LobbyComply Blog

National/Federal

He Hasn’t Been Seen in Months. The Congressional Record Disagrees

MSN – Nina Heller (Roll Call) | Published: 6/2/2026

It has been nearly three months since he last cast a vote on the House floor, but U.S. Rep. Thomas Kean Jr. has been keeping busy, or at least trying to look like he is. In the 89 days since he last voted, Kean has also disclosed stock trades and introduced legislation. Five speeches under his name have appeared in the Congressional Record. Staff in congressional offices continue to work even when their bosses do not, which is nothing new. But Kean’s disappearance has raised long-overdue questions about transparency on the Hill, some experts say.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Supreme Court Allows Alabama to Use Congressional Map Favoring Republicans in This Year’s Elections

Yahoo News – Mark Sherman (Associated Press) | Published: 6/2/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court allowed Alabama to use a congressional map favoring Republicans in this year’s elections, blocking a lower court ruling that the redistricting plan intentionally discriminates against Black people. The justices granted the state’s emergency appeal to use a map it adopted three years ago that has a majority-Black population in just one of its seven congressional districts. The three liberal justices dissented.

Colorado – Gov. Jared Polis Vetoes Bill Requiring Disclosure from Administration Lobbyists

Colorado Politics – Marianne Goodland | Published: 5/29/2026

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis vetoed a bill that would have required executive branch lobbyists to follow much of the same disclosure rules that already govern other lobbyists at the Capitol. Lobbyists for organizations are required to state their clients’ position on bills. The executive branch’s lobbyists, on the other hand, rarely provide a position. State Rep. Dusty Johnson argued the executive branch lobbyists should play by the same rules as any other lobbyist. She noted taxpayers pay the salaries of the executive branch lobbyists, one reason for more transparency.

Colorado – Secretary of State Rejects Lobbying Allegations in Colorado House District 6 Race

Colorado Politics – Marianne Goodland | Published: 6/3/2026

The Colorado secretary of state dismissed a complaint alleging attorney Iris Halpern engaged in illegal lobbying at the Capitol. Halpern is challenging Rep. Sean Camacho in the June 30 primary for the House District 6 seat. The complaint was filed by Bethany Morris, who had been a delegate for Camacho at the Denver Democrats’ Assembly. Halpern has long testified at the Capitol on legislation. Morris alleged that testimony proved Halpern was a lobbyist.

Maryland – A $100 Donation Ignites Ethics Questions for Baltimore County School Board

Yahoo News – Racquel Bazos (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 6/3/2026

A $100 campaign donation from the chairperson of Baltimore County’s Board of Education to a candidate seeking a seat on the board is raising questions about ethics, political influence, and the nonpartisan nature of the county’s school system. The dispute centers on more than the value of the contribution. At issue is whether a board chair should use her position, and political capital, to help shape the future makeup of the body she leads.

New Mexico – National Energy Super PAC Faces Ethics Complaint Over Spending in NM Land Commissioner Race

Source New Mexico – Patrick Lohman | Published: 5/22/2026

American Energy Action Fund, a super PAC that has thrown its weight behind a Democratic land commissioner candidate in New Mexico, is facing a state ethics complaint over its alleged failure to disclose spending details. The secretary of state’s office said the Virginia-based fund has not complied with a New Mexico law that requires out-of-state super PACs to submit certain spending records to the state.

New York – New York Lobbying Spending Sets Fourth Straight Record

MSN – Grace Jiang (Albany Times Union) | Published: 6/4/2026

For the fourth year in a row, spending to influence state government officials and lawmakers in New York set a record last year, with lobbyists and their clients reporting more than $384.8 million spent. The new record, according to a report from Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government, came with a messier figure attached: $23.47 million in discrepancies between what clients said they paid and what their lobbyists reported earning. The agency resolved most of those gaps one filing at a time and is pressing the state for money to automate the work.

New York – NY Appeals Court Unanimously Sustains Blakeman’s Public Funds Bid

MSN – Timothy Fanning (Albany Times Union) | Published: 5/28/2026

A New York appeals court ruled that state elections regulators created a bureaucratic trap and faulted the Public Campaign Finance Board for rolling out new gubernatorial ticket rules without updated forms, guidance, or training before they denied potentially millions of dollars in matching funds to candidates who subsequently failed to comply with the byzantine rules. Calling the state’s handling of the rollout “irrational,” an appellate court unanimously revived Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman’s bid for public campaign money.

Oklahoma – Out-of-State Group Tests Oklahoma Law with Cruise for Political Donation Sweepstakes

KGOU – Keaton Ross (Oklahoma Watch) | Published: 6/1/2026

A Wyoming-based organization is testing Oklahoma law by attempting a cruise sweepstakes for people who contribute at least $50 to one of their preferred candidates in the state’s 2026 election cycle. The group claims status as a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization, which is allowed to raise and spend unlimited amounts of money and is not required under state or federal law to disclose its donors. MOGANetwork LLC could face legal challenges over the sweepstakes, which must meet strict criteria to avoid being classified as an illegal lottery, according to attorney Bob Burke.

Rhode Island – RI Ethics Commission Will Investigate If Shekarchi Can Jump to the Supreme Court

MSN – Patrick Anderson (Providence Journal) | Published: 6/2/2026

The Rhode Island Ethics Commission will investigate whether former House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s bid to join the state Supreme Court violates the state’s “revolving door” law. Roger Williams University Law School Professor Michael Yelnosky has filed a complaint, arguing Shekarchi should have to wait a year before seeking a spot on the court.

National/Federal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trump Sons Back New Drone Company Targeting Pentagon Sales

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

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

Pentagon Bars Press Photographers Over ‘Unflattering’ Hegseth Photos

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

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

In Trump’s Washington, Congress Has Little Power Left

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

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

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

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

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

Justice Department Publishes Documents with Sexual Assault Allegations Against Trump

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the States and Municipalities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Idaho – House Ethics Proceedings Would Be Secret Under New Bill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elections

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

Ethics

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legislative Issues

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

Procurement

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

Campaign Finance

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

Elections

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

Ethics

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

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

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

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

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

Legislative Issues

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

National/Federal

Federal Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Slavery Exhibits to the President’s House

MSN – Abraham Gutman and Fallon Roth (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/16/2026

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restore the slavery exhibits the National Park Service removed from the President’s House. The order does not give the government a deadline for the restoration of the site. It does require that the National Park Service take steps to maintain the site and ensure the safety of the exhibits, which memorialize the enslaved people who lived in George Washington’s Philadelphia home during his presidency and were abruptly removed in January.

Stephen Colbert Says CBS Blocked Interview with Texas Democrat Over FCC Concerns

MSN – Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 2/17/2026

CBS late-night host Stephen Colbert rebuked his own network, claiming lawyers for parent company Paramount Skydance prohibited him from airing an interview with Texas Rep. James Talarico, a U.S. Senate candidate, over concerns it would violate the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) equal time rule. The rule requires broadcasters to provide equal opportunity to candidates. News and talk show interviews have traditionally been exempt from the mandate. But in January, the FCC issued a public notice saying daytime and nighttime talk shows would have to apply for exemptions to the equal time rule for each of their programs.

Supreme Court to Use Software to Identify Justices’ Conflict of Interests

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 2/17/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court will begin using software to scan litigants’ filings to identify potential conflicts of interest that might require justices to step aside from cases. Parties before the court will be required to list stock-ticker symbols and make other disclosures to support the automated reviews. The software will compare information about parties and attorneys in a case with a list created by each justice’s chambers. The new rules will take effect in mid-March.  

Democratic Lawmakers Ask Watchdogs to Probe Whether Former Lobbyists Serving in Trump Administration Violated Ethics Rules

MSN – Sara Lynch (CBS News) | Published: 2/18/2026

Four Democratic lawmakers are asking the top internal watchdogs at 16 different federal agencies to investigate whether former lobbyists appointed by the Trump administration may have violated ethics rules to benefit their own former clients. Federal ethics rules generally bar government employees for one year from working on matters involving their former employers or clients. During Trump’s first term in office, he extended the recusal period to two years, though he has not issued any sort of ethics pledge during his second term in office.

How the US Supreme Court Set the Stage for Partisan Gerrymandering Arms Race

MSN – John Kruzel (Reuters) | Published: 2/14/2026

Recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings allowing starkly partisan voting maps to be used in the November midterm elections crucial to Donald Trump’s presidency highlight how a 2019 decision by the justices helped supercharge a political practice that polling shows most Americans oppose. The ruling by the justices in a 2019 case called Rucho v. Common Cause stripped federal courts of their power to police a practice known as partisan gerrymandering. It involves states redrawing the boundaries of electoral districts based on the partisan leanings of voters to boost a political party’s candidates.

Democratic-Led Cities Move to Block ICE, Setting Up Clash with Trump

MSN – Tim Craig (Washington Post) | Published: 2/18/2026

Elected Democrats in major U.S. cities have banded together to try to block the Trump administration from aggressive immigration operations such as the one now winding down in Minneapolis, issuing a slate of policy changes and vowing to prosecute agents who violate local laws. The policies broadly seek to restrict Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from city property and parks and, in some cases, direct local police to monitor the activities of federal agents.

Federal Court Blocks Hegseth Effort to Punish Democratic Senator

MSN – Connor O’Brien and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/12/2026

A federal judge sided with U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly to stop Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth from punishing the former Navy captain for advising troops not to follow illegal orders. U.S. District Court Judge Richard Leon issued a preliminary injunction blocking the Pentagon’s effort to demote Kelly’s rank and reduce his retirement pay. The decision is the second legal setback for the Trump administration’s campaign to punish Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers, who released a video last fall telling military personnel they do not have to adhere to illegal orders.

Trump Nominates Two Republicans to FEC, Paving Path to End Monthslong ‘Shutdown’

NOTUS – Taylor Giorno and Dave Levinthal | Published: 2/11/2026

President Trump nominated two Republicans to seats on the FEC, the first step toward reopening the idled federal campaign finance regulator as the 2026 midterms get underway. Trump nominated Andrew Woodson, a lawyer at Wiley Rein who previously worked for former FEC Chairperson Lee Goodman, and Ashley Stow, who previously worked with former FEC Commissioner Trey Trainor, to fill two of the four vacancies on the commission.

Meta Begins $65 Million Election Push to Advance AI Agenda

Seattle Times – Theodore Schleifer and Matt Zdun (New York Times) | Published: 2/18/2026

Meta is preparing to spend $65 million this year to boost state politicians who are friendly to the artificial intelligence industry. The sum is the biggest election investment by Meta. The company was previously cautious about campaign engagements, making small donations out of a corporate PAC and contributing to presidential inaugurations. It also let executives like Sheryl Sandberg, who was chief operating officer, support candidates in their personal capacities.

House Speaker Condemns Trump Justice Department Monitoring of Lawmakers’ Epstein Document Review

Yahoo News – Holmes Lybrand, Annie Grayer, and Manu Raju (CNN) | Published: 2/12/2026

Attorney General Pam Bondi obtained U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal’s search history of the unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files. House Speaker Mike Johnson said the Justice Department’s tracking of lawmakers’ search history was inappropriate, a rare rebuke from the Republican who is usually in lockstep with the Trump administration. Jayapal said she did not know the Justice Department had surveilled her search until CNN contacted her for a comment on the matter.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – In Call, Alabama Power Lobbyist Sought Nonprofit’s Support for Bill Ending PSC Elections

Yahoo News – Ralph Chapoco (Alabama Reflector) | Published: 2/17/2026

A lobbyist for Alabama’s largest electric utility approached a nonprofit to persuade the organization to support legislation that would end popular elections to the state’s utility regulation board. R.B. Walker, director of state and federal governmental affairs for Alabama Power, told John Dodd, policy manager for Energy Alabama, the utility would not take an official position on the proposed legislation but said cited possible advantages for appointing members of the Alabama Public Service Commission. Dodd said in an interview he believed Alabama Power wanted the nonprofit to work for the bill without bringing the utility into the matter.

Arizona – Hobbs Releases Proposal to Reform Arizona’s Campaign Finance, Procurement and Lobbying Laws

KJZZ – Wayne Schutsky | Published: 2/17/2026

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs released long-awaited proposals to reform the state’s campaign finance and procurement laws in response to “pay-to-play” allegations lobbed against her administration by critics. But the governor is pairing those reforms with a ban on lobbyists entertaining state officials, including the lawmakers in the Republican-led Legislature that would have to vote to approve her proposal.

California – County Funds for Stopping Overdoses Instead Went to Personal Vacations, Prosecutors Say

MSN – Blake Nelson (San Diego Union-Tribune) | Published: 2/18/2026

At least $132,000 in San Diego County funds were illegally spent on plastic surgery, streaming subscriptions, and trips to Disneyland and Hawaii, among other personal expenses, prosecutors alleged. That money was supposed to go toward preventing and reversing drug overdoses amid an ongoing opioid epidemic. Officials announced six felony charges against Amy Knox, the former chief operating officer of the Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego. If convicted, she faces up to seven years in prison.

California – Ex-San Leandro City Council Member Pleads Guilty in East Bay Bribery Case, Agrees to Work with Feds

MSN – Megan Cassidy (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 2/11/2026

Two days after announcing his retirement, San Leandro City Councilperson Bryan Azevedo pleaded guilty to two felony charges connected to a far-reaching corruption case intended to help a powerful East Bay family win contracts in Oakland in exchange for kickbacks. Azevedo was the last defendant to be charged and the first to have their case adjudicated in what prosecutors described as a bribery scheme tied to former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and leaders of a Bay Area recycling company.

California – Southern California Air Board Rejected Pollution Rules After AI-Generated Flood of Comments

MSN – Hayley Smith (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/17/2026

The opposition appeared overwhelming as thousands of emails poured into Southern California’s top air pollution authority as its board weighed proposal to phase out gas-powered appliances. But many of the messages that may have swayed the regulatory agency to scrap the plan were generated by a platform that is powered by artificial intelligence (AI). More than 20,000 public comments submitted in opposition to last year’s proposal were generated by a company called CiviClick, which bills itself as “the first and best AI-powered grassroots advocacy platform.”

Colorado – Colorado Capitol Caucuses Would Have to Disclose Their Donors, Spending Under Democratic Unity Bill

Colorado Sun – Taylor Dolven | Published: 2/13/2026

Colorado lawmakers would have to report who is donating to their caucuses and how they are spending that money under a bill brought in the wake of a dark money-funded retreat attended by a group of Democrats. Senate Bill 108 would require caucuses, committees, clubs. and other groups of lawmakers to file monthly reports with legislative staff detailing all money they received, accepted, or spent. The reports would then be posted online.

Georgia – Rick Jackson Sues Burt Jones Over Campaign Finance in Governor’s Race

MSN – Irene Wright (USA Today) | Published: 2/12/2026

Healthcare executive and political outsider Rick Jackson has been in the race for Georgia governor for just 10 days, but he Is already charging forward in the polls and taking on his opponents in court. Jackson’s campaign filed a lawsuit against Lt. Gov. Jones, and Attorney General Chris Carr (both running for governor), and other state officials alleging Jones’ campaign financing is unconstitutional.

Hawaii – Gov. Green Cancels Out-of-State Work Trip ‘to Ensure Steady Leadership’

Hawai’i Public Radio – Ashley Mizuo | Published: 2/12/2026

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green canceled his annual trip to the National Governors Association meeting. When a Hawaii governor physically leaves the state, the lieutenant governor becomes acting governor in their absence. This schedule change comes after Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke became the center of a story involving allegations an “influential lawmaker” accepted $35,000 in a paper bag during a January 2022 meeting. The claim came to light during the federal bribery investigation into former Rep. Ty Cullen and Sen. Kalani English.

Illinois – AIPAC Accused of Covert Campaigning as Democratic Support Falters

MSN – Matthew Choi (Washington Post) | Published: 2/18/2026

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a powerful pro-Israel organization, is masking its involvement in competitive Democratic primaries in Illinois, according to candidates in those races, who accuse the interest group of trying to quietly maintain its influence as Democrats reexamine their stance on Israel. AIPAC describes itself as a bipartisan organization; through its political arm, it has long supported Democrats and Republicans aligned with its mission.

Maine – Maine Legislature Asks Courts to Weigh in on Potential Ranked-Choice Voting Expansion

Yahoo News – Lauren McCauley (Maine Morning Star) | Published: 2/10/2026

Amid a pivotal election year, Maine lawmakers are asking the state’s highest court whether it would be legal to expand ranked-choice voting. The House and Senate passed Legislative Document 1666, which would expand the voting method to special and general elections for governor, state senator, and state representative. The governor had intended to veto the bill but was open to a solemn occasion, a rarely used action in which lawmakers can ask the Supreme Judicial Court to produce a nonbinding decision on the legality of pending legislation.

Massachusetts – Former State Police Union Head, Lobbyist Get More Prison Time for Fraud, Racketeering

MSN – Darin Zullo (Boston.com) | Published: 2/18/2026

Dana Pullman, a former Massachusetts State Police union president, and the union’s former lobbyist, Anne Lynch, were sentenced for racketeering, fraud, obstruction of justice, and tax crimes. Pullman was sentenced to two years in prison and Lynch was sentenced to 15 months in prison. After the defendants initial sentencing in 2023, The U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals reversed some of the convictions while letting the others stand.

Michigan – Lobbyists Spent Record Amount on Free Meals for Michigan Lawmakers in 2025

Bridge Michigan – Simon Schuster | Published: 2/13/2026

Lobbyists spent a record amount of money providing free food and drink for Michigan lawmakers in 2025. Advocates for special interests in Lansing reported spending more than $485,000 entertaining legislators and members of the executive branch.  More than $180,000 was spent toward meals with individual legislators, a record amount and nearly $40,000 more than was spent in 2024, the next-highest year.

Nevada – Nevada Ethics Panel Advances Complaints Against AG Aaron Ford

Las Vegas Sun – Kyle Chouinard | Published: 2/17/2026

A review panel from the Nevada Commission on Ethics advanced a complaint against Attorney General Aaron Ford to the rest of the commission. The complaint accuses Ford of using his position to “benefit his private interests,” including by accepting more than $35,000 in “luxury” trips from the Attorney General Alliance (AGA). Ross Armstrong, executive director of the commission, wrote in the complaint that the AGA was “largely funded by corporations, some of which are subject to regulation or litigation before his office.”

Nevada – Nevada Staffer Faces Ethics Complaints for Federal Official’s Visit

MSN – McKenna Ross (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 2/16/2026

Two complaints filed with the Nevada Commission on Ethics allege the lieutenant governor’s chief of staff used his position in state government to promote a charter school network and its software platform to a Trump administration cabinet member. The complaint says Rudy Pamintuan used his government role to benefit his private position with the charter school by inviting Education Secretary Linda McMahon to a local event where his business partner demonstrated their artificial-intelligence software.

New Jersey – Bombshell Corruption Case Is Over. N.J. Fails to Prove Dem Power Broker Did Anything Wrong.

Yahoo News – Ted Sherman (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 2/17/2026

The state attorney general’s office said it will not appeal the dismissal of a sweeping corruption indictment against political powerbroker George Norcross III before the New Jersey Supreme Court. Nearly three weeks after an appellate panel upheld the tossing criminal charges, officials said the state was turning the page on the long-fought and controversial investigation, bringing an end to the politically charged case involving the powerful Democratic boss.

New Mexico – Lobbying Transparency Bill Awaits House Floor Hearing

New Mexico In Depth – Marjorie Childress | Published: 2/13/2026

A bill that would require lobbyists in New Mexico to publicly disclose which legislation they are working to influence and whether they support or oppose passed its final House committee, but has since lingered, waiting for a floor vote before it can move to the Senate. Meanwhile, the legislative clock is ticking.

New York – White House Fires U.S. Attorney in N.Y. Hours After Judges Appointed Him

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 2/12/2026

Federal judges in Albany, New York, appointed a new U.S. attorney recently, exercising a rarely invoked legal authority to appoint top prosecutors in regions without a Senate-confirmed nominee. Their choice lasted less than five hours on the job. Donald Kinsella, a former prosecutor, was summarily fired via an email from the White House later that evening. Kinsella’s termination sent a signal to judges in several other federal court districts who have announced plans to make similar replacements of Trump-installed prosecutors whose appointments have been deemed invalid by the courts.

Ohio – Ex-Ethics Chief: FirstEnergy CEO blessed payment at heart of bribery trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/12/2026

Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones signed off on a $4.3 million payment that prosecutors say was a bribe to a man who was about to become the state’s top utility regulator, a former company official testified. Ebony Yeboah-Amankwah, who was the company’s chief ethics officer until she was fired in 2020, also said the company’s then-top lobbyist, Mike Dowling, pushed other officials to speed up the payment. Jones and Dowling face corruption charges centered around accusations they bribed former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo in 2018 and 2019.

Ohio – Misconduct Accusations, Conflicting Testimony Roil FirstEnergy Trial

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

The trial of two former FirstEnergy executives accused of bribery turned messy. Two major snags and an Ohio Supreme Court ruling against the presiding judge overshadowed testimony and slowed the trial of former Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and top lobbyist Michael Dowling, who are accused of bribing a former state utility regulator. The day unfolded outside the jury’s view and included defense attorneys asking a judge to toss out the case and a rare request from prosecutors to allow defense attorneys to view a key witness’ grand jury testimony.

Ohio – Witness Details How Ohio Regulator’s Decisions Enriched FirstEnergy in Bribery Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/18/2026

A former FirstEnergy executive testified that decisions by former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo helped the utility avoid an estimated $150 million “haircut” to its annual revenue and reap roughly $79 million in additional profits over two years. Eileen Mikkelsen, FirstEnergy’s former vice president of rates and regulatory affairs, gave her testimony on the 10th day of the bribery trial of former Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and former company lobbyist Michael Dowling.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Commission Seeking Fix as Local Candidates Can’t File Finance Reports

MSN – Alex Gladden (Oklahoman) | Published: 2/13/2026

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission is combating a new hurdle with its troubled campaign finance website, as it cannot accept reports from local candidates, though officials hoped a solution would have been in place months ago. This comes after months of problems with the state’s website that logs campaign donations. The site was down for three months in 2025 as the commission waited on RFD & Associates to build a new website. The site, Guardian 2.0, never materialized.

Oregon – Can Oregon Officials Text Each Other About City Business? State Lawmakers Want to Clarify

MSN – Austin De Dios (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/17/2026

Oregon legislators are considering making changes to a law that bars city councils and other government bodies from secretly hashing out decisions via private text messages, chats, or other means, after elected officials complained the law was too confusing and a city lobbying group bashed state trainings on the rules. At issue is a section of state law that prohibits local officials from effectively bypassing Oregon’s open government mandate through “serial communications” by texting, calling, or otherwise talking to each other outside of public meetings.

Pennsylvania – Treasury Officials Question Whether Taxpayers Can Legally Pay for Security Upgrades at Shapiro’s Family Home

Yahoo News – Angela Couloumbis (Spotlight PA) | Published: 2/18/2026

Last year, Pennsylvania’s top law enforcement agency revealed taxpayers would pick up the tab for more than $1 million in security upgrades to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s privately owned family home in Montgomery County. But the plan to use public dollars for the entirety of the work there has hit a roadblock. The state Treasury Department is questioning whether procurement rules permit public money to be used for construction work on a non-state-owned property like Shapiro’s house.

Texas – Voting Controversy: Pastor on ballot raises concerns for conflict of interest at Dallas polling site

Yahoo News – Brittani Moncrease (WFAA) | Published: 2/16/2026

Friendship-West Baptist Church is a voting location in Dallas. The polling site has come into question with some calling it a conflict-of-interest. Mallory Caraway, a candidate in Texas’s 30th Congressional District race, said voting at the church raises concern because its senior pastor, Frederick Haynes III, is on the ballot.

Virginia – Va. Supreme Court Paves Way for Democrats to Add Four Seats in Congress

MSN – Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) | Published: 2/13/2026

The Virginia Supreme Court paved the way for state Democrats to move forward with a plan that would enable them to add four Democratic-leaning congressional districts, but the effort’s fate will still be under court review. The ruling means the Virginia General Assembly can hold an April 21 statewide referendum on redrawing the state’s congressional map. A circuit court judge in Tazewell County had blocked the referendum, which seeks to amend the state constitution to temporarily allow mid-decade redistricting in time for this fall’s congressional midterm elections.

Virginia – ‘Us Versus Them’: The battle that’s tearing a small Virginia town apart

MSN – Paul Schwartzman (Washington Post) | Published: 2/16/2026

Small towns often are known for their quirky, insular intrigue, but the drama unfolding in Purcellville, a Virginia exurb that is a 50-mile drive west of the District of Columbia, is a brass-knuckled version of quaint. The battle is rooted in tensions that often divide communities across the country – change versus status quo, growth versus no growth – only in Purcellville the weapons are lawsuits, an attempted citizen revolt, and the kind of ferocious rhetoric that defines much of public life in contemporary America.

West Virginia – WV Senate Passes Bill to Keep Employer Info for Political Donors Off Public Campaign Finance Reports

Yahoo News – Caity Coyne (West Virginia Watch) | Published: 2/16/2026

The West Virginia Senate approved a bill that will stop the public from accessing certain information about people who donate to candidates and campaigns. Senate Bill 640 would stop the secretary of state’s office or any other government agency from publicly posting information that some lawmakers say could be used by advocates to target political donors.

Wyoming – ‘Strapped at the Cap’: Lawmakers and lobbyists take advantage of the Wyoming Capitol’s repealed gun-free zone

MSN – Maya Shimizu Harris (WyoFile) | Published: 2/16/2026

The 2026 budget session is the first time that lawmakers and others are allowed to bring concealed firearms into the Capitol while the Wyoming Legislature conducts its business. Rep. Jeremy Haroldson sponsored the bill that allows this. Haroldson had run bills to repeal gun-free zones in Wyoming every year since becoming a lawmaker in 2021.

Wyoming – Wyoming Lawmakers Will Investigate Checks Activist Gave to Legislators on House Floor

MSN – Maggie Mullen (WyoFile) | Published: 2/12/2026

The Wyoming House voted to launch an investigation after a conservative activist handed out campaign contributions to lawmakers on the chamber floor. The unanimous vote in a legislative body that is normally heavily divided illustrates how much, and how quickly, the incident reverberated through the state Capitol and beyond. Rebecca Bextel, who unsuccessfully sought the top leadership spot of the state Republican Party last year, admitted to handing out checks on the House floor. Bextel said there was no wrongdoing in “delivering lawful campaign checks from Teton County donors when I am in Cheyenne.”

Wyoming – Gov. Mark Gordon Bans Campaign Contributions in State Buildings in Response to Wyoming Check Controversy

MSN – Jasmine Hall (Jackson Hole News&Guide) | Published: 2/17/2026

Gov. Mark Gordon signed an executive order banning campaign contributions in state buildings, bringing the executive branch into an expanding controversy centered on checks handed to lawmakers in the Wyoming Capitol. The ban applies to state facilities and commercial buildings where the state leases space, including the Capitol. It does not apply to areas controlled by the Wyoming Legislature, including the Senate and House floor, which is where the controversy started after a conservative activist was photographed handing checks to lawmakers.

Campaign Finance

Colorado: “Colorado Capitol Caucuses Would Have to Disclose Their Donors, Spending Under Democratic Unity Bill” by Taylor Dolven for Colorado Sun

Georgia: “Rick Jackson Sues Burt Jones Over Campaign Finance in Governor’s Race” by Irene Wright (USA Today) for MSN

Elections

Maine: “Maine Legislature Asks Courts to Weigh in on Potential Ranked-Choice Voting Expansion” by Lauren McCauley (Maine Morning Star) for Yahoo News

Ethics

Nevada: “Nevada Staffer Faces Ethics Complaints for Federal Official’s Visit” by McKenna Ross (Las Vegas Review-Journal) for MSN

Virginia: “‘Us Versus Them’: The battle that’s tearing a small Virginia town apart” by Paul Schwartzman (Washington Post) for MSN

Legislative Issues

Wyoming: “‘Strapped at the Cap’: Lawmakers and lobbyists take advantage of the Wyoming Capitol’s repealed gun-free zone” by Maya Shimizu Harris (WyoFile) for MSN

Lobbying

New Mexico: “Lobbying Transparency Bill Awaits House Floor Hearing” by Marjorie Childress for New Mexico In Depth

Redistricting

Virginia: “Va. Supreme Court Paves Way for Democrats to Add Four Seats in Congress” by Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) for MSN

National/Federal

Don Lemon Arrested by Federal Officials in Connection with Church Protest

MSN – Perry Stein, Molly Hennessy-Fiske, and Maeve Reston (Washington Post) | Published: 1/30/2026

Federal authorities arrested independent journalist Don Lemon, accusing him of violating congregants’ constitutional right to worship when he entered a church in Minnesota with protesters who were demonstrating against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. A magistrate judge had rejected an earlier attempt by the Justice Department to bring charges against Lemon and other protesters. But Justice Department officials, who had vowed to bring charges against Lemon, went to a federal grand jury and obtained an indictment.

Justice Department Releases Large Cache of Additional Epstein Files

MSN – Perry Stein and Amy Wang Reston (Washington Post) | Published: 1/30/2026

The Justice Department released what it said were 3 million more pages from the investigation of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the latest drop in the agency’s troubled scramble to comply with a federal law that requires the public release of files from the high-profile case. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said this tranche of files, which include 2,000 videos and 180,000 images, is expected to be the last major release of Epstein materials.

Judge Ordered 5-Year-Old Released, but Data Shows ICE Is Detaining More Kids

MSN – Arelis Hernández and María Luisa Paúl (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2026

The five-year-old boy, in a blue knit bunny hat and Spider-Man backpack, was returning from preschool when immigration officers detained him in late January in Minneapolis. A few days later, officers there took custody of a two-year-old girl after breaking her family’s car window. They are among an escalating number of children swept up in the Trump administration’s enforcement dragnet, which has drawn mounting public outrage over its aggressive tactics and increasingly indiscriminate ramifications.

DOJ Misconduct Complaint Against D.C. Federal Judge Dismissed

MSN – Salvador Rizzo (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2026

A judicial misconduct complaint against Chief U.S. District Court Judge James Boasberg was dismissed because the Justice Department failed to show he exhibited bias against the Trump administration. The misconduct complaint was filed last year by Attorney General Pam Bondi’s then-chief of staff, Chad Mizelle, in an unusual move that showed how President Trump and his allies have ramped up attacks against federal judges across the country for stopping, slowing, or criticizing the administration’s signature initiatives.

Bill and Hillary Clinton Agree to Testify in House Epstein Investigation, Ahead of Contempt Vote

MSN – Kadia Goba (Washington Post) | Published: 2/2/2026

Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said agreed to speak with members of the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Their announcement came days before the House planned to vote on whether to find the pair in contempt of Congress for refusing to sit for closed-door, transcribed depositions with the committee regarding Epstein.

Defense Dept. Effort to Punish Mark Kelly Draws Skepticism from Judge

MSN – Salvador Rizzo, Tara Copp, and Jasmine Golden (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2026

A federal judge sharply questioned the legality of the Defense Department’s efforts to censure and possibly demote Sen. Mark Kelly, a retired Navy captain, over his public criticism of the Trump administration. U.S. District Court Judge Richard Leon said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth appeared to be expanding restrictions on free speech that have applied only to active-duty service members, not military retirees.

Election Officials Grapple with a Brain Drain as Threats Rise

MSN – Andrew Howard (Politico) | Published: 2/3/2026

Increasingly violent threats toward and harassment of public officials are driving more and more of those figures out of their jobs, a particular concern among local election officials, who have struggled with attrition for years. In the years since the 2020 election, roughly 50 percent of top local election officials across 11 western states have left their jobs since November 2020. The election administration world has been grappling with a significant brain drain since the 2020 pandemic and threats arising from conspiracy theories surrounding that year’s election.

Standoff Over ICE Tactics Could Trigger Another Partial Government Shutdown

MSN – Theodoric Meyer and Arelis Hernández (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2026

Congress is staring down another partial government shutdown unless Democrats strike a deal with President Trump and Republicans over new restrictions on federal immigration authorities, and some key lawmakers in both parties are not optimistic. Democratic lawmakers are seeking, among other things, tighter rules governing the use of warrants, independent investigations of alleged misconduct, and a ban on masks for federal immigration agents. Senate Democrats threatened to block funding for the Department of Homeland Security once it expires at the end of the day on February 13 if Republicans do not embrace the restrictions.

Trump Officials Awarded Venezuela Oil-Sale Contracts to Firms Tied to Bribery

MSN – Anthony Faiola and Evan Halper (Washington Post) | Published: 1/29/2026

Two global trading houses that brokered an opaque deal with the Trump administration to sell Venezuelan oil were previously prosecuted for bribery schemes involving oil sales elsewhere, underscoring concerns by anti-corruption experts and lawmakers that the arrangement is vulnerable to abuse. The administration granted confidential licenses to Vitol and Trafigura to sell Venezuelan oil with little independent oversight. The licenses come a year after the Trump administration gutted the foreign corrupt practices unit of the Justice Department, which brought charges against the two companies and their traders in 2020 and 2024.

The Washington Post, Owned by Jeff Bezos, Makes Dramatic Cuts

Yahoo News – Finya Swai (Politico) | Published: 2/4/2026

The Washington Post told employees it will begin sweeping layoffs, the latest blow to the storied newspaper under owner Jeff Bezos, confirming weeks of speculation about drastic newsroom cuts. The size and scope of the layoffs are not immediately clear. But hundreds of Post employees could lose their jobs, with sections including sports, metro, books, and international coverage hit particularly hard.

House Probe Finds ‘Substantial Evidence’ of Criminal Misconduct, Ethics Violations by Cherfilus-McCormick

Yahoo News – Anthony Man (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) | Published: 1/29/2026

An investigative subcommittee that spent months examining U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick found “substantial evidence of conduct” described in a criminal indictment against her last year and is bringing multiple charges against her. In November, Cherfilus-McCormick and other alleged co-conspirators were indicted on charges described by the Justice Department as “stealing federal disaster funds, laundering the proceeds, and using the money to support her 2021 congressional campaign.?”

Judge Says Trump Administration Must Let Lawmakers Make Unannounced Visits to ICE Detention Facilities

Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/2/2026

A federal judge ruled the Department of Homeland Security likely broke the law when it barred members of Congress from visiting immigrant detention facilities without a week’s notice. U.S. District Court Judge Jia Cobb found that in crafting and enforcing the one-week-notice policy, the department relied on funds Congress specifically forbade from being used to deny lawmakers access to those facilities.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – Homer Rep. Vance Faces Ethics Probe Over Official Letter Pressuring Newspaper

Alaska Public Media – Eric Stone | Published: 1/29/2026

The Alaska House ethics committee launched an investigation into whether Rep. Sarah Vance illegally used state resources when she successfully pushed the local newspaper to remove and revise a story. The newspaper’s owner, Alabama-based Carpenter Media Group, removed, revised, and reposted the story without the reporter’s byline. Carpenter told the Columbia Journalism Review the article did not meet its standards.

California – All Lobbying Contracts Will Be Posted on City of Fresno’s Website Under New Law

MSN – Thaddeus Miller (Fresno Bee) | Published: 1/29/2026

The Fresno City Council adopted a plan to post lobbying contracts on the city’s website to increase transparency. The city has historically not required public reporting of contracts that fall below the $100,000-a-year threshold, which left room for a lobbyist or consultant to exceed the payout if they were paid in multiple contracts that were individually less than $100,000.

California – Corruption Case Against L.A. Councilmember Curren Price Can Move to Trial, Judge Rules

MSN – James Queally (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 1/29/2026

A judge ruled a corruption case against Los Angeles City Councilperson Curren Price can move forward to trial, ensuring the misconduct scandal will hang over the veteran politician’s final year in office. The judge determined prosecutors provided enough evidence to move forward on four counts of voting on matters in which Price had a conflict-of-interest, four counts of embezzlement, and four counts of perjury.

California – Supreme Court Clears Way for California Voting Map That Bolsters Democrats

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court allowed for now a new California voting map that could help Democrats gain up to five seats in Congress, the latest twist in a national fight seeking advantage in this year’s midterm elections. The ruling will remain in effect while a lawsuit challenging California’s map works its way through the courts. The Supreme Court ruled in December that the Texas map was constitutional, so many legal experts expected the justices to approve the California map as well.

California – Oakland Councilmember Asked City Contractor to Fund Her Nonprofit

Oaklandside – Eli Wolfe | Published: 2/3/2026

Partygoers gathered to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, in a Jack London Square event hall in October, watching dance performances, listening to music, and eating heaps of catered food. The free bash was put on by Tiger Arts, a nonprofit created by Oakland City Councilperson Janani Ramachandran. But government ethics experts say the way the event was paid for raises questions about elected officials’ fundraising activities, specifically around behested payments in which public officials are allowed to act as the middlemen soliciting unlimited amounts of money from companies and foundations for other organizations.

Georgia – DNI Gabbard Put Trump on the Phone with FBI Agents Who Searched Fulton County Elections Office, Sources Say

MSN – Kristen Holmes (CNN) | Published: 2/2/2026

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard put President Trump on the phone with some of the FBI agents who conducted a controversial search of an elections office in Fulton County, Georgia, sources said. The unusual call underscores Trump’s involvement and interest in the probe of alleged voter fraud in the 2020 election. One source said Trump directed Gabbard to go to Atlanta for the search, and Gabbard herself confirmed that in a letter to top Democrats on the House and Senate Intelligence committees.

Illinois – Veteran Lobbyist with Clients That Regularly Intersect with City Hall Weighs Run for Chicago Mayor

Chicago Sun-Times – Robert Herguth | Published: 1/29/2026

Mayor Brandon Johnson has personal and political entanglements with one of the more powerful special interests in the city, the Chicago Teachers Union. One of his likely challengers in the 2027 mayoral election, longtime lobbyist John Kelly, would have to deal with his own potential conflicts-of-interest if elected, largely because a number of his existing lobbying clients intersect with City Hall, and might also in the future.

Indiana – Hogsett Promised a ‘One-Stop Shop’ Ethics Portal. Ten Years Later, It Doesn’t Exist

MSN – Tony Cook (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 1/29/2026

Ethics filings, city contracts, and campaign finance reports can help citizens keep a watchful eye on their government, but right now they are spread across the city website. They are difficult to search, and in some cases, they are not online at all. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett recognized this problem and campaigned on fixing it. Once in office, he signed into law an ordinance requiring the city’s legal office to create “an online citizen information portal.” But 10 years later, no such portal exists.

Kentucky – KY Legislature Considers Ethics Commission Changes Amid Grossberg Case

MSN – Lucas Aulbach (Louisville Courier-Journal) | Published: 1/29/2026

A bill is pending in the House that would significantly alter operations within the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission by putting the House speaker and Senate president in charge of employing its leader and staff and allowing the commission to fine or require attorney fees to be paid by a person who files a complaint that is found to be frivolous, improper or containing “factual allegations which lack any evidentiary support.” The sponsors of House Bill 272 both said the bill will likely undergo changes before moving forward.

Kentucky – Embattled KY Rep. Grossberg Settles with Public Reprimand, Waives Ethics Hearing

Yahoo News – Austin Horn and Alex Acquisto (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 2/2/2026

The long saga between Rep. Daniel Grossberg and the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission came to a quiet end when Grossberg agreed to a settlement and reprimand just before a public hearing into his conduct was set to take place. As part of the agreement, Grossberg accepted two $1,000 fines for two of the three instances where the commission found probable cause and brought charges.

Maine – Maine Democratic Party Faces Ethics Probe Tied to Voter ID Referendum

Portland Press Herald – Billy Kobin | Published: 1/29/2026

Maine’s ethics commission will open an investigation into the state Democratic Party’s disclosed spending against last year’s unsuccessful referendum to enact voter ID requirements and new limits on absentee voting. The commission voted unanimously to investigate the party in response to a complaint from conservative activist Alex Titcomb, who spearheaded the referendum, Question 1. Maine voters resoundingly defeated the ballot initiative in November.

Maryland – Moore Campaign Accepted, Then Returned, Donations from Executive Tied to Firm Seeking State Contract

Yahoo News – Jeff Barker (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 1/29/2026

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s campaign accepted, then returned, contributions from a donor and political ally who co-hosted a fundraiser for Moore while linked to a bidder seeking a large state contract. The donor, Terry Speigner, is a former chair of the Prince George’s County Democratic Central Committee and president of NGEN, an IT services company that works with state and federal agencies. His firm was a subcontractor on a bid by Intralot, a Greek gaming company vying for a contract worth hundreds of millions of dollars to oversee Maryland’s lottery operations.

Minnesota – In Minneapolis, All-Encompassing Immigration Story Tests a Newsroom in Midst of Digital Transition

MSN – David Bauder (Associated Press) | Published: 2/1/2026

With the eyes of a nation fixed on the unrest in Minneapolis, the events have not left local journalists overmatched. The Minnesota Star Tribune has broken stories, including the identity of the immigration enforcement officer who shot Renee Good, and produced a variety of informative and instructive pieces. At a time when many regional newspapers have become hollowed-out shells due to the decline in journalism as a business, the Star Tribune has kept staffing relatively steady. It rebranded itself from the Minneapolis Star Tribune and committed itself to a digital transformation.

Mississippi – Senate Moves Campaign-Finance Reform. House Panel Promptly Kills

Mississippi Today – Taylor Vance | Published: 2/2/2026

A Senate committee approved legislation to reform Mississippi’s notoriously lax campaign finance laws, while a House committee made clear it has no intentions of even considering it. The Senate Elections Committee approved a bill that would require local and state candidates to file reports online, cap cash contributions from any donor to candidates at $1,000 and corporate donations, cash or otherwise, to $1,000 a year. But the House Elections Committee, on the same day defeated a similar measure with no discussion.

New Jersey – Why This Powerful NJ Political Boss Keeps Beating Corruption Charges

MSN – Ted Sherman (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 1/30/2026

In another rebuke to the state attorney general’s office, an appeals court upheld the dismissal of a sweeping corruption indictment against Democratic power broker George Norcross III. The three‑judge panel found prosecutors failed to show the South Jersey political boss had committed any crime, and some of the charges were also barred by the statute of limitations.

New Jersey – Big Donors Had Access to Mikie Sherrill at Inaugural Ball. But the Public Won’t Have Access to the Donor List

Yahoo News – Matt Friedman and Daniel Han (Politico) | Published: 2/1/2026

At an Italian restaurant at American Dream mall, incoming Mikie Sherrill moved table to table to speak with business executives, lobbyists, and union leaders. The minimum price to attend was $100,000. The big-dollar donations to dine with the then-incoming New Jersey went toward her inaugural festivities. The six-figure contributions came despite a $500 limit in state law on inaugural donations. But through a loophole, donors were asked to give over $250,000, and a comprehensive list of their identities and donations may never be public.

Ohio – Ohio Newspapers Sue Judge Overseeing FirstEnergy Trial. Here’s Why

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/29/2026

Three Ohio newspapers are asking the Ohio Supreme Court to immediately block enforcement of media restrictions imposed by a Summit County judge overseeing the high-profile trial of ex-FirstEnergy executives. The papers argue the orders amount to unlawful prior restraints on the press as they seek to follow the trial of Chuck Jones and Mike Dowling.

Ohio – Trial of Ex-FirstEnergy Executives Charged in $60M Ohio Bribery Scheme Begins

MSN – Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) | Published: 2/3/2026

The $4.3 million payment FirstEnergy made to Sam Randazzo in 2019, shortly before he was appointed as Ohio’s top utility regulator, is at the center of the latest criminal trial in a $60 million bribery scandal. Prosecutors allege then-FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and then-FirstEnergy Services Senior Vice President Michael Dowling played roles in orchestrating the payout to Randazzo in exchange for regulatory and legislative favors he would later deliver to the company. Both men argue the money was a lump sum settling Randazzo’s consulting agreement with the company.

Pennsylvania – Lawmaker Whose Second Job Running Trade Group Raised Ethics Concerns Says He’s Stepping Down

Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 1/28/2026

A Pennsylvania lawmaker who simultaneously lead a trade group that pays a lobbyist to influence state government resigned. State Rep. Seth Grove said last May that he would retire at the end of his current term. That same month, the Pennsylvania Concrete and Aggregates Association announced it had appointed Grove to a leadership position he would assume in 2026, a trade industry publication reported. He began serving as chief executive officer on January 1 of this year. While allowed under the state’s lax ethics laws, the arrangement raised concerns among some Democratic colleagues and at least one ethics expert.

Texas – In Texas, Democrats Narrow GOP’s U.S. House Majority, Win Upset in State Senate

MSN – Brianna Tucker (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2026

Democrats narrowed Republicans’ U.S. House majority and flipped a state Senate seat on conservative terrain in a pair of special election runoffs in Texas with national implications. In special elections and other local races over the past year, Democrats have largely outperformed Republicans. National Democratic leaders have pointed to the results, along with sweeping victories in last fall’s elections, as reasons for optimism heading into this fall’s midterms.

Elections

National: “Election Officials Grapple with a Brain Drain as Threats Rise” by Andrew Howard (Politico) for MSN

Ethics

California: “Oakland Councilmember Asked City Contractor to Fund Her Nonprofit” by Eli Wolfe for Oaklandside

National: “Defense Dept. Effort to Punish Mark Kelly Draws Skepticism from Judge” by Salvador Rizzo, Tara Copp, and Jasmine Golden (Washington Post) for MSN

Kentucky: “Embattled KY Rep. Grossberg Settles with Public Reprimand, Waives Ethics Hearing” by Austin Horn and Alex Acquisto (Lexington Herald-Leader) for Yahoo News

National: “The Washington Post, Owned by Jeff Bezos, Makes Dramatic Cuts” by Finya Swai (Politico) for Yahoo News

New Jersey: “Why This Powerful NJ Political Boss Keeps Beating Corruption Charges” by Ted Sherman (NJ Advance Media) for MSN

Ohio: “Trial of Ex-FirstEnergy Executives Charged in $60M Ohio Bribery Scheme Begins” by Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) for MSN

Legislative Issues

National: “Standoff Over ICE Tactics Could Trigger Another Partial Government Shutdown” by Theodoric Meyer and Arelis Hernández (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

California: “All Lobbying Contracts Will Be Posted on City of Fresno’s Website Under New Law” by Thaddeus Miller (Fresno Bee) for MSN

The Utah Legislature passed a bill concerning state court expansion. Senate Bill 134 increases the number of Utah Supreme Court justices from five to seven; increases the number of court of appeals judges from seven to nine; and adds three additional district court judges. The bill was signed by Gov. Spencer Cox on January 31. Senate Bill 134 is effective immediately but remains at risk of amendment if required funding during the legislative session is not approved.

National/Federal

Judge Blocks Government from Searching Data Seized from Post Reporter

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 1/21/2026

Government officials may not examine electronic devices seized from a Washington Post reporter until litigation stemming from the search of her home is settled, a federal judge ruled. The order was issued hours after the newspaper demanded in a court filing that federal law enforcement officials return the electronic devices the government seized from staff reporter Hannah Natanson’s home. The extraordinary search “flouts the First Amendment and ignores federal statutory safeguards for journalists,” The Post told the court.

Judge Warns Trump Administration from Changing Plaintiffs Immigration Status in First Amendment Case

MSN – Michael Casey (Associated Press) | Published: 1/22/2026

A federal judge ruled that group of academics, who are party to a lawsuit alleging U.S. policy singles out noncitizens for detention or deportation over their pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses, can seek relief from the court if their immigration status is changed as retribution for taking part in the case. The decision from U.S. District Court Judge William Young comes in the wake of trial last year, in which he ruled the Trump administration violated the Constitution when it targeted non-U.S. citizens for deportation solely for supporting Palestinians and criticizing Israel.

Senate Democrats to Block Government Funding After Second Fatal Shooting in Minneapolis

MSN – Riley Beggin (Washington Post) | Published: 1/25/2026

Senate Democrats plan to block a sweeping government funding package after U.S. Border Patrol agents shot and killed Alex Pretti, killed a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, in Minneapolis, and a partial shutdown now looks likely. It is the third shooting by federal agents in the city in January Democrats said they could not vote for legislation to continue U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s funding without changes to how the agency operates.

In 16 Shooting Incidents Since July, No DHS Officers Have Faced Charges

MSN – David Nakamura and Olivia George (Washington Post) | Published: 1/27/2026

Department of Homeland Security officers have fired shots during enforcement arrests or at people protesting their operations 16 times since July, and as in the recent shootings in Minneapolis, in each case the Trump administration has publicly declared their actions justified before waiting for investigations to be completed. None of the officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Border Patrol, or Homeland Security Investigations has faced criminal charges in any of the shootings, nor has the administration announced any internal disciplinary measures against them.

Millions in Bets Ride on What Trump Will Say, Do, or Invade Next

MSN – Lisa Bonos (Washington Post) | Published: 1/28/2026

Betting on political events on prediction markets has grown sharply in recent months. There is $129 million at stake on political markets on Kalshi, the company said. About 370,000 people are staking more than $90 million on politics at Polymarket. Many of those wagers hinge on actions by President Trump or his administration. The growth of prediction markets and the popularity of wagers on the actions of politicians and the U.S. government have sparked concern about insider trading, market manipulation, and the incentives for government insiders to influence the outcomes others are betting on.

Political Ad Spending Is Projected to Reach a New High in 2026 Midterms

OpenSecrets – Carolyn Neugarten | Published: 1/20/2026

The 2026 elections are on track to become the most expensive midterm cycle in U.S. history, driven in large part by huge increases in political advertising. According to AdImpact’s Political Projections 2025–2026 report, spending on political advertising is estimated to reach $10.8 billion in the next cycle, over 20 percent higher than in 2022.

How a Democratic Heavyweight Is Using AI in the Midterms

Yahoo News – Jessica Piper (Politico) | Published: 1/27/2026

A Democratic opposition research firm is putting massive troves of its work product online ahead of the midterm elections and using artificial intelligence to help everyone from campaigns to podcasters figure out how to navigate the information. The project from American Bridge 21st Century reflects an expansion of its efforts ahead of the 2026 elections, as well as the evolving nature of political campaigning, including opposition research, in an increasingly fragmented media environment.

From the States and Municipalities

California – Lobbyists and Lawmakers Mingle Over Luxury Tequila, Shrimp and Cigars at Capital Party

MSN – Yue Stella Yu (CalMatters) | Published: 1/21/2026

Hundreds of politicians, staffers, and lobbyists attended the annual “back to session bash” in Sacramento, funded by tribal groups, sports betting companies, and other special interests aiming to influence them. The signature event at the beginning of each year of legislative action is one of many political gatherings at which lawmakers and their staff are invited to mingle with special interests. It offers a glimpse into the perks available to California politicians and shows how special interests buy access to policymakers who they hope to influence.

Colorado – Former Colorado State Senator Convicted of Felonies for Fabricating Letters Amid Ethics Investigation

Colorado Sun – Jesse Paul | Published: 1/28/2026

Former state Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis was convicted of attempting to influence a public servant and multiple counts of forgery for fabricating letters of support to the Colorado Senate Ethics Committee to try to avoid sanctions amid an investigation into her alleged mistreatment of Capitol aides. Prosecutors said they planned to ask that Jaquez Lewis be sentenced to probation. She resigned from the Senate in February 2025 amid the ethics probe.

District of Columbia – Jack Evans, Who Left D.C. Council Amid Scandal, to Run for Chairman

MSN – Jenny Gathright (Washington Post) | Published: 1/27/2026

Jack Evans resigned from the District of Columbia Council in 2020 after being repeatedly accused of using his public office for private gain. Now, the former lawmaker is once again attempting a political comeback, seeking to return to the body that unanimously recommended his expulsion for ethics violations. This time he hopes to lead the council, challenging the chairperson, his former colleague Phil Mendelson.

District of Columbia – Longtime D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton Files to End Reelection Bid

Roll Call – Matt Brown | Published: 1/25/2026

Eleanor Holmes Norton, the District of Columbia’s nonvoting delegate to the U.S. House for more than three decades, will not seek a 19th term in office. During her tenure in Congress, Norton built a reputation as an intense fighter on behalf of the city. She has repeatedly led legislation for. statehood, with the measure advancing out of the House in 2020 and 2021, when Democrats controlled the chamber. More recently, though, Norton generated more attention over concerns about her age and effectiveness.

Georgia – FBI Executes Search Warrant Seeking Ballots from Fulton County’s 2020 Election

MSN – Ben Brasch and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 1/28/2026

The FBI executed a search warrant at the elections warehouse of a Georgia county at the heart of right-wing conspiracy theories about the 2020 election, a significant escalation of the Trump administration’s efforts to challenge the narrative of his loss that year. The warrant authorized agents to seize all physical ballots from the 2020 election, voting machine tabulator tapes, images produced during the ballot count, and voter rolls from that year.

Illinois – As Chicago Ethics Board Surpasses 6 Months Without a Leader, Enforcement Actions Stall

WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 1/26/2026

The Chicago Board of Ethics, which has been without a permanent leader for more than six months, was forced to cancel two recent meetings, stalling several probes into campaign finance law violations, nepotism in city hiring, and bribery. Mayor Brandon Johnson’s failure to name a new ethics board chair has infuriated good-government advocates who are again demanding that he do more to combat Chicago’s reputation as the most corrupt of corrupt American cities.

Indiana – Hogsett Allies Routinely Benefit from No-Bid City Contracts

Yahoo News – Tony Cook, Jordan Smith, and Peter Blanchard (Indianapolis Star), and Emily Hopkins (Mirror Indy) | Published: 1/27/2026

Joe Hogsett’s first policy announcement while running for mayor of Indianapolis in 2015 was an ethics reform package that included a promise to reduce no-bid contracts. A media investigation found that after a decade in power, Hogsett’s administration continues to regularly award contracts without a competitive process. The result: his administration has spent millions of taxpayer dollars with little public vetting, sometimes on contracts involving his top campaign donors and close advisers, including his disgraced former chief of staff, Thomas Cook.

Kansas – Kansas Bill Targets Crypto’s Shadowy Path into Campaign Coffers

WebProNews – Andrew Cain | Published: 1/27/2026

Kansas lawmakers are moving to close a persistent gap in campaign finance rules, targeting cryptocurrency donations that have long evaded state oversight. A new bill introduced in the 2026 legislative session seeks to impose clear regulations on digital asset contributions, echoing warnings from the Kansas Public Disclosure Commission dating back years.

Louisiana – District 6 Councilman Cleve Dunn Jr. Indicted in Baton Rouge Corruption Probe

Yahoo News – Bria Gremillion (WVLA) | Published: 1/28/2026

Baton Rouge Caity Councilperson Cleve Dunn Jr. was indicted on multiple charges, including theft and money laundering. The indictment stems from Dunn’s alleged role in the misuse of money intended for the Capital Area Transportation System (CATS). It is alleged Dunn was tied to the indictments of former CATS Chief Administrative Officer Pearlina Thomas, contractor Jarion Colar, and Terral Jackson and his wife, Erica Jackson, that were handed down recently.

Maryland – Baltimore Inspector General Accuses City of Blocking Access to Records Amid Dispute

MSN – Todd Karpovich and Ruben Castaneda (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 1/27/2026

City Inspector General Isabel Mercedes Cumming said Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott’s administration has blocked her office’s ability to manage and monitor its own investigative files, leaving her unable to determine whether sensitive data has been “compromised.” Cumming said she notified law enforcement partners and whistleblowers that the Office of the Inspector General no longer has the ability to track who can access investigative, ethics, and whistleblower records.

Maryland – Maryland Launches New Tools to Make Campaign Finance Easier to Access

Yahoo News – Janis Reeser (Hagerstown Daily-Mail) | Published: 1/26/2026

The Maryland State Board of Elections launched an upgrade to its campaign finance disclosure systems, designed to improve transparency, accuracy, and public access to information. It aims to streamline the way candidates, committees, and businesses report their financial activities related to campaigns.

Minnesota – Bondi’s Injection of Voter Roll Demands into Minneapolis ICE Tensions Draws Claims of ‘Ransom’

MSN – Tierney Sneed and Fredreka Schouten (CNN) | Published: 1/27/2026

Attorney General Pam Bondi’s demand that Minnesota hand over sensitive voter registration records to the federal government amid tensions over ICE and immigration enforcement underscores the importance of the administration’s nationwide data grab that is facing resistance in multiple states and has stumbled in the courts. The Justice Department has already sued Minnesota and 23 other states for the voter data, but Bondi recently urged Gov. Tim Walz to help “bring an end to the chaos,” by turning over the records, among other requests.

Minnesota – Three Arrested in St. Paul Church Protest as Judge Rejects Charges Against Don Lemon

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck, Perry Stein, and Praveena Somasundaram (Washington Post) | Published: 1/22/2026

A judge in Minnesota rejected federal prosecutors’ attempt to criminally charge journalist Don Lemon in relation to his presence during a protest at a St. Paul church, an extraordinary rebuke of a Justice Department that has drawn criticism for its forceful response to demonstrations against immigration enforcement efforts. Department officials announced the arrests of a prominent civil rights lawyer and two others in connection with the church demonstration. The protest at Cities Church in St. Paul has become a flash point in the debate over the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota.

Minnesota – Man Arrested After Spraying Unknown Substance on Rep. Ilhan Omar at Minneapolis Town Hall

MSN – Laura Bargfeld and Hannah Schoenbaum (Associated Press) | Published: 1/28/2026

A man sprayed an unknown substance on Democratic U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and was tackled to the ground during a town hall in Minneapolis, where tensions over federal immigration enforcement have come to a head after agents fatally shot Alex Pretti and Renee Good. Omar continued speaking for about 25 more minutes after the man was ushered out by security, saying she would not be intimidated.

Minnesota – Democrats Visit 5-Year-Old Who Was Detained in Minneapolis, in a Case That Stirred Anger Over ICE

MSN – Valerie Gonzalez, Eric Gay, and Bill Barrow (Associated Press) | Published: 1/28/2026

U.S. Reps. Joaquin Castro and Jasmine Crockett visited a five-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father at a Texas federal detention center, in a case that has stirred anger over the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown and given fuel to Democrats and others who are pushing back against Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s actions. The meeting was part of Democrats’ midterm-election-year effort to conduct congressional oversight and highlight the consequences of President Trump’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota and elsewhere.

Minnesota – Minnesota Prosecutors Face Uphill Battle If They Charge Feds in Fatal Shootings

MSN – Daniel Barnes (Politico) | Published: 1/28/2026

If Minnesota officials try to prosecute the federal agents who recently killed two people in Minneapolis, they will face steep obstacles from a century-old Supreme Court precedent, one that helped sink a similar case just a few years ago. The 2017 shooting of Bijan Ghaisar by two U.S. Park Police officers in a Northern Virginia neighborhood, and the protracted legal battles that followed, may be the best preview of what Minnesota officials can expect if they pursue criminal charges against federal immigration agents.

Minnesota – Sen. Amy Klobuchar Launches Bid for Minnesota Governor: ‘We cannot sugarcoat how hard this is’

MSN – Jeff Zeleny (CNN) | Published: 1/29/2026

Sen. Amy Klobuchar launched her bid for governor of Minnesota, pledging to unify her state and move beyond a deadly battle with the federal government over immigration. Klobuchar is seeking to govern Minnesota during an extraordinarily fraught moment. The state has become the epicenter of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, which has sparked waves of outrage and protest from residents, particularly after two fatal shootings of protesters by federal agents.

Missouri – Missouri Governor Withdraws Ethics Nominees Amid Fight Over Gerrymandered Map

Yahoo News – Jason Hancock (Missouri Independent) | Published: 1/28/2026

Gov. Mike Kehoe withdrew two nominees to the Missouri Ethics Commission after Democrats pointed out the appointments were based on a congressional map that Republicans contend is no longer valid. Sen. Stephen Webber raised a formal objection to four nominees to the commission. The appointments are based on congressional districts, Webber noted, and Kehoe relied on the map approved by lawmakers in 2022. But Republicans are in court arguing the newly gerrymandered map, which passed four months ago, is in effect.

New Jersey – ‘Terrifying Abuses of Power’: Judge hears arguments over leadership arrangement at New Jersey prosecutor’s office

MSN – Ry Rivard (Politico) | Published: 1/23/2026

A federal judge heard arguments about whether the Trump administration is illegally running the U.S. attorney’s office in New Jersey. After Trump loyalist Alina Habba stepped down in December, Attorney General Pam Bondi put three people in charge of running the prosecutor’s office. Now the same judge who first ruled Habba was serving illegally, U.S. District Court Judge Matthew Brann, is considering the legality of what he called this “triumvirate of attorneys.” The arrangement has never been used before in American history.

New York – Ingrid Lewis-Martin Accepted Diamond Earrings to Help Developers Dodge Inspections, New Filings Allege

The City – Greg Smith | Published: 1/27/2026

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, once former New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ closest advisor, faces a variety of pending criminal charges, including allegations she accepted bribes from two developers in exchange for making their problems with city building inspectors disappear.. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg recently detailed concerns raised by a top buildings department official who was concerned a planned hotel renovation Lewis-Martin was pushing was potentially unsafe. According to the official, the developer ignored demands from the Department of Buildings for information on whether the hotel could meet fire safety rules.

North Carolina – Lack of Lobbying Disclosure for $15 Million NC Road Project Leads to Policy Change

MSN – Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 1/28/2026

No surprises. That is the intent of a new North Carolina Association of Regional Councils of Governments policy regarding any lobbyists it hires. It was adopted after one of its member councils accepted $15 million in state money on behalf of a developer building a road in Mooresville without knowing its lobbyist represented the developer too.

North Dakota – North Dakota Ethics Rule Changes Address Bad Faith Complaints

Yahoo News – Mary Steurer (North Dakota Monitor) | Published: 1/28/2026

The North Dakota Ethics Commission adopted several updates to its complaint process, including a change that allows complaints filed in bad faith to be dismissed. Legislators in 2025 directed the commission to create a process to handle bad faith complaints amid concerns that public officials were using complaints as a weapon to harm their political opponents. The amended rules consider bad faith complaints to include those filed “to harass or impugn the reputation” of the accused.

Ohio – Ohio Ethics Agency Prohibits Legal Defense Funds for Public Officials

Blue Water Healthy Living – Laura Bischoff (Columbus Dispatch) | Published: 1/22/2026

The Ohio Ethics Commission said public officials are not allowed to solicit or accept money for their legal defense in civil cases from sources they are trying to do business with, are regulated by, or have interests in officials’ agencies. Anyone elected, appointed, or employed by a public agency, whether paid or unpaid, in Ohio would be governed by the opinion.

Ohio – Ohio Ethics Commission Kills Charter School Disclosure Rule After Political Pressure

MSN – Laura Hancock (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/29/2026

The Ohio Ethics Commission put the brakes on a recently passed rule that would have required officials overseeing charter schools to file financial disclosures after state legislative leadership objected to the requirement. Senate President Rob McColley and House Speaker Matt Huffman wrote a letter to the commission, accusing the panel of making changes “by executive fiat.” The lawmakers objected to the requirement by saying it was unfair, since traditional public school boards and board candidates only must file disclosures if they serve over 12,000 students.

Ohio – Ohio HB6 Scandal Trial Set to Begin Tuesday for Ex-FirstEnergy Executives

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/26/2026

For the first time since Ohio’s House Bill 6 scandal broke more than five years ago, a trial has begun for former FirstEnergy executives on accusations they used the utility’s deep pockets and political influence to carry out what officials have called the largest bribery scheme in Ohio history. Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and the company’s former top lobbyist, Michael Dowling, face charges that they bent state regulators to their will and bribed Public Utilities of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo with $4.3 million.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Agency Sues Vendor Over Ethics Reporting System Debacle

Yahoo News – Barbara Hoberock (Oklahoma Voice) | Published: 1/22/2026

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission filed suit against a Texas vendor for allegedly failing to deliver a campaign finance reporting system despite repeated assurances and deadline extensions. The failure of RFD & Associates cost the state over $800,000, according to Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who is representing the agency.

Oklahoma – State Rep. Ajay Pittman Resigns and Pleads Guilty to Three Felonies

Yahoo News – Nolan Clay (Oklahoman) | Published: 1/28/2026

State Rep. Ajay Pittman resigned from office and pleaded guilty to three felonies for trying to fool the Oklahoma Ethics Commission with a falsified check. Under a plea deal, she was put on probation for seven years. Her resignation was part of her plea deal. She also agreed not to seek state office again for seven years.

Rhode Island – Home, Office Security Would Be Eligible for Campaign Funds Under R.I. Senate Bill

Yahoo News – Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) | Published: 1/23/2026

As threats and acts of violence against elected officials increase nationwide, the Rhode Island General Assembly will consider letting candidates for office use campaign funds for personal security. New legislation would add home and office security systems to the list of ways state and local candidates can spend campaign money during an election cycle.

Tennessee – How Tennessees Speaker of the House Helped Keep a Payday Lender’s Struggling Sports Gambling Company Alive

MSN – Adam Friedman (Tennessee Lookout) | Published: 1/27/2026

The owners of a payday lending company faced a crisis in March 2021 when their other business, a now-defunct sports gambling operation, was under investigation by Tennessee regulators. The couple, Michael and Tina Hodges, had already turned to of the House Speaker Cameron Sexton in 2014 to create a new triple-digit interest loan called a “Flex Loan.” Now they needed Sexton’s help keeping their fledgling gambling business, Action 247, afloat as it tried to compete with sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings.

Texas – Nacogdoches Council Passes Lobbying Ordinance in Split Vote

Nacogdoches Daily Sentinel – Nicole Bradford | Published: 1/22/2026

The Nacogdoches City Council passed an ordinance requiring lobbyists to register with the city and pay a $150 fee. City staff defined lobbying as attempting to influence city policy or a council vote in exchange for some form of compensation. The ordinance also expands on the city’s conflict-of-interest provisions.

Vermont – Facing ‘Precarious’ Future, Vermont State Ethics Commission Seeks Financial Lifeline from Lawmakers

Vermont Public – Peter Hirschfeld | Published: 1/28/2026

Paul Erlbaum, a commissioner on the State Ethics Commission, pleaded with members of the Senate Government Operations Committee for two additional staff members. Without the move, Erlbaum said, “the continued existence of the commission is precarious.” In 2024, the Vermont Legislature established a uniform code of ethics for town and city governments, and directed the Ethics Commission to provide training, advice, and guidance on how to uphold it. Lawmakers, however, failed to provide the commission with additional resources to fulfill those duties.

Virginia – Judge Rules Virginia Democrats Violated Law with Redistricting Amendment

MSN – Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) | Published: 1/27/2026

A circuit court judge in rural Tazewell County ruled against the redistricting effort started by Virginia Democrats, declaring the process they used to create a proposed constitutional amendment is invalid. Democrats immediately pledged to appeal and said they expect a referendum on the matter to go ahead this spring as planned. Circuit Court Judge Jack Hurley Jr. wrote that his ruling “PROHIBITS the proposed amendment from being submitted to the voters for their consideration.”

Washington – Bipartisan Campaign Finance Bill Drafted by Sen. Wilson Makes Quick Trip Through Committee

Yahoo News – Jacob Moore (Centralia Chronicle) | Published: 1/23/2026

A bipartisan group of state senators in Washington introduced a bill to increase transparency in campaign finance by standardizing reporting schedules for political groups with the Public Disclosure Commission. If passed and signed into law, Senate Bill 5840 would require political committees and other groups that spend money to support or oppose ballot proposals or candidates to participate in more frequent financial reporting.

Campaign Finance

Maryland: “Maryland Launches New Tools to Make Campaign Finance Easier to Access” by Janis Reeser (Hagerstown Daily-Mail) for Yahoo News

National: “Political Ad Spending Is Projected to Reach a New High in 2026 Midterms” by Carolyn Neugarten for OpenSecrets

Rhode Island: “Home, Office Security Would Be Eligible for Campaign Funds Under R.I. Senate Bill” by Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) for Yahoo News

Elections

Washington DC: “Longtime D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton Files to End Reelection Bid” by Matt Brown for Roll Call

Ethics

Illinois: “As Chicago Ethics Board Surpasses 6 Months Without a Leader, Enforcement Actions Stall” by Heather Cherone for WTTW

Minnesota: “Bondi’s Injection of Voter Roll Demands into Minneapolis ICE Tensions Draws Claims of ‘Ransom'” by Tierney Sneed and Fredreka Schouten (CNN) for MSN

New Jersey: “‘Terrifying Abuses of Power’: Judge hears arguments over leadership arrangement at New Jersey prosecutor’s office” by Ry Rivard (Politico) for MSN

Legislative Issues

National: “Senate Democrats to Block Government Funding After Second Fatal Shooting in Minneapolis” by Riley Beggin (Washington Post) for MSN

National/Federal

Did Emil Bove Violate Judicial Ethics Code with Appearance at Trump Rally?

Courthouse News Service – Bernjamin Weiss | Published: 12/10/2025

Third Circuit Judge Emil Bove may have violated the federal judiciary’s ethics code when he attended a political charged rally held by President Trump, legal experts and lawmakers said. Experts also said Bove’s appearance at Trump’s event adds to a trend of nominally impartial federal judges who have increasingly embroiled themselves in partisan politics.

Stephen Miller Faces Ethics Concerns Over Stock Sale of Las Vegas Mining Company

Las Vegas Sun – Ana Swanson (New York Times) | Published: 12/10/2025

Stephen Miller, a top adviser to President Trump, sold shares worth $50,000 to $100,000 in the mining company MP Materials following a July announcement of a lucrative deal between the Las Vegas company and the Trump administration, government filings show. The sale came one month after the administration announced an extraordinary series of measures to support MP Materials. The deal, which included the government purchasing shares in the company and committing to buy its products, led MP Materials’ share price to skyrocket.

Democrats’ Path to Power May Come Through Hundreds of Races Far from Washington

MSN – Hunter Woodall (CBS News) | Published: 12/10/2025

Much of national Democrats’ attention in next year’s midterms is centered on working to flip control of the U.S. House and win consequential races for governor. But some in the party have zeroed in on less talked-about elections that could prove less costly and have a far-reaching impact at a time when the Democratic brand has grown wearisome with some voters. Democrats’ state legislative campaign arm is outlining a potential path “to flip more than 650 state legislative seats” across a range of states.

The Capitol Is Hard to Navigate. Does It Have to Be?

MSN – Nina Heller (Roll Call) | Published: 12/10/2025

To the unfamiliar, the Capitol and its surrounding office buildings are a maze of fluorescent lighting, identical hallways, and unmarked tunnels. Even experienced staff and lawmakers sometimes get lost. But that could start to change next year, if some House members get their way. Wayfinding tools could offer turn-by-turn directions, according to a new proposal from the House Administration Modernization and Innovation Subcommittee.

Supreme Court Will Hear Case on Trump’s Ban on Birthright Citizenship

MSN – Justin Jouvenal (Washington Post) | Published: 12/5/2025

The Supreme Court said it will hear a case examining the legality of President Trump’s ban on birthright citizenship, a high-stakes test of the controversial policy that could redefine who is considered an American. The justices have yet to set a date for arguments, but the court has taken the case in time to render its decision by June or July, when the current term ends. The administration asked the justices to take up the case on an expedited basis after lower courts found the policy unconstitutional and blocked it.

What We Know About Suspect Brian Cole’s Arrest in Jan. 6 Pipe Bomb Case

MSN – Connor Greene (Time) | Published: 12/5/2025

Nearly five years after pipe bombs were planted near the headquarters of the Democratic and Republican national conventions the night before the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, authorities have arrested a suspect in the case. Brian Cole Jr. of Virginia was charged with transporting an explosive device and attempted malicious destruction by means of explosive materials, marking the culmination of a years-long, and still ongoing, investigation, federal officials announced.

Supreme Court Seems Likely to Back Trump’s Power to Fire Independent Agency Board Members

MSN – Mark Sherman (Associated Press) | Published: 12/8/2025

The Supreme Court seemed likely to expand presidential control over independent federal agencies, signaling support for President Trump’s firing of board members. The court’s conservative majority suggested it would overturn a unanimous 90-year-old decision that has limited when presidents can fire agencies’ board members, in part to try to ensure decision making free of political influence, or leave it with only its shell intact.

New Dark Money Network Could Exploit Campaign Finance Loophole Banning Federal Contractors

MSN – Robert Schmad (Washington Examiner) | Published: 12/9/2025

Top employees at Anthropic, a major federal contractor, are reportedly involved in discussions to establish a dark money network that could be used to skirt campaign finance laws prohibiting the company from making political donations. Company executives would likely donate to a new political network helmed by former U.S. Rep. Brad Carson, which will be composed of two super PACs with the whole thing being funded through an affiliated 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization called Public First. Unlike super PACs, which are required to list the names of all their donors, the individuals and organizations funding 501(c)(4) groups are totally anonymous.

Supreme Court Weighs Further Loosening Campaign Finance Limits

MSN – Julian Mark (Washington Post) | Published: 12/9/2025

The Supreme Court wrestled over whether to lift limits on how much political parties can spend in cooperation with candidates, in a case that could change how money flows through the campaign finance system. Republican leaders are asking the court to remove limits on how much parties can spend on items like advertisements and campaign expenses. They say the existing limits hinder the partie’’ free-speech rights and put parties in a weaker position than outside groups like Super PACs.

Justice Dept. Says a Court Ruling Is Blocking Efforts to Reindict Comey

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 12/9/2025

Justice Department lawyers said a recent ruling barring their access to key evidence has effectively crippled their efforts to reindict former FBI Director James Comey after their original case against him was dismissed. The concession came in a court filing urging a federal judge to lift a temporary order she imposed restricting the government’s ability to review or use emails and other electronic communications seized as part of an investigation more than five years ago involving Comey confidante Daniel Richman.

Justice Dept. Kills Long-Time Tool Used to Prove Racial Discrimination

MSN – Laura Meckler (Washington Post) | Published: 12/9/2025

After years of complaints from consercatives, the Justice Department moved to end a decades-old provision of civil rights law that allows statistical disparities to be used as proof of racial discrimination. The new regulations reinterpret a key plank of the Civil Rights Act and were issued without an opportunity for public comment, which is unusual for major regulatory action. While they apply only to Justice Department programs, the Trump administration has made clear it plans similar regulatory rollbacks across the government.

From the States and Municipalities

California – California Lobbyist Pleads Guilty in Capitol Corruption Case

Courthouse News Service – Alan Riquelmy | Published: 12/4/2025

Lobbyist Greg Campbell pleaded guilty for his role in a scheme to help Dana Williamson, California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s former chief of staff, to draw $225,000 from a dormant campaign account belonging to then-U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra. Prosecutors also said Campbell created fake contracts for Williamson, who had obtained a loan from the Covid-19 paycheck protection program.

California – An SDPD Captain Helped Secure a Multimillion-Dollar Surveillance Deal. Now He Works for the Contractor.

MSN – Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union-Tribune) | Published: 12/9/2025

As a captain in charge of special projects and legislative affairs, Jeff Jordon was the San Diego Police Department’s point person for implementing the so-called smart streetlights, a network of cameras across the city that record cars as they pass by. Before he retired in April, Jordan helped select Flock Safety to run the city’s multimillion-dollar surveillance system. Within three months of leaving public service, Jordon was hired by Flock Safety to help it win even more police contracts.

California – Former Compton Councilman Pleads Guilty in Scheme Involving Secret Bribes and Corrupt Officials

MSN – Richard Winton (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 12/9/2025

Former Compton City Councilperson Isaac Galvan pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges for bribing a Baldwin Park City Council member, whom he paid $70,000 in exchange for city marijuana permits. Galvan, who ran a consulting service, was involved in a scheme in which he facilitated bribes to Councilperson Ricardo Pacheco from one of Galvan’s clients who wanted a marijuana permit in Baldwin Park.

California – SLO County Supervisor Adds 2 People to Staff: His wife and his hopeful successor

MSN – Chloe Shrager (San Luis Obispo Tribune) | Published: 12/9/2025

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor Bruce Gibson made two new high-level staffing changes that have been questioned. Gibson hired his wife, Cherie Gibson, who exited retirement to fill the role of his legislative assistant. Cherie Gibson will be joined on her husband’s staff in January by Jim Dantona, chief executive officer of the SLO Chamber of Commerce and a candidate for Bruce Gibson’s seat in the 2026 election.

California – Why Does Oakland Pay Millions to a Security Firm Linked to the FBI Corruption Case?

MSN – Kate Talerico (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 12/10/2025

A year after former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao was swept out of office amid a federal corruption probe, the city still has not replaced a security company with one of the city’s biggest contracts despite the firm’s ties to the investigation. Although ABC Security’s contract expired in 2023, the city council has repeatedly extended it. For the last five months, it has failed to agree on who should be awarded the new contract. The political deadlock suggests Oakland is struggling to shake familiar issues with drawn-out procurement processes, political influence. and lingering fallout from the Thao corruption scandal.

Florida – Miami Will Have Its First Democratic Mayor in Nearly 30 Years

MSN – Sabrina Rodriguez (Washington Post) | Published: 12/9/2025

Miami will have its first Democratic mayor in nearly 30 years, after the city elected former Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins in a contest that attracted attention from President Trump and national Democrats. Although the race was technically nonpartisan, the political divide was clear. Trump backed Emilio González, while the Democratic National Committee and potential Democratic presidential hopefuls supported Higgins. She will become the first woman mayor in the history of Miami.

Georgia – Georgia Ethics Panel Decides a GOP Candidate for Governor Can Loan $10M to Aid His Election

MSN – Jeff Amy (Associated Press) | Published: 12/4/2025

Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones is allowed to loan $10 million to his campaign for governor, the state’s ethics panel said. Attorney General Chris Carr, who is running against Jones, alleged it evaded campaign finance restrictions. But the Ethics Commission decided a loan to a leadership committee counts as a contribution under state law, adopting a legal opinion that there is “nothing in the current statute which prohibits such a loan of personal funds.”

Hawaii – He Spent Funds Meant for Native Hawaiians on Polo and Porsches. The Federal Government Failed to Stop Him

Honolulu Civil Beat – Nick Grube | Published: 12/10/2025

Christopher Dawson and his companies had won hundreds of millions of dollars in no-bid government contracts through the Small Business Administration based on the promise that his profits would primarily be used to help Native Hawaiians by, in part, promoting the culture, building homes, and supporting orphaned children. A former employee met with federal investigators and filed a whistleblower lawsuit accusing Dawson and executives of cheating the program by spending money on private jets, luxury homes in Hawaii and Florida, memberships to private social clubs, and a nearly $1 million annual salary.

Maryland – Nash’s Lobbying While on City Council Draws Scrutiny

Frederick News-Post – Nolan Wilkinson | Published: 12/10/2025

Frederick City Councilperson Katie Nash’s job as a lobbyist is being scrutinized as she prepares for a second term on the council, with concerns she might have connections to data centers that present a conflict-of-interest. Nash has worked as a lobbyist for energy companies, taking in a gross total of over $350,000 from just one of her clients, Vistra Corp., since 2019. Vistra is a retail energy provider and generator that operates nationwide, including as an electricity provider in Maryland.

Missouri – Missouri Democrats’ Effort to Block GOP Gerrymander Picks Up Steam

MSN – Aaron Pellish (Politico) | Published: 12/9/2025

Democrats in Missouri looking to block the state’s new congressional districts hit a key deadline to getting a step closer to freezing the map drawn by the Republican-controlled Legislature to create an additional GOP-leaning district in the 2026 midterms. People Not Politicians, the committee organizing to block the new map, said it submitted over 305,000 signatures, more than double the 107,000 valid signatures needed to trigger a referendum process that could put the map in front of voters next year.

Nevada – Sandoval, Aguero, Vellardita Won’t Face Sanctions for Failing to Register as Lobbyists

Yahoo News – Dana Gentry (Nevada Current) | Published: 12/5/2025

Critics say a Nevada law that requires lobbyists to register within two days of attempting to influence state lawmakers has no teeth, following the Legislative Counsel Bureau’s (LCB) decision to let violations slide against a former governor, a union boss, and a consultant who lobbied lawmakers on behalf of the current governor. The Nevada State Education Association is questioning whether LCB Acting Director Roger Wilkerson followed state law, which requires him to not only investigate, but also report suspected violations to the attorney general.

New Jersey – Trump Loyalist Alina Habba Resigns as New Jersey’s Top Federal Prosecutor

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 12/8/2025

Alina Habba, President Trump’s embattled pick as the top federal prosecutor in New Jersey, said she is resigning after a protracted legal battle over the legitimacy of her appointment. A federal appeals court panel ruled she has been serving unlawfully as acting U.S. attorney. She will transition to a new role as a senior Justice Department adviser and could return to lead the New Jersey prosecutors’ office if that court decision is overturned on appeal, Attorney General Pam Bondi said.

New Jersey – Bill Targeting NJ Corruption Watchdog Withdrawn After Public Outcry

MSN – Susan Livio and Ted Sherman | Published: 12/9/2025

A controversial bill seeking to eviscerate a corruption-fighting watchdog agency has been abruptly pulled by its sponsor, New Jersey Senate President Nick Scutari. The bill sought to undercut the watchdog role of the Office of the State Comptroller, transferring much of its responsibilities to the State Commission of Investigation. The effort to downgrade the comptroller came in the wake of a series of critical reports by the agency that have embarrassed or angered officials who have been targets of the comptroller.

New York – Cuomo Files New Lawsuit Seeking to Block Ethics Probe of His Book Deal

Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 12/10/2025

Andrew Cuomo’s years of legal battles with New York’s ethics agencies continued when the former governor filed another lawsuit against the state Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government, seeking an injunction to block the panel from investigating his $5.1 million book deal. The petition alleges his constitutional rights are being violated and the statutes used to empower the ethics commission are facially invalid.

New York – Grand Jury Refuses to Reindict Letitia James in Mortgage Fraud Case

MSN – Perry Stein and Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) | Published: 12/4/2025

A grand jury in Virginia rejected Justice Department efforts to charge New York Attorney General Letitia James with mortgage fraud, declining to indict her again after a judge dismissed the charges recently. It marks a major defeat for President Trump, who has made a priority of prosecuting James, a longtime foe. As New York attorney general, James brought a civil fraud case against Trump and his real estate empire, which resulted in a verdict that Trump and others in his company had committed fraud.

New York – NYC Council Committee Criticizes Inna Vernikov for Bringing Gun to Protest, but Doesn’t Censure Her

Yahoo News – Josephine Stratman and Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) | Published: 12/9/2025

The New York City Council’s Ethics Committee criticized Councilperson Inna Vernikov for bringing a gun to a peaceful protest in 2023 but voted not to formally take the matter further. Vernikov was arrested and criminally charged hours after bringing her firearm to the 2023 Brooklyn College rally five days after Hamas’ attack on Israel, which she was counterprotesting. The charges against her were later dropped after police found the weapon was inoperable.

Ohio – ‘Weak Slap on the Wrist’: Elections Commission fines HB 6 repeal group just $400 for violations

MSN – Anna Staver (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 12/5/2025

After years of not reporting the millions of dollars it raised to repeal House Bill 6 in Ohio, the committee behind the failed referendum will pay just $400 in fines. “Fine should’ve easily been more than $100,000 based on years of no accountability,” Secretary of State Frank LaRose posted on X. “Today, OEC issued a pathetic $400 fine.”

Oklahoma – Oklahoma’s Campaign Finance Site Has Been Offline for Months. Why?

MSN – Alex Gladden (Oklahoman) | Published: 12/6/2025

Oklahoma’s campaign finance website has been offline for nearly three months, raising questions about access to public information ahead of a critical election year. The Oklahoma Ethics Commission had planned to launch a new campaign finance site on October 1, but that fell behind schedule and no new date has been set. The outage has left some voters waiting for information that is typically available with a simple online search.

Pennsylvania – Former Dauphin County Official’s NRA Show Contract Didn’t Violate Ethics Law, State Finds

MSN – Juliette Rihl (PennLive) | Published: 12/9/2025

Jeff Haste, a longtime Dauphin County commissioner who came under fire last year for a series of apparent conflicts, began receiving $60,000 a year to act as the county’s “liaison” to the National Rifle Association’s outdoor show six months after resigning from office in 2021. State law prohibits former public officials from receiving contracts with their prior agency within a year of leaving, that role. But the Pennsylvania Ethics Commission ruled that does not apply to this case.

Texas – Supreme Court Hands Trump Victory in Fight over Texas Congressional Map

MSN – Justin Jouvenal, Julian Mark, and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 12/4/2025

The Supreme Court handed President Trump and Republicans a major political victory by clearing the way for a Texas congressional map that was drawn in the hope of flipping up to five House seats to the GOP. The order marks the latest development in a battle between Republican and Democratic states that are seeking partisan advantage ahead of the 2026 midterms. The states are taking the unusual step of redistricting congressional seats at the halfway point between the U.S. Census Bureau’s nationwide surveys of the population.

Wisconsin – Unlimited Donations, Weak Recusal Rules Led to Record Wisconsin Supreme Court Spending

MSN – Larry Sandler (Wisconsin Watch) | Published: 12/4/2025

The Wisconsin Legislature enacted a public campaign financing law for state Supreme Court elections in 2009. But it lasted for just one Supreme Court campaign before a Republican-controlled Legislature repealed it in 2011. Members of the court then adopted what might be one of the nation’s most lax recusal rules for campaign donations. The stories behind that shift in recusal rules, the short-lived venture in public financing of high court races, and the campaign finance laws that followed help explain how Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign spending exploded this spring to a national record of $114.2 million.

National/Federal

The Forgotten Court Case That Let Billionaires Spend Big on Elections

MSN – Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) | Published: 12/1/2025

The focus on Citizens United in the last 15 years has obscured a less-recognized campaign finance case, one that never made it to the Supreme Court. SpeechNow.org v. FEC paved the way for the super PACs frequently used by billionaires for election-year spending sprees. While Citizens United abolished the ban on independent expenditures by corporations and unions, SpeechNow went one step further. It erased limits on contributions to political committees that make independent expenditures and do not give money directly to candidates or parties. These entities took on the catchier name of super PACs.

Fugees Rapper Pras Michel Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison Over Illegal Donations to Obama Campaign

MSN – Michael Kunzelman (Associated Press) | Published: 11/20/2025

Grammy-winning rapper Prakazrel “Pras” Michel of the Fugees was sentenced to 14 years in prison for illegally funneling millions of dollars in foreign contributions to former President Barack Obama’s 2012 reelection campaign. In April 2023, a federal jury convicted Michel of 10 counts, including conspiracy and acting as an unregistered agent of a foreign government. The trial included testimony from actor Leonardo DiCaprio and former Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

Former President of Honduras, Convicted of Trafficking, Freed after Trump Pardon

MSN – Tobi Raji, Shayna Jacobs, and Samantha Schmidt (Washington Post) | Published: 12/2/2025

Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, convicted by a U.S. court last year on charges he ran the Central American nation as a “narco-state” that helped send South American cocaine to the United States, has been released from federal prison after receiving a pardon from President Trump. Hernández was serving 45 years in prison on importation and weapons charges. U.S. prosecutors said he built his political career on millions of dollars in bribes from traffickers in Honduras and Mexico, and as president helped to move at least 400 tons of cocaine to the U.S. while protecting traffickers from extradition and prosecution.

Trump Rails Against Somali Migrants: ‘I don’t want them in our country’

MSN – Amy Wang and Caroline O’Donovan (Washington Post) | Published: 11/2/2025

President Trump ended a Cabinet meeting with a rant against Somali migrants, accusing them of having “ripped off” Minnesota and using dehumanizing language to attack a group he has increasingly targeted in recent weeks. The president’s comments came amid reports his administration is ramping up immigration enforcement efforts targeting undocumented Somali immigrants in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Trump recently threatened to end temporary protected status for Somali immigrants in Minnesota and, without evidence, accused “Somali gangs” of terrorizing people there.

Northwestern to Pay $75 Million to End Trump Administration Probes

MSN – Angie Orellana Hernandez (Washington Post) | Published: 11/29/2025

Northwestern University has become the sixth school to reach a deal with the Trump administration in an agreement that ends federal investigations into allegations of unlawful discrimination, race-based admissions, and fostering a hostile educational environment for Jewish students. The deal requires Northwestern to pay $75 million to the U.S. government over several years; in turn, the administration will restore nearly $800 million in federal research funding that had been frozen since April.

Trump Says He Will Pardon Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar

MSN – Mariana Alfaro, Kadia Goba, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 12/3/2025

President Trump said he will pardon U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas, unexpectedly ending the prosecution of a member of the opposing party. Cuellar, one of the most conservative Democrats in the House, was charged last year with bribery, money laundering, and conspiracy. Trump also pardoned Cuellar’s wife, who also had been charged. The indictment detailed a bold corruption scheme in which Cuellar allegedly promised to wield his power as a member of Congress to advocate for his benefactors.

The New York Times Sues the Pentagon Over Press Restrictions

MSN – Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 12/4/2025

The New York Times sued the Defense Department over its press policy prohibiting journalists from soliciting any information not explicitly authorized for release by the government. The Times alleged the press rules violated the First Amendment’s guarantee of a free press and the newspaper’s due process rights under the Fifth Amendment.

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – Ontario Will Require Skills Grant Applicants to Reveal If They Hired Lobbyists

Toronto Star – Moira Welsh | Published: 12/2/2025

Bowing to pressure, the Ontario government will soon require that groups hiring lobbyists for help in getting millions of dollars from the Skills Development Fund will now have to report those connections in their application. The change is expected by the end of the year. Labor Minister David Piccini has been under fire since auditor general Shelley Spence an audit found Piccini and his predecessor handed out $126 million in training funding to 64 organizations that used lobbyists to push applications ranked “low and medium” in a process that was “not fair, transparent or accountable.”

California – DWP Employee Made Assistants Run Personal Errands, Buy Her Snoop Dogg Tickets, Ethics Enforcer Says

MSN – Noah Goldberg (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 11/26/2025

A high-ranking employee at the Department of Water and Power (DWP) made staffers run personal errands for her, including purchasing tickets to a Snoop Dogg concert, according to the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission’s director of enforcement. It is alleged that Renette Anderson, an executive assistant to the DWP’s general manager, asked subordinates to book a plane ticket for her personal travel, make physical therapy appointments for her, purchase party supplies for a non-work party at her home, and make a service appointment at a Mercedes Benz dealership for her personal vehicle.

California – International Travel. Fancy Meals. Missing Receipts. Who Paid the Tab for This Top Official?

MSN – Paige St. John (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 12/4/2025

Ricardo Lara’s transition from influence-brokering California legislator to insurance regulator was rocky. Almost immediately upon assuming office in 2019, the state insurance commissioner was discovered soliciting money from those he regulated, even allowing his campaign fundraiser to set his office calendar. Lara is now under two new investigations for potential campaign finance and ethics violations and accused by consumer advocates of cozying up to those he regulates.

California – Unindicted Co-Conspirator Stays Silent After FBI Arrests but Still on SCIF Board

MSN – Lia Russell (Sacramento Bee) | Published: 12/3/2025

Weeks after four top Sacramento political figures were ensnared in an FBI corruption probe, one of them, lobbyist Alexis Podesta, has remained quiet and emerged relatively unscathed. Despite speculation that Gov. Gavin Newsom would remove her, Podesta attended a regularly scheduled meeting for the State Compensation Insurance Fund, the state agency on whose board of directors she sits. Podesta’s attorney has confirmed his client is an unindicted co-conspirator cited in the indictment from federal prosecutors.

District of Columbia – Judge Limits Warrantless Immigration Arrests in DC

MSN – Hassan Ali Kanu and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 12/2/2025

A federal judge restricted the Trump administration’s ability to arrest suspected undocumented immigrants in the District of Columbia without a warrant, saying the arrests are only permissible if authorities have reason to believe the person is likely to escape. Government attorneys had disputed whether agents are using a lower standard than probable cause, but U.S. District Court Judge Beryl Howell ruled the plaintiffs’ accounts of their arrests and multiple public statements by high-ranking officials proved otherwise.

Florida – Florida Becomes the GOP’s Biggest Redistricting Test – and a Messy One

MSN – Gary Fineout (Politico) | Published: 12/2/2025

Florida is barreling into a mid-decade redistricting fight with Republicans in and out of the state pushing for action, but party leaders are split on how far to go and when to start. Those pushing the effort believe the state could yield three to five additional GOP House seats ahead of the 2026 midterms, a haul big enough to influence control of Congress. But the drive comes amid an ongoing power struggle inside the state Capitol and legal constraints that make Florida one of the hardest places in the country to redraw lines for partisan gain.

Georgia – Georgia Case Against Trump Dropped, Ending Efforts to Punish President over 2020 Election Aftermath

MSN – Kate Brumback (Associated Press) | Published: 11/26/2025

A judge dismissed the Georgia election interference case against President Trump and others after the prosecutor who took over the case said he would not pursue the charges, ending the last effort to punish the president in the courts for his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss. Pete Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, took over the case from Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who was removed over an “appearance of impropriety” created by a romantic relationship with the special prosecutor she chose to lead the case.

Illinois – Former Inspector General Joe Ferguson Fined $5K for Revealing Botched Little Village Smokestack Implosion Could Have Been Prevented

WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 11/28/2025

The Chicago Board of Ethics fined former Inspector General Joe Ferguson $5,000 for violating the city’s ethics ordinance by divulging a confidential report that found city officials could have prevented a plume of dust from enveloping Little Village in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when crews demolished the former Crawford Power Plant. Ferguson said that while he was disappointed by the fine, he had no regrets about his decision to send the report to two unidentified media organizations.

Indiana – Indiana Republicans’ Proposed Map Breaks Indianapolis into 4 Districts

MSN – Marissa Meador (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 12/1/2025

Indiana House Republicans released a proposed map with new congressional district lines that could lead to the elimination of the two Democrats from the state’s congressional delegation if passed. The official map marks a major step forward for Indiana’s redistricting proponents who had failed for weeks to sway reluctant senators on the plan to draw new districts. But on November 25, just minutes after the House announced it would meet on the topic of redistricting, the Senate announced it would reconvene December 8 to consider a proposed map from the House.

Kentucky – Groups Spent $9M Lobbying Kentucky Executive Branch Officials in Past Fiscal Year

Louisville Public Media – Joe Sonka | Published: 11/28/2025

Government contractors, health-related groups, and the medical marijuana industry were among hundreds of organizations that spent $9.1 million lobbying Kentucky’s executive branch agencies on policy in the fiscal year ending this summer. Kentucky has long required groups to report their spending on legislative lobbyists but first required reports on executive branch lobbying spending in 2020. This push for increased transparency followed the conviction of a former cabinet secretary and lobbyist for orchestrating a kickback scheme to steer large government contracts to clients.

Kentucky – KY Candidate Had a Fundraiser on His Own Church Campus. He Says There’s No Issue

MSN – Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 11/24/2025

A fundraiser for Ryan Dotson, a candidate in Kentucky’s Sixth Congressional District race, was held on the grounds of the church Dotson leads. It is not against any campaign finance law to host a fundraiser at a church. But the event at Lighthouse World Outreach Center, where Dotson is lead pastor, does raise questions about how the event was carried out, according to a federal campaign finance expert.

Massachusetts – Super PAC Illegally Coordinated with Diehl Campaign in 2022 Election, Regulators Say

WBUR – Chris Van Buskirk | Published: 11/20/2025

State campaign finance regulators found former Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate Geoff Diehl and a super PAC that backed his campaign illegally coordinated during the 2022 election. Office of Campaign and Political Finance Director William Campbell said Diehl’s campaign and the super PAC, called Mass Freedom, hired the same media consultant. That created a presumption of coordination between the campaign and super PAC in violation of state law, according to Campbell.

Michigan – Conservative Activists Get Probation in Voter intimidation Case

MSN – Arpan Lobo (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 12/1/2025

Two conservative activists who previously pleaded no contest in connection to a robocall scheme to spread inaccurate information to mostly Black voters around Detroit, leading up to the 2020 election, will avoid jail time. Jacob Wohl and John Burkman were each sentenced to one year probation. Prosecutors said the men engaged in an effort that circulated robocalls to nearly 12,000 people in 2020. The robocalls made false claims about voting by mail, which was promoted that year as a way to avoid contracting COVID-19 during the pandemic.

Michigan – Issues Resolved in Hall Lions Ticket Complaint, Attorney Withdraws Request for Investigation

Yahoo News – Ben Solis (Michigan Advance) | Published: 12/3/2025

Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall’s troubles with a potential scandal over Detroit Lions tickets he received from a lobbying firm have been resolved, as the attorney who made a formal complaint rescinded his request for the state to investigate the matter. Bob LaBrant, the former general counsel for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, filed a complaint in reaction to news that Hal received tickets to a recent Lions home game from Bill Wort of Public Affairs Associates.

Mississippi – Supreme Court May Revive First Amendment Suit from Sidewalk Preacher Who Shouted at Concertgoers

MSN – John Fritze (CNN) | Published: 12/3/2025

Street preacher Gabriel Olivier wants to challenge an ordinance in federal court that was enacted by a Mississippi city that bars people from protesting outside an amphitheater. But before he can advance his lawsuit, he must deal with a 1994 Supreme Court precedent that is intended to bar people convicted of a crime from using civil lawsuits to effectively reverse their convictions. Olivier claimed the ordinance violates his First Amendment rights to share his faith publicly.

Missouri – Missouri Bill Targets ‘Misleading’ Automatic Donations Connected to Bill Eigel

Yahoo News – Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) | Published: 12/2/2025

No Missouri politician should be able to extract recurring campaign donations the way that Bill Eigel is from a Nebraska veteran tapped 35 times this year for more than $1,000, a Republican lawmaker said. State Rep. Jim Murphy used the first day of pre-filing for the upcoming legislative session to introduce a bill to ban solicitations that include recurring donations. The bill also requires each solicitation to state “in a clear and conspicuous manner” the candidate or PAC that will use the money.

New Jersey – Appeals Court Rules Trump Prosecutor Appointment Violates Law

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 12/1/2025

A federal appeals court ruled President Trump unlawfully maneuvered to keep his former personal attorney, Alina Habba, as the top prosecutor in New Jersey, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for other controversial appointments that have been challenged in court. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit ruled against the extraordinary steps the Justice Department deployed to bypass Senate confirmation and keep Habba in the top position.

New Jersey – NJ AG, Others Attack Bill That Would Combine State Watchdog Agencies

MSN – Mike Davis and Michael Diamond (Asbury Park Press) | Published: 11/27/2025

New Jersey, a state often synonymous with the corrupt antics of politicians at all levels, has too many government watchdogs keeping too many eyes trained on taxpayer dollars, according to one of its most powerful elected officials. It is a problem Senate President Nick Scutari hopes to fix. If signed into law, a new bill proposed by Scutari would essentially fold much of the Office of the State Comptroller’s responsibilities into the State Commission of Investigation, turning two watchdog agencies into one-and-a-half.

New Jersey – Progressive Topples Former New Jersey Gov. Jim McGreevey in Jersey City Mayoral Runoff

MSN – Ry Rivard (Politico) | Published: 12/2/2025

James Solomon, a city council member elected with the support of anti-machine progressives, will be the next mayor of New Jersey’s second largest city. Solomon besting disgraced former Gov. Jim McGreevey in the runoff to lead Jersey City. McGreevey joins former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo as a politician who grasped for a second chance in public life that voters did not want to give them.

New York – NY Gov. Hochul Accepted – and Is Now Refunding – Thousands in Donations from Appointees

Gothamist – Jimmy Vielkind | Published: 11/29/2025

After a Democratic primary rival questioned some of New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s fundraising methods, the governor’s campaign said it will return thousands of dollars she accepted from people she has appointed to state boards and councils. Public records show Hochul raised at least $72,500 from people who donated after she gave them positions steering state policy. Some of the people in question also contributed before their appointments, and some of the appointees were first put into their positions by Hochul’s predecessor, Andrew Cuomo.    

New York – City Investigators Haven’t Given Up on Probing Eric Adams’ Conduct, Judge’s Order Reveals

MSN – Greg Smith (The City) | Published: 12/3/2025

A court order revealed the Department of Investigation (DOI) has an ongoing investigation of whether New York City Mayor Eric Adams violated ethics laws, a probe that is proceeding even after the mayor got his corruption case tossed after the Trump Justice Department abandoned it. U.S. District Court Judge Dale Ho revealed the existence of DOI’s investigation in issuing an order that opens the door for DOI to use material from the defunct federal indictment in its continuing conflict-of-interest probe of the mayor.

New York – Co. That Won Big-Bucks ‘Panic Button’ Deal for NYC Schools Hired Firm of Adams Ally Frank Carone

Yahoo News – Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) | Published: 12/1/2025

Before getting a multimillion-dollar contract from Mayor Eric Adams’ administration to install “panic buttons” in New York City public schools, a company hired the lobbying and consulting firm operated by Frank Carone, the mayor’s ex-chief of staff. SOS Technologies hired Oaktree Solutions to do “strategic consulting” in connection with its effort to secure the contract. There is no record Oaktree employees engaged in direct lobbying of Adams administration officials prior to the award. In any event, Carone resigned as chief of staff in late 2022, so he is no longer covered by the one-year lobbying ban on former city officials.

Pennsylvania – The State Budget Was 135 Days Late, but Pa. Lawmakers Got Their Pay Raise on Schedule

MSN – Tirzah Christopher (PennLive) | Published: 12/2/2025

Pennsylvania lawmakers received a pay increase on December 1, raising their base salary to $113,575. Only New York and California’s legislators make more. The Pennsylvania Legislature’s increases also are automatic, which means they go into effect without a vote. The raises come after a more than four-month budget impasse, which forced some counties, school districts, and non-profits across the state to take drastic measures like reducing staff or taking out high-interest loans to keep operating.

Rhode Island – How to Win Elections and Influence the State House? The League of RI Businesses Has a Plan.

Rhode Island Current – Nancy Lavin | Published: 11/25/2025

When a group of gun rights advocates piled into Rhode Island House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s office to rail against a proposed assault-style weapons ban last spring, Shekarchi gave them some advice om how to influence lawmakers. David Levesque took the message to heart. He created a string of 40 PACs allowing The League of Rhode Island Businesses to circumvent the $2,000-per-candidate annual campaign donation limit set by state law. While not illegal, the move exposes The League and its financial beneficiaries to greater risk of reporting mistakes and violations.

Tennessee – Republican Wins Special Election in Trump Country, as Democrat Gains Ground

MSN – Dan Merica (Washington Post) | Published: 12/2/2025

Republicans retained a ruby-red congressional district, winning a special election in Tennessee that became more competitive than initially expected and prompted an aggressive closing scramble by GOP leaders on behalf of their nominee. The victory by Matt Van Epps, who aligned himself with President Trump, capped a contest that served as the latest test of voters’ attitudes about Trump’s agenda and Democrats’ response less than a year before the midterm elections. Van Epps defeated Aftyn Behn, a left-leaning state representative who frequently mentioned economic concerns on the campaign trail.

Ethics

California: “International Travel. Fancy Meals. Missing Receipts. Who Paid the Tab for This Top Official?” by Paige St. John (Los Angeles Times) for MSN

National: “The New York Times Sues the Pentagon Over Press Restrictions” by Scott Nover (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Trump Says He Will Pardon Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar” by Mariana Alfaro, Kadia Goba, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) for MSN

Mississippi: “Supreme Court May Revive First Amendment Suit from Sidewalk Preacher Who Shouted at Concertgoers” by John Fritze (CNN) for MSN

Legislative Issues

Pennsylvania: “The State Budget Was 135 Days Late, but Pa. Lawmakers Got Their Pay Raise on Schedule” by Tirzah Christopher (PennLive) for MSN

Lobbying

Michigan: “Issues Resolved in Hall Lions Ticket Complaint, Attorney Withdraws Request for Investigation” by Ben Solis (Michigan Advance) for Yahoo News

New York: “Co. That Won Big-Bucks ‘Panic Button’ Deal for NYC Schools Hired Firm of Adams Ally Frank Carone” by Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) for Yahoo News

Redistricting

Florida: “Florida Becomes the GOP’s Biggest Redistricting Test – and a Messy One” by Gary Fineout (Politico) for MSN