The legislature adjourned sine die on March 7.

Lawmakers passed a campaign finance reform bill which creates state campaign contribution limits and authorizes local governments to establish lower limits for local elections.

House Bill 4024 also requires the disclosure of certain information on political advertising and requires specific persons to report the original sources of funds used to pay candidate campaign independent expenditures.

The contribution limits will become operative on January 1, 2027 and the enhanced campaign contribution and independent expenditure reporting requirements will become operative on January 1, 2028.

If signed by the governor, the bill is effective June 6.

Campaign Finance

Connecticut: “CT Election Regulators Want More Oversight of Local Town and City Political Campaign Finances” by Ken Dixon for CT Insider

Elections

National: “The Fed Hates Politics. Now It’s Trying to Cut Rates in an Election Year.” by Rachel Siegel (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Nikki Haley Suspends Her Campaign and Leaves Donald Trump as the Last Major Republican Candidate” by Steve Peoples and Meg Kinnard for Associated Press News

Ethics

California: “Ethics Overhaul Looks to Be Heading to Easy Victory” by Troy Wolverton for San Francisco Examiner

Florida: “Appeals Court Blocks Fla. ‘Stop Woke Act,’ Says It’s a ‘First Amendment Sin'” by Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) for MSN

New York: “Former Trump CFO Allen Weisselberg Pleads Guilty to Perjury in Deal That Doesn’t Require Cooperation” by Jake Offenhartz and Michael Sisak (Associated Press) for MSN

National: “Sen. Menendez Faces New Charges in Bribery Case” by Praveena Somasundaram and Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) for MSN

Legislative Issues

Tennessee: “Another Tennessee Legal Battle Brews Over Bill Preventing Challenge of House Rules in State Court” by Sam Stockard for Tennessee Lookout

National/Federal

Lawmakers Across the U.S. Seek to Curb Utility Spending on Politics, Ads and More Extras

Arkansas Advocate – Robert Zullo | Published: 2/27/2024

After a string of scandals and amid rising bills, lawmakers in statehouses across the country have been pushing legislation to curb utilities spending ratepayer money on lobbying, expert testimony in rate cases, goodwill advertising, charitable giving, trade association memberships, and other costs. At least a dozen states have considered bills to limit how gas, water, and electric utilities can spend customers’ money.

N.R.A. Stung by Corruption Verdict Tied to Millions of Misspent Dollars

DNyuz – Jesse McKinley, Liset Cruz, and Kate Christobek (New York Times) | Published: 2/23/2024

In a sweeping rebuke of the National Rifle Association (NRA), a jury ruled its leaders had engaged in a yearslong pattern of financial misconduct and corruption. The jury found the group’s former leader, Wayne LaPierre, had used NRA funds pay for personal expenses, including vacations, luxury flights for his relatives, and yacht rides, and that two other top executives had failed in their duties to the nonprofit organization.

Instagram’s Uneasy Rise as a News Site

DNyuz – Sapna Maheshwari and Mike Isaac (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2024

A crop of personalities figured out how to package information and deliver it on Instagram, increasingly turning the social platform into a force in news. Many millennials and Gen X-ers, in an echo of how older generations used Facebook, have grown more comfortable reading news on Instagram and reposting posts and videos for friends on Instagram Stories, which disappear after 24 hours. Traditional news organizations have large Instagram feeds where they share reporting, but these news accounts hold a different appeal and have become more visible in recent years.

RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel Will Leave Post on March 8 as Trump Moves to Install New Loyalists

MSN – Steve Peoples (Associated Press) | Published: 2/26/2024

Republican National Committee Chairperson Ronna McDaniel will leave her post on March 8, having been forced out of the GOP’s national leadership as Donald Trump moves toward another presidential nomination and asserts control over the party. McDaniel was a strong advocate for the former president and helped reshape the party in his image. But the MAGA movement increasingly blamed McDaniel for Trump’s 2020 loss and the party’s failures to meet expectations in races the last two years.

As Trump Continues to Trounce Haley, She Presses on as MAGA Antagonist

MSN – Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) | Published: 2/25/2024

Nikki Haley suffered another blow in the lopsided race for the Republican presidential nomination, losing to Donald Trump by about 20 points in her home state of South Carolina. Yet she promised to press on. As the last Republican candidate standing against Trump, she has drawn polarized reactions as she has become a vehicle for the deep discontent that some in the party feel about a Trump rematch with President Biden.

Court Battle Reveals Effort to Undermine No Labels Presidential Bid

MSN – Michael Scherer (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

Political operatives opposed to No Labels’ potential 2024 presidential ticket took over the NoLabels.com domain last year and purchased Google search ads aimed at spreading the misleading claim that the group supported Donald Trump and other right-wing causes, according to testimony. The court case comes amid ongoing debate over the goals of the No Labels effort, which aims to potentially place a yet-to-be-identified bipartisan presidential ticket on as many ballots as possible.

Supreme Court to Weigh Trump’s Immunity Claim in D.C. 2020 Election Trial

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2024

Donald Trump’s trial for seeking to subvert the 2020 election is likely to remain on hold for several more months while the U.S. Supreme Court takes up his argument that he is immune from prosecution for actions he took while president. The justices set arguments for the week of April 22 to consider a lower court ruling that rejected Trump’s sweeping assertion of immunity from prosecution. The move puts the Supreme Court in the politically fraught position of influencing the timing of an election obstruction trial for the leading Republican presidential candidate.

Justices Skeptical of Tex., Fla. Laws That Bar Platforms from Deleting Content

MSN – Ann Marimow and Cat Zakrzewski (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

A majority of the U.S. Supreme Court seemed broadly skeptical that state governments have the power to set rules for how social media platforms curate content, with both liberal and conservative justices inclined to stop Texas and Florida from immediately implementing laws that ban the removal of certain controversial posts or political content. A majority of the court seemed to think the First Amendment prevents state governments from requiring platforms such as Facebook and YouTube to host certain content.

McConnell Will Step Down as the Senate Republican Leader in November After a Record Run in the Job

Yahoo News – Michael Tackett (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2024

Mitch McConnell, the longest serving Senate leader in history who maintained his power in the face of dramatic turmoil in the Republican Party or almost two decades, will step down from that position in November. McConnell said he plans to serve out his Senate term, which ends in January 2027. His decision punctuates an ideological transition underway in the Republican Party, from Ronald Reagan’s brand of traditional conservatism and strong international alliances, to the fiery, often isolationist populism of Donald Trump.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Ethics Commission Pushes Back on Proposed Law Changes

Alabama Daily News – Mary Sell | Published: 2/29/2024

Alabama Rep. Matt Simpson said he is not giving up on efforts to add clarity to the state’s ethics law. During a public hearing, those speaking against Simpson’s reform bill included Alabama Ethics Commission Executive Director Tom Albritton, and commission member and former state Supreme Court Justice Lyn Stuart. “There are specific provisions which can be addressed and should be addressed, but an entire rewrite of the act would be overkill and would be bad for the people of Alabama.,” said Albritton.

California – California Lawmakers Can’t Take Lobbyist Donations – Unless They’re Running for Congress

MSN – Julia Wick, Anabel Sosa, and Gabrielle LaMarr LeMee (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/24/2024

State law forbids California lobbyists from donating to the campaigns of state lawmakers. But there are no such restrictions on lobbyists donating to campaigns for federal office, even when the candidate is a state lawmaker. So as state Sen. Susan Rubio runs for Congress this year, she can take donations for her federal campaign from lobbyists who may seek to influence her votes in Sacramento. Lobbyists are not required to publicly report which lawmakers they have attempted to influence on various bills, making it difficult to draw direct lines between their lobbying efforts and their donations.

California – Orange County’s Wild West of Campaign Finance: The Board of Education

Voice of OC – Noah Biesiada | Published: 2/28/2024

Almost every campaign for city, county and state government in Orange County has a limit on how much donors can give to their favorite candidates. But one big outlier is the county Board of Education, which has no limitations on political contributions. A review of the most recent election cycle found over $700,000 in contributions to the current board that would violate state campaign finance limits for cities and counties without their own campaign financing caps. But they are legal for school districts and boards of education.

Florida – The End of Public Campaign Finance? Senate Approves Referendum to Repeal Standing Law

Florida Politics – A.G. Gancarski | Published: 2/28/2024

Florida voters may soon decide whether to end a program providing matching state funds for candidates that agree to spending limits. The Senate approved a measure approving a ballot referendum asking voters to weigh in on repealing the Florida Election Campaign Financing Act. Accessing that money is one way that candidates who are not wealthy can get a leg up to make their cases to the voters.

Florida – DeSantis Staffers Blocked Public Records, Ex-Law Enforcement Officials Say

MSN – Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2024

Top aides to Gov. Ron DeSantis blocked the release of records detailing his taxpayer-funded travel and retaliated against those who favored making them public, according to sworn statements from two former Florida Department of Law Enforcement officials. The statements were filed as part of a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a new state law limiting release of the governor’s travel records. The officials describe DeSantis’s staff demanding a close review of many requests from media organizations, often hampering the release of public information.

Georgia – ‘Star Witness’ Testifies His Claims About Fani Willis Were Only ‘Speculation’

MSN – Holly Bailey and Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2024

A lawyer billed as the “star witness” in the case to disqualify Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis testified it was mere “speculation” when he told a defense attorney that Willis began a romantic relationship in 2019 with the outside lawyer that she appointed to lead the case against Donald Trump, years earlier than Willis has publicly acknowledged. Defense attorneys had claimed his testimony would “refute” claims by Willis and Wade that their romantic relationship began months after Wade was appointed to manage the Trump case.

Hawaii – City Ethics Commission Reviews Gift Prohibitions for Employees

Yahoo News – Ian Bauer (Honolulu Star-Advertiser) | Published: 2/22/2024

A proposal to prohibit city and county of Honolulu employees from accepting gifts related to their official duties is under scrutiny. But Bill 26 is on a tight two-year deadline, with a looming expiration date in April, to either pass or die while it awaits further council review. As drafted, it would prohibit gifts to the mayor, prosecuting attorney, council members, city administration officers, or any person employed by the city, to curb potential conflicts-of-interest or even prevent public corruption.

Illinois – Unlimited Funds Can Flow in State’s Attorney, Board of Review, Circuit Court Clerk Races

MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/27/2024

Retired Judge Eileen O’Neill Burke has opened the door for unlimited cash to flow into the Cook County state’s attorney primary, making that race the latest county contest without contribution limits. Candidates can also rake in as much cash as they want in the Circuit Court clerk and the county’s Board of Review races. The shattered contribution limits are thanks to the personal wealth of the candidates or in one case, their main benefactor.

Kentucky – ‘It’s the Metro Council That’s on Trial’: Opening arguments made on day one of Piagentini trial

MSN – Eleanor McCrary (Louisville Courier Journal) | Published: 2/27/2024

Louisville Metro Council Court began to weigh the removal of member Anthony Piagentini. He is accused of using his position to land a $40 million grant for the Louisville Healthcare CEO Council, a nonprofit, to receive federal American Rescue Plan money. He removed himself as a sponsor of the ordinance and did not vote on it, citing a conflict-of-interest. The day after the vote, he accepted a one-year consulting position with the organization.

Kentucky – $25 Million Was Spent in 2023 to Influence KY Legislators. Who Wrote the Biggest Lobbying Checks?

Yahoo News – Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 2/23/2024

How do you try to influence Kentucky’s Legislature and win their favor? Spending nearly $25 million to lobby lawmakers is one way, state records reveal. Despite the odd-numbered short session year, the spending topped the record set in 2022, which was about $22.4 million. Several lobbyists were paid well as a result.

Massachusetts – Suffolk DA Kevin Hayden Is Facing Two Ethics Probes from Separate State Entities

MSN – Danny McDonald (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/24/2024

Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden is facing two ethics investigations related to statements he made about his opponent during the 2022 race. The contest to serve a full term as district attorney was Boston city politics at its most bare-knuckled. One of the ethics probes is by the state’s Office of Bar Counsel, which investigates allegations of lawyer misconduct. Hayden is also being investigated by the state ethics commission for similar allegations.

Michigan – Indiana Man Andrew Nickels Indicted in Threats About 2020 Election Results Pleads Guilty

Detroit News – Robert Snell | Published: 2/27/2024

An Indiana man accused of threatening to kill former Rochester Hills Clerk Tina Barton for defending the integrity of the 2020 presidential election pleaded guilty, a development coinciding with Michigan’s 2024 presidential primary election. Andrew Nickels pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum five-year prison sentence.

Michigan – Biden Wins Michigan Primary but Faces Notable Showing by ‘Uncommitted’

MSN – Yasmeen Abutaleb and Marianne LeVine (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2024

President Biden won Michigan’s Democratic primary but faced a challenge from voted selecting “uncommitted” to protest his handling of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, a potential sign of vulnerability for Biden. Donald Trump continued his sweep of early primary contests, but former Nikki Haley appeared poised to garner a significant share of the vote, an indicator of Trump’s own potential vulnerabilities in November’s general election.

Missouri – ‘Dark Cloud’: Ethics investigation of Dean Plocher continues to hang over Missouri House

Missouri Independent – Jason Hancock | Published: 2/27/2024

Dean Plocher’s last year as Missouri House speaker was not supposed to go this way. He was riding high at the end of the 2023 legislative session, able to point to big wins while pinning any disappointments on continued dysfunction in the state Senate. Ploucher had amassed an impressive campaign fund he hoped would help carry him to the lieutenant governor’s office in the upcoming elections. But in the midst of the 2024 session, things could not get much worse.

Nevada – Judge Blocks 2024 Ballot Initiatives Seeking Independent Redistricting

MSN – Jessica Hill (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 2/20/2024

A judge ruled that two initiative petitions aiming to change how Nevada redraws state and federal legislative districts were legally deficient and cannot be placed on the 2024 November ballot. The judge sided with Clark County resident Eric Jeng, who argued the petitions violated the state constitution because they would require government funding.

New Hampshire – Democratic Operative Admits to Commissioning Biden AI Robocall in New Hampshire

MSN – Pranshu Verma and Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

Steve Kramer, a longtime Democratic consultant working for presidential candidate Dean Phillips, admitted he commissioned the artificial intelligence-generated robocall of Joe Biden that was sent to New Hampshire voters in January and triggered a state criminal investigation. After the robocall, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a ruling that clarified generating a voice with AI for robocalls is illegal and issued a cease-and-desist letter to Kramer.

New Jersey – N.J. AG Corruption Investigation Focuses on George Norcross’ Influence Over Camden Waterfront Developments, Sources Say

MSN – Andrew Seidman and Jeremy Roebuck (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/29/2024

South Jersey Democratic power broker George Norcross III has found himself under scrutiny from state and federal authorities repeatedly over the last two decades. They have tapped his phones, had an informant record his conversations, and reviewed scores of documents. But they have never filed criminal charges. Now, prosecutors appear to be trying again, this time with a wide-ranging probe by the state attorney general’s office and the FBI.

New York – Democrats Propose Slight Changes to N.Y. Congressional Districts

Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 2/27/2024

Democratic state lawmakers unveiled a slightly reconfigured map for New York’s 26 congressional districts they are proposing should be used for the remainder of the decade. The map was issued a day after they voted to reject a bipartisan commission’s map. Republican lawmakers, who had warned they would file new litigation if Democrats created new boundaries that would benefit their candidates, remained relatively quiet as the proposed maps would have only marginal impacts on either party.

New York – NYC’s Public Housing Agency Seeking ‘Restitution’ in Corruption Scheme

Gothamist – Dave Brand and Brittany Kriegstein | Published: 2/27/2024

New York City’s public housing agency will belatedly implement more than a dozen recommendations meant to stop low-level corruption within the next year while seeking “restitution” from employees implicated in a long-running kickback scheme, administrators said. Top officials from the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) made the commitments during a city council hearing, three weeks after 70 current and former NYCHA employees were charged with taking cash bribes from vendors in exchange for small repair contracts.

New York – Judge Won’t Delay Trump Financial Penalty but Lets Sons Remain atop Company for Now

MSN – Shayna Jacobs and Mark Berman (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2024

A judge rejected a request from Donald Trump to delay enforcement of a judgment totaling at least $4500 million while he appeals that order but allowed the former president’s adult sons to remain in leadership positions at the Trump Organization for the time being. New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron had determined Trump and others had given false data to financial institutions and insurance companies so they could borrow money at lower rates and save on costs.

New York – N.Y. Prosecutor Seeks Trump Gag Order, Jury Protections Ahead of 1st Criminal Trial

MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024

Prosecutors preparing for Donald Trump’s first criminal trial in March are seeking a partial gag order to prevent the former president and those speaking on his behalf from disparaging witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case, and have asked a judge to protect jurors by shielding their names and addresses from public view. The motions show the high stakes and tensions surrounding the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president, one of four prosecutions Trump faces as he closes in on the 2024 Republican nomination for president.

Ohio – A Former Ohio House Speaker Is in Prison. A Top Regulator Is Indicted. But State Lawmakers Still Haven’t Touched Ethics Reform

MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/25/2024

There is little sign that Ohio lawmakers will pass legislation addressing the largest corruption case in the state’s history, even following the recent indictments of former top state utilities regulator Sam Randazzo and two former FirstEnergy executives, and a 20-year prison sentence for former House Speaker Larry Householder. Randazzo and Householder were charged with accepting millions of dollars in bribe money to secure FirstEnergy’s policy priorities. Democratic lawmakers, who are behind a majority of the reform bills, say it is a reflection of how dominant of a hold Republicans have on the statehouse.

Oklahoma – How Libs of TikTok Became a Powerful Presence in Oklahoma Schools

MSN – Taylor Lorenz (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2024

Far-right activist Chaya Raichik splits her time between California, where she is registered to vote, and Florida, where she often travels. But the place where she arguably is having the biggest impact these days is Oklahoma, a state she has visited only once. Raichik, who operates the social media account Libs of TikTok, has amassed an audience of millions on X, largely by targeting LGBTQ+ people. In January, Raichik was appointed to the Oklahoma Library Media Advisory Committee.

Oregon – Lawmakers Push to Pass Oregon Campaign Finance Limits in Next 2 Weeks, Amid Concerns About Loopholes

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/24/2024

Oregon lawmakers from both parties indicated that passing campaign finance limits has become a priority this legislative session. During a hearing in the House Rules Committee, lawmakers, union leaders, and lobbyists for business groups testified in support of House Bill 4024, a compromise to restrict campaign contributions and require additional disclosure of political spending.

Oregon – Portland, Businesses Push for Public Records Exemption Amid Pending Release of Which Firms Paid Clean Energy Tax

MSN – Shane Dixon Kavanaugh (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/28/2024

Oregon lawmakers are considering a change to the state’s public records law as Portland officials and business groups attempt to block the release of information related to the city’s voter-approved climate fund. But journalists have raised alarms that the proposal could have broad unintended consequences that would lessen government accountability.

Pennsylvania – McClelland’s Pa. Treasurer Campaign Raised and Spent Money Months Before It Officially Existed

Pennsylvania Capital-Star – Peter Hall | Published: 2/28/2024

Erin McClelland, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for state treasurer, campaigned and accepted donations months before registering a fundraising committee with the Pennsylvania Department of State, as candidates for state office are required to do. While McClelland’s campaign chairperson said the donations and spending were properly reported to Allegheny County, election law experts say Pennsylvania’s campaign finance reporting rules are clear that statewide candidates must report their campaign donations and spending to the state.

Pennsylvania – Philly’s Ethics Board Is Changing the Rules at the Heart of Its Fight with the ‘Super PAC’ That Backed Jeff Brown’s Bid for Mayor

Philadelphia Inquirer – Sean Collins Walsh | Published: 2/21/2024

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics is moving to amend city campaign finance regulations in the wake of its botched lawsuit against the super PAC that supported Jeff Brown’s unsuccessful campaign in last year’s mayoral election. A notable change would clarify what constitutes illegal coordination between candidates and independent expenditure committees. That issue was at the center of the legal fight between the ethics board, Brown, and the super PAC supporting him.

Pennsylvania – Transparency and Accountability: Pennsylvania lawmakers target dark money in campaigns

WESA – Ben Wasserstein | Published: 2/26/2024

In 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court opened the floodgates for corporations and nonprofits to make unlimited hidden contributions to political causes. While Pennsylvania cannot override this federal decision, one state lawmaker believes it can make those entities more transparent with their spending. Rep. Joe Webster is proposing legislation that would require the disclosure of corporate expenditures on elections and limit donations, among other provisions.

Rhode Island – Providence NAACP President Found Guilty of Violating Campaign Finance Laws

MSN – Steph Machado (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/28/2024

The president of the Providence NAACP was found guilty of violating state campaign finance laws when he ran for city council in 2022. District Court Judge Anthony Capraro sentenced Gerard Catala to 20 hours of community service and a one-year filing, which means the case can be expunged if Catala stays out of trouble for a year. In handing down the sentence, Capraro noted Catala was given ample time and latitude to come into compliance with campaign finance laws, but it appeared “he just didn’t seem to want to.”

Virginia – Virginia’s Finance Reform Bill to Prevent Personal Use of Campaign Funds Defeated Again

MSN – Sarah Rankin (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2024

Virginia lawmakers defeated campaign finance reform legislation that would have prohibited elected officials from spending donations on personal expenses such as mortgages, vacations, or gym memberships. Virginia – which allows unlimited donations from individuals, corporations, and special interest groups – is a national outlier for lacking such a ban, and advocates at the General Assembly have been trying for more than a decade to put personal use restrictions on candidates’ spending.

Wisconsin – Wisconsin Ethics Commission Alleges Illegal Scheme by Trump Fundraising Committee and Rep. Janel Brandtjen

MSN – Molly Beck (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) | Published: 2/23/2024

The Wisconsin Ethics Commission recommended that state prosecutors file felony charges against a fundraising committee for Donald Trump and a state lawmaker related to an effort to unseat Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. The commission alleges Save America PAC and Rep. Janel Brandtjen conspired in a scheme to evade campaign donation limits to support the Republican primary challenger to Vos in 2022, steering at least $40,000 to the bid.

National/Federal

Luxury Spending, Internal Strife Leave NRA Staggering Into 2024 Election

Anchorage Daily News – Beth Reinhard and Sylvia Foster-Frau (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2024

In 2016, the National Rifle Association (NRA) endorsed helped catapult Donald Trump to the White House with $31 million in campaign spending. But as Trump stages his comeback, the NRA has tumbled from power. Internal feuds, corruption allegations, and an onslaught of litigation have ravaged the group’s finances and public image. Longtime chief executive Wayne LaPierre stepped down on the eve of a civil corruption trial, with prosecutors claiming he and other NRA leaders cheated donors by squandering millions on personal expenses.

In More Places This Year, People Can Vote in Their First Language

Center for Public Integrity – Katherine Hapgood | Published: 2/2/2024

A larger swath of the country will have access to translated ballots this year than in any prior presidential election. Under federal Voting Rights Act requirements, 331 voting areas in 30 states must provide language access to more than 24 million voters with limited English proficiency. But voter rights activists say the newest numbers, based on U.S. Census Bureau data, represent an undercount.

The Wild Probe into Investors of DWAC, Trump Media’s Proposed Merger Ally

MSN – Drew Harwell (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2024

In October 2021, Donald Trump announced that his media company, the owner of the platform Truth Social, had closed a merger with a “special purpose acquisition company (SPAC)” that would deliver to his firm $300 million toward his promise of giving “a voice to all.” By then, however, the insider trading by investors in the SPAC, Digital World Acquisition, had already begun. Digital World’s chief executive, Patrick Orlando, had been telling investors privately for months that he had been talking with Trump about the deal, filings assert, a violation of federal securities law.

Oversight Board Rebukes Meta’s Policies After Altered Biden Video Spreads

MSN – Naomi Nix (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2024

Meta was criticized by a company-funded oversight board for its “incoherent” and “confusing” policies on manipulated media after an altered video of President Biden spread on Facebook. The company opted not to remove the video, which had been edited to show Biden appearing to touch his granddaughter inappropriately. The board upheld the decision to leave the video in place but called on the company to clarify its policies amid widespread concerns about the risks of artificial intelligence.

Federal Appeals Court Rejects Trump’s Claim of Absolute Immunity

MSN – Alan Feuer and Charlie Savage (New York Times) | Published: 2/6/2024

A federal appeals court rejected former President Donald Trump’s claim that he was immune to charges of plotting to subvert the results of the 2020 election, ruling he must go to trial on a criminal indictment accusing him of seeking to overturn his loss to President Biden. The panel’s ruling signaled an important moment in American jurisprudence, answering a question that had never been addressed by an appeals court: can former presidents escape being held accountable by the criminal justice system for things they did while in office?

DOJ Report on Biden Classified Documents Coming Soon; No Criminal Charges

MSN – Devlin Barrett and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/6/2024

The Justice Department is preparing to release a special counsel report that is critical of President Biden and his aides for mishandling classified documents in Biden’s private home and former office, but prosecutors do not plan to pursue criminal charges in the case. Based on what is publicly known about the two classified documents probes, the investigation of Donald Trump seems significantly different from the Biden investigation.

In Stunning Vote, House Republicans Fail to Impeach Secretary Mayorkas

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany, Amy Wang, Marianna Sotomayor, and Paul Kane (Washington Post) | Published: 2/6/2024

A House GOP effort to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas failed as three Republicans joined Democrats in voting against what would have been the second-ever impeachment of a Cabinet official. Democrats have decried the process as a sham, with only two hearings that featured no fact witnesses or testimony from the secretary. Even if the measure had passed, Mayorkas was unlikely to have been convicted in a trial in the Democratic-led Senate.

Lawmakers Clash Over ‘Zuckerbucks’ and How to Stop Private Election Funding

MSN – Jim Saska (Roll Call) | Published: 2/7/2024

A recent House Administration Committee hearing on private donations helping to fund the administration of elections was contentious. The hearing centered on grants the Center for Tech and Civic Life and related groups provided to state and local election offices in 2020. Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg and his wife donated more than $300 million to the effort. Private funding is now banned or limited in 27 states.

The Evolving Watchdog Group Behind the Ballot Challenge to Trump

Seattle Times – Kenneth Vogel (New York Times) | Published: 2/7/2024

Since it was founded in 2002, the watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) has been caught in a tug of war between Democratic donors who wanted it to wage political warfare and less partisan supporters who wanted to expose corruption and ethical lapses regardless of party. Donald Trump’s emergence as a political force changed the equation. During his presidency, CREW was able to satisfy both sides of the internal debate by training its sights almost entirely on him and his allies as they flouted ethics rules.

Special Counsel Questioned Witnesses About 2 Rooms FBI Didn’t Search Inside Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Residence: Sources

Yahoo News – Katherine Faulders, Mike Levine, and Alexander Mallin (ABC News) | Published: 2/1/2024

Special counsel Jack Smith’s team has questioned several witnesses about a closet and a “hidden room” inside Donald Trump’s residence at Mar-a-Lago that the FBI did not check while searching the estate in August 2022, sources said. The line of questioning suggests that long after the FBI seized dozens of boxes and more than 100 documents marked classified from Mar-a-Lago, Smith’s team was trying to determine if there might still be more classified material there.

Cast as Criminals, America’s Librarians Rally to Their Own Defense

Yahoo News – Elizabeth Williamson (New York Times) | Published: 2/3/2024

As America’s libraries have become noisy and sometimes dangerous new battlegrounds in the nation’s culture wars, librarians and their allies have moved from the stacks to the front lines. People who normally preside over hushed sanctuaries are now battling groups that demand the mass removal of books and seek to control library governance. Last year, more than 150 bills in 35 states aimed to restrict access to library materials, and to punish library workers who do not comply.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – ‘Issue of Transparency’: Arizona Coyotes’ land interest raises ethics flags for Gov. Katie Hobbs

MSN – Stacey Barchenger (Arizona Republic) | Published: 2/6/2024

After voters rejected the Arizona Coyotes’ plans to build a hockey arena and entertainment district in Tempe, the team’s chief executive officer, Xavier Gutierrez, met with Gov. Katie Hobbs. That June meeting came weeks before an application was filed to buy trust land from the Arizona State Land Department under Hobbs’ oversight. Two months later, schedules show Gutierrez had another meeting in the governor’s office. That time, Gutierrez was to meet with Hobbs’ chief of staff, Chad Campbell, a former lobbyist for the Coyotes and whose consulting firm worked on the team’s Tempe campaign before Campbell joined the Hobbs administration.

Arizona – AZ Democrat Accuses Fellow Latina Lawmakers of ‘False Imprisonment’ Over Political Differences

MSN – Ray Stern (Arizona Republic) | Published: 2/8/2024

Arizona Rep. Lydia Hernandez is accusing fellow Democratic Latino caucus members of holding her hostage in her office for more than an hour last year over political differences. Hernandez also tried to lodge a criminal complaint in January with Department of Public Safety troopers at the Capitol about the incident, which she claims occurred after weeks of bullying, bigotry, and ageism by several Democratic lawmakers.

Arizona – Why Arizonans Can’t See Gov. Katie Hobbs’ Fundraising Numbers, but Can See Others

Yahoo News – Stacey Barchenger (Arizona Republic) | Published: 2/2/2024

According to Arizona law, officeholders serving four-year terms who will run for a second term do not have to make details of their campaign finances public for three years. Prior to 2016, candidates and officeholders were required to make public reports at least every year. Under the law, Gov. Katie Hobbs does not have to publicly detail the money flowing to and from her main campaign bank account until January 2026, when she would face reelection. That leaves Arizonans in the dark for all of 2023, 2024, and 2025 as Hobbs has continued fundraising.

California – A Bill for Every Problem? Why California Lawmakers Introduce Longshots

CalMatters – Sameea Kamal | Published: 2/6/2024

It is common practice for California legislators on both sides of the aisle to author bills to make a political statement. Besides bills that are just political statements, dozens of others do not make it into law because they duplicate existing laws or are deemed “solutions in search of a problem.” Party leaders and committee chairpersons might be hard-pressed to block bill introductions.

Colorado – Supreme Court Sounds Broadly Skeptical of Efforts to Kick Trump Off Ballot over Capitol Attack

Associated Press News – Mark Sherman | Published: 2/8/2024

The Supreme Court sounded broadly skeptical of efforts to kick former President Trump off the 2024 ballot. Both conservative and liberal justices raised questions of whether Trump can be disqualified from being president again because of his efforts to undo his loss in the 2020 election, ending with the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The primary concern was whether Congress must act before states can invoke a constitutional provision  that was adopted after the Civil War to prevent former officeholders who “engaged in insurrection” from holding office again.

Florida – Florida Ethics Board Plans Hearing in Miami Mayor’s Gift Case, Tosses Second Complaint

Yahoo News – Sarah Blaskey (Miami Herald) | Published: 2/1/2024

The Florida Commission on Ethics dismissed a complaint against Miami Mayor Francis Suarez that raised concerns over his use of city police officers as his private security while traveling the country campaigning for president last year. Suarez is still the subject of a second, ongoing inquiry by the commission into his attendance at high-priced sporting events. Ethics officials recently completed their months-long investigation, and a hearing date is expected to be set in regarding that case.

Florida – Government Watchdogs Warn Florida Legislation Would Have Chilling Effect in Ethics Cases

Yahoo News – Ana Ceballos and Joey Flechas (Miami Herald) | Published: 2/2/2024

As local ethics investigators dig into government scandals in Miami, state lawmakers are proposing changes that could reign them in by removing their ability to launch their own investigations into alleged public corruption and ethical violations. The Florida Senate passed a broad ethics package that would bar local ethics panels across the state from investigating misconduct by public officials unless someone with personal knowledge of wrongdoing is willing to identify themselves by name and file a complaint under oath.

Georgia – Larry David Breaks Georgia’s Voting Law in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 2/5/2024

Television comedies like “Veep” and “Parks and Recreation” have poked fun at the absurdities of national and local politics, but it is rare for them to zero in on the fine print of laws passed by state Legislatures. So, it was surprising that the end of the season premiere of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” took aim at the major voting law Georgia passed in 2021. It highlights a provision that bars third-party groups or anyone else who is not an election worker from providing food and water to voters waiting in line within a 150-foot radius of a polling place.

Illinois – Day in Court Postponed for Former Lawmaker Who Checked into Hospital on Eve of Corruption Trial

Capitol News Illinois – Hannah Meisel | Published: 2/7/2024

On what was supposed to be the third day of the corruption trial of former Illinois Sen. Sam McCann, the onetime third-party candidate for governor instead video-conferenced into U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Lawless’ courtroom from his hospital bed. McCann had checked himself into Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis after feeling unwell. McCann allegedly “engaged in a scheme to convert more than $200,000 in contributions and donations made to his campaign committees to pay himself and make personal purchases,” prosecutors allege.

Illinois – Ex-State Legislator Going on Trial on Tax Counts Stemming from Madigan Probe

Yahoo News – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/5/2026

Former Illinois Rep. Annazette Collins’ trial on federal tax charges began nearly three years after she was indicted amid the investigation into an alleged scheme by Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) to bribe then-House Speaker Michael Madigan. Collins, who worked as a ComEd lobbyist after her career in Springfield ended, faces charges alleging she underreported income and failed to file federal income tax returns for her lobbying and consulting firm.

Iowa – Founder of Group That Opposes Book Bans Files Ethics Complaint Against Iowa Lawmaker

Yahoo News – Chris Higgins (Des Moines Register) | Published: 2/2/2024

Sara Hayden Parris, president of Annie’s Foundation, a group that draws attention to book bans and hands out free copies of books that have been challenged or removed from libraries, filed an ethics complaint against state Rep. Jeff Shipley alleging defamation. Hayden Parris alleges Shipley broke the House ethics code and used social media to defame her and falsely accuse her of breaking the law by giving obscene material to children. Her complaint refers to a back-and-forth thread they had on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Louisiana – Campaign Cash Covers Louisiana Officials Tabs at Washington Mardi Gras

Louisiana Illuminator – Julie O’Donoghue | Published: 2/5/2024

Each year, thousands of Louisiana residents kick off carnival season at one of the state’s premiere annual political events, Washington Mardi Gras. The four-day festival features a formal ball, industry group luncheons, panel discussions, fundraisers, and plenty of parties thrown by the politically connected. Private businesses the government regulates are among the most visible sponsors of the event. Louisiana elected officials and candidates spent a total of $605,000 from their campaign accounts and PACs on the 2023 celebration.

Maryland – Baltimore Mayoral Candidate Thiru Vignarajah Could Access Up to $1.7M in Public Money for Campaign

Yahoo News – Emily Opilo (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 2/5/2024

In his previous three bids for office, Baltimore mayoral candidate Thiru Vignarajah has run financially competitive campaigns, some costing upward of $1 million, fueled by donations from some of the region’s most well-funded business executives and community leaders. In 2024, Vignarajah hopes to harness hundreds of thousands of dollars in public money – potentially up to $1.7 million – to help pay for his campaign.

Michigan – Bipartisan Bills Extending FOIA to the Governor and State Lawmakers Gets Senate Hearing

Michigan Advance – Anna Liz Nichols | Published: 2/7/2024

Michigan is one of only two states that broadly exempt the governor’s office and Legislature from Freedom of Information Act requests. New legislation would remedy that, allowing residents and journalists to seek out records to increase accountability in government. But the legislation’s bipartisan sponsors reviewed various special exemptions that will be afforded to the governor’s office, lieutenant governor’s office, and Legislature outside of exemptions made for other elected officials and state agencies.

New Hampshire – New Hampshire Opens Criminal Probe into AI Calls Impersonating Biden

MSN – Cat Zakrzewski and Pranshu Verma (Washington Post) | Published: 2/6/2024

New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella announced a criminal investigation into Life Corp., a Texas-based company that was allegedly behind thousands of AI-generated calls impersonating President Biden in the run-up to the state’s primary elections. A multistate task force is also preparing for potential civil litigation against the company. Formella said the actions were intended to serve notice that New Hampshire and other states will take action if they use AI to interfere in elections.

New York – Scores of N.Y. Public Housing Workers Charged in Record Corruption Case

DNyuz – Jesse McKinley, Mihir Zaveri, and Corey Kilgannon (New York Times) | Published: 2/6/2024

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan unsealed bribery and extortion charges against 70 current and former employees of the New York City Housing Authority, a sweeping indictment for a troubled organization. In describing the scheme, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said dozens of employees, including superintendents and assistant superintendents, had taken more than $2 million in bribes from contractors seeking to do work at apartment buildings throughout the city’s five boroughs.

New York – Donors to Adams’ 2025 Campaign Say They Were Secretly Reimbursed Thousands of Dollars

The City – George Joseph (The Guardian), April Xu (Documented), Yoav Gonen, Bianca Pallaro, and Haidee Chu | Published: 2/1/2024

Three donors to New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ 2025 re-election campaign recounted in interviews how they, and in two cases their spouses, were reimbursed for a total of more than $10,000 by hotel and construction executives in violation of state law. Suspicions of so-called straw donations spurred an indictment of a fundraising group involved in Adams’ 2021 race, which has led to two guilty pleas, and are part of a federal probe into whether they have been used to veil illegal contributions from the Turkish government.

New York – Eric Adams’ Former NYPD Colleague Pleads Guilty to Orchestrating Straw Donations

Yahoo News – Joe Anuta (Politico) | Published: 2/5/2024

A former colleague of New York City Mayor Eric Adams pleaded guilty to orchestrating a straw donor scheme that allegedly funneled tens of thousands of dollars to Adams’ 2021 campaign. Dwayne Montgomery, whose career in the police department overlapped that of Adams, pleaded guilty to one conspiracy charge. That accusation was one of several included in the original indictment that detailed a scheme to funnel illegal contributions to Adams’ run for office with the hope of reaping kickbacks.

North Dakota – North Dakota Lawmakers Scarcely Declare Conflicts of Interest

North Dakota Monitor – Mary Steurer | Published: 2/5/2024

North Dakota lawmakers are required to speak out if they believe they have a personal or private interest in the outcome of a bill, a policy intended to prevent officials from using their positions for their own personal gain. But conflict declarations are extremely rare. State lawmakers claimed conflicts on bills just three times in 2023.

Ohio – Battle Over the Ohio House: Speaker could be saddled with convicted Householder’s $1.6M debt

MSN – Jake Zuckerman and Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/7/2024

A legal fight over a $1.6 million lease backed by ex-Speaker Larry Householder’s political operation could reverberate in the expensive political battle for control of the Ohio House next year. Just before Householder’s 2020 arrest, his political operation signed a lease for an entire floor of the Chase Tower overlooking the statehouse campus. A slew of criminal convictions scuttled whatever Householder planned with the lease. Now the property managers say they are owed $1.6 million, and they want to collect from current Speaker Jason Stephens’ political arm as he fights to keep control of the chamber.

Ohio – Voting Amendment Backers Accuse Dave Yost of ‘Shameful Abuse of Power’ in New Lawsuit

MSN – Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/2/2024

Backers of a proposed constitutional amendment that would expand state voting laws have sued Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost for refusing to sign off on proposed petition language for the amendment due to its proposed title. The lawsuit asks the state Supreme Court to force Yost to approve the petition language, saying the attorney general’s office only has legal authority to determine whether it accurately summarizes the proposal, not to comment on the title, much less reject the proposal over it.

Oregon – Republican Senators Who Walked Out of Oregon Legislature Can’t Seek Reelection, State Supreme Court Rules

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/1/2024

The Oregon Supreme Court said 10 state senators who staged a walkout last year to stall bills on abortion, transgender health care, and gun rights cannot run for reelection. The ruling upholds the secretary of state’s decision to disqualify the senators under a voter-approved measure aimed at stopping such boycotts. Measure 113 amended the state constitution to bar lawmakers from reelection if they have more than 10 unexcused absences. Oregon is one of four states that requires a two-thirds majority in the Legislature to meet a quorum.

Pennsylvania – Philly Sheriff’s Campaign Takes Down Bogus ‘News’ Stories Posted to Site That Were Generated by AI

Yahoo News – Maryclaire Dale and Ali Swenson (Associated Press) | Published: 2/5/2024

The campaign team behind Philadelphia’s embattled sheriff acknowledged that a series of positive “news” stories posted to their site were generated by ChatGPT. It came after a Philadelphia Inquirer story reported that local news outlets could not find the stories in their archives. Experts say this type of misinformation can erode public trust and threaten democracy. Bilal’s campaign said the stories were based on real events.

Rhode Island – Records Show ‘Not Adequate’ Vetting of R.I. Ethics Commission Appointee

MSN – Edward Fitzpatrick (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/1/2024

A public records request showed no sign that Rhode Island Gov. Daniel McKee’s staff knew about the sexual harassment complaints made by six women against state Ethics Commission nominee Bryant Da Cruz until minutes after his appointment was announced. Emails and text messages regarding McKee’s ill-fated choice for the commission last November show the main question raised was whether Da Cruz could serve on the panel while working as a federal political coordinator for the National Association of Realtors.

South Dakota – South Dakota Apologizes to Transgender Advocacy Group, Will Pay $300K Over Cancelled Contract

Yahoo News – Lauren Sforza (The Hill) | Published: 2/7/2024

South Dakota will pay $300,000 and has apologized to a transgender advocacy group after the state cancelled a contract with the organization. The Transformation Project alleged its contract became a “political liability” after a conservative outlet brought it and one of the group’s planned events to Gov. Kristi Noem’s attention. The group alleged its contract was “abruptly terminated” in December 2022 “based purely on national politics.”

Tennessee – Tennessee’s Legislature Can’t Move Past the Bitter Clashes of 2023

DNyuz – Emily Cochrane (New York Times) | Published: 2/2/2024

Tennessee House Republicans in 2023 expelled state Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson for leading a gun control protest on the chamber floor, and festering tensions are surfacing even before lawmakers tackle the major work of the 2024 session. With their supermajority, Republicans can easily swat away Democratic objections to their agenda. That ironclad grip has pushed both Democrats and activists to turn to more aggressive tactics to draw attention to their positions.

Texas – When Mental Health Treatment Becomes a Political Identity

DNyuz – J. David Goodman (New York Times) | Published: 2/6/2024

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has spoken openly and often about her mental health, making her struggle with depression an increasingly central part of her political identity. Hidalgo has added her name to a growing list of politicians who have chosen to be public about their mental health. But the approach remains politically risky. Consultants still point to U.S. Sen. Thomas Eagleton, whose history of mental health treatment doomed his prospects as a vice-presidential running mate in 1972.

Texas – Texas AG’s Pursuit of Transgender Medical Records Stirs Privacy Concerns

MSN – Molly Hennessy-Fiske (Washington Post) | Published: 2/2/2024

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is using an exception in federal medical-privacy law to demand records from health-care providers far beyond his state’s borders – any hospitals, clinics, and practices that may have treated transgender youth from Texas. The aggressive attack on the LGBTQ community is one that legal experts say could pose a threat to medical privacy for all.

Wisconsin – Wisconsin Supreme Court Grants Ballot Access to Presidential Candidate Dean Phillips

MSN – Jessie Opoien (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) | Published: 2/2/2024

Democratic presidential candidate Dean Phillips earned a place on Wisconsin’s primary ballot, the state Supreme Court decided. The court ruled unanimously that the state’s Presidential Preference Selection Committee failed to demonstrate it exercised discretion in keeping Phillips off the ballot. Phillips has challenged similar decisions in Florida and North Carolina.

Campaign Finance

North Carolina: “NC Confidential: Keeping voters in dark about campaign finance probes” by Mehr Shur for Carolina Public Press

Elections

National: “‘We Don’t Have a Clear Path to Victory’: DeSantis exits presidential race” by Gary Fineout and Alez Isenstadt (Politico) for Yahoo News

Ohio: “Trans Candidates Face Challenges to Get on Ohio Ballots Over ‘Deadnames'” by Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “DC Bar Authorities File Disciplinary Charges Against Pro-Trump 2020 Election Lawyers” by Kyle Cheney (Politico) for MSN

South Carolina: “How Nikki Haley’s Lean Years Led Her into an Ethical Thicket” by Sharon LaFraniere and Alexandra Berzon (New York Times) for Seattle Times

Legislative Issues

National: “How Many of Your State’s Lawmakers Are Women? If You Live in the Southeast, It Could Be Just 1 in 5.” by Jennifer Berry Hawes for ProPublica

Lobbying

New York: “State GOP Officials Took Trip Backed by Chinese Communist Party” by Raga Justin for Albany Times Union

Redistricting

Louisiana: “Louisiana Legislature Approves New Congressional Map with Second Majority-Black District” by Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) for MSN

Campaign Finance

National: “Appeals Court Reverses Conviction Against Jeff Fortenberry” by Eric Bazail-Eimil (Politico) for MSN

New York: “Hochul Vetoes Controversial Campaign Finance Changes” by Joshua Solomon for Albany Times Union

Elections

Maine: “Donald Trump Removed from Maine Primary Ballot by Secretary of State” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN

Michigan: “Michigan Supreme Court Allows Trump to Appear on 2024 Primary Ballot” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Clarence Thomas’ Clerks: An ‘extended family’ with reach and power” by Abbie VanSickle and Steve Eder (New York Times) for Yahoo News

Illinois: “Former Chicago Alderman Ed Burke Convicted on 13 of 14 Counts at Landmark Federal Corruption Trial; Jury Convicts One Codefendant and Acquits the Other” by Jason Meisner, Ray Long and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) for MSN

Legislative Issues

National: “Lawmakers Who Linger After Accepting New Jobs Stir Concerns” by Justin Papp (Roll Call) for MSN

Redistricting

Georgia: “Federal Judge Approves Georgia’s Republican-Drawn Congressional Districts” by Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) for MSN

National/Federal

Antagonisms Flare as Red States Try to Dictate How Blue Cities Are Run

MSN – Molly Hennessy-Fiske (Washington Post) | Published: 11/27/2023

Despite long advocating small government and local control, Republican governors and legislators across a significant swath of the country are increasingly overriding the actions of Democratic cities – removing elected district attorneys or threatening to strip them of power, taking over election offices, and otherwise limiting local independence. The antagonisms between red states and blue cities are all the more notable because the urban areas in the crosshairs are mostly majority-minority, with many mayors and district attorneys of color.

Donations to GOP Drop as Worries Mount About the Party’s Finances

MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 11/27/2023

The Republican Party’s finances are increasingly worrisome to party members, advisers to former President Trump, and other operatives involved in the 2024 election effort. The Republican National Committee (RNC) disclosed it had $9.1 million in cash on hand as of October 30, the lowest amount for the RNC in any FEC report since February 2015. Donors have not cut as many large checks to the RNC in recent years, and the party’s small-dollar program has also suffered, according to people familiar with the party’s finances.

Trump Lawyers Seek to Probe U.S. Handling of 2020 Election Fraud Claims

MSN – Spencer Hsu and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 11/28/2023

Attorneys for Donald Trump asked a federal judge to allow them to investigate several U.S. government agencies about their handling of investigations into him and allegations of voter fraud three years ago as the former president moves to defend himself from charges that he criminally conspired to subvert the results of the 2020 election. His demands in the historic prosecution are wide-ranging. Trump’s lawyers argued for broad leeway to compel special counsel Jack Smith’s prosecution team to turn over vast swaths of information.

‘Shrugged Off and Ignored’: Lawmakers disagree on how to ease pain of election churn

MSN – Justin Papp (Roll Call) | Published: 11/30/2023

Constituent casework is a basic function of any congressional office. But in North Carolina, U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards’ predecessor, embattled former Rep. Madison Cawthorn, declined to give him access to any constituent case files after Edwards beat him in a closely fought primary. The situation exposed a long-standing problem of rocky transitions, with constituents caught in the middle, and lawmakers have not agreed on how to fix it.

Details of Scott Perry’s Role in Trump Efforts to Stay in Power Unsealed

MSN – Rachel Weiner, Spencer Hsu, and Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) | Published: 11/30/2023

A batch of communications was released in the case of U.S. Rep. Scott Perry by the District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals, which has heard litigation over special counsel Jack Smith’s effort to access the communications stored on Perry’s cell phone. The court partially blocked Smith’s effort in a ruling that relied on the Constitution’s “speech or debate” clause. Later, the documents appeared to have been removed from the court’s public docket, suggesting it may have been posted inadvertently.

Johnson’s Release of Jan. 6 Video Feeds Right-Wing Conspiracy Theories

Seattle Times – Luke Broadwater, Alan Feuer, and Angelo Fichera (New York Times) | Published: 11/23/2023

House Speaker Mike Johnson’s decision to publicly release thousands of hours of Capitol security footage from January 6, 2021, has fueled a renewed effort by Republican lawmakers and far-right activists to rewrite the history of the attack that day and exonerate the pro-Trump rioters who took part. For Johnson, beginning to release about 40,000 hours of video footage fulfilled a promise he made to hard-right lawmakers to win their support for the speakership.

He Doesn’t Report Having Checking or Savings. So Where Did Andy Ogles Get $320,000 for His Campaign?

WTVF – Phil Williams | Published: 11/29/2023

U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles reported he loaned his campaign $320,000 during the 2022 election. The FEC report raised eyebrows among some because he had never been seen as a person of great wealth. A media investigation shows Ogles has not disclosed any substantial investments. He does not report having a savings account. From the beginning of his campaign for Congress, Ogles was dogged by questions about his fundraising claims.

Members of Congress Head for the Exits, Many Citing Dysfunction

Yahoo News – Kayla Guo (New York Times) | Published: 11/26/2023

More than three dozen members of Congress have announced they will not seek re-election next year, some to pursue other offices and many others simply to get out of Washington. The wave of lawmakers across chambers and parties comes at a time of dysfunction on Capitol Hill, primarily instigated by House Republicans. The chaos has Republicans increasingly worried they could lose their slim House majority next year, a concern that typically prompts a rash of retirements from the party in control. But it is not only GOP lawmakers who are opting to leave.

For Election Workers, Fentanyl-Laced Letters Signal a Challenging Year

Yahoo News – Michael Wines (New York Times) | Published: 11/22/2023

For the people who run elections at thousands of local offices nationwide, 2024 was never going to be an easy year. But the recent anonymous mailing of powder-filled envelopes to election offices in five states offers new hints of how hard it could be. The letters are an indicator of what some officials say is a fresh rise in threats to their safety and the functioning of the election system. They presage the pressure-cooker environment that election officials will face next year in a contest for the White House that could chart the future course of American democracy.

Could Abortion Rights Rescue Red-State Democrats in the Senate?

Yahoo News – Michael Bender and Anjali Huynh (New York Times) | Published: 11/29/2023

Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, abortion rights have become an invaluable political asset for Democrats. They have leveraged the issue to hold onto control of the Senate, limit losses in the House, and fuel victories in key state races in the Midwest and the South. But perhaps the toughest test for the issue’s power will come in U.S. Senate contests like Sherrod Brown’s in Ohio and Jon Tester’s in Montana. The fate of the thin Democratic majority in the chamber could well be sealed in those two places, by the same voters who have installed Republicans in every other statewide office.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – Legislative Ethics Committee Dismisses Complaints Against Alaska Lawmakers

Anchorage Daily News – Iris Samuels | Published: 11/29/2023

The Legislative Ethics Committee dismissed complaints against sitting and former Alaska lawmakers who were accused of allowing “an unregistered lobbyist” for an anti-abortion organization to use their Capitol offices as a “base of operations.” The complaints allege Rep. David Eastman and former Rep. Christopher Kurka allowed Pat Martin, head of Alaska Right to Life, to use their offices for several hours when Martin traveled from Wasilla to the state Capitol “with the stated intent to distribute signed petitions to the Legislature.”

Arizona – This Ballot Measure Could Change the Election Game. But Will the Result Be the Same?

MSN – Mary Jo Pitzl (Arizona Republic) | Published: 11/29/2023

A proposed ballot measure would eliminate Arizona’s partisan primary system and replace it with a system in which every voter can vote in every election, regardless of party affiliation or lack of affiliation. Sarah Smallhouse, a supporter of the reform, said the idea is to appeal to independents, the state’s largest voting bloc. Despite their numbers, Smallhouse said independents cannot vote in primaries unless they take the extra step of requesting a partisan ballot.

Arizona – Arizona Officials Charged with Allegedly Conspiring to Delay Midterm Election Outcome

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 11/29/2023

Two Republican members of a county election board in southern Arizona were indicted by a state grand jury. Cochise County Supervisors Peggy Judd and Terry Crosby are charged with interference with an election officer and conspiracy. The indictment alleges the two knowingly interfered with the secretary of state’s ability to finish the statewide canvass for the election by delaying a vote to formally accept their county’s votes during the time period required by state law.

Arizona – Supreme Court Rejects Arizona GOP Leaders’ Effort to Avoid Deposition in Voting Rights Suit

MSN – Ray Stern (Arizona Republic) | Published: 11/27/2023

Arizona legislative leaders will submit to depositions in a lawsuit over two voting rights laws after the U.S. Supreme Court rejected their application for an emergency stay. Senate President Warren Petersen and Speaker Ben Toma both said they would comply. The plaintiffs want to find out if Republican lawmakers created the bills with discriminatory intent.

California – Top OC Official Helped Direct Millions to His Daughter’s Center Without Disclosing Family Connection

LAist – Nick Gerda | Published: 11/22/2023

Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do has voted to fund millions of dollars to an organization led by his daughter without publicly disclosing his close family connection. Do voted twice to award contracts that included subcontracts to Warner Wellness Center, his daughter Rhiannon Do’s group. During public discussion of one of those votes, Andrew Do said he had two years of conversations with the top county health official leading up to the vote. Both of Councilperson Do’s votes to fund the subcontracts happened with no public mention his daughter was working as Warner Wellness’s president.

California – Family Vacations, Fancy Clothes and a Cigar Humidor: How an O.C. politician got fined for abusing campaign funds

MSN – Faith Pinho (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 11/24/2023

The California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) fined former Assemblyperson William Brough $100,000 for using campaign funds to cover myriad personal costs, including family vacations, his children’s cellphone bills, and $2,400 worth of clothing, in violation of state law. Brough used a total of $17,303 in campaign funds for personal expenses and failed multiple record-keeping requirements, even as his campaign treasurer warned him about violations, according to the FPPC.

California – Disney’s Representative Could Soon be Considered a Lobbyist at Anaheim City Hall

Voice of OC – Hosam Elattar | Published: 11/29/2023

The Anaheim City Council agreed to enhance the city’s lobbying laws for the second time in just over a year. The ordinance expands the definition of lobbying and who needs to register to include both outside lobbyists and those employed directly by the company they are advocating for. A second council vote is needed for the ordinance to take effect. The move comes after investigators said FBI agents concluded in sworn affidavits that City Hall is essentially controlled by lobbyists and Disneyland resort interests.

Colorado – Colorado Supreme Court Will Hear Appeal of Ruling That Trump Can Stay on Ballot Despite Insurrection

MSN – Nicholas Riccardi (Associated Press) | Published: 11/21/2023

The Colorado Supreme Court agreed to hear appeals from both a liberal group that sought to disqualify Donald Trump and the former president himself after a state judge ruled Trump “engaged in insurrection” on January 6, 2021, but can still appear on the state’s ballot. The ruling by District Court Judge Sarah Wallace, which said Trump is not covered by the Constitution’s ban on insurrectionists holding office, was the latest in a series of defeats for the effort to end Trump’s candidates with Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

Delaware – Why Delaware Elections Commissioners Rarely Enforce Campaign Finance Laws

Yahoo News – Amanda Fries (Delaware News Journal) | Published: 11/27/2023

Delaware elections officials have the authority to investigate campaign finance violations, but that oversight has never been used. Election officials can investigate campaigns for compliance with state laws regarding campaign expenditures and donations. Yet, elections officials say they have no records of probes conducted under this authority.

Florida – Mayor Suarez Faces Ethics Complaint Over Presidential Campaign Costs Billed to City

Miami New Times – Naomi Feinstein and Alex DeLuca | Published: 11/22/2023

In a complaint filed with the Florida Commission on Ethics, activist Thomas Kennedy accuses Miami Mayor Francis Suarez of violating the law by spending taxpayer funds on personal security during his bid for president. The complaint cites records that showed Miami Police Department officers traveled on the campaign trail with Suarez and billed the city more than $20,000 for their hotels, transportation, and meal expenses.

Illinois – Democratic PAC Shifts Cash Out of Its Account as It Gets Hit with One of the Biggest State Election Board Fines Ever

MSN – Rick Pearson and Jeremy Gorner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 11/21/2023

The State Board of Elections issued $99,500 in fines against the All for Justice PAC. The move followed a report by The Chicago Tribune on the PAC’s reporting deficiencies as it spent more than $7.3 million on independent expenditures supporting Justices Elizabeth Rochford and Mary Kay O/Brien, both of whom won their campaigns and increased the Illinois Supreme Court’s Democratic majority. The PAC had been given 30 days to appeal or seek a reduction in the fines but it transferred its remaining cash balance of $149,516 to another independent expenditure committee that has been dormant since July 2019.

Illinois – Former GOP Senator, Third-Party Governor Candidate to Represent Himself in Corruption Trial

NPR Illinois – Hannah Meisel (Capital News Illinois) | Published: 11/28/2023

On what was supposed to have been the first day of the federal corruption trial of former Illinois Sen. Sam McCann for allegedly misusing more than $200,000 in campaign funds for personal expenses, McCann presented a pair of last-minute motions to represent himself, which delayed the trial for at least the 13th time. He allegedly used some of the money to pay his mortgage, buy personal vehicles, and even pay himself.

Illinois – Ethics Board Urges Chicago City Council to Tighten Rules to Stop Campaign Cash Pleas to City Employees

WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 11/27/2023

Chicago’s ethics ordinance should be tightened to apply to political fundraising committees to prevent future city officials from escaping sanctions for violations, including sending emails to city employees at their official email addresses asking them to send cash to their campaigns, the Board of Ethics urged the city council. The recommendation followed the board’s dismissal of a complaint prompted by Inspector General Deborah Witzburg’s determination that former Mayor Lori Lightfoot violated the ethics code by sending pleas for cash to city employees.

Indiana – Former Indiana Lawmaker Pleads Guilty to Casino Corruption Charge

MSN – Isabella Volmert (Associated Press) | Published: 11/28/2023

A former Indiana lawmaker pleaded guilty to supporting a bill favoring a casino in exchange for promises of lucrative employment. According to prosecutors, ex-Rep. Sean Eberhart, a member of the committee that oversees casinos and gaming in the state, used his position to successfully advocate for the relocation of two casinos and to obtain other favorable terms for the company, including tax incentives. In exchange, they said, Eberhart accepted the promise of future employment, which included annual compensation of at least $350,000.

Indiana – Indiana Gunmaker That Offered GOP Lawmakers Discounted Rifles Is Fined After Investigation

MSN – Kayla Dwyer (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 11/30/2023

The Indiana Lobby Registration Commission fined a gunmaker and ordered the company to register. A complaint said Fostech made a flyer available to some lawmakers advertising an “Indiana legislator rifle” at half the suggested retail price. The offer came during a session in which the company also testified in opposition to a major piece of gun legislation. Common Cause Indiana Executive Director Julia Vaughn’s complaint argued Fostech’s actions appeared to fit the definition of lobbying and should have been reported publicly as such.

Iowa – GOP Official’s Wife Convicted in Months-Long 2020 Voter-Fraud Scheme

MSN – Timothy Bella (Washington Post) | Published: 11/23/2023

As Tam and Thien Doan tried to obtain absentee ballots in Iowa in 2020, they were surprised to find out that votes had already been cast in their names. The siblings, both Democrats, were even more astonished to learn their ballots had been cast in support of Republican candidates only. Unbeknownst to the Doans, they were among a group of Vietnamese immigrants targeted in a months-long voter-fraud scheme by the wife of a Republican county supervisor who wanted her husband to win “by any means necessary” in the 2020 primary and general elections, according to prosecutors. Kim Phuong Taylor was convicted of 52 counts of voter fraud.

Kentucky – Top Metro Council Republican Will Face Removal Proceedings Over Ethics Charges

Louisville Public Media – Roberto Roldan | Published: 11/28/2023

Five Louisville Metro Council members voted to move forward with removal proceedings against Councilperson Anthony Piagentini. The process will eventually lead to an ethics trial, where the full Metro Council will act as a jury. Removing Piagentini will take a two-thirds vote. He was found guilty of ethics violations by Louisville’s Ethics Commission, which said there was “clear and convincing evidence” he negotiated a job with a nonprofit while supporting their bid for a major grant.

Maine – State Ethics Commission Fines Group Behind ‘Right to Repair’ Referendum

Yahoo News – Rachel Ohm (Portland Press Herald) | Published: 11/29/2023

Maine’s ethics commission reached an agreement with the political committee that convinced voters to approve Question 4 on the November ballot.  The commission approved a $35,000 penalty against the Automotive Right to Repair Committee because it was late complying with a transparency law for major funders. The maximum fine under state law was $240,000. Maine requires ballot question committees to notify donors who give more than $100,000 that they have to file a report with the ethics commission.

Michigan – Former Democratic Party Chair, AIPAC Deny Offering Nasser Beydoun $20M to Run Against Rashida Tlaib

Yahoo News – Todd Spangler and Clara Hendrickson (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 11/28/2023

Nasser Beydoun, an Arab-American businessperson who is running for the open U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, became the second Democratic candidate to say he was offered as much as $20 million in campaign support to abandon that race and run instead against U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib. Beydoun said the offer of “approximately $20 million” in “potential” campaign funding to run against Tlaib was made to him by former state Democratic Party Chairperson Lon Johnson. He denied making an offer to Beydoun.

New Mexico – New Mexico Supreme Court Upholds Democratic-Drawn Congressional Map

Associated Press News – Morgan Lee | Published: 11/27/2023

The New Mexico Supreme Court upheld a Democratic-drawn congressional map that divvied up a conservative, oil-producing region and reshaped a swing district along the U.S. border with Mexico. The justices affirmed a lower court decision that the redistricting plan enacted by Democratic lawmakers in 2021 succeeded in substantially diluting votes of their political opponents, but the changes fell short of “egregious” gerrymandering.

New York – New York Mayor Eric Adams Is Accused of Sexual Assault

MSN – Mariano Alfaro (Washington Post) | Published: 11/23/2023

New York Mayor Eric Adams is accused of committing sexual assault in 1993, according to a new court summons filed under the state’s Adult Survivors Act. According to the summons, the plaintiff was sexually assaulted by Adams while they both worked for the city. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the act into law last year, giving adult sexual assault survivors up to one year to file a lawsuit against their alleged attacker, regardless of when the alleged violation happened.

New York – Eric Adams Attended Nearly 80 Events Celebrating Turkey

Politico – Joe Anuta, Jason Beeferman, and Maya Kaufman | Published: 11/17/2023

As Brooklyn borough president, Eric Adams attended nearly 80 events over eight years to celebrate Turkey, including a flag-raising in 2015, a charity ball in 2018, and a Zoom meeting with the Turkish consul in 2020. In 2019, as he was embarking on a run for New York City mayor, he joined Martha Stewart at a gala celebrating Turkish Airlines, a company caught up in in an ongoing FBI probe into Adams’ campaign finances. These revelations shed light on Adams’ unusually strong relationship with Turkey, which has drawn scrutiny from federal investigators.

Ohio – Husted to Be Deposed, DeWine Subpoenaed in Lawsuit Over FirstEnergy Bribery Scheme

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 11/28/2023

Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted is scheduled to be deposed by investors suing FirstEnergy in connection with the House Bill 6 scandal, the most significant public corruption case in state history. In addition, Gov. Mike DeWine received a subpoena for documents in connection with the civil case. The lawsuit mirrors allegations that FirstEnergy paid multimillion-dollar bribes to former House Speaker Larry Householder and Sam Randazzo, formerly the state’s top utility regulator, in exchange for legislation and favorable regulatory treatment. DeWine appointed Randazzo shortly after taking office in 2019.

Ohio – Ohio Supreme Court Upholds New State Legislative Redistricting Plan

MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 11/27/2023

The Ohio Supreme Court upheld the state’s new legislative redistricting plan, dismissing lawsuits filed by Democratic and good-government groups claiming the new maps are illegally gerrymandered. In a four-to-three party-line ruling, the court’s Republican justices dismissed the lawsuits on procedural grounds. The ruling means that new Ohio House and Senate maps will remain in place through 2030, unless voters approve a proposed overhaul to the redistricting process itself next year.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Republican Party PAC Misreported Millions in Funds, Audit Finds

Oklahoman – Mindy Ragan Wood (Oklahoma Voice) | Published: 11/27/2023

A federal audit uncovered millions in misreported income and expenses for a PAC associated with the Oklahoma Republican Party. An FEC draft audit found the Oklahoma Leadership Council’s bank records did not match its federal campaign finance reports by nearly $2 million. The council is a federal PAC the state Republican Party uses to back GOP candidates and fund independent expenditures against their opponents.

Pennsylvania – Federal Judge Says Pennsylvania Mail-In Ballots Should Still Count If Dated Incorrectly

Associated Press News – Michael Runbinkam | Published: 11/21/2023

Mail-in ballots in Pennsylvania without accurate handwritten dates on their exterior envelopes must still be counted if they are received in time, a judge ruled, concluding that rejecting such ballots violates federal civil rights law. The decision has implications for the 2024 presidential election in a key battleground state where Democrats have been far more likely to vote by mail than Republicans.

Pennsylvania – Pa. Legislature Paid $280K to Settle Harassment, Other Claims While Requiring Secrecy in Many Cases

Spotlight PA – Angelea Couloumbis | Published: 11/30/2023

The Pennsylvania Legislature quietly paid out hundreds of thousands of dollars over the past five years to settle sexual harassment and other claims against lawmakers and staffers. Many of the settlements include controversial secrecy clauses and other provisions that prevent public disclosure of the agreement. Female legislators criticized Gov. Josh Shapiro’s office for paying $295,000 to resolve a sexual harassment claim against a top advisor. The settlement, which only became public after several media outlets filed public records requests, included a nondisclosure agreement.

Tennessee – Judges Rule Against Tennessee Senate Redistricting Map Over Treatment of Nashville Seats

Yahoo News – Jonathan Mattise and Kimberlee Kruesi (Associated Press) | Published: 11/22/2023

A Republican-drawn map for Tennessee’s Senate seats violates the state Constitution because lawmakers incorrectly numbered the legislative districts in left-leaning Nashville, which affects which years those seats are on the ballot, a panel of judges ruled. The decision centers on maps passed by the Republican-supermajority Legislature in 2022. According to the ruling, the state’s attorneys “conceded” they would not defend the Senate map in court and instead focused their attention arguing the plaintiffs did not have standing to sue.

Washington – Seattle City Council Candidates Got $2.4M from Democracy Vouchers

Crosscut – Donna Gordon Blankinship | Published: 11/27/2023

Seattle voters were actively involved in financing city council elections this year, distributing nearly 95,000 Democracy Vouchers that pumped nearly $2.4 million into 30 campaigns. Supporters say the idea democratizes political campaigns by giving regular people public money to contribute as they choose, presumably taking some power from wealthy individuals, companies, and organizations that seem to dominate political giving. The program also gives candidates another way to engage directly with voters.

Washington – Seattle Lobbying Firm Strategies 360 Files for Bankruptcy Amid Legal Feud

Seattle Times – Jim Brunner | Published: 11/29/2023

A prominent lobbying and public affairs firm filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection amid a bitter legal dispute between estranged co-owners. Strategies 360 filed a petition to stave off what Chief Executive Officer Ron Dotzauer described in court filings as a hostile and humiliating takeover bid by his former business partner, Eric Sorenson. The Seattle-based firm employs about 140 people in 13 states and Washington D.C.

The 102nd Legislature adjourned sine die on November 14 after the House and Senate adopted House Concurrent Resolution 10 to adjourn sine die early to start the 90-day clock for the effective date of bills not receiving enough Republican support to take effect immediately.

This includes legislation changing the date for Michigan’s 2024 presidential primary election to February 27, 2024.

Lawmakers passed bills to require elected state officers and candidates to annually file a financial disclosure report by April 15 of each year.

Just before the adjournment, House Democrats temporarily lost their narrow two-seat majority when two lawmakers won mayoral elections, creating a 54-54 tie.

However, Democratic House Speaker Joe Tate noted House Rules adopted in January only require a leadership change if there is a 55-55 tie and Democrats are unlikely to lose either of their two vacant seats in special elections likely to occur next spring.

National/Federal

To Help 2024 Voters, Meta Says It Will Begin Labeling Political Ads That Use AI-Generated Imagery

ABC News – David Klepper (Associated Press) | Published: 11/8/2023

Facebook and Instagram will require political ads running on their platforms to disclose if they were created using artificial intelligence (AI). Under the new policy by Meta, labels acknowledging the use of AI will appear on users’ screens when they click on ads. The rule takes effect January 1 and will be applied worldwide. The development of new AI programs has made it easier to quickly generate lifelike audio.

Congress Urges Judiciary to Take Final Steps to Clamp Down on Amicus Brief Lobbying

Courthouse News Service – Benjamin Weiss | Published: 11/3/2023

Lawmakers who for years have demanded the federal judiciary prevent organizations from swaying judges by gaming a common court practice urged the U.S. Judicial Conference to wrap up proposed rulemaking that would serve as a major check on such activity. Members of Congress, particularly Democrats, have long raised concerns that lobbying groups and other organizations use coordinated groups of amicus briefs to push courts toward favorable rulings.

Federal Trial of Pelosi Attack Suspect Renews Focus on Political Violence

DNyuz – Tim Arango and Holly Secon (New York Times) | Published: 11/9/2023

David DePape lived a solitary life, worked carpentry jobs and was seemingly obsessed with right-wing conspiracy theories on the internet. Then in October 2022, police said, DePape, broke into Nancy Pelosi’s San Francisco home and bludgeoned her husband when she was still House speaker. The authorities said he told investigators he intended to take hostage Pelosi, long a subject of virulent attacks by right-wing leaders and pundits. DePape’s trial spotlights the online disinformation cycle that has been fed by conspiracy theorists, conservative activists, elected officials, and media outlets.

Democratic Plan to Subpoena Supreme Court Justices’ Allies Faces Pushback

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 11/8/2023

Democrats in Congress have tried unsuccessfully to press the Supreme Court to strengthen its ethics rules following revelations that some justices accepted and did not report free luxury travel, real estate deals, and gifts from wealthy benefactors. The Senate Judiciary Committee plans to vote to subpoena two wealthy benefactors, along with a judicial activist who helped shape the court’s conservative supermajority. But the path to obtaining the information Democrats are seeking will be contentious.

Campaign Fundraisers Are Hitting High Notes at Taylor Swift and Beyoncé Concerts

MSN – Hailey Fuchs (Politico) | Published: 11/8/2023

In a twist on the meet-and-greet events that routinely dot the fundraiser party circuit, some members of Congress are shaking hands with donors and others at concert venues, in VIP boxes, or suites. Just as the Federal Reserve credits Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour for boosting the tourism industry and the overall economy, Swift and Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour have been a means for lawmakers to boost their own campaign coffers.

Trump and Media Want a Televised Trial in D.C. The U.S. Doesn’t.

MSN – Spencer Hsu and Tom Jackman (Washington Post) | Published: 11/4/2023

A coalition of news organizations asked U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan to make an exception to the rule barring cameras from federal courtrooms for Donald Trump’s election subversion case and permit the televising, recording, or same-day release of video and audio recordings of his trial. Federal courts have long prohibited cameras in the courtroom, wary of feeding what the Supreme Court called a “carnival atmosphere” of publicity that could intimidate witnesses, sway jurors, or deprive criminal defendants of their due process rights.

A Law That Helped End Slavery Is Now a Weapon to End Affirmative Action

MSN – Julian Mark (Washington Post) | Published: 11/6/2023

The Civil Rights Act of 1866, which established citizenship for newly emancipated slaves, has become central to the legal battle over what is fair and equal when it comes to race in the workplace. In recent years, and especially since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned race-conscious college admissions in June, the Reconstruction-era law has emerged as a critical tool for conservatives intent on dismantling race-specific programs that promote “diversity, equity and inclusion,” or DEI.

Trump Appointee Sentenced to Nearly 6 Years for Attacking Police on Jan. 6

MSN – Rachel Weiner and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) | Published: 11/3/2023

A Trump appointee to the State Department who assaulted multiple police officers at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, was sentenced to nearly six years in prison by a fellow veteran of the administration. Judge Trevor McFadden said he was “disturbed” that Federico Klein considered it part of his “duties” to attend the rally that day and join the protesters at the Capitol agitating for lawmakers to throw the election to Donald Trump. Officers testified Klein was at the front of the violent mob for nearly two hours, first helping to break a police line and then joining a Battle against officers guarding a tunnel into the building.

Trump Belief That 2020 Election Was Stolen Is Not a Defense, DOJ Says

MSN – Rachel Weiner, Spencer Hsu,and Tom Jackman (Washington Post) | Published: 11/6/2023

Prosecutors said they plan to show at trial that Donald Trump lied repeatedly about the results of the 2020 election as part of a conspiracy to subvert the legitimate results. But they also said they do not need to prove whether Trump believed he lost the race. Legal experts have debated the importance of Trump’s state of mind in his federal election subversion case, with some arguing that to win a conviction the government must pin down the true beliefs of a politician who amassed a long record of making false or misleading claims while president.

AI Policy Yields a Goldmine for Lobbyists

Yahoo News – Hailey Fuchs and Brendan Bordelon (Politico) | Published: 11/4/2023

Lobbyists are rushing to sign up artificial intelligence (AI) companies as clients and K Street firms also are being enlisted by industries and interest groups that want help influencing AI policy. Groups as disparate as the NFL Players Association, Nike, Amazon, and the Mayo Clinic have enlisted help from firms to lobby on the matter. Some lobbyists compared the boom in business opportunities to the cryptocurrency policy debate. But AI has the potential to be even bigger.

Appeals Courts Temporarily Lifts Trump’s Gag Order as He Fights the Restrictions on His Speech

Yahoo News – Alanna Durkin Richer and Eric Tucker (Associated Press) | Published: 11/3/2023

A federal appeals court temporarily lifted a gag order on Donald Trump in his 2020 election interference case in Washington, the latest twist in the legal fight over the restrictions on the former president’s speech. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit decision puts a hold on the limited gag order to give the judges time to consider Trump’s request for a longer pause on the restrictions while his appeals play out.

From the States and Municipalities

Oceania – Lobbying and Communications Firm Senate’s ‘Wildly Inappropriate’ Contracts at Commerce Commission Revealed

Radio New Zealand – Guyon Espiner | Published: 11/6/2023

A public relations and lobbying firm was embedded at New Zealand’s Commerce Commission, working on highly sensitive areas of competition policy at the heart of an inflation crisis. Staff from the Wellington consultancy SenateSHJ worked in the physical offices of the competition watchdog and were given Commerce Commission email addresses and devices. While Senate lobbied for private sector clients, the commission did not pay it for lobbying, only for communications and media training. Documents showed Senate worked on commission projects in the energy sector, despite representing private sector energy clients.

Arizona – Two Groups Making New Bid to Hide Names of Donors in Political Races

Arizona Capitol Times – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 11/7/2023

Attorney Scott Freeman acknowledges that Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Scott McCoy rejected his bid to void Proposition 211. The judge ruled in June there is nothing unconstitutional about the voter-approved measure designed to prohibit “dark money” in campaigns. McCoy said Freeman’s clients could seek an exemption. The judge noted that would require either group to show “reasonable probability that disclosure of its contributors’ names will subject them to threats, harassment, or reprisals from either government officials or private parties.”

Arizona – Arizona Rep. Leezah Sun Decries ‘False Statements’ as Court Grants Restraining Order Against Her

Yahoo News – Ray Stern (Arizona Republic) | Published: 11/3/2023

Democratic leaders in the Arizona House filed an ethics complaint against Rep. Leezah Sun, who allegedly harassed and made a death threat to employees with the city of Tolleson. Sun recently denied an allegation claiming that she said she would throw a Tolleson lobbyist off a balcony to “kill her.” The complaint alleges Sun made threats against officials with the city, interfered with a lawful court order, violated state custodial interference laws, and engaged in disorderly conduct.

California – Judge Finds Eastman Culpable for Ethics Breaches in 2020 Bid to Keep Trump in Power

MSN – Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 11/3/2023

A California judge made a “preliminary finding” that attorney John Eastman breached professional ethics when he aided Donald Trump’s bid to overturn the 2020 election, a milestone in the proceedings over whether Eastman should lose his license to practice law. Now, state bar officials are preparing to present “aggravation” evidence aimed at justifying their call to strip Eastman, a veteran conservative attorney who once clerked for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, of his law license.

California – Oakland’s Conflict of Interest Tracking System Isn’t Working

Oaklandside – Eli Wolfe | Published: 11/7/2023

There are state and local laws in California that prohibit government workers from having conflicts-of-interest. Local governments like Oakland require city employees and elected officials to disclose their personal finances so the public can be sure there is no hidden agenda behind a decision. The Oakland Public Ethics Commission is supposed to act as a bulwark against public corruption, and it can investigate and fine officials who violate the law. But the commission is struggling to make use of the city’s most basic conflict-of-interest tool, a document called Form 700.

Delaware – Ethics Agency Says Delaware Officials Improperly Paid Employees to Care for Seized Farm Animals

MSN – Randall Chase (Associated Press) | Published: 11/6/2023

Delaware’s ethics agency determined the state agriculture secretary and one of his top deputies violated the law by entering into no-bid agreements with Department of Agriculture employees to care for farm animals seized by animal welfare officials. The Public Integrity Commission ruled Agriculture Secretary Michael Scuse improperly agreed to pay one of his employees more than $90,000 as part of a no-bid agreement to take care of a flock of poultry after almost 500 birds were seized in May.

Florida – Miami Commissioner’s Campaign Pays City Staffer’s Company $100k. It’s Legal

WLRN – Joshua Ceballos | Published: 11/6/2023

Miami Commissioner Manolo Reyes is facing a longshot opponent in this year’s race who spent only a few hundred of his own dollars on his campaign. Yet the Reyes campaign has spent more than $200,000, and steered more than half the money to a public relations company that is owned by the wife of his chief of staff. County ethics rules do not prohibit government employees from working on campaigns if they do not use government resources or time, but the payments to Reyes’ top employee constitute the highest spending in what appears to be a less than competitive race.

Illinois – Edward M. Burke, ‘Figurehead of the Old Regime,’ Faces Historic Corruption Trial

Chicago Sun-Times – Jon Seidel | Published: 11/6/2023

Edmund Burke, Chicago’s longest serving city council member, is on trial, charged with racketeering, bribery, and extortion. The case is the result of an aggressive probe into the same old-school Chicago-style politics through which Burke built his power, and which he personified for decades. If found guilty, Burke would be the fourth current or former member of the council to be convicted in federal court in five years.

Illinois – City Summons Reporter to Court After He Asked Too Many Questions

DNyuz – Rebecca Carballo (New York Times) | Published: 11/6/2023

Officials in a Chicago suburb issued citations to a local news reporter after he persistently contacted elected officials about a flooding issue. The Daily Southtown published an article by Hank Sanders about consultants informing officials in Calumet City that storm water facilities were in “poor condition” before a recent flood swept through the community. Sanders continued to inquire about flooding issues after the article was published. His calls and emails drew complaints from Calumet City officials, including Mayor Thaddeus Jones, who is also a state representative.

Indiana – Indiana AG’s Remarks About Abortion Doctor Amount to Misconduct, Court Finds

MSN – Maria Luisa Paúl (Washington Post) | Published: 11/3/2023

Shortly after Roe v. Wade was overturned last year, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita accused a doctor who had helped a 10-year-old rape victim from Ohio terminate her pregnancy of being an “abortion activist” with “a history of failing to report” similar procedures to state officials. Those comments, which Rokita made about Caitlin Bernard during an appearance on Fox News, amounted to “attorney misconduct,” the Indiana Supreme Court ruled.

Kansas – Kansas Officials Downplayed Involvement in Marion Raid. Here’s What They Knew.

Kansas Reflector – Sherman Smith | Published: 11/6/2023

Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody enlisted the support of local and state law enforcement officials in the days before he led raids on the local newspaper office, the publisher’s home, and the home of a city council member. The Bureau of Investigation, Department of Revenue, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal, along with the county attorney and a magistrate judge, were complicit in the raid or knew it was imminent. But in the days that followed, they largely downplayed their involvement.

Kentucky – Democrat Andy Beshear Wins Reelection for Governor in Kentucky

MSN – Hannah Knowles and Dylan Wells (Washington Post) | Published: 11/7/2023

Democrat Andy Beshear defeated his Republican opponent Daniel Cameron to win reelection as Kentucky’s governor, securing a stark victory in a state Donald Trump won by 26 points. The results are a stark blow to Trump and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, both of whom endorsed Cameron, the state attorney general who tried to nationalize the race and remind voters of their party lines. He and his allies promoted an endorsement from Trump and attacked Beshear as a Joe Biden ally who clashed with Republicans on culture war issues.

Louisiana – New Orleans Employees May Have Violated State Laws with ‘Smart City’ Contract, Report Says

NOLA.com – Joseph Cranney | Published: 11/8/2023

Two city employees should not have participated in last year’s controversial selection of a public wi-fi contract and may have violated state ethics laws by not disclosing their ties to the winning bidder the New Orleans Office of Inspector General (OIG) said in a report. The OIG largely backed the conclusions of an earlier investigation by two outside firms hired by the city council, though neither probe found evidence of self-dealing. The state ethics board also cleared the employees, IT staffer Christopher Wolff and former Utilities Director Jonathan Rhodes, of any violations.

Louisiana – Decimated by Division, Louisiana Democrats Lost Before Balloting

Yahoo News – Emily Cochrane (New York Times) | Published: 11/4/2023

Before a ballot was cast, Louisiana Democrats knew they could not win control of the state Legislature this year. It was mathematically impossible because a lack of candidates meant they were not even contesting the majority of districts. Their best hope for political success was that Shawn Wilson would force a runoff against Jeff Landry, the state attorney general, in an open primary for governor. But when Landry won a majority of the primary vote, eliminating the need for a runoff, the results instead laid bare the bleak conditions of a state Democratic Party decimated by internal divisions, paltry fundraising, totals, and a disenchanted voter base.

Maine – Voters Pass Ban on Foreign Spending on Referendum Campaigns

Portland Press Herald – Randy Billings | Published: 11/7/2023

Maine voters approved a referendum to ban foreign governments and affiliated organizations from spending money on state and local referendum campaigns. Federal and state election laws already prohibit foreign nationals from contributing to candidates seeking office in Maine, but they do not ban foreign governments or entities from spending money to influence state and local referendums or elections.

Michigan – Divided House Passes Highly Debated Transparency Bills in Wee Hours of Morning

Detroit News – Beth LeBlanc | Published: 11/9/2023

The Michigan House approved financial disclosure requirements that opponents argued violated the spirit of the voter-mandated transparency reforms. The legislation would require annual financial disclosures of several statewide elected officials and lawmakers starting in April, meeting the requirements of the ballot measure approved a year ago. But the bills neglected to require similar disclosures from an official’s spouse and failed to close long-acknowledged loopholes in Michigan’s transparency laws.

Michigan – Detroit Enacts Ethics Reforms Following Free Press Investigation

MSN – Dave Boucher (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 11/8/2023

Detroit board members who set salaries for the mayor and other elected leaders are among many public officials who must now file new ethics disclosures in light of a Detroit Free Press investigation. Each member of the Elected Officials Compensation Commission – along with mayoral appointees on boards that oversee police, the water department, and other entities – will need to file new disclosures early next year.

Minnesota – Trump Can Appear on 2024 Primary Ballot in Minnesota, State Supreme Court Rules

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 11/8/2023

The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled Donald Trump can appear on the primary ballot next year but left open the possibility he could be struck from the general election ballot because of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The Minnesota case is one of several interlocking challenges that argue Trump cannot serve again under Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which bars insurrectionists from holding office.

Missouri – Phelps County Judge Rules Missouri City Tried to ‘Intimidate’ Woman with Ban on City Hall Visits

Missouri Independemt – Rudi Keller | Published: 11/8/2023

A small Missouri town’s attempt to “intimidate and silence” a critic violated both her First Amendment rights and the state’s Sunshine Law, a judge ruled. Edgar Springs, a town of 200 in Phelps County, must pay a nominal fine of $150 to Rebecca Varney for banning her from City Hall for four years, and for holding several closed meetings with business that should have been conducted in public, Judge John Beger decided.

New York – Grievances, Insults, Tangents: Trump brings his 2024 campaign into the courtroom

MSN – Marianne LeVine (Washington Post) | Published: 11/6/2023

Donald Trump portrayed himself as the victim of “election interference” and a “political witch hunt.” He decried the “weaponization” of a judicial system he alleges, without evidence, is unfairly targeting him. But the former president was not speaking at a campaign rally. Instead, he was inside a courtroom. New York Attorney General Letitia James was alleging he and his company falsely inflated property values to gain lending advantages, and Trump was on the witness stand.

New York – FBI Raids Home of NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ Top Campaign Fundraiser as Part of Federal Corruption Probe

MSN – Chris Sommerfeldt, Thomas Tracy, and Michael Gartland (New York Daily News) | Published: 11/3/2023

FBI agents raided the home of Brianna Suggs, the manager of New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign fundraising operation who has claimed credit for collecting more than $19 million for his political efforts over the years. The raid is part of a federal public corruption investigation into whether Adams’ 2021 campaign conspired with the Turkish government and a Brooklyn construction firm to funnel foreign money into the campaign’s coffers via straw donors.

North Carolina – In Earls Investigation, Federal Judge Wrangles with Key Question: How political can NC Supreme Court justices get?

WRAL – Will Doran | Published: 11/2/2023

North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls is suing the state’s Judicial Standards Commission to stop an ethics investigation targeting her for critiques she made about racial, gender, and political biases at the state’s highest court. She says it is a violation of her First Amendment rights, and little more than an attempt to intimidate her into silence. The commission says judges are banned from making comments that might make people lose faith in the integrity of the judicial system. U.S. District Court Judge William O’Steen will decide whether to shut down the investigation.

Ohio – Ohio Voters Guarantee Abortion Rights 16 Months after U.S. Supreme Court Strikes Roe

MSN – Laura Hancock and Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 11/7/2023

Ohio voters passed a state constitutional amendment guaranteeing abortion rights and became the seventh state to side with reproductive rights since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Republican leaders in the General Assembly scheduled an August special election intended to thwart the abortion rights amendment by requiring all future constitutional amendments pass with a supermajority at the ballot box. That was defeated and Ohio’s abortion rights amendment only needed to pass with a simple majority.

Ohio – LaRose Uses State Newsletter to Promote Senate Campaign

Ohio Capital Journal – Marty Schladen | Published: 10/30/2023

Frustrated former employees told the press that in their office “everything revolved around” Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose’s run for U.S. Senate. Now, LaRose appears to be using the taxpayer-funded office’s newsletter in that campaign. As a state official, LaRose is not supposed to use state resources in his political campaigns. As secretary of state, it is important that he wall off politics from his official duties because LaRose administers elections, including those in which he is running.

Pennsylvania – Democrat Cherelle Parker Will Become Philadelphia’s First Female Mayor

MSN – Sean Collins Walsh (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 11/7/2023

Democrat Cherelle Parker defeated Republican David Oh to become the 100th mayor of Philadelphia. She will be the first woman to hold the office when her four-year term begins in January. A former state representative and city council majority leader, Parker coasted to victory in the general election with a compelling personal story, a tough-on-crime platform, and strong backing from the Democratic establishment and organized labor.

South Dakota – South Dakota Governor Asks State Supreme Court About Conflict of Interest After Lawmaker Resigns

ABC News – Associated Press | Published: 11/3/2023

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem requested guidance from the state Supreme Court about conflict-of-interest rules for lawmakers, several weeks after a lawmaker resigned and agreed to repay $500,000 in federal COVID-19 relief she received for her day care business. Jessica Castleberry was a senator when she received the stimulus funding. Doing so violated a state Supreme Court advisory warning lawmakers it is unconstitutional for them to accept federal pandemic funding.

Utah – A Utah Lake Dredging Critic Got Dragged into a Lawsuit with a Private Company. Did He Also Lose a Public Grant?

MSN – Leia Larsen (Salt Lake City Tribune) | Published: 11/8/2023

The private company behind a plan to dredge Utah Lake and turn it into an island city sued a leading critic, ecology professor Ben Abbott, for defamation. Abbott countersued, alleging the company was trying to stifle public debate about the proposal. Then, months later, Abbott found out his grant for a $500,000 watershed study funded by the Legislature had been canceled. “We were totally taken by surprise,” said Abbott, who teaches at Brigham Young University. “… I thought, ‘Does this have something to do with the islands situation?'”

Virginia – Virginia Democrats Projected to Sweep General Assembly, Dealing Blow to GOP

MSN – Gregory Schneider and Laura Vozzella (Washington Post) | Published: 11/7/2023

Virginia voters rejected Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s costly efforts to take control of the Virginia General Assembly in the November 7 elections, flipping the House of Delegates to Democratic control and preserving a blue majority in the state Senate that can block his conservative agenda. Youngkin raised record sums of money and spent personal political capital pushing for full GOP control of both chambers. Whether Virginians rewarded or resisted Youngkin’s campaign was considered an indicator of voter attitudes ahead of next year’s presidential election.

Washington – The Financing of 6 Proposed WA Ballot Initiatives Is Being Investigated by the State PDC

Yahoo News – Shauna Sowersby (The Olympian) | Published: 11/7/2023

Six controversial ballot initiatives that are still in the signature-gathering process are under formal investigation by the Washington Public Disclosure Commission (PDC). The six initiatives are the efforts of Let’s Go Washington and sponsored by Brian Heywood, a Republican donor. Two allegations are listed on the PDC website, one for failing to accurately file reports that reflect “in-kind contribution details for the expenditures made, and which initiatives were supported” and the other for “failing to properly disclose the identity of a vendor for some of the in-kind contributions received from Brian Heywood.”

Elections

National: “Meadows Granted Immunity, Tells Smith He Warned Trump About 2020 Claims: Sources” by Katherine Faulders, Mike Levine, and Alexander Mallin for ABC News

New Hampshire: “Breaking with Longstanding Tradition, Biden Won’t Appear on New Hampshire’s Primary Ballot” by Francesca Chambers (USA Today) for Yahoo News

Ohio: “Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose Quietly Ordered Purge of Thousands of Inactive Voters Last Month” by Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Ethics

California: “Is Anaheim’s Fall of Reform Going to Freeze Over?” by Hosam Elattar for Voice of OC

Michigan: “Financial Disclosures Proposed for Michigan Politicians Are ‘Pretty Weak,’ Advocates Say” by Simon Schuster for MLive

Legislative Issues

National: “New House Speaker Mike Johnson Faces Herculean Task of Uniting Republicans” by Marianna Sotomayor, Amy Wang, Leigh Ann Caldwell, Theodoric Meyer, and Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

National: “An Unsanctioned Coterie of Pro-Israel Quasi-Lobbyists Has Descended on D.C.” by Hailey Fuchs and Caitlin Oprysko (Politico) for MSN

Florida: “Florida Ethics Panel Says County Commissioner Steele Can Resume Lobbying for Municipalities” by Dave Berman (Florida Today) for Yahoo News

Procurement

Florida: “Mayor Donna Deegan Approves No-Bid Contract for a Firm That Backed Her Campaign” by David Bauerlein (Florida Times-Union) for MSN

Hawaii: “Hawaii Bribery Scandal Casts a Shadow Over Lahaina’s Ruins” by Blaze Lovell (New York Times) for Yahoo News

National/Federal

Ex-Treasurer for Rep. George Santos Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy, Tells of Bogus Loan and Fake Donors

ABC News – Jake Offenhartz (Associated Press) | Published: 10/5/2023

The ex-treasurer for U.S. Rep. George Santos pleaded guilty to a fraud conspiracy charge and implicated Santos in a scheme to embellish his campaign finance reports with a fake loan and fake donors. Nancy Marks, who was a close aide to Santos during his two congressional bids, is a longtime political operative and bookkeeper for multiple candidates.

Trump Allegedly Discussed US Nuclear Subs with Foreign National After Leaving White House: Sources

ABC News – