Ethics Archives - Page 7 of 308 - State and Federal Communications

December 16, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Opaque Nonprofit Donation to Shadowy Super PAC Raises ‘Several Red Flags’” by Taylor Giorno (The Hill) for MSN Maine: “Maine Sued Over New Voter-Approved Campaign Finance Limits” by Randy Billings (Portland Press Herald) for Yahoo News New York: “GOP Accuses Democrats of […]

December 13, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – December 13, 2024

National/Federal A Century-Old Law’s Aftershocks Are Still Felt at the Supreme Court DNyuz – Adam Liptak (New York Times) | Published: 12/9/2024 In February 1925, Chief Justice William Howard Taft persuaded Congress to grant the Supreme Court an extraordinary power: to pick […]

National/Federal

A Century-Old Law’s Aftershocks Are Still Felt at the Supreme Court

DNyuz – Adam Liptak (New York Times) | Published: 12/9/2024

In February 1925, Chief Justice William Howard Taft persuaded Congress to grant the Supreme Court an extraordinary power: to pick which cases it would decide. Most courts do not get to choose the cases they will hear, and their central task is to resolve disputes one at a time. The Supreme Court understands its job to be different – to announce legal principles that will apply in countless cases. The law effectively changed the court into a policymaking body, and the nation has yet to come to terms with “the immense powers of this new role,” Yale Law School professor Robert Post wrote in a new study.

Realtors’ Nonprofit Is Politically Motivated, Some Say

DNyuz – Debra Kamin (New York Times) | Published: 12/9/2024

The National Association of Realtors (NAR), the largest trade organization in the U.S., wields substantial influence over the American housing industry. To help hold on to that power, it also runs one of the biggest PACs, routinely outspending corporations. The PAC supports candidates who are in line with NAR’s positions, regardless of party, and its spending is bipartisan. But about five years ago, NAR quietly created an affiliate nonprofit called the American Property Owners Alliance, and its spending tells a different story.

After N.R.A.’s Supreme Court Win, a Dispute Over Key Facts

DNyuz – Danny Hakim (New York Times) | Published: 12/9/2024

The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the National Rifle Association (NRA) could pursue its claim that a New York regulator had infringed on its First Amendment rights when she sought to discourage insurers and banks from doing business with the group after the 2018 school massacre in Parkland, Florida. But the two women said to be the primary participants in a secret meeting described in the complaint, and pivotal to the Supreme Court ruling, say it never took place. The case before the high court was a test of how far government advocacy could go before crossing a line into coercion.

FBI Director Christopher Wray Says He Will Resign Before Trump Takes Office

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2024

FBI Director Christopher Wray announced he would resign from his position at the end of the Biden administration, stepping down as the leader of the 35,000-person law enforcement bureau before Donald Trump takes office and can fire him. Wray’s resignation comes seven years into his 10-year term, a tenure that is meant to span multiple administrations and is intentionally longer than other executive branch appointments to avoid politicization of the FBI. Trump had announced he would nominate loyalist Kash Patel to serve as FBI director, sending a message to Wray that he should either resign or prepare to be fired.

Supreme Court Divided Over Government Contracting Fraud Conviction

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 12/9/2024

The Supreme Court appeared divided over whether to uphold the conviction of a government contractor found guilty of defrauding a state transportation program intended to promote diversity. The court has repeatedly expressed skepticism of federal prosecutions for too broadly applying criminal statutes to combat public corruption and other white-collar crimes. The ruling in the contracting case could affect how federal prosecutors pursue other fraud cases.

Judge Rejects Sale of Alex Jones’ Infowars to The Onion in Dispute Over Bankruptcy Auction

MSN – Dave Collins (Associated Press) | Published: 12/11/2024

A federal judge rejected the auction sale of Alex Jones’ Infowars to The Onion satirical news outlet, criticizing the bidding process as flawed and the amount of money that families of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting stood to receive. The Onion had been named the winning bidder over a company affiliated with Jones, whose conspiracy theory platform was put up for sale as part of his bankruptcy case stemming from the nearly $1.5 billion that courts have ordered him to pay over falsely calling one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history a hoax.

House Rejects Democratic Efforts to Force Release of Matt Gaetz Ethics Report

MSN – Farnoush Amiri (Associated Press) | Published: 12/5/2024

The House shut down Democrats’ efforts to release the long-awaited ethics report into former Rep. Matt Gaetz, pushing the fate of any resolution to the years-long investigation of sexual misconduct allegations into further uncertainty. The nearly party-line votes came after Democrats had been pressing for the findings to be published even though Gaetz left Congress and withdrew as Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general for attorney general. Rep. Tom McClintock was the sole Republican to support the effort.

White House Weighs Preemptive Pardons for Potential Trump Targets

MSN – Tyler Pager and Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 12/5/2024

President Biden is weighing whether to grant preemptive pardons to individuals who might be targeted by the incoming Trump administration. Biden’s senior staffers have been increasingly alarmed by Trump’s picks for key law enforcement positions, such as Kash Patel, the choice for FBI director, who has urged retribution against Trump’s adversaries and critics. Other Democrats worry that Biden risks muddying the waters and leading voters to conclude both sides are simply using the legal system for their own ends.

Elon Musk Is Now America’s Largest Political Donor

MSN – Trisha Thadani and Clara Ence Morse (Washington Post) | Published: 12/6/2024

Elon Musk gave at least $277 million in campaign donations this year to back Donald Trump and other Republican candidates, making him the largest political donor in the 2024 election cycle. Musk’s total for the cycle is the largest from a single donor since at least 2010, outside of candidates funding their own campaigns.

Bill to Protect Journalists from Revealing Sources Is ‘on Life Support’

MSN – Jeremy Barr (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2024

Legislation that would create a federal shield law protecting journalists from being forced to reveal their confidential sources, the Protect Reporters From Exploitative State Spying Act, is facing a dim future after an attempt in the Senate to expeditiously pass the bill failed. The bill passed the House in January but has been stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee. It has been championed by a coalition of press advocacy groups and news organizations that view it as essential for safeguarding the use of confidential sources in public interest reporting.

Watchdog Faults DOJ in Trump’s First Term for Secretly Obtaining Records of Lawmakers and Journalists

MSN – Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 12/10/2024

The Justice Department during Donald Trump’s first term failed to comply with its own procedures when it sought journalists’ phone and email records in leak investigations, according to a watchdog report. The department also never conducted any high-level review as it swept up the records of 43 congressional staffers and two Democratic House members, the report found. Inspector General Michael Horowitz said he found no evidence that federal prosecutors got express approval from then-Attorney General Bill Barr or told federal courts the subpoenas were for records of lawmakers and their aides.

Foster Advocacy Group Denies That Arrested Member Assaulted Rep. Nancy Mace

MSN – Peter Hermann and Keith Alexander (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2024

The head of a foster-care advocacy group is disputing allegations that one of its members assaulted U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace during a reception at the Rayburn House Office Building, saying the two merely shook hands during what appeared to be an amicable greeting. Capitol Police said James McIntyre, co-founder of the Illinois chapter of Foster Care Alumni of America, was charged with assaulting a government official.

Trump May Have Dodged His Criminal Case – but a Slew of Civil Lawsuits Loom

MSN – Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 12/8/2024

Donald Trump is not off the hook for January 6 just yet. Though the criminal cases against him are all but dead, Trump is likely to be fighting eight civil lawsuits, from members of Congress and injured police officers, deep into his second term. They may be the last form of legal redress Trump faces for his role in spurring the Capitol riot. Trump’s election effectively scuttled special counsel Jack Smith’s prosecution of Trump, but a Supreme Court ruling says civil litigation can proceed against a sitting president.

Supreme Court Justice Recuses Himself from Utah Railroad Case Tied to Colorado Billionaire

Salt Lake Tribune – Charlie Savage (New York Times) | Published: 12/6/2024

Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch recently recused himself from a case after ethics watchdogs and Democratic lawmakers urged him to step aside because the outcome will likely affect the financial interests of a billionaire to whom he has long-standing ties. Legislation to impose an ethics code on the justices has stalled, but in 2023, the court unanimously adopted its first code of conduct. The New York Times has reported that in internal debate over the code, Gorsuch insisted it contain no enforcement mechanism beyond voluntary compliance.

From the States and Municipalities

California – Inside a Campaign Donor’s Journey to Get Her Money Back from Nathan Fletcher

KPBS – Scott Rodd | Published: 12/9/2024

San Diego resident Yvonne Elkin was determined to get her $100 dollars back. Elkin gave the money to former San Diego County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher last year when he announced his run for the California Senate. Then Fletcher dropped out of the race amid allegations of sexual assault. It was enough to change Elkin’s mind about Fletcher. But getting back a campaign contribution is not so simple. Political donors in California can ask for their donations back. But in nearly all cases, under state law, it is up to the candidate to decide.

California – S.F. Agencies Cuts Ties with Major Nonprofit Accused of Enriching a Former Department Head

MSN – St. John Barned-Smith and Michael Barba (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 12/10/2024

San Francisco city officials are cutting ties with a major nonprofit contractor after an investigation found the organization enriched a former department head who directed more than $1 million in city funds to the group. Two city departments canceled various contracts with Collective Impact over what officials described as “significant conflicts of interest” between the nonprofit and Sheryl Davis, the former executive director of the San Francisco Human Rights Commission.

California – LA Times Owner Plans to Add AI-Powered ‘Bias Meter’ on News Stories, Sparking Newsroom Backlash

MSN – Liam Reilly and Jon Passantino (CNN) | Published: 12/5/2024

Los Angeles Times owner Patrick Soon-Shiong, who blocked the newspaper’s endorsement of Kamala Harris and plans to overhaul its editorial board, says he will implement an artificial intelligence-powered “bias meter” on the paper’s news articles to provide readers with “both sides” of a story. Soon-Shiong said major publishers have so far failed to adequately separate news and opinion, which he suggested “could be the downfall of what now people call mainstream media.”

Colorado – Ethics Commission: Rick Palacio violated state law by contracting with Gov Jared Polis’ office

Colorado Politics – Marianne Goodland | Published: 12/10/2024

The Colorado Independent Ethics Commission ruled Rick Palacio, a former chief of staff to Gov. Jared Polis, violated state law by contracting with the governor’s office within six months of his departure. The commission did not fine Palacio and dismissed another claim that he had “double-dipped” as both a contractor and state employee.

Colorado – Colorado Court Rules Ethics Commission Can’t Assert Jurisdiction Over Local Governments

Colorado Politics – Marianne Goodland | Published: 12/9/2024

A Denver District Court judge upheld a decision of the state Court of Appeals regarding whether the Colorado Ethics Commission can assert jurisdiction over local governments that have their own ethics code. The decision could end an eight-year fight over ethics complaints filed against the mayor of Glendale, the origin of the city’s challenge to the commission’s claims of jurisdiction. It could also end the ethics commission’s decisions to assert jurisdiction over home rule governments on ethics.

Colorado – State Sen. Jaquez Lewis Removed from Committees; Dems Plan Ethics Investigation Over Treatment of Staff

Colorado Public Radio – Bente Birkeland | Published: 12/8/2024

Colorado Senate leaders said they would approve an ethics investigation next session into state Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis’ treatment of legislative aides and are removing her from serving on any committees when lawmakers return to the Capitol in January. Democratic leaders recently banned Jaquez Lewis from receiving state funds to hire staff following a recent complaint that she used campaign funds to pay aides to do personal work.

Connecticut – ‘Not a Dirty Word’: State ethics office tracks lobbyists; $34.8M spent in 2024 as of mid-Nov.

Hartford Business Journal – David Krechevsky | Published: 12/9/2024

Among other things, the Connecticut Office of State Ethics regulates and enforces the rules on the people and organizations that register each year to lobby state legislators and agencies. It also conducts audits and imposes penalties on those who fail to comply. “Our role is simply to provide transparency to the process,” said Pete Lewandowski, executive director of the ethics agency.

District of Columbia – D.C. Council Quietly Renames Bills to Avoid Scrutiny from Trump, Congress

MSN – Emily Davies and Meagan Flynn (Washington Post) | Published: 12/8/2024

Before Republicans won control of the House, Senate, and presidency in November, the District of Columbia Council was preparing to pass several pieces of legislation that threatened to draw the ire of the GOP. Now, with Donald Trump headed back to the Oval Office and his party set to control Congress, the city’s lawmakers are quietly making edits to the titles. It is part of a strategic effort across the government to adopt a more neutral posture on sensitive issues in hopes of avoiding a GOP backlash, according to Council Chairperson Phil Mendelson.

Florida – Mayor’s Office: Attending party on Shad Khan’s Kismet allowed by gift law restrictions

MSN – David Bauerlein (Florida Times-Union) | Published: 12/6/2024

The value of the food and beverages served by the Jacksonville Jaguars during a holiday party on team owner Shad Khan’s yacht fits within what elected officials such a Mayor Donna Deegan and city council members can accept for complying with gift law restrictions, according to a ethics watchdog who advises Deegan. Florida law allows Deegan and council members to accept gifts from entities that do business with the city or lobby the city, such as the Jaguars, but the value of a gift cannot exceed $100, said Carla Miller, who previously spent years as the city’s ethics director.

Florida – Moms for Liberty Co-Founder Selected as Vice Chair of Florida Commission on Ethics

Tallahassee Democrat – Douglas Soule (USA Today) | Published: 12/11/2024

Not waiting to see if the Senate confirms her appointment, the Florida Commission on Ethics unanimously selected conservative Moms for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich as its new vice-chairperson. Descovich, a former Brevard County School Board member, has served on the commission since Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed her last year. The Senate did not confirm her during the 2024 legislative session. Concerns were raised that Descovich’s work counted as lobbying, which would conflict with a role on the commission.

Georgia – Atlanta’s Inspector General Sued by City Contractor Over Investigation

WAGA – Staff | Published: 12/10/2024

Atlanta Inspector General Shannon Manigault is being sued by a city contractor whose name surfaced during a year-long investigation by her office. The vendor’s attorney says Manigault overstepped her boundaries and is not following the law while trying to investigate possible financial connections between vendors and Atlanta officials. The city council unanimously renewed Bernie Tokarz’s contract, and the state ethics commission dismissed Manigault’s complaint.

Illinois – AT&T’s Involvement in Illinois Politics Takes Focus in Mike Madigan Corruption Trial

Courthouse News – Dave Byrnes | Published: 12/11/2024

The corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan continued as U.S. attorneys probed the extent of AT&T’s involvement with the state’s politics. The government claims AT&T Illinois offered ex-state Rep. Eddie Acevedo a do-nothing subcontractor gig worth $22,500 in April 2017, through a firm owned by lobbyist Tom Cullen, also a longtime Madigan ally and political operative. Internal AT&T documents stated the funds were meant to cover Cullen’s firm taking on “an additional asset.” Prosecutors say that asset was Eddie Acevedo.

Louisiana – Former State Legislator from Gov. Landry’s Home Parish Nominated for Ethics Board

Yahoo News – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 12/11/2024

The Louisiana House of Representatives has nominated only one person so far to fill its open ethics board seat – former state Rep. Mike Huval, who is friends with Gov. Jeff Landry. Other than the one late campaign finance report, which is not unusual for elected officials, Huval said he has not had any run-ins with the ethics board. The governor and legislators rewrote state law earlier this year to change the board’s makeup.

Louisiana – Louisiana Ethics Board Hires New Top Staff Member on a Temporary Basis after Pushback

Yahoo News – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 12/6/2024

The Louisiana Board of Ethics voted one of its own staff attorneys in as the state’s new ethics administrator after unprecedented pushback from legislative leaders and Attorney General Liz Murrill to filling the position. The appointment of David Bordelon was made on an interim basis, however, allowing the board to reverse itself when new members that Gov. Jeff Landry and lawmakers appoint join the board in 2025. Bordelon will start the job after December 27, when longtime ethics administrator Kathleen Allen retires.

Massachusetts – Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson Arrested by Feds on Corruption Charges

MSN – Chris Van Buskirk, Gayla Cawley, and Joe Dwinell (Boston Herald) | Published: 12/6/2024

Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was indicted on five counts of aiding and abetting wire fraud and one count of aiding and abetting theft concerning a program receiving federal funds. The councilor hired a staff member in 2022 who was related to her and agreed to give the person a $13,000 bonus, most of which they would kickback to Fernandes Anderson, according to the indictment. Fernandes Anderson is paid $115,000 a year as a city councilor, but the feds say she was having money problems.

Missouri – Kansas City Mayor Accused of Skirting City Gift Ban by Using Nonprofit to Pay for Travel

Yahoo News – Allison Kite (Kansas Reflector) | Published: 12/5/2024

The cost of a trip to the Super Bowl in Arizona for Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, a top aide, and two members of the mayor’s security detail was covered by a $24,000 check from the Heavy Constructors Association, a politically connected trade group. The price of the trip and the payment were never made public. That is because the mayor and his now-former chief of staff, Morgan Said, ran the spending and donation through the Mayors Corps of Progress for a Greater Kansas City Inc., a nonprofit that helps attract economic development to the city and is not required to disclose its financials.

