant (New York Times) for DNyuz

National: “Former FBI Agent’s Side Work Puts Bureau Under New Scrutiny” by Shane Harris, Rosalind Helderman, and Catherine Belton (Washington Post) for MSN

Pennsylvania: “Shapiro Sat Courtside at a Sixers Game with a Donor. His Campaign Called It a ‘Political Meeting.’” by Stephen Caruso for Spotlight PA

West Virginia: “WV Senate Passes Bills That Would Decrease Political Contribution Transparency” by Mike Tony for Logan Banner

Legislative Issues

National: “Pence to Fight Special Counsel Subpoena on Trump’s 2020 Election Denial” by Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) for Yahoo News

Iowa: “‘Zoom Bombings’ Disrupt Iowa Senate Meetings with Profanity, Pornography and Racial Slurs” by Katie Akin (Des Moines Register) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

South Dakota: “South Dakota Lawmakers Want to Ban Spouses from Being Registered Lobbyists” by Annie Todd (Sioux Falls Argus Leader) for Yahoo News

Sen. Michael Rohl introduced Senate Bill 197 to prohibit spouses of current members of the Senate or House of Representatives from being employed as a registered private lobbyist.

He stated that the bill addresses two problems

• Preventing legislative spouses from having an advantage that other lobbyists and everyday people do not.
• Providing clarity about their role because legislative spouses tend to have more access to restricted areas and lawmakers.

The bill passed out of committee Monday and will next be discussed and voted on by the Senate.

Campaign Finance

Illinois: “Right After Landing a Big Deal with the CTA, Businessman Helps Lightfoot’s Reelection Effort” by Dan Mihalopoulos for WBEZ

New Mexico: “Lawmakers Seek to Close Big Transparency Gap” by Sarah Childress for New Mexico In Depth

Elections

National: “Trump Campaign Paid Researchers to Prove 2020 Fraud but Kept Findings Secret” by Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “After Helping Prince’s Rise, Trump and Kushner Benefit from Saudi Funds” by Michael Kranish (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Biden Fires Architect of the Capitol Over Alleged Abuses” by Lisa Mascaro and Colleen Long (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Florida: “The Rocky Path to the College Board’s A.P. Black Studies Course” by Anemona Hartocollis, Dan Goldstein, and Stephanie Saul (New York Times) for DNyuz

Maryland: “Judge Upholds Two Ethics Violations Against Nick Mosby, but Rules Council President Didn’t Take Money” by Emily Sullivan for Baltimore Banner

Lobbying

California: “Behind the Late Lobbying Disclosure That Earned Midway Rising a Fine for Breaking City Ethics Laws” by Andrew Keatts for Voice of San Diego

Campaign Finance

Hawaii: “‘Pay To Play’: Hawaii moves to expand the ban on contractor campaign donations” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat

Ethics

National: “Free Speech vs. Disinformation Comes to a Head” by Steven Lee Myers (New York Times) for DNyuz

National: “Pence Receives Subpoena from Prosecutors Examining Trump’s Jan. 6 Role” by Josh Dawsey and Perry Stein (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Santos Was Charged with Theft in 2017 Case Tied to Amish Dog Breeders” by Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) for Yahoo News

Oregon: “Top OLCC Officials Kept Popular Booze – Including Pappy Van Winkle – for Themselves, Diverting It from Public” by Noelle Crombie (Portland Oregonian) for MSN

Lobbying

New Mexico: “Ethics Board Fines Ex-Commissioner for Taking Lobbyist’s Contribution” by Jessica Dyer for Albuquerque Journal

New York: “Developer Seeks Aid from Adams’ Housing Commissioner After Scandal That Ensnared Both of Them” by Greg Smith for The City

Wyoming: “Wyoming State Rep. Says No Truth to Ethics Complaint” by Leo Wolfson for Cowboy State Daily

The Los Angeles’ Ad hoc committee on governance reform has recommended the approval of an ethics commission report that would change the rules on persons and organizations lobbying the city.

The commission, whose origins revolves around a controversial leaked audio tape from two former members of the city council, have been tasked on overhauling the city’s ethics laws.

The commission recommended setting a compensation threshold of $5,000 per year that would require a person to register as a lobbyist.

The recommendation also included a requirement for lobbyists to identify their positions on matters about which they are lobbying and lowering the threshold which triggers disclosures when lobbyists distribute political fundraiser solicitations to 15 or more people, down from a threshold of 50 people.

The next step is for the City Council to vote on the commission’s recommendations at their next meeting.

Governor Greg Gianforte has appointed Chris Gallus as Montana’s new Commissioner of Political Practices.

Gallus previously served as legal counsel for the Montana Chamber of Commerce before starting his own private practice.

The Montana Senate has not yet confirmed Gallus’s appointment and no date has been set for his confirmation hearing.

If his appointment is approved, Gallus will serve a six-year term as Commissioner of Political Practices.

National/Federal

2016 Trump Campaign in $450,000 Lawsuit Settlement Voids Worker Non-Disclosure Pacts
MSN – Jack Stebbins (CNBC) | Published: 2/4/2023

Former President Trump’s 2016 campaign, as part of a $450,000 settlement of a class-action lawsuit by a former campaign aide, agreed to void non-disclosure agreements that hundreds of campaign workers and volunteers had signed as a condition of their work. The deal ended a federal lawsuit filed by former Trump campaign aide Jessica Denson. The settlement potentially opens the door for campaign workers to publicly discuss events related to the 2016 race, and to Trump himself, without fear of potentially financially ruinous legal retaliation by him.

Despite Fears Agency Could Be Crippled, House Fills Ethics Posts
MSN – Kate Ackley (Roll Call) | Published: 2/7/2023

Even though watchdog groups predicted House Republicans’ changes to the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) could sideline it in the 118th Congress, they now say their worst fears appear unlikely. They credit House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for swiftly filling Democratic slots on OCE’s board and say they are now optimistic about the office’s ability to operate. Still, the state of ethics enforcement in the current Congress remains somewhat uncertain.

Despite Prior Sexual Harassment Probe, Executive Hired to Senior Federal Job
MSN – Lisa Rein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2023

The agency that sets personnel and hiring policy across the federal government hired a senior leader last year who was found in a previous job to have sexually harassed two women who were his subordinates. Frederick Tombar III, hired in October as second-in-command in the Office of Personnel Management’s retirement services division, resigned as executive director of the Louisiana Housing Corp. in 2015 amid an internal probe by a state agency that concluded he harassed the women. The state also paid $89,500 to one of his accusers in a settlement after she sued.

DNC Approves Biden Plan to Remake 2024 Calendar but Hurdles Remain
MSN – Dylan Wells and Tyler Pager (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2023

Democrats voted overwhelmingly to remake the party’s presidential nominating calendar, embracing President Biden’s push for South Carolina to be the first state to hold its contest in 2024 and replacing Iowa amid calls for greater racial, geographic, and economic diversity in the process. The move by members of the Democratic National Committee was long expected, but it does not guarantee the calendar will ultimately be enacted as designed.

Federal Election Commission Hikes Contribution Limits Ahead of 2024 Election Cycle
OpenSecrets – Taylor Giorno | Published: 2/2/2023

The FEC announced new contribution limits for the 2024 election cycle. The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 established limits for donations by individuals to candidates and national party committees. The FEC increases the caps every odd-numbered year to reflect changes in inflation, which skyrocketed in 2022 to the highest level in four decades and the unprecedented increase to the donation limit reflects the historic rise in prices.

Feds Probing Santos’ Role in Service Dog Charity Scheme
MSN – Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) | Published: 1/31/2023

The FBI is investigating U.S. Rep. George Santos’s role in an alleged GoFundMe scheme involving a disabled U.S. Navy veteran’s dying service dog. Richard Osthoff said Santos used his plight to raise $3,000 for life-saving surgery for the dog, then disappeared with the funds. Attorney Joshua Schiller said the veteran’s encounter with Santos could offer prosecutors a quick way to file criminal charges even though they are also investigating possible financial crimes.

Gavels for Top House Committees Don’t Always Come Cheap
MSN – Kate Ackley (Roll Call) | Published: 2/9/2023

Winning control of the most sought-after committees in the House can come with a hefty price tag – in party dues. The eight lawmakers atop the four panels dubbed “A” committees transferred more than $5.2 million from their own political accounts to their respective parties’ campaign arms in the 2022 cycle, according to Issue One, a group that advocates for overhauling campaign finance laws. Although chairperson races and committee assignments do not merely come down to who raised the most money for the party, it can help members move up the hierarchies of the House if they spread campaign money generously.

Heckling of Biden Reflects a New, Coarser Normal for House G.O.P.
Yahoo News – Karoun Demirjian (New York Times) | Published: 2/8/2023

The shouts of “liar,” “that’s not true,” and at least one expletive lobbed at President Biden during his State of the Union address dwarfed outbursts during previous such speeches, most of which have been interrupted by a single disturbance, if at all. The display reflected the ethos that has come to define the Republican-led House, where an emboldened right wing that styles itself after former President Trump is unapologetic about its antipathy for Biden and eager to show it in attention-grabbing ways.

Jordan Fires Off First Subpoenas Against Biden Admin
MSN – Jordain Carney and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 2/3/2023

House Judiciary Committee Chairperson Jim Jordan issued the first subpoenas of the GOP’s new majority, demanding records about certain Biden administration decisions regarding threats against school officials during the Covid-19 pandemic. Jordan sent subpoenas to Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, requesting a laundry list of documents by March 1. The subpoenas are linked to a long-held GOP claim that federal agencies “targeted” parents.

Koch Network to Back Alternative to Trump After Sitting Out Recent Primaries
MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 2/5/2023

The network of donors and activist groups led by conservative billionaire Charles Koch will oppose Donald Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination, mounting a direct challenge to the former president’s campaign to win back the White House. The move marks the most notable example to date of an overt and coordinated effort from within conservative circles to stop Trump from winning the GOP nomination for a third straight presidential election. Some Republicans have grown increasingly frustrated with Trump after disappointing midterm elections in which he drew blame for elevating flawed candidates and polarizing ideas.

Santos’ Unusual $199.99 Campaign Expenses Are Putting Scrutiny on His Longtime Treasurer
MSN – Fredreka Schouten, Kara Scannell, and Gregory Krieg (CNN) | Published: 2/7/2023

U.S. Rep. George Santos and former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin shared a striking set of unusual expenses in their campaign finance reports: 21 payments on a single day that each total exactly $199.99, which is one penny below the figure at which campaigns are required to keep receipts, and all went to anonymous recipients. The Zeldin and Santos congressional campaigns had one more thing in common: they shared a treasurer, Nancy Marks. She resigned from the Santos campaign recently, but the reports Marks filed are the subject of FEC complaints centered on allegations that records were falsified in violation of federal law.

Supreme Court Justices Discussed, But Did Not Agree on Code of Conduct
MSN – Robert Barnes and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 2/9/2023

Although U.S. Supreme Court justices say they voluntarily comply with the same ethical guidelines that apply to other federal judges, the lack of an ethics code has become a prominent complaint on Capitol Hill. In 2019, Justice Elena Kagan told a congressional committee that Chief Justice John Roberts was “seriously” studying the issue. But a discussion among the justices to establish a code failed to produce agreement, people familiar with the matter said. The inertia has frustrated critics, whose demands for reform have intensified.

From the States and Municipalities

Arkansas – Ex-State Senator Hutchinson Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette – Dale Ellis | Published: 2/3/2023

Former state Sen. Jeremy Hutchinson, the son of ex-U.S. Rep. Tim Hutchinson and nephew of former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison after being convicted of bribery and filing a false tax return. He was also ordered to pay $355,535.10 in restitution. Hutchinson admitted to accepting more than $157,000 from a businessperson disguised as legal fees to advance legislation.

California – Calls Intensify for Anaheim’s City Leaders to Keep Promises to Root Out Corruption
Voice of OC – Spencer Custodio and Hosam Elattar | Published: 2/9/2023

Resident watchdogs, activists, community leaders, and the Orange County Democratic Party are all pushing back on Anaheim City Council members, calling on them to stay the course on a contracted corruption investigation into City Hall instead of paring down efforts stemming from a scandal that surfaced last year. The scandal triggered the mayor’s resignation and ended up terminating a proposed stadium deal between the city and the Los Angeles Angels.

California – LA Council’s Governance Reform Committee Recommends Stricter Lobbying Rules
MSN – City News Service | Published: 2/6/2023

In a step toward reforming Los Angeles’s lobbying ordinance for the first time in decades, the city council’s ad hoc committee on reform recommended approval of an city Ethics Commission report that would place stricter rules on people or organizations looking to impact policy. The Municipal Lobbying Ordinance has not been comprehensively updated since its adoption in 1994, with two prior recommendations by the ethics agency expiring after the council did not act on them. But the racist audio involving some council members spurred the creation of the special committee, which took up the May 2022 recommendations.

Florida – Amid Attacks from DeSantis, AP African American Studies Course Is Updated
MSN – Nick Anderson and Lori Rozsa (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2023

After debate on how to construct a class focused on the Black experience, the College Board finalized a plan for its new Advanced Placement course in African American studies that seeks to immerse students in Black history and culture without shying from fraught topics of race and racism in a way that until now has mostly been available only on college campuses. The College Board denied any suggestion it watered down the course after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis attacked an earlier draft as progressive “indoctrination.” But the document now omits mention of certain left-leaning figures who appeared in a previous version.

Florida – Brevard Consultant Failed to Report Political Contributions, Gambled with PAC Funds
Yahoo News – Eric Rogers (Florida Today) | Published: 2/8/2023

A Brevard County political consultant is facing a long list of election law violations over electioneering and a defunct PAC he used during the 2020 election cycle. Florida Elections Commission investigators said Robert Burns failed to file months of campaign finance reports for his short-lived PAC, Friends of Florida, failed to disclose tens of thousands in contributions, regularly spent money the PAC did not have, and failed to properly disclose political ads paid for with PAC funds.

Florida – Fort Lauderdale Follies: City Hall drama gets Seinfeldesque
MSN – Susannah Bryan (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) | Published: 2/8/2023

It was not a Seinfeld episode, but it sounded like one as Fort Lauderdale City Commission members Steve Glassman and John Herbst faced off at a meeting. Glassman needled Herbst over how many hours the city attorney’s office has spent drafting opinions for him on whether a commissioner can accept invites from lobbyists and organizations to pricey and not-so-pricey events without breaking ethics laws.

Hawaii – Hawaii Government Transparency Bills Clear a Key Hurdle in The Legislature
Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 2/7/2023

Four bills that would ban lawmakers from taking donations while in session and increase transparency in Hawaii’s campaign finance system were unanimously approved with bipartisan support in the state House. The bills are the first batch of those aimed at reforming government transparency and ethics in the wake of felony charges against two former lawmakers who took bribes from a businessperson. They now go to the Senate. Gov. Josh Green signaled support for many of the transparency measures being considered this session and said he planned to sign those that came to his desk.

Illinois – New Illinois Supreme Court Justices Got Major Boost from Hidden Spending by Democratic Group
MSN – Ray Long and Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/5/2023

All for Justice spent $7.3 million on the 2022 Illinois Supreme Court races to help expand the Democratic majority on the court. But the PAC failed to follow disclosure guidelines mandated by state election law, which meant its spending went undisclosed until months after the election. In contrast, independent expenditure groups that funded the Republican candidates filed the required ongoing spending reports. Although All for Justice did not file timely expenditure reports, it did file the mandated reports on money it was taking in from donors, indicating an awareness of the campaign finance laws.

Kansas – Kansas Bill Would Limit Subpoena Power of Ethics Commission Amid Ongoing Investigation
MSN – Jenna Barackman (Kansas City Star) | Published: 2/6/2023

A new bill would limit the subpoena power of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. It would require the commission to verify the legitimacy of a claim and determine probable cause before issuing a subpoena. The panel would be unable to use subpoenas to determine whether probable cause exists. The legislation comes after the commission’s executive director, Mark Skoglund, subpoenaed Republican officials last year in relation to an investigation into possible campaign finance violations.

Maryland – Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates Scraps Plans for Foundation While in Office
Baltimore Banner – Justin Fenton and Dylan Segelbaum | Published: 2/8/2023

Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates is scrapping plans for a nonprofit foundation that was expected to accept contributions from donors it would not have to disclose under the law to pay for events while he served as the city’s top prosecutor. Since its formation, Building Bridges for a Better Baltimore Foundation, a 501(c)(4) group, has been mainly a vehicle to fund Bates’ inauguration events. Though state law now requires the governor to disclose donors to inaugural committees, it does not cover other public officials, such as state’s attorneys.

Massachusetts – Limits on Super PACs Stump Top Massachusetts Court
Courthouse News Service – Thomas Harrison | Published: 2/6/2023

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court heard arguments in a case concerning a proposed initiative petition filed in June 2022 and rejected in September. It would have limited contributions to super PACs to $5,000 in a calendar year. Justice Scott Kafker referred to the matter as an “incredibly novel, difficult constitutional issue that probably will get us smacked down by the U.S. Supreme Court” and wondered whether it was appropriate for the state’s highest court to get involved at this stage.

Michigan – Feds Investigate Ex-Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson for Alleged Bribery in Pot Licensing
Gwinnett Daily Post – Robert Snell and Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 2/1/2023

FBI agents and a federal grand jury have spent more than two years investigating whether former Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson and others received bribes in return for awarding state licenses to operate medical marijuana facilities. The probe has the potential to raise new questions about financial influences over Lansing while Republicans controlled the Legislature and how the state’s burgeoning marijuana industry was shaped.

Minnesota – Appeals Court Greenlights Donation Investigation into GOP Group
Yahoo News – Roger Sollenberger (Daily Beast) | Published: 2/8/2023

A federal appeals court said Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison can pursue his investigation into Republican online fundraising giant WinRed over an allegedly deceptive marketing scheme that bilked unwitting donors out of untold amounts of money. The Eighth Circuit of Appeals rejected WinRed’s argument that federal campaign finance laws preempt state attorneys general from enforcing state-level consumer protection laws.

Minnesota – Our Streets Minneapolis Must Register Lobbyists
KMSP – Tom Lyden | Published: 2/2/2023

The Minnesota Campaign Finance Board announced a settlement with Our Streets Minneapolis for failing since 2018 to register some of its employees as lobbyists. Five employees have now registered as lobbyists, while Our Streets Minneapolis will register as a group that engages in lobbying and pay a civil penalty of $4,000. In a response to the complaint, Brian Dillon, an attorney for Our Streets, wrote that the group “Now recognized that it recently began engaging in regulated lobbying activity without knowing that it had done so.”

Missouri – Records Point to Lacy Clay and Brandon Bosley in St. Louis Corruption Scandal
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Jacob Barker and Austin Huguelet | Published: 2/6/2023

Federal officials just sent three former members of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen to prison for taking bribes from a gas station owner. But recently released court documents indicate the FBI provided cash to an informant who offered bribes to at least two other public officials: former U.S. Rep. William Lacy Clay and current Alderman Brandon Bosley. The revelations spring from new details sprinkled through an unsealed search warrant application.

Montana – Helena Attorney Gallus Prepares for Confirmation Hearing as Montana Commissioner of Political Practices
KTVH – Jonathan Ambarian | Published: 2/6/2023

Gov. Greg Gianforte’s choice to be Montana’s commissioner of political practices has already started his new job as the state Senate prepares to consider his confirmation. Chris Gallus has been at work since January 23, several days after Gianforte appointed him to the position. Gallus previously served as legal counsel for the Montana Chamber of Commerce, then started his own legal practice – often working on campaign-related matters, like cases involving ballot measures. He also previously worked as a lobbyist.

New Jersey – Ethical Questions Raised as Murphy Extends Reach at Port Authority with New Nominations
MSN – Colleen Wilson (Bergen Record) | Published: 2/6/2023

Gov. Phil Murphy sent three nominations, including two top staffers, for the state Senate to consider for roles on the board of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Some have raised questions about whether two officials in the governor’s office can sit on the Port Authority board and if there is a conflict-of-interest for the mayor of Elizabeth, a city where authority business and property is located.

New Mexico – Legislation Could Be Fast-Tracked to Resolve Simmering Ethics Law Disagreement
Albuquerque Journal – Dan Boyd | Published: 2/7/2023

New Mexico lawmakers are poised to move quickly to pass legislation clarifying their ability to represent constituents in dealings with state agencies, after a dust-up over the practical implications of a nearly 60-year-old state ethics law. The filing of a Senate bill was prompted by a recent state Ethics Commission advisory opinion that concluded lawmakers could run afoul of the Governmental Conduct Act by writing letters on legislative stationery to state agencies on behalf of constituents, or by making references to their role as legislators.

New Mexico – Legislators Take Aim at Secrecy Rule in Harassment Complaints
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 2/1/2023

New Mexico legislators took a step toward ending the one-sided confidentiality law that keeps people who file a harassment complaint at the Capitol from speaking about their case. Under the current system, a lawmaker accused of harassment is free to comment in public, but the person who lodged the complaint cannot, unless there is a finding of probable cause after an investigation. Lobbyist Marianna Anaya, who accused a prominent state senator last year of sexual harassment and abusive behavior, said the secrecy provision could interfere with a person’s ability to speak to family members and seek out other support.

New York – N.Y. Prosecutors Group Says Former Trump Investigator Violated Ethics with Book
MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2023

An association of New York state prosecutors said a former member of the Manhattan district attorney’s office who investigated Donald Trump violated ethical standards by writing a book about the case during an ongoing criminal investigation. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has previously said former investigator Mark Pomerantz may have broken a law that bars prosecutors from disclosing grand jury material by writing “People vs. Donald Trump: An Inside Account.”

North Carolina – Appeals Court Backs N.C. Attorney General in Battle to Avoid Criminal Libel Prosecution
Yahoo News – Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/8/2023

A federal appeals court sided with North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein in his bid to avoid prosecution under a state law criminalizing “derogatory” statements related to candidates. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals did not outright prohibit a North Carolina district attorney from going forward with a highly unusual prosecution of Stein over his claims related to a rival’s handling of rape test kits. But the appeals court’s decision makes it highly likely a lower federal court will preclude such an action.

North Carolina – NC May Loosen Sanctions for Political Campaigns and PACs After First-Time Violations
MSN – Dan Kane (Charlotte Observer) | Published: 2/7/2023

The State Board of Elections is considering a policy that would allow some campaigns and PACs to keep smaller donations that violate campaign finance rules for first-time infractions. The board is soliciting public comments on the plan. Under the policy, the board would settle cases involving prohibited donations or spending of less than $1,000 per election cycle. First-time rule-breakers would receive warning letters recommending they forfeit prohibited contributions, but not requiring it.

North Carolina – On North Carolina’s Supreme Court, G.O.P. Justices Move to Reconsider Democratic Rulings
DNyuz – Michael Wines (New York Times) | Published: 2/5/2023

The North Carolina Supreme Court moved to rehear two voting rights cases, one striking down a gerrymandered map and another nullifying new voter ID requirements. Such re-hearings are exceedingly rare. What also made the move exceptional was that the cases had been decided less than two months ago by a court that, at the time, contained four Democratic and three Republican justices. The court that voted to rehear the cases has a five-to-two GOP majority after the November midterms. The two Democratic justices criticized the rehearing orders, calling them “an exercise of raw partisanship” that would undermine public trust in the court.

North Dakota – Opposites Align in Push to Clamp Down on Dark Money in North Dakota Campaigns
Dickinson Press – Jeremy Turley | Published: 2/1/2023

State law in North Dakota allows campaign finance groups that classify themselves as “independent expenditure” filers to avoid disclosing their donors. House Bill 1500 would require the nebulous organizations to publicly divulge the “ultimate and true source” of the funds they use to buy political ads. The bill is one of about a half-dozen proposals before lawmakers that would expand public campaign finance reporting requirements for groups or candidates. The wave of legislation comes in response to a perceived increase in the number of attack ads over the last few election cycles.

Ohio – Larry Householder Again Paid His Defense Lawyers with Campaign Funds, Though a Quick Refund Followed
MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/8/2023

Indicted ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder has again used his campaign funds to pay $300,000 in legal bills last year, a practice repeatedly found in the past to be illegal under state law. He refunded the money a day later, however, a shift from past practice that landed him in a case before the Ohio Elections Commission. That case is on hold as Householder faces a criminal trial over a racketeering charge.

Ohio – Reporter Arrested After Broadcast at Ohio Governor’s News Conference
MSN – Ben Brasch (Washington Post) | Published: 2/8/2023

A television reporter was arrested for trespassing and disorderly conduct following a live shot at the back of a news conference held by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. The event was intended to announce that residents in the village of East Palestine can safely return to their homes after a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed days earlier. Video shows Evan Lambert of NewsNation being handcuffed on the ground and taken to a police vehicle. It isn’t clear what led to Lambert being detained.

Oregon – In the Fight Over Gas Stoves, Meet the Industry’s Go-To Scientist
DNyuz – Hiroko Tabuchi (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

When Multnomah County in Oregon convened a recent public hearing on the health hazards posed by pollution from gas stoves, a toxicologist named Julie Goodman was the first to testify. Studies linking gas stoves to childhood asthma, which have prompted talk of gas-stove bans recently, were “missing important context,” she said. What Goodman did not say was that she was paid to testify by a local gas provider. She is a toxicologist who works for Gradient, a consulting firm that provides environmental reviews for corporations.

Pennsylvania – Democrats Sweep Special Elections, Affirming First Pa. House Majority in 12 Years
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 2/7/2023

Democrats swept three Allegheny County special elections, cementing their one-vote majority in the Pennsylvania House, and ending a two-month debate over which party controls the chamber. It is unclear if the wins will be enough for House Democrat Leader Joanna McClinton to claim the speaker’s gavel, which is currently held by Rep. Mark Rozzi. He was elected in a deal Republicans engineered in a last-ditch effort to avoid entering the minority. But Rozzi’s arrangement has not panned out as Republicans planned, and the party now faces an adjustment to life in the legislative minority.

Campaign Finance

Florida: “Brevard Consultant Failed to Report Political Contributions, Gambled with PAC Funds” by Eric Rogers (Florida Today) for Yahoo News

Hawaii: “Hawaii Government Transparency Bills Clear a Key Hurdle in The Legislature” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat

Maryland: “Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates Scraps Plans for Foundation While in Office” by Justin Fenton and Dylan Segelbaum for Baltimore Banner

Minnesota: “Appeals Court Greenlights Donation Investigation into GOP Group” by Roger Sollenberger (Daily Beast) for Yahoo News

North Carolina: “NC May Loosen Sanctions for Political Campaigns and PACs After First-Time Violations” by Dan Kane (Charlotte Observer) for MSN

Ohio: “Larry Householder Again Paid His Defense Lawyers with Campaign Funds, Though a Quick Refund Followed” by Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Elections

Pennsylvania: “Democrats Sweep Special Elections, Affirming First Pa. House Majority in 12 Years” by Stephen Caruso for Spotlight PA

Ethics

National: “Jordan Fires Off First Subpoenas Against Biden Admin” by Jordain Carney and Kyle Cheney (Politico) for MSN

North Carolina: “Appeals Court Backs N.C. Attorney General in Battle to Avoid Criminal Libel Prosecution” by Josh Gerstein (Politico) for Yahoo News

Legislative Issues

New Mexico: “Legislation Could Be Fast-Tracked to Resolve Simmering Ethics Law Disagreement” by Dan Boyd for Albuquerque Journal

Campaign Finance

National: “Santos’ Unusual $199.99 Campaign Expenses Are Putting Scrutiny on His Longtime Treasurer” by Fredreka Schouten, Kara Scannell, and Gregory Krieg (CNN) for MSN

Massachusetts: “Limits on Super PACs Stump Top Massachusetts Court” by Thomas Harrison for Courthouse News Service

Ethics

National: “Despite Fears Agency Could Be Crippled, House Fills Ethics Posts” by Kate Ackley (Roll Call) for MSN

Kansas: “Kansas Bill Would Limit Subpoena Power of Ethics Commission Amid Ongoing Investigation” by Jenna Barackman (Kansas City Star) for MSN

Missouri: “Records Point to Lacy Clay and Brandon Bosley in St. Louis Corruption Scandal” by Jacob Barker and Austin Huguelet for St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Montana: “Helena Attorney Gallus Prepares for Confirmation Hearing as Montana Commissioner of Political Practices” by Jonathan Ambarian for KTVH

New York: “N.Y. Prosecutors Group Says Former Trump Investigator Violated Ethics with Book” by Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

California: “LA Council’s Governance Reform Committee Recommends Stricter Lobbying Rules” by City News Service for MSN

Campaign Finance

National: “Koch Network to Back Alternative to Trump After Sitting Out Recent Primaries” by Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) for MSN

Elections

North Carolina: “On North Carolina’s Supreme Court, G.O.P. Justices Move to Reconsider Democratic Rulings” by Michael Wines (New York Times) for DNyuz

Ethics

National: “Despite Prior Sexual Harassment Probe, Executive Hired to Senior Federal Job” by Lisa Rein (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “2016 Trump Campaign in $450,000 Lawsuit Settlement Voids Worker Non-Disclosure Pacts” by Jack Stebbins (CNBC) for MSN

Arkansas: “Ex-State Senator Hutchinson Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison” by Dale Ellis for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Florida: “Amid Attacks from DeSantis, AP African American Studies Course Is Updated” by Nick Anderson and Lori Rozsa (Washington Post) for MSN

New Jersey: “Ethical Questions Raised as Murphy Extends Reach at Port Authority with New Nominations” by Colleen Wilson (Bergen Record) for MSN

Lobbying

Minnesota: “Our Streets Minneapolis Bike Coalition Fined for Lobbying Efforts” by Dave Orrick for Minneapolis Star Tribune

Campaign Finance

National: “Federal Election Commission Hikes Contribution Limits Ahead of 2024 Election Cycle” by Taylor Giorno for OpenSecrets

Illinois: “New Illinois Supreme Court Justices Got Major Boost from Hidden Spending by Democratic Group” by Ray Long and Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) for MSN

North Dakota: “Opposites Align in Push to Clamp Down on Dark Money in North Dakota Campaigns” by Jeremy Turley for Dickinson Press

Elections

National: “DNC Approves Biden Plan to Remake 2024 Calendar but Hurdles Remain” by Dylan Wells and Tyler Pager (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Feds Probing Santos’ Role in Service Dog Charity Scheme” by Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) for MSN

Michigan: “Feds Investigate Ex-Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson for Alleged Bribery in Pot Licensing” by Robert Snell and Craig Mauger (Detroit News) for Gwinnett Daily Post

Legislative Issues

New Mexico: “Legislators Take Aim at Secrecy Rule in Harassment Complaints” by Dan McKay for Albuquerque Journal

Lobbying

Oregon: “In the Fight Over Gas Stoves, Meet the Industry’s Go-To Scientist” by Hiroko Tabuchi (New York Times) for DNyuz

National/Federal

At the Supreme Court, Ethics Questions Over a Spouse’s Business Ties
Seattle Times – Steve Eder (New York Times) | Published: 1/31/2023

After Chief Justice John Roberts joined the U.S. Supreme Court, his wife, Jane Sullivan Roberts, gave up her career as a law firm partner to become a legal recruiter to alleviate potential conflicts-of-interest. Now, a former colleague of Mrs. Roberts raised concerns that her recruiting work poses potential ethics issues for the chief justice. Seeking an inquiry, the ex-colleague has provided records to the Justice Department and Congress indicating Mrs. Roberts has been paid millions of dollars in commissions for placing lawyers at firm, some of which have business before the Supreme Court.

Biden Lawyer: FBI finds no classified docs at beach house
Associated Press News – Eric Tucker, Colleen Long, and Zeke Miller | Published: 2/1/2023

The FBI searched President Joe Biden’s vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, without finding any classified documents, the president’s attorney said. Agents did take some handwritten notes and other materials relating to Biden’s time as vice president for review. The search was the latest discomfiting moment for a president who has sought to contrast his sensitivity to rule-following with that of Donald Trump, who faces a criminal investigation into his handling of classified documents.

Court Blocks DOJ Review of Scott Perry’s Phone in Jan. 6 Probe
MSN – Spencer Hsu, Jacqueline Alemany, and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

An appeals court put on hold the search of U.S. Rep. Scott Perry’s phone data in the probe of the Capitol insurrection pending appeal. Perry’s appeal sets the stage for a constitutional test over the scope of immunity held by members of Congress from criminal investigation by the Justice Department under the Constitution’s “speech or debate clause,” which protects legislative work from executive branch interference. House leaders from both parties concluded that at least reviewing Perry’s case and weighing in on its impact on Congress’s constitutional independence is in its best interests.

EU Lobby Register Still Riddled with Errors
EU Observer – Nikolaj Nielsen | Published: 1/31/2023

The European Union’s lobby register remains riddled with errors, as pro-transparency campaigners demand better data and mandatory oversight rules. The latest findings come amid a raft of proposals by the European Parliament president to weed out corruption in the wake of a lobbying scandal. Vicky Cann of the Corporate European Observatory identified some 431 suspicious entries, which were then reviewed by the register’s secretariat. The secretariat then reached out to each one and found only three percent of the original entries were correct.

Google’s Ex-CEO Eric Schmidt Tapped for Federal Biotech Commission That Allows Members to Keep Biotech Investments
CNBC – Eamon Javers | Published: 1/31/2023

Leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services committees announced the selection of former Google Chief Executive Officer Eric Schmidt and 11 others to serve on a new commission on biotechnology. It is tasked with reviewing the biotech industry and suggesting investments that would benefit national security. But the appointment does not require members to divest their own personal biotech investments. Schmidt holds stakes in several biotech companies, placing him in a position to potentially profit if those companies are the beneficiaries of a new wave of federal spending.

GOP Report Shows Plan to Ramp Up Focus on Disproven Election Fraud Claims
MSN – Amy Gardner and Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

A new internal report prepared by the Republican National Committee proposes creating a permanent infrastructure in every state to ramp up “election integrity” activities in response to perceptions within GOP ranks of widespread fraud and abuse in the way the country selects its leaders. The report suggests building a massive new party organization involving state-level “election integrity officers” and intensive new training models for poll workers and observers, all based on unsubstantiated claims that Democrats have implemented election procedures that allow for rigged votes.

How Barr’s Quest to Find Flaws in the Russia Inquiry Unraveled
DNyuz – Charlie Savage, Adam Goldman, and Katie Benner (New York Times) | Published: 1/26/2023

Then-Attorney General William Barr in 2019 set out to dig into the theory the investigation to Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign ties to Russia likely stemmed from a conspiracy by intelligence or law enforcement agencies. Barr turned to prosecutor John Durham to prove the theory, and later granted him special counsel status. But after almost four years, Durham’s work is coming to an end without uncovering anything like the deep state plot alleged by Trump and suspected by Barr. The New York Times found Durham’s inquiry was marked by some of the very same flaws that Trump allies claim characterized the Russia investigation.

Hunter Biden’s Lawyers, in Newly Aggressive Strategy, Target His Critics
MSN – Matt Viser (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2023

Hunter Biden’s lawyers sent a series of letters to state and federal prosecutors urging criminal investigations into those who accessed and disseminated his personal data and sent a separate letter threatening Fox News host Tucker Carlson with a defamation lawsuit. The string of letters, which included criminal referrals and cease-and-desist missives aimed at critics and detractors, marked the start of a new and far more hard-hitting phase for the president’s son just as House Republicans prepare their own investigations into him.

‘Just Off K Street’ Lobbyist Sheds Instagram Alias and Day Job
Bloomberg Law – Jack Fitzpatrick | Published: 1/26/2023

The lobbyist behind the popular Instagram account about Washington’s lobbying culture is stepping away from the daily grind on Capitol Hill, but not before shedding her anonymity. Katie McMichael, manager of government relations at Aurora Innovation, said she will maintain her “Just Off K Street” Instagram presence, but she is taking a reprieve from government affairs to spend more time with her family. Most of her 1,500 posts frequently lament the exhausting absurdity of Congress, told from the perspective of a bedraggled industry association lobbyist just trying to get through the day.

Justice Department Asks FEC to Stand Down as Prosecutors Probe Santos
MSN – Isaac Stanley-Becker and Emma Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 1/27/2023

The Justice Department asked the FEC to hold off on any enforcement action against U.S. Rep. George Santos, who lied about key aspects of his biography as prosecutors conduct a parallel criminal probe.  The request also asked the FEC to provide any relevant documents to the Justice Department. The FEC ordinarily complies with the department’s requests to hold off on enforcement. Those requests arise from a 1977 memorandum of understanding between the agencies that addresses their overlapping law enforcement responsibilities.

National Archives Asks Past Presidents, VPs to Look for Classified Items
MSN – Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 1/26/2023

The National Archives sent a letter to representatives of living former presidents and vice presidents asking them to review their personal records to verify that no classified materials are outstanding. The request comes after a limited number of records bearing classified markings were found in recent weeks at President Biden’s home and a think tank bearing his name, as well as at the home of former Vice President Mike Pence.

Redistricting Lawsuits Could Shape the 2024 Battle for House Control
MSN – Daniel Altimari (Roll Call) | Published: 1/30/2023

The reconfiguration of political districts after the 2020 census resulted in a flood of legal challenges, some of which remain unresolved. The 15 states with ongoing litigation include New York and Texas – home to 64 seats combined – along with the battleground state of Georgia. After Republicans flipped nine seats in November, Democrats need to win five back to retake the majority, so redrawn maps could be a factor in shaping party control in the 2024 elections.

Rep. George Santos Is Stepping Down from Committees Amid Fabrications About His Biography
MSN – Meryl Kornfield, Leigh Ann Caldwell, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

Embattled U.S. Rep. George Santos told House Republicans he will step down temporarily from his committee assignments amid multiple investigations into his campaign finances after he lied about key aspects of his biography. The temporary retreat from committees marks Santos’s first major concession after weeks of maintaining a steadfast resistance to any consequences over his fabrications.

Statehouse Efforts to Avoid Partisan Gridlock Hit Obstacles
Yahoo News – Amee LaTour (The Hill) | Published: 1/31/2023

Leaders in state Legislatures across the country have turned to cross-party alliances and power-sharing agreements as they seek to avoid the political deadlock that has hindered lawmakers in Congress, but signs are emerging that some of those efforts might be in vain. It underscores the fact that while these coalitions may enable lawmakers to avoid political paralysis at least temporarily, they are not a cure-all for the hyper-partisanship plaguing the country as a whole.

Trump’s Evolution in Social Media Exile: More QAnon, more extremes
Yahoo News – Ken Bensinger and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

In September, former President Trump went on Truth Social and shared an image of himself wearing a lapel pin in the form of the letter Q, along with a phrase closely associated with the QAnon conspiracy theory movement: “The storm is coming.” In doing so, Trump ensured the message would be hugely amplified, visible to his more than 4 million followers. Even as Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, announced Trump would be reinstated, there is no sign he has curtailed his behavior or stopped spreading the kinds of messages that got him exiled in the first place.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Republicans Exempt Lawmakers from the State’s Open-Records Law
MSN – Patrick Marley and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 1/26/2023

Arizona Republicans shielded legislators from the state’s open-records law, a move that comes months after the release of thousands of documents detailing extensive efforts to undermine Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election in the state. Senators will not have to disclose any text messages sent on personal devices, even when dealing with state business. For lawmakers in both the Senate and the House, emails and other documents will be destroyed after 90 days – in many cases, well before members of the public know to ask for them.

Arizona – GOP Leaders Pressure Hobbs to Donate $1.3M in Excess Inaugural Cash
KJZZ – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 1/26/2023

The top two Republican lawmakers want Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs to put money left over from the inaugural celebration into a state account, where it cannot be used to elect more Democrats. House Speaker Ben Toma and Senate President Warren Petersen called on her to surrender control of what is left from the more than $1.5 million she collected for the celebration. At the same time, the costs totaled only about $207,000.

Florida – Hide Your Books to Avoid Felony Charges, Fla. Schools Tell Teachers
MSN – Hannah Natanson (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

School officials in at least two Florida counties, Manatee and Duval, have directed teachers to remove or wrap up their classroom libraries. The removals come after the State Board of Education ruled a state law restricting the books a district may possess applies not only to schoolwide libraries but to teachers’ classroom collections, too. The law mandates that schools’ books be age-appropriate, free from pornography, and “suited to student needs.” Breaking the law is a third-degree felony, meaning a teacher could face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine for displaying or giving students a disallowed book.

Florida – Penalty Decided for Manatee Commissioner Baugh Who Violated Ethics in Vaccine Rollout
MSN – Ryan Callihan (Bradenton Herald) | Published: 1/27/2023

The Florida Ethics Commission on Ethics accepted Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh’s proposed settlement over scheduling herself an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine site she helped organize. Baugh was ordered to pay $8,000 and accept a public reprimand. Baugh sent an email to county staff with personal information for herself, a developer, and two former neighbors. Staff members said they understood the list to be a clear directive to ensure those people received a COVID-19 vaccine. At the time, more than 100,000 people were in the county’s vaccine waiting pool.

Illinois – Ethics Board Warns Candidates: Don’t use uniformed cops in your ads
WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 2/1/2023

The Board of Ethics warned candidates running for mayor, city council, and Police District Council to not use images of uniformed Chicago police officers, firefighters, or city personnel in campaign advertisements. U.S. Rep. Jesús García edited his first television advertisement in the race for mayor to remove images of the candidate talking to two uniformed officers while promising to get tough on crime. Representatives of the police department confirmed the two officers were under investigation.

Illinois – Jury Finds Son of Former State Rep. Edward Acevedo Guilty of Tax Evasion Charges with Ties to ComEd Bribery Probe
MSN – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 1/30/2023

The son of former state Rep. Edward Acevedo was found guilty of tax evasion charges that were an offshoot of the investigation into Commonwealth Edison’s (ComEd) alleged attempts to influence then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Alex Acevedo was convicted for underreporting his lobbying income by about $70,000 in 2016 and 2018, resulting in a total tax loss of about $20,000. Though relatively minor in scope, the indictment against Alex Acevedo, along with separate charges filed against his younger brother and their father, received widespread attention due to the connection to the ComEd probe.

Iowa – State Agency Can’t Enforce Iowa’s Campaign Finance Laws; Asks Lawmakers for Changes
KCRG – Ethan Stein | Published: 1/27/2023

According to data from the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board, thousands of politicians and advocacy groups have received fines for submitting campaign finance reports late. An investigation found hundreds of fines have not been paid because state law does not set a deadline for when the penalty is paid. It also found the agency’s data is inaccurate and campaigns, along with advocacy groups, were not notified about penalties.

Kansas – Kansas Republicans Tried to Oust Ethics Head Amid Subpoenas. Will They Try Again?
Yahoo News – Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) | Published: 1/26/2023

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson wants to reopen discussions about the scope and management of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission as the office pursues an investigation into campaign finance violations involving Republican officials. Masterson did not provide details on what action would be pursued but he said that under previous directors, lawmakers looked to the commission for guidance and cannot anymore. Although the ethics agency is an independent body that has jurisdiction to investigate lawmakers, Masterson said legislative efforts to change the commission were appropriate.

Massachusetts – Mass. Republican Party Elects New Leader, Rejecting Chairman Jim Lyons’ Bid for Third Term
MSN – Emma Platoff (Boston Globe) | Published: 1/31/2023

After years of dismal election results and weak fundraising, the Massachusetts Republican Party picked a new leader, narrowly rejecting the embattled chairperson, Jim Lyons. in favor of Amy Carnevale, a lobbyist for K&L Gates who promised to steady the party and reverse its electoral decline. Documents obtained by the Globe showed Lyons used party funds to investigate two fellow Republicans. He also appears to have communicated directly with an outside PAC about digging up dirt on Gov. Maura Healey during last year’s election.

Missouri – Former St. Louis County Official Sentenced to Prison for COVID Relief Kickback Scheme
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Katie Kull | Published: 1/26/2023

A former St. Louis County jail official who was long involved with politics and government was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for engaging in a pandemic relief kickback scheme. While still working for the county, Tony Weaver filled out fraudulent applications and sought kickbacks from a small businessperson who applied for multiple grants during the COVID-19 pandemic, a scheme Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith said revealed Weaver’s “unbridled arrogance.”

New Mexico – New Mexico Bill to Restrict Lobbyist ‘Revolving Door’ Advances
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 1/30/2023

A proposal moving through the New Mexico Senate would prohibit former legislators and executive branch appointees from returning immediately to the Capitol as paid lobbyists. The legislation was sharply expanded in committee. The change adds employees who serve at will under the governor to the two-year lobbying ban. At least 20 former legislators and state officials are among the hundreds of people registered to lobby this session, though many of them served several years ago.

New Mexico – New Mexico Considers Roasted Chile as Official State Aroma
MSN – Susan Montoya Bryan (Associated Press) | Published: 2/1/2023

The smell of green chile roasting on an open flame permeates New Mexico every fall, wafting from roadside stands and grocery store parking lots. Now one state lawmaker says it is time for everyone to wake up and smell the chile. Sen. Bill Soules’ visit with fifth grade students in his district sparked a conversation about the hot peppers and the potential for New Mexico to become the first state to have an official state aroma, a proposal now being considered by lawmakers.

New York – Hochul’s Vow to Boost Ethics and Sexual Harassment Training Falls Flat
DNyuz – Jay Root (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

On her first day as governor of New York, Kathy Hochul vowed to overhaul policies on ethics and sexual harassment in the government workplace. Her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo, had just resigned amid a sexual harassment scandal. Hochul said she would strengthen the training, requiring state workers to participate in live classes and seminars. No longer would employees “click their way through a class,” Hochul said. Nearly a year and a half later, there is still no universal live training in either subject for the state’s work force.

New York – Inside George Santos’s District Office: Nothing to see here
Buffalo News – Dana Rubinstein (New York Times) | Published: 1/30/2023

The storefront in the Tudor Revival building in the Douglaston neighborhood of Queens has lived many lives: It was a flower shop; the satellite office of former U.S. Rep. Thomas Suozzi, whose name still adorns the green awning. Now it is home to perhaps its most notorious tenant: U.S. Rep. George Santos. With the northern half of Long Island’s Nassau County falling into Santos’s district, County Executive Bruce Blakeman has said he will direct all federal constituent calls to Anthony D’Esposito, another Long Island representative. “My office will have no interaction with George Santos or his staff until he resigns,” said Blakeman, a Republican.

New York – Lobbying on LaSalle Nomination Shows Apparent Gap in Reporting Requirements
Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 1/30/2023

Citizens for Judicial Fairness spent between $75,000 to $100,000 on its brief efforts trying to influence the vote of state senators on the Judiciary Committee as they considered New York Gov. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s nomination of Hector LaSalle for chief judge of the Court of Appeals. State law is silent on the issue of nominations and appointments to public office, according to a spokesperson for the state’s ethics commission. It leads to a near-impossible dynamic for observers who want to follow either the money or those seeking to influence the nominations.

New York – Manhattan Prosecutors Present Trump Case to Grand Jury
Buffalo News – William Rashbaum, Ben Protess, Jonah Bromwich, and Hurubie Meko (New York Times) | Published: 1/30/2023

The Manhattan district attorney’s office began presenting evidence to a grand jury about Donald Trump’s role in paying hush money to a porn star during his 2016 presidential campaign, laying the groundwork for potential criminal charges against the former president in the coming months. The grand jury was recently impaneled, and the beginning of witness testimony represents a clear signal that the district attorney, Alvin Bragg, is nearing a decision about whether to charge Trump.

North Dakota – North Dakota Senate Cuts Back Ethics Panel’s Bill to Expand Authority
Bismarck Tribune – Jack Dura | Published: 1/31/2023

North Dakota’s ethics panel might not get everything it sought in a bill for tweaks to state laws. The Senate approved legislation advanced by the Ethics Commission for several requested changes, including a proposed but deleted expansion to include nearly 9,000 more state employees under its authority. Changes also include extending the time frame to notify an accused person of an ethics complaint, and adding criteria for who can make complaints.

Ohio – Corporate Jets, Bribes and Dark Money: Householder trial spotlights weaknesses in Ohio ethics laws
MSN – Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/29/2023

Aspects of Larry Householder’s corruption prosecution show grey areas or even loopholes in Ohio ethics laws that either enabled his activities or, perhaps, made them legal. But lawmakers have taken no substantive action to address any of the ethical issues underlined in the case, with several bills stalling despite at times getting bipartisan support. On the eve of the trial’s start, a group of House Republicans announced a proposed set of ethics reforms they said would address some of the issues exposed by the scandal. But the bill, which has yet to be introduced, has an uncertain future.

Oregon – Oregon Elections Director Who Worked for Democratic Party Will Not Recuse Herself from Investigation into Party’s Crypto Donor
Portland Oregonian – Hillary Borrud | Published: 2/1/2023

Oregon’s new elections director, Molly Woon, will not recuse herself from the investigation into a $500,000 donation the state Democratic Party received from an FTX executive last year even though she previously worked as a top employee of the party. In October, the Democratic Party accepted the contribution the party claimed was from a Las Vegas cryptocurrency company Prime Trust. But Prime Trust was not the actual donor. Under state law, it is a felony to make a campaign contribution under a “false name” and elections employees are deciding whether the case should be forwarded to the state attorney general for prosecution.

Pennsylvania – Lobbyist Says She Was Harassed by Current Pa. Lawmaker, Wants Legislature to Change Misconduct Rules
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 1/27/2023

A lobbyist for one of Pennsylvania’s most influential unions says a sitting state lawmaker sexually harassed her, and she is urging the Legislature to expand internal rules that govern who can bring misconduct complaints. Andi Perez, who advocates on behalf of Service Employees International Union, made the allegation during a listening session organized by new Speaker Mark Rozzi. He has scheduled a series of public meetings to solicit feedback about the House’s operating procedures Amid a partisan deadlock over which party controls the chamber.

Rhode Island – AG’s Office Nixes $40,000 in Funding as NAACP President Faces Campaign-Finance Charges
Yahoo News – Mark Reynolds and Amy Russo (Providence Journal) | Published: 1/27/2023

Gerard Catala, the newly elected president of the Providence NAACP and a former city council candidate, faces criminal prosecution for failing to report on the finances of his 2022 campaign as required by state law. Because of the charges against Catala, the state attorney general’s office will withhold the $40,000 it had planned to give the branch over the course of four years. The funds were part of a large grant from the U.S. Department of Justice meant to support “hate-crime prevention and education.”

South Dakota – House Kills Bill That Would Have Increased Campaign Donation Limits
KEVN – Austin Glass | Published: 1/31/2023

The South Dakota House defeated a bill that would have increased the campaign contribution limits for individuals and entities. Proponents said the increase would be good in light of inflation. But opponents said the current system works well and increasing the caps would allow wealthy donors to have more influence.

Texas – Ex-Legislator Tests Lobbying Revolving Door Law by Repping Big Energy Companies
MSN – Lauren McGaughy (Dallas Morning News) | Published: 1/27/2023

A former Texas representative is testing a state law meant to crack down on the “revolving door” between the Legislature and lobbying firms. Chris Paddie chaired a powerful House’s committee that held hearings to demand answers from energy firms after 2021’s deadly winter storm. Now, he has registered to lobby for a handful of the same power companies he was previously tasked with scrutinizing. His activities come despite a law that bans state legislators from becoming lobbyists within two years of using their own campaign cash to donate to other politicians.

Virginia – GOP-Led Panel Again Defeats Campaign Finance Reform
MSN – Sarah Rankin (Associated Press) | Published: 2/1/2023

A Virginia House panel voted down legislation that would prohibit lawmakers from using campaign funds for personal expenses such as a vacation, mortgage, or country club membership. Virginia’s elected officials are currently outliers in the nation for their ability to spend money donated to their campaigns on virtually anything. Similar legislation is still alive in the Senate, but the vote signals it is likely to meet a similar fate should it cross to the House.

Washington – As Capital Gains Tax Goes to WA Supreme Court, a Push to ‘Microtarget’ Justices
Seattle Times – David Gutman | Published: 1/26/2023

As the Washington Supreme Court prepares to decide the fate of the state’s new capital gains tax, a conservative think tank, whose leadership sued to stop the tax, is “microtargeting” the state’s nine justices with an ad campaign. The Washington Policy Center wrote to donors recently outlining its advertising strategy as the justices prepare to hear challenges to the tax. The campaign focused on areas “where justices spend the bulk of their time (work and home) as well as secondary places our research found that may be relevant,” the think tank wrote to supporters.

Washington – Prominent Lobbyist Barred from WA Capitol After Ruling He Stalked State Representative
Seattle Times – Jim Brunner | Published: 1/31/2023

A prominent lobbyist was barred from the Capitol campus after a judge ruled that he had stalked a state representative, leading her to flee her home for months. Rep. Lauren Davis last year obtained a domestic violence protective order against lobbyist Cody Arledge, citing what she said was an escalating pattern of obsessive and threatening behavior after she broke off their romantic relationship. Their dispute is now before the state Court of Appeals, where Arledge is challenging the restrictions on him as an “Orwellian” violation of his constitutional right to privacy and ability to work. Davis’s attorneys are defending the restrictions as necessary to protect her.