Missouri – Missouri Ethics Commission Fines Past SPS Board Candidates for Campaign Finance Violations

Yahoo News – Claudette Riley (Springfield News-Leader) | Published: 12/10/2024

The Missouri Ethics Commission found “reasonable grounds” that Springfield school board candidates Landon McCarter and Chad Rollins violated campaign finance laws in connection with billboards placed around the city on their behalf. McCarter and Rollins each reported an in-kind contribution of $7,500 in January. The limited liability company that contributed was not classified as a corporation under federal tax code, and it was not registered with the Ethics Commission, a required step.

Missouri – Missouri Judge Dismisses Whistleblower Lawsuit Against Top Republican Lawmaker

Yahoo News – Kacen Bayless (Kansas City Star) | Published: 12/11/2024

A judge dismissed a whistleblower lawsuit filed against Speaker Dean Plocher that alleged he used his power to retaliate against a top employee of the Missouri House. The lawsuit by Dana Miller, chief clerk of the House, alleged a damning portrait of Plocher, arguing he threatened and retaliated against Miller and other staffers amid a slew of scandals Plocher faced in his final session as speaker.

Montana – Auditors Say Montana’s System of Tracking Lobbyists Broken

Yahoo News – Darrell Ehrlick (Daily Montanan) | Published: 12/5/2024

A report from the Legislative Audit Division said Montana lagged behind most states when it comes to tracking activity by lobbyists. It found there is no mechanism to check the accuracy of disclosure reports, and the system’s two databases often had conflicting or inconsistent information. Moreover, the Commissioner of Political Practices Office has never used the auditing power granted to it by state law to investigate lobbyist’s reports or enforce penalties on those who did not conform to state law.

New York – Half of Mayor Adams’ Latest Matching Campaign Fund Claims Deemed ‘Invalid’

Yahoo News – Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) | Published: 12/10/2024

Half of the claims for public matching funds that Mayor Eric Adams’ reelection campaign submitted in the most recent reporting period were deemed “invalid” by the New York City Campaign Finance Board (CFB), the highest rejection rate that the mayor’s team has faced to date. The CFB is weighing whether to give Adams’ 2025 campaign any matching funds at all amid his federal indictment on charges alleging he took illegal political donations and bribes, mostly from Turkish government operatives.

North Carolina – Public Left in the Dark After NC Legislators Made Campaign Donation Probes Secret

MSN – Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 12/12/2024

A bill passed in 2018 funneled campaign finance investigations in North Carolina into a new, secret, and drawn-out process. In the six years since the law passed, not a single campaign finance charge has been filed by a state prosecutor, state election officials and campaign watchdogs say. In the six years prior, state election board hearings on campaign finance complaints were steps to criminal convictions against two lawmakers.

North Carolina – North Carolina GOP Changes Election Rules Before Losing Supermajority

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2024

Republicans in North Carolina’s Legislature overrode a veto to give one of their allies control over the state’s elections board, rewrite ballot-counting rules, and chip away at the power of the incoming Democratic governor. The move came as Republicans sought to claim three seats in the Legislature and a spot on the state Supreme Court by throwing out tens of thousands of ballots in races they lost in November. The state Democratic Party is fighting that effort by asking a federal judge to ensure votes do not get tossed because of administrative errors.

Oklahoma – Roundup: Turnpike Authority considers toll hikes, Ethics Commission mulls rule changes, Hiett still besieged

NonDoc – Michael McNutt | Published: 12/9/2024

A new state database used for reporting and tracking campaign financial information and lobbyist registrations is expected to be ready for use by June 2025. The Oklahoma Ethics Commission gave the agency’s executive director approval to sign a contract with RFD & Associated to replace the outdated and antiquated “Guardian” electronic filing system. Commissioners also held a hearing on 13 proposed ethics rule amendments, several of which were generated from a report of a campaign finance task force created by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

Tennessee – Tennessee Sen. Yager to Refund Campaign Account for State-Paid Mileage ‘Oversight’

Yahoo News – Cassandra Stephenson (Tennessee Lookout) | Published: 12/11/2024

Tennessee Sen. Kenneth Yager’s recent arrest while driving a campaign-funded car on a vacation in Georgia sheds renewed light on the pitfalls of lawmakers’ not-uncommon practice of dipping into campaign finances to lease or purchase vehicles. State law does not prohibit this but does require lawmakers to keep records of vehicle use and reimburse their campaign accounts for any mileage payments they receive from the state and any personal use of the vehicle.

Virginia – Va. Library Survived Battle Over LGBTQ+ Books. Now, It Faces a New Threat.

MSN – Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2024

The Warren County Board of Supervisors voted to take greater control over Samuels Public Library, which was honored as Virginia’s 2024 Library of the Year but has clashed with conservative county leaders over LGBTQ+-themed books and now finds its future plunged into uncertainty. The supervisors voted to create a new library board to oversee policy and budget. The effort to exert political control over the independent, nonprofit library drew national attention last year when a small group of residents waged a campaign against LGBTQ+ books primarily aimed at young readers.

Wisconsin – Trump Lawyers and Aide Hit with 10 Additional Charges in Wisconsin Over 2020 Fake Electors

MSN – Scott Bauer (Associated Press) | Published: 12/10/2024

Wisconsin prosecutors filed 10 additional felony charges against two attorneys and an aide to Donald Trump who advised Trump in 2020 as part of a plan to submit paperwork falsely claiming he won the battleground state that year. The amended charges against Jim Troupis, who was Trump’s attorney in Wisconsin, Kenneth Chesebro, an attorney who advised the campaign, and Mike Roman, Trump’s director of Election Day operations in 2020, are for using forgery to defraud each of the 10 Republican electors who cast their ballots for Trump that year.

December 12, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance North Carolina: “Public Left in the Dark After NC Legislators Made Campaign Donation Probes Secret” by Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) for MSN Elections North Carolina: “North Carolina GOP Changes Election Rules Before Losing Supermajority” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for […]

December 11, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance California: “Inside a Campaign Donor’s Journey to Get Her Money Back from Nathan Fletcher” by Scott Rodd for KPBS Louisiana: “Edwards Budget Chief Jay Dardenne to Pay $3,000 Fine for Late Campaign Finance Reports” by Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) for Yahoo News […]

December 10, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Ethics National: “A Century-Old Law’s Aftershocks Are Still Felt at the Supreme Court” by Adam Liptak (New York Times) for DNyuz National: “More Lawsuits Are Barreling Toward Trump Over Jan. 6” by Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) for MSN National: “House Rejects Democratic Efforts […]

December 9, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Elon Musk Is Now America’s Largest Political Donor” by Trisha Thadani and Clara Ence Morse (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics California: “LA Times Owner Plans to Add AI-Powered ‘Bias Meter’ on News Stories, Sparking Newsroom Backlash” by Liam Reilly and Jon […]

December 6, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – December 6, 2024

National/Federal Inside the Supreme Court Ethics Debate: Who judges the justices? DNyuz – Jodi Kantor and Abbie VanSickle (New York Times) | Published: 12/3/2024 In the summer of 2023, the justices of the U.S. Supreme Court began trading confidential memos, avoiding their […]

National/Federal

Inside the Supreme Court Ethics Debate: Who judges the justices?

DNyuz – Jodi Kantor and Abbie VanSickle (New York Times) | Published: 12/3/2024

In the summer of 2023, the justices of the U.S. Supreme Court began trading confidential memos, avoiding their standard email list and instead passing paper documents in envelopes to each justice. Faced with ethics controversies and a plunge in public trust, they were debating rules for their own conduct. Weeks later, as a united front, they announced the results: the court’s first-ever ethics code. While the court was praised for setting ethics rules, the lack of an enforcement provision has been criticized. One year later, the justices’ internal debate has spilled into a wider, more fractious one.

Trump Organization Plans an Ethics Policy Without Banning Foreign Deals

DNyuz – Eric Lipton, Ben Protess, and David Yaffe-Bellany (New York Times) | Published: 12/5/2024

In the wake of Donald Trump’s election victory, his family business is poised to capitalize on his presidency with a variety of new ventures, according to a review of financial records and interviews with people knowledgeable about his finances. And unlike in his first term, the people said, the Trump Organization aims to issue a more limited ethics plan that is unlikely to significantly curb its growth.

Amid Worry About Trump, Calls for Career Justice Dept. Staff to Stay

MSN – Perry Stein and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 12/2/2024

Attorney General Merrick Garland and top Justice Department officials are encouraging career staffers to remain in their jobs through the next administration, stressing that institutional knowledge is important as new leaders take hold. The weeks since Donald Trump’s victory have been filled with uncertainty and tumult for many of the more than 100,000 individuals who work at the nation’s largest law enforcement agency. As top officials inside the department have led meetings about transition protocols, Trump and his allies have continued their vows to fire career staffers and seek retribution on those they consider their political enemies.

Supreme Court to Examine Power of Congress to Delegate Authority

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 11/22/2024

The Supreme Court announced it will hear a pair of cases that will examine how far Congress can go in delegating powers to federal agencies, decisions that could chip away at the authority of the executive branch. The cases explore whether Congress violated the Constitution when it allowed the Federal Communications Commission to gather fees to help pay for critical telecommunications service in communities that might not otherwise have it.

As His Power Grows, D.C. Wonders: How do you lobby a man like Elon Musk?

MSN – Cat Zakrzewski, Faiz Siddiqui, and Pranshu Verma (Washington Post) | Published: 12/1/2024

Unlike many chief executives in the tech industry, who prefer to keep an arm’s length distance from the nation’s capital and rely on a cadre of lobbyists, communications staff, and political consultants to shape their message, Elon Musk has viewed himself as his own best advocate in Washington. Musk’s rise has set off a scramble among lobbyists to curry favor with the “first buddy.” But many are finding it challenging to open a line of communication because of his unconventional political and public affairs team.

Trump Transition Team Ethics Pledge Appears to Exclude President-Elect

MSN – Betsy Klein, Steve Contorno, and Arlette Saenz (CNN) | Published: 11/27/2024

Donald Trump’s team submitted an ethics plan guiding the conduct of its members throughout the transition period that does not appear to include provisions for one key member of the team: the president himself. During his first term, Trump was repeatedly criticized by ethics groups for potential conflicts-of-interest relating to his businesses and brands. Both Trump’s and his family’s foreign business ties have also come under scrutiny throughout his time in office and on the campaign trail.

Biden Pardons His Son Hunter Despite Previous Pledges Not To

MSN – Zeke Miller, Alanna Durkin Richer, and Colleen Long (Associated Press) | Published: 12/1/2024

President Joe Biden pardoned his son, Hunter, sparing the younger Biden a possible prison sentence for federal felony gun and tax convictions and reversing his past promises not to use the powers of the presidency for the benefit of his family. The president’s sweeping pardon covers not just the gun and tax offenses against the younger Biden, but also any other “offenses against the United States which he has committed or may have committed or taken part in during the period from January 1, 2014 through December 1, 2024.”

Lauren Boebert Briefly Joins Cameo, Charging $250+ for Personalized Video Messages

MSN – Nick Coltrain (Denver Post) | Published: 11/25/2024

Rep. Lauren Boebert broke new ground when she became the first sitting member of Congress to offer personalized messages for sale, starting at $250, through the video platform Cameo. But her Cameo page appears to have shut down later that same day. A version of her Cameo page listed Boebert as a politician and categorized her as a political commentator, but it was updated to list her under the influencers category.

Potential Conflicts of Interest May Haunt Dr. Oz’s Confirmation to Run Medicare, Medicaid

MSN – Desmond Butler, Lauren Weber, and Caitlin Gilber (Washington Post) | Published: 12/2/2024

In a 2019 production of his television show, Dr. Mehmet Oz extolled the transformational results of Ozempic. The nine-minute infomercial embedded into Oz’s daytime talk show was sponsored by the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, which Oz twice referred to as a “trusted partner.” The segment showcases the financial ties between the heart surgeon’s media business and companies whose fortunes he would have a hand in influencing as Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Creator of ‘2000 Mules’ Apologizes to Man Falsely Accused of Ballot Fraud in the Film

NPR – Kate Brumback (Associated Press) | Published: 12/2/2024

Filmmaker and conservative pundit Dinesh D’Souza, the creator of the debunked film “2000 Mules,” issued a statement saying “inaccurate information” was provided to him about ballot box surveillance videos featured in the film and apologizing to a Georgia man in one of those videos who was falsely accused of ballot fraud during the 2020 election. Mark Andrews is seen in one of the videos, his face blurred, putting five ballots in a drop box as D’Souza says: “What you are seeing is a crime. These are fraudulent votes.”

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – Watchdog to Tighten Rules on Lobbying of Ministers and MPs by Corporations

Toronto Globe and Mail – Marie Woolf | Published: 11/27/2024

Canada’s lobbying watchdog is planning to tighten the rules to force corporations to be more transparent about the people they are trying to influence in the federal government. In an interview at the start of her second term in office, Nancy Bélanger said one of her priorities will be to make corporations more fully register their lobbying of ministers, Members of Parliament, and federal officials.

California – Assessor Reports $1M Behested Payment, Biggest Charitable Donation Made at a Local Elected Official’s Request

MSN – Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union-Tribune) | Published: 11/30/2024

What appears to be the single largest behested payment recorded in San Diego County history was solicited by a relatively obscure elected official and awarded to an even lesser-known local nonprofit to help flood victims. But Jordan Marks, the assessor-recorder-county clerk, said he had almost nothing to do with the more than $1 million donation by a national real estate agents’ relief fund and only disclosed it in an “abundance of caution.”

California – County Supervisors Approve External Forensic Audit of Contracts Affiliated with Andrew Do, Ethics Policy Updates

MSN – Destiny Torres (Orange County Register) | Published: 12/3/2024

The Orange Board of Supervisors approved hiring an external auditor to review possibly thousands of county contracts directed or influenced by former Supervisor Andrew Do, as well as updates to the county’s code of ethics to improve transparency and oversight. The updated ethics policy will apply to county employees, supervisors, and contractors. Possible consequences include censure if a board member violates the policy, and a vendor could be permanently banned from doing business with the county.

Colorado – Former Denver Mayor Michael Hancock Is Now a Lobbyist for Companies That Made Hundreds of Millions During His Tenure

Denverite – Kyle Harris | Published: 11/29/2024

Former Denver Mayor Michael Hancock has a new lobbying firm, Hancock Global, serving companies that do big business with the city. He is registered as a lobbyist in the city and county of Denver. While a few of his clients are obscure, many were major contractors on projects the Hancock administration oversaw. Hancock was able to make the transition quickly because Denver does not have any limits on “revolving door” lobbying by former elected officials.

Florida – Patronis, Fine Jump in Congressional Races. What Happens to Their State Campaign Money?

MSN – Gary Rohrer (USA Today) | Published: 11/29/2024

Two Republican candidates for open U.S. House seats in Florida got a boost when Donald Trump endorsed them. But if they want to use their considerable funds in state-level political committees to campaign for federal office, they can thank Gov. Ron DeSantis, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a U.S. Supreme Court precedent, and loopholes in campaign finance laws.

Florida – Tickets to Master’s Tournament Trigger Feud in Hillsborough County Politics

MSN – Jack Evans and Justin Garcia (Tampa Bay Times) | Published: 11/25/2024

Three Hillsborough County government and school district leaders attended the Masters golf tournament in Georgia this year. The trip was arranged by Jonathan Graham, president of HORUS Construction Services, which in May secured a deal to build the school district a new warehouse. Commissioner Ken Hagan later reported the trip as a gift from Graham, valued at $6,500. About two million people enter the Masters ticket lottery each year. The chance of being picked is less than one percent.

Florida – State Ethics Board Worried That Lawsuit May Upend Key Part of Florida Open Government Law

MSN – John Kennedy (USA Today) | Published: 11/29/2024

The Florida Commission on Ethics is choosing to wait for a court ruling on a challenge to a new financial disclosure requirement that led to mass resignations of city and small-town officials across the state last year. The commission rejected a proposal to begin discussing a settlement with attorneys for 26 cities and 74 public officials who sued the state, arguing the new disclosure standard violates the constitutional right to free speech.

Florida – Council Member Ron Salem’s Political Committee Paid for Trip to Watch Jags Game in London

Yahoo News – David Bauerlein (Florida Times-Union) | Published: 12/3/2024

Jacksonville City Councilperson Ron Salem’s political committee paid $12,200 to Delta Airlines and another $1,028 for transportation and accommodations when he traveled to London for a trip in October to watch the Jacksonville Jaguars play overseas at Wembley Stadium. To meet the legal requirements for tapping into the political committee for his trip’s expenses, Salem held a fundraiser while he was in London. Unlike candidate campaign accounts that have $1,000 limits on donations per election cycle, campaign finance law has no restrictions on how much contributors can give to committees such as Moving Jacksonville Forward.

Georgia – Trump Moves to Throw Out Criminal Case in Georgia, Citing Election Win

MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 12/4/2024

Attorneys for Donald Trump asked a Georgia appellate court to consider the “unconstitutionality” of the ongoing 2020 election interference case against him now that he is the nation’s president-elect and order the presiding judge to dismiss all charges against him. The motion asks the Georgia Court of Appeals to find it no longer has legal jurisdiction over the matter because it is unconstitutional to prosecute a sitting president “in any way.”

Georgia – Legislative Policy Watchdog Sues Georgia Conservative Nonprofit in Lobbyist Filing Dispute

Yahoo News – Ross Williams (Georgia Recorder) | Published: 11/25/2024

The Frontline Policy Council is a conservative Christian nonprofit that holds a lot of sway around the Georgia Capitol. In 2024, Frontline representatives testified in state committees around 60 times, supporting legislation on issues like school vouchers. But Frontline’s president and founder Cole Muzio and general counsel Chelsea Thompson have come under fire for allegedly lobbying elected officials without properly registering with the state.

Hawaii – Former State Archaeologist Faces Ethics Probe into Revolving Door Allegation

Honolulu Civil Beat – Stewart Yerton | Published: 11/27/2924

A former State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) archaeologist faces an ethics investigation into an allegation he violated Hawaii’s “revolving door” policy by going to work for a private business before a required one-year waiting period. The complaint alleges Andrew McCallister stepped down as an archaeologist on Maui in April, and soon after went to work for the development consulting firm AECOM, in some cases on the same projects he oversaw at SHPD.

Illinois – Ex-Ald. Daniel Solis, a Historic FBI Mole, Exits Stage Alone After Testimony in Madigan Corruption Trial

MSN – Jason Meisner and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 12/3/2024

After six days of testimony in ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s corruption trial, former Chicago Ald. Daniel Solis was off the witness stand and out of the public eye, perhaps this time for good. His cooperation with prosecutors changed the state’s political trajectory, contributing to Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s improbable election, putting former Ald. Edward Burke in prison, and helping dethrone Madigan, the longest serving state legislative leader in the country when he resigned in 2021 before being charged.

Indiana – Nonprofit Braun Transition Group Follows Former Governors’ Model

Yahoo News – Leslie Bonilla Muñiz (Indiana Capital Chronicle) | Published: 11/25/2024

“Social welfare” nonprofits, typically with undisclosed donor lists, have funded at least Indiana’s last three gubernatorial transitions. Now, Gov.-elect Mike Braun is following that model. Political scientists and others were skeptical of the role of Hoosiers for Opportunity, Prosperity and Enterprise (HOPE), asserting it is operating in a gray area between politics and governance. But HOPE and those involved in past administrative changeovers defended the group’s activities as by-the-book, critical to day-one readiness, and a boon for taxpayers.

Louisiana – Judge Dismisses Louisiana Legislators’ Lawsuit Over Ethics Board Hire

Yahoo News – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 12/2/2024

A judge dismissed a lawsuit from state lawmakers meant to block the Louisiana Board of Ethics from hiring its new administrator. The decision paves the way for the board to move forward with replacing longtime administrator Kathleen Allen. Judge Kelly Balfour said the search for an ethics administrator should have been more transparent. But he saw no state law violation that would allow him to stop the board from moving forward with the hiring.

Massachusetts – Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson Subject of Federal Investigation

MSN – Gayla Cawley (Boston Herald) | Published: 12/3/2024

Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson is the subject of a federal investigation, and subpoenas have been issued to City Hall in relation to the probe. The existence of a federal probe is the latest controversy for the councilor since taking office roughly three years ago.

Michigan – Benson Says Campaign Funds Can Be Used for Child Care and Caregiving Costs

Yahoo News – Anna Liz Nichols (Michigan Advance) | Published: 11/26/2024

Elected officials and candidates for office are permitted to use money from their campaign finances to pay caregiving costs including childcare under an interpretive statement from Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. Women are expected to be primary caretakers and the challenges and lack of infrastructure in government for a person to be a primary parent has kept women out of office, said Liuba Grechen Shirley, founder of Vote Mama, a political organization working to increase the number of moms in office.

Montana – Montana Legislators Vote Down Capitol Bathroom Rule Change Aimed at Transgender Lawmakers

Yahoo News – Blair Miller (Missoula Current) | Published: 12/3/2024

The Montana Legislature’s Joint Rules Committee voted down a proposed rule targeted at a Rep. Zoey Zephyr, a Democratic transgender representative, that sought to designate the use of private restrooms shared by the two chambers based on a lawmakers’ sex chromosomes at birth. Zephyr won re-election this year after she was censured by Republicans and banished from the House floor for telling Republican lawmakers they had blood on their hands for passing a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors.

New York – N.Y. Ethics Commission Faces New Constitutional Challenge

Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 11/29/2024

A lawsuit challenges new regulations being implemented by the New York Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government that prohibit lobbyists from hiring a third-party designee to prepare and submit their disclosure statements. The suit alleges the regulations would interfere with lobbying firms’ right to do their work and increase their exposure to civil fines and penalties. This is the third court case challenging the constitutionality of the commission.

New York – Campaign Board Head Hints Eric Adams Could Be Denied Reelection Matching Funds

MSN – Katie Honan (The City) | Published: 12/4/2024

New York City Mayor Eric Adams will know soon if his reelection bid will qualify for millions of dollars in public matching funds as the Campaign Finance Board (CFB) votes on the first tranche of payments for the 2025 contest. At a hearing, city Councilperson Lincoln Restle pushed CFB Executive Director Paul Ryan on why the board would give Adams more money when a federal indictment alleges that he obtained $10 million in 2021 matching funds fraudulently.

North Dakota – North Dakota Senate Rejects Conflict of Interest Rules While House Adopts Modified Version

Yahoo News – Michael Achterling (North Dakota Monitor) | Published: 12/4/2024

The North Dakota House adopted new conflict-of-interest rules, but the Senate rejected those same rules. They were created through consultation with the state Ethics Commission after the Legislative Procedures and Arrangements Committee finished its business during the interim. The rules were designed to promote transparency and provide a clearer path for lawmakers to recuse themselves from votes in which they had a perceived conflict.

Ohio – Ex-PUCO Chairman Sam Randazzo’s Company Pleads Guilty in Bribery Scheme; Penalty Could Reach $2.26 Million

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 12/3/2024

Two companies that prosecutors say a former utility regulator used to secretly accept a $4.3 million bribe from FirstEnergy will pay as much as $2.26 million in penalties and restitution in a deal struck with prosecutors. A judge approved the deal between the state and the Sustainability Funding Alliance of Ohio and the Industrial Energy Users of Ohio Administration Co. Sam Randazzo, former chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, was the sole owner of both entities. State and Federal authorities over the past year each indicted Randazzo on an array of financial crimes.

Oregon – The City’s Public Campaign Financing Program Allowed Candidates with Little Support to Snag Taxpayer Dollars

Willamette Week – Sophie Peel | Published: 11/27/2024

Two candidates for the Portland City Council this November achieved something unusual and, at first glance, illogical. Chris Henry and Moses Ross each received more individual campaign contributions than they did first-place votes on Election Day. The case of Henry and Ross, coupled with other examples of candidates mining taxpayer dollars by boasting grassroots support that was not there, shows the city’s public finance system buckled under the weight of 75 candidates attempting to tap in. A media examination, which exposed abuses of the system, raises questions whether Portland’s campaign financing is functioning as intended.

Pennsylvania – A Trio of Convicted Former Elected Officials Have Landed New City Jobs in Philadelphia

MSN – Ryan Briggs (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 11/19/2024

Three former Philadelphia elected officials who were convicted on corruption charges and left office in disgrace have found a second chance – with taxpayer-funded jobs. Former Traffic Court Judge Willie Singletary and former State Rep. Leslie Acosta both landed positions in Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration. Former State Rep. Movita Johnson-Harrell is now working under Sheriff Rochelle Bilal.

Tennessee – Tennessee State Sen. Ken Yager Arrested, Charged with DUI, Hit and Run in Georgia on Tuesday

MSN – Evan Mealins (Nashville Tennessean) | Published: 12/4/2024

Tennessee Sen. Ken Yager was arrested, booked into a Georgia jail, and accused of getting into a hit and run while driving under the influence while on vacation on Jekyll Island. He is said to have been driving a Ford Edge at the time of his arrest. Finance records show Yager regularly uses his campaign accounts to make lease payments on a Ford.

Tennessee – Gov. Bill Lee Repays Travel Expenses Following New Tennessee Ethics Commission Opinion

Yahoo News – Vivian Jones (Nashville Tennessean) | Published: 12/3/2024

The Tennessee Ethics Commission said Gov. Bill Lee violated a state law prohibiting elected officials from taking gifts from lobbyists when the nonprofit Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) paid for him to attend their conference in Florida. ADF, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, and its partner 501(c)4 organization, both employ Matthew Lorimer, a registered lobbyist in Tennessee. The commission determined the expenses paid by the nonprofit that shares resources with an employer of a lobbyist constituted an indirect gift to the governor.

Texas – Texas Politicians Must Disclose Known Blind Trust Properties, Rental Income Details

KUT – Lauren McGaughty | Published: 12/5/2024

The Texas Ethics Commission adopted a rule that requires officials to disclose properties they hold in a blind trust if they have “actual knowledge” of the properties. If politicians have a rental property, they will also have to disclose the address and renter’s name. The new rules come after it was reported that state Attorney General Ken Paxton did not disclose several properties owned by him or his blind trust in his 2023 0r 2024 personal financial statements.

Texas – A Conservative Nonprofit Got $80k for a Texas Book-Ban Battle. Llano County Hasn’t Seen It

MSN – Bayliss Wagner (Austin American Statesman) | Published: 12/2/2024

Several prominent conservative figures traveled from across the country to Texas to raise money for Llano County’s legal defense in a federal book ban case. At least, that is what attendees believed they were raising money for. But one year after the event, Llano County still has not seen a dime of the funds collected. Instead, the money went to conservative nonprofit America First Legal, which has no present role in litigating or funding the case. The nonprofit has never contacted county leadership in writing.

Utah – Complaints About Shadowy Anti-Trans PAC’s Financial Reporting Referred to Utah Attorney General

MSN – Emily Anderson Stern (Salt Lake Tribune) | Published: 12/4/2024

The small number of Democratic lawmakers in Utah were dogged with anti-transgender ads in the weeks leading up to the November election by a PAC that had disclosed little information about its organizers and funding to the public. Now, complaints about the PAC’s alleged campaign finance law violations have been forwarded to the state attorney general’s office for investigation.

Washington – Meta Faces $35M Judgment for Campaign Finance Violations in Washington State

Courthouse News – Monique Merrill | Published: 12/2/2024

The state Court of Appeals upheld a $35 million penalty against Meta for violating Washington’s campaign finance law. The Public Disclosure Commission found the company violated the law 822 times. Under the Fair Campaign Practices Act, social media platforms are required to maintain records of the political ads hosted on their sites, such as the cost and sponsor of the ad and information about ad targeting and reach.

Wisconsin – Wisconsin’s Campaign Finance Regulators Ask to Triple Their Staff

The Cap Times – Andrew Bahl | Published: 12/5/2024

The agency that oversees Wisconsin’s campaign finance laws is asking for millions of dollars in added funding to triple its staff, warning that without more resources it cannot serve the public in the way a new law requires. The budget request comes after the state Legislature enacted a law that will task the Wisconsin Ethics Commission with collecting campaign finance filings from county and municipal candidates across the state. Previously, those duties were handled by local clerks.

December 5, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Florida: “Council Member Ron Salem’s Political Committee Paid for Trip to Watch Jags Game in London” by David Bauerlein (Florida Times-Union) for Yahoo News Utah: “Complaints About Shadowy Anti-Trans PAC’s Financial Reporting Referred to Utah Attorney General” by Emily Anderson Stern (Salt […]

December 4, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Michigan: “Benson Says Campaign Funds Can Be Used for Child Care and Caregiving Costs” by Anna Liz Nichols (Michigan Advance) for Yahoo News Washington: “Meta Faces $35M Judgment for Campaign Finance Violations in Washington State” by Monique Merrill for Courthouse News Elections […]

December 3, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Florida: “Patronis, Fine Jump in Congressional Races. What Happens to Their State Campaign Money?” by Gary Rohrer (USA Today) for MSN Ethics National: “Biden Pardons His Son Hunter Despite Previous Pledges Not To” by Zeke Miller, Alanna Durkin Richer, and Colleen Long […]

December 2, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance Oregon: “The City’s Public Campaign Financing Program Allowed Candidates with Little Support to Snag Taxpayer Dollars” by Sophie Peel for Willamette Week Ethics California: “Assessor Reports $1M Behested Payment, Biggest Charitable Donation Made at a Local Elected Official’s Request” by Jeff McDonald […]

November 26, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Trump Is Running His Transition Team on Secret Money” by Ken Bensinger and David Fahrenthold (New York Times) for Seattle Times New York: “F.B.I. Agents Investigate Use of Fake Donors in N.Y. Assembly Race” by Jay Root, Bianca Pallaro, and William […]

November 25, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup

Campaign Finance National: “Gaetz Campaign’s Reports of Vast Spending on Fees Are Scrutinized” by David Ingold and Ted Mann (Bloomberg) for MSN Missouri: “Missouri State Pension Board Bans Use of Fund for Political Donations” by Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) for Yahoo News Ethics Arizona: “Arizona […]

November 22, 2024 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – November 22, 2024

National/Federal Chauffeured Cars and Broadway Tickets: Inside the national realtors group DNyuz – Debra Kamin (New York Times) | Published: 11/18/2024 Interviews with current and former employees, members, and elected leaders of the National Associated of Realtors (NAR), as well as tax […]

National/Federal

Chauffeured Cars and Broadway Tickets: Inside the national realtors group

DNyuz – Debra Kamin (New York Times) | Published: 11/18/2024

Interviews with current and former employees, members, and elected leaders of the National Associated of Realtors (NAR), as well as tax records and employment contracts, paint a portrait of a nonprofit organization where leaders have come to expect lavish spending and benefits the day they step into the job. The group’s president, president-elect, and first vice president are elected by members and receive annual six-figure payments. The NAR refers to officers as “volunteers.” They have been given corporate credit cards, and on work trips, they have racked up charges from expensive dinners, golf outings, spa treatments, and sports tickets.

Senate Confirms Biden’s Ethics Czar, Who Will Remain Under Trump

Government Executive – Eric Katz | Published: 11/14/2024

The Senate confirmed President Biden’s nominee to serve as head of the Office of Government Ethics, giving him a term that will last through Donald Trump’s tenure. David Huitema, currently a State Department ethics official, will now serve in the governmentwide ethics czar role in a five-year term. Senate Democrats sought to prioritize his confirmation in the waning days of the Biden administration and their control of the chamber before Trump’s inauguration.

Trump Picks Brendan Carr as FCC Chairman

MSN – Eva Dou and Cristiano Lima-String (Washington Post) | Published: 11/17/2024

Donald Trump said he was naming Brendan Carr as the next Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chairperson, positioning the regulatory agency to do battle against social media companies and television broadcasters that Republicans portray as too liberal. Carr, the senior Republican among the FCC’s five commissioners, has vowed in recent days to take on what he called a “censorship cartel” including Facebook, Google, Apple, and Microsoft.

Go Bags, Passports, Foreign Assets: Preparing to be a target of Trump’s revenge

MSN – Stanley-Becker and Ellen Nakashima (Washington Post) | Published: 11/14/2024

Unlike the ordinary Americans who joke each election cycle about leaving the country when their preferred candidate loses, a group of anxious retired officers or government officials includes people whom the incoming president and his allies have subjected to withering criticism. Even before the election, some were subpoenaed by Trump-aligned members of Congress. Others were placed on watch lists compiled by pro-Trump activists. Scarcely any described firm plans to leave the country. But they are also not brushing off the threats as they keep track of personnel named to influential government jobs.

How a Brutally Repressive African Country Freely Raises Money in the U.S.

MSN – Katharine Houreld (Washington Post) | Published: 11/20/2024

Three years ago, The U.S. imposed sanctions against the ruling party of Eritrea, a repressive country in the Horn of Africa. Yet, Eritrea’s embassy in Washington helped raise millions of dollars on behalf of the country since then, while Eritrean officials acknowledge the government and the ruling party are one. Earlier this year, about 100 Eritreans living in the U.S. joined a Zoom call co-hosted by officials from the Eritrean Embassy to raise money to fund the struggle against its opponents. Any group acting on behalf a foreign government must register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act. None of the groups represented on the call have done so.

Speaker Johnson Restricts Use of Capitol Bathrooms by Transgender People

MSN – Maegan Vazquez and Mariana Alfaro (Washington Post) | Published: 11/20/2024

House Speaker Mike Johnson said transgender individuals would not be allowed into restroom facilities in the Capitol and House office buildings that do not correspond with their sex assigned at birth, announcing the rule change after Sarah McBride became the first openly transgender individual elected to Congress. Asked by reporters for details on how the House could enforce such a restriction, Rep. Nancy Mace said the House sergeant at arms “can enforce it.”

Trump Picks People Who Worked on Project 2025 Despite Distancing Himself

MSN – Patrick Svitek (Washington Post) | Published: 11/20/2024

Donald Trump is assembling an administration that includes some picks for key positions that stand in stark contrast to his repeated efforts to distance himself from Project 2025, the conservative blueprint for a second Trump term that had become a political liability for him. Trump has named at least four other nominees who are credited by name in Project 2025, a product of the conservative Heritage Foundation.

House Panel Was Told Gaetz Paid Two Women $10,000, in Part for Sex

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany, Liz Goodwin, Leigh Ann Caldwell, Meryl Kornfield, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 11/20/2024

House Committee on Ethics investigators probing sexual misconduct allegations against former Rep. Matt Gaetz obtained records showing he paid more than $10,000 to two women who testified before the panel. The news came as the committee declined to release its report on misconduct allegations against Gaetz after a closed-door meeting, and as Donald Trump’s embattled attorney general pick attempted to sell himself on Capitol Hill to skeptical Republican senators.

Trump’s Incoming Chief of Staff Is a Former Lobbyist. She’ll Face a Raft of Special Interests

MSN – Brian Slodysko, Joshua Goodan, and Alan Suderman (Associated Press) | Published: 11/21/2024

As incoming White House chief of staff, one of Susie Wiles’ vexing challenges will be policing the buffet line of powerful interests who want something from Donald Trump. During Trump’s first presidency, she lobbied for many of them. Trump was first elected on a pledge to “drain the swamp” in Washington. But his transactional approach to the presidency ushered in a lobbying boom that showered allies, including Wiles, with lucrative contracts and empowered wealthy business associates.

Trump Win Poised to Bolster Congressional Investigative Power

MSN – Michael Macagnone (Roll Call) | Published: 11/20/2024

House Republicans are looking forward to pursuing their congressional investigations next year with a friendlier Justice Department (DOJ) under the Trump administration, one that could pursue contempt of Congress charges to give teeth to congressional subpoenas. Some of the most prominent probes in the current Congress came from the House Judiciary and House Oversight and Accountability committees, whose chairpersons frequently worked hand-in-hand on investigations of officials in the Biden administration and clashed with the DOJ over access to documents and interviews.

Donations Improved Odds of Avoiding Trump Tariffs, Study Finds

MSN – Shawn Donnan (Bloomberg) | Published: 11/20/2024

Public companies whose executives donated to Republican candidates had a higher chance of winning exclusions from Donald Trump’s first-term tariffs on China, while those that gave to Democrats saw their odds fall, according to a study into thousands of applications for relief. Stephen Vaughn, who oversaw the exclusion process during the Trump administration, said any suggestion of partisan bias in the process was “utterly false” and it was designed to be apolitical.

Democrats Draw Up an Entirely New Anti-Trump Battle Plan

Seattle Times – Lisa Lerner and Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 11/17/2024

Locked out of power next year, Democrats are hatching plans to oppose Donald Trump that look nothing like the liberal “resistance” of 2017. As they face this tough political landscape, Democratic officials, activists, and ambitious politicians are seeking to build their second wave of opposition to Trump from the places they still control: deep-blue states. Democrats envision flexing their power in these states to partly block the Trump administration’s policies and to push forward their vision of governance.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – US Supreme Court Rejects Challenge to Alaska Campaign Finance Law

MSN – Nate Raymond (Reuters) | Published: 11/18/2024

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to a campaign finance law in Alaska that required greater public disclosure of certain political contributions. Plaintiffs in the lawsuit said the restrictions adopted in 2020 are some of the most stringent disclosure requirements in the country on political donors. The law requires anyone who contributes $2,000 or more annually to a group making independent expenditures to, within 24 hours, report their donation or face a penalty of up to $1,000 per day, among other provisions.

California – Ex-L.A. City Hall Fundraiser Sentenced in Huizar Bribery Case

MSN – City News Service | Published: 11/15/2024

A former City Hall fundraiser was sentenced to a year of home detention for arranging a $500,000 bribe for now-imprisoned ex-Los Angeles City Councilperson José Huizar to “grease the wheels” for a proposed condominium project. Justin Kim was also ordered to complete 100 hours of community service as part of his three-year probationary sentence. He pleaded guilty in to a single count of federal program bribery and agreed to cooperate with investigators.

California – Council Approves New San Diego Ethics Commission Executive

MSN – Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union-Tribune) | Published: 11/20/2024

Career prosecutor Bryn Kirvin was approved to take over as executive director of the San Diego Ethics Commission once current leader Sharon Spivak steps away early next year. The change in leadership comes weeks after voters approved Measure D, which included several important modifications to the Ethics Commission.

California – Anaheim Kicks Discussion on Gift Ban in Wake of Corruption Scandal

Voice of OC – Hosam Elattar | Published: 11/18/2024

A majority of Anaheim City Council members say they are not ready to implement a proposed law that would ban them from accepting gifts worth more than $50 per year from a lobbyist or contractor in the aftermath of one of Orange County’s largest corruption scandals. The council narrowly voted to kick the discussion to implement the restrictions to an undetermined date following hypothetical situation based questions about the proposal from Councilperson Norma Campos Kurtz and concerns from city officials.

Florida – Republicans Target Social Sciences to Curb Ideas They Don’t Like

DNyuz – Vimal Patel (New York Times) | Published: 11/21/2024

Florida has become a testing ground for a raft of conservative policies meant to limit or expunge what Republicans describe as “woke” indoctrination in the state’s schools and colleges. Faculty and student critics have said this latest effort infringes on university autonomy and could reduce students’ exposure to courses they believe are necessary for a well-rounded education. Academic freedom advocates worry that it marks a new, more organized approach.

Florida – Broward Commission Relaxes Rules on Food and Drink Gifts

MSN – Lisa Huriash (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) | Published: 11/13/2024

Broward County commissioners voted to relax the rules surrounding accepting gifts of food and drinks from lobbyists, vendors, and contractors when they are on the job. Commissioner Mark Bogen proposed creating a $25 cap on soft drinks, which would be inclusive of any food given at the same time. That also means raising the maximum on food from five dollars to $25.

Florida – Ex-State Sen. Artiles Sentenced to 60 Days for Campaign Violations, but Appeal to Delay Start

MSN – Charles Rabin (Miami Herald) | Published: 11/18/2024

Frank Artiles, a former Florida senator convicted of orchestrating a ghost candidate scheme that likely stole an election from a Democrat, was sentenced to 60 days in jail, five years of probation, and 500 hours of community service. Judge Miguel de la O agreed to stay the order until after the defense appeals the verdict. Assistant State Attorney VanderGiesen told jurors how a shadowy but powerful Republican Party operative reached out to Artiles for help in the 2020 race for the District 37 Senate seat.

Florida – Prosecutors Drop Charges Against Former Miami City Commissioner and Lobbyist

Yahoo News – Tess Riski (Miami Herald) | Published: 11/20/2024

The Broward State Attorney’s Office dropped criminal charges against former Miami City Commissioner Alex Díaz de la Portilla and lobbyist Bill Riley Jr., putting an end to a high-profile corruption case that was set for trial in December. Attorney Jared Whaley, who represents Riley, alleged that Miami-Dade Ethics Commission investigator Karl Ross made “material misrepresentations and omissions” in the arrest affidavit.

Georgia – Georgia Appeals Court Cancels Arguments on Trump Appeal on Willis

MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 11/18/2024

The Georgia Court of Appeals abruptly canceled oral arguments on Donald Trump’s appeal of a state court ruling allowing Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to continue prosecuting the 2020 election interference case against the president-elect and several of his allies. The notice gave no reason for the cancellation. It comes amid lingering questions about the future of the Georgia case against Trump as he prepares to return to the White House after his election victory.

Illinois – ‘Magic List’ of Madigan-Connected Lobbyists Shown to Jury in Ex-Speaker’s Corruption Trial

Yahoo News – Jason Meisner and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 11/18/2024

The FBI in a raid on the home of Michael McClain seized handwritten notes listing the names of allies of then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan who had gone on to lucrative lobbying careers. Federal prosecutors in Madigan’s corruption trial say the “Magic Lobbyist List.” is evidence that McClain was secretly helping a select group of former Madigan staffers, associates, and allies get business and the speaker was aware of the effort.

Indiana – Former Evansville Mayoral Candidate Ordered to Pay $400K in Defamation Case

Yahoo News – Jon Webb (Evansville Courier & Press) | Published: 11/18/2024

A former Evansville mayoral candidate has been ordered to pay $400,000 in damages after reportedly writing blogs and social media posts falsely accusing an Indianapolis lawyer and journalist of pedophilia and stealing taxpayer money. A judge ordered Gabriel Whitley to hand over $400,000 to Abdul Hakim-Shabazz. In a complaint, Shabazz said has never been accused or charged with any of those crimes and vehemently denies the allegations.

Louisiana – Louisiana Legislators Threaten to Remove State Ethics Board Members, Issue Subpoenas

Yahoo News – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 11/13/2024

State legislators threatened to subpoena and remove members of the Louisiana Board of Ethics in an intensification of the fight over enforcement of the state ethics code. Members of the House Governmental Affairs Committee lashed out at the board for not heeding legislative requests to hold off on hiring a new administrator until January. At that point, Gov. Jeff Landry gains more control of the board through a new set of appointees.

Maine – Portland’s Ethics Commission Still Isn’t Ready After 2 Years. It May Not Be What Voters Thought.

Yahoo News – Grace Benninghoff (Portland Press Herald) | Published: 11/20/2024

An effort to establish an ethics commission in Portland has been derailed after city councilors realized some people, including the city manager, would have been exempt. Councilor Kate Sykes raised concerns that the ordinance drafted by the city was not what voters intended when they approved the referendum calling for an ethics panel in 2022.

Michigan – Ex-CFO Admits to Stealing $40M from Detroit Nonprofit in ‘Astonishing’ Scheme

MLive – Rose White | Published: 11/16/2024

William Smith, the former chief financial officer for the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, admitted to stealing $44 million from the nonprofit group in an embezzlement scheme. Over nearly a decade, Smith transferred $24.4 million from the Conservancy’s bank accounts to an account titled “The Joseph Group, Inc.” This entity, which was owned by Smith, provided no goods or services to the organization. Smith also used $14.9 million to pay off purchases made on four American Express credit cards.

Michigan – Panel Pushes Out Lobbying Reform as Clock Runs Down on Legislative Session

Yahoo News – Kyle Davidson (Michigan Advance) | Published: 11/14/2024

The Michigan House Ethics and Oversight Committee continued to push forward on laws addressing outside financial influences in Lansing politics. The committee heard testimony on the Bringing Reforms in Integrity, Transparency, and Ethics Act introduced by House Democrats in March. One bill bars lawmakers, the governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, or attorney general from lobbying any sooner than a year after their term ends. A second bill would require the disclosure of gifts from lobbyists to legislative staff.

Minnesota – CenterPoint Lobbyist Ghostwrote Comments to Support Gas Appliance Rebates

Energy and Policy Institute – Karlee Weinman | Published: 11/19/2024

Comments submitted to Minnesota regulators that support CenterPoint Energy’s controversial push to skew customer rebates toward gas furnaces rather than electric air source heat pumps appear to have been created and ghostwritten by a CenterPoint lobbyist, not the people who signed them, data attached to the documents show. The Minnesota Department of Commerce, a state agency that oversees the customer-funded rebate program, will decide in early December whether to allow the utility to offer hefty rebates for furnaces, which critics say is out of step with state law and is an improper use of customer money.

Missouri – ‘A Little Goofy’: Loopholes allow millions to flow around Missouri campaign donation limits

Yahoo News – Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) | Published: 11/15/2024

Missouri voters in 2016 approved a constitutional amendment capping donations to candidates, outlawing direct contributions from corporations and labor unions, and banning efforts to conceal where money is coming from. It spurred a lawsuit and a rush to grab big donations before the limits took effect. But it did not take long for consultants to find ways around contribution limits, forging a trail to unlimited giving by having candidates set up affiliated committees alongside their campaign committees.

New Jersey – Vote to Name N.J. School After Top Politician Violated State Ethics Code, Panel Says

MSN – Adam Clark (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 11/20/2024

The chief of staff for New Jersey’s former lieutenant governor violated the state ethics code by using her local board of education seat to help rename a school after her boss, according to a state ethics panel. Terry Swanson-Tucker was president of East Orange’s Board of Education when she cast two votes to help put then-Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver’s name on a $41 million elementary school that was under construction.

New Jersey – Campaign Finance Watchdog Approves Higher Contribution Limits

Yahoo News – Nikita Biryukov (New Jersey Monitor) | Published: 11/19/2024

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission approved hikes to campaign contribution limits that will raise caps for next year’s legislative and other non-gubernatorial races by more than five percent. The adjustments are the first made under the Elections Transparency Act that approved dramatic increases to the limits and requires the commission to index donation caps for inflation every two years.

New York – N.Y. Prosecutors Appear Open to Yearslong Delay in Trump Hush Money Case

MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 11/19/2024

Manhattan prosecutors said they will oppose a request by Donald Trump’s lawyers to dismiss his 34-count felony conviction but suggested they were open to postponing proceedings in the case until after the president-elect’s second term in the White House. Trump, who will take office January 20 and serve until early 2029, had been scheduled for sentencing November 26 and faced up to four years in prison.

New York – Want to Be a Judge in the Bronx? Better Pay These Firms.

New York Focus – Sam Mellins and Chris Bragg | Published: 11/13/2024

Over the past three years, nearly every civil court judge in the Bronx has hired a political consulting firm directly tied to the leader of the Bronx Democratic Party. The pattern raises concerns about a pay-to-play element within Bronx judicial elections, low-profile contests where the county political machine’s muscle can prove decisive. An analysis of campaign disclosures found political firms London House and Collado Consultants & Company have collected nearly half of the total campaign spending by winning Bronx Civil Court candidates since 2021.

North Carolina – Republicans in North Carolina Push Sweeping Changes to Consolidate Power

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 11/20/2024

Republicans in North Carolina are rushing a bill through the Legislature before they lose their supermajority to give their party more control over elections, eliminate the jobs of judges who have ruled against them, and limit the authority of the incoming Democratic governor and attorney general. They loaded up a $227 million Hurricane Helene relief package with an array of provisions that weaken the hand of Democrats in the battleground state.

Ohio – State Prosecutors Nix Ex-FirstEnergy Executive’s Deposition, Leaving Criminal Charges on the Table

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 11/19/2024

State prosecutors moved to squash a looming deposition of a former top official of FirstEnergy Corp., signaling they are considering new charges in a bribery investigation. Eileen Mikkelsen, formerly the company’s vice president of rates and regulatory affairs, is scheduled to testify under oath in a regulatory investigation in December, one of seven since-ousted company officials subpoenaed in the case before the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. But Deputy Attorney General Carol O’Brien asked the regulators to back off, warning the deposition could grant her immunity, preventing prosecutors from charging her with any crimes.

Oregon – Portland Mayoral Candidate Rene Gonzalez Fined $9,000 for New Set of Campaign Finance Violations

MSN – Shane Dixon Kavanaugh (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 11/14/2024

Portland Commissioner Rene Gonzalez, who finished third in his bid for mayor, broke city campaign finance laws after he repeatedly failed to return donations that exceeded Portland’s strict contribution limits in a timely manner, the city auditor’s office ruled. Gonzalez was fined $9,180 – three times the $3,060 in illegal funds his campaign collected but was too slow to refund to donors.

Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania’s High Court Sides with Republicans on Misdated Mail Ballots

NPR – Hansi Lo Wang | Published: 11/18/2024

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court directed all the state’s county election officials not to count certain mail-in ballots for this year’s general election that arrived on time but in envelopes without the correct dates handwritten by voters. The order is the latest development in a long-running legal battle over what to do when absentee voters do not follow an artifact of the state’s election rules. It is a major victory for Senate candidate David McCormick, who holds a narrow lead over U.S. Sen. Bob Casey ahead of a statewide recount.

Pennsylvania – Pa. Lawmakers Say Candidates Choose to Pay $250 Late Fee to Avoid Revealing Donors

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Ford Turner | Published: 11/19/2024

A Department of State report shows sixty-six candidates for the Pennsylvania Legislature, including 22 incumbents, missed a deadline for filing campaign finance reports just before the November 5 election, a dynamic that has sparked bipartisan condemnation and calls for bigger penalties. Rep. Valerie Gaydos noted some campaigns are pulling in hundreds of thousands of dollars in short periods of time, and the state-set maximum penalty of $250 for missing a report filing deadline is, in comparison, a pittance. “That means the general public will have no way of knowing who is bankrolling these campaigns,” said Gaydos.

Tennessee – Nashville Transit Campaign Donors Revealed, Include Big Business, Dark Money Group

Yahoo News – Evan Mealins (Nashville Tennessean) | Published: 11/19/2024

The group that funded Nashville’s successful campaign to pass a $3.1 billion transit plan finally disclosed its donors, revealing a broad base of commercial support from big business, law, and real estate, as well as hundreds of thousands of dollars from a dark money group. The Tennessee Registry of Election Finance called out the pro-transit campaign’s initial lack of financial transparency ahead of Election Day and ordered the group file disclosures that revealed the source of its financial backing.

Wisconsin – Former Wisconsin Justice Accused of Ethics Violations Over 2020 Election Probe

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 11/19/2024

Legal regulators filed a 10-count ethics complaint against former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman, who oversaw a problem-plagued review of the 2020 presidential election in the battleground state. Republicans who control the Legislature hired Gableman to review the election after Donald Trump lost Wisconsin. Gableman consulting with conspiracy theorists as he conducted a secretive, shambolic investigation that culminated with him telling lawmakers they should consider revoking the state’s 10 electoral votes.

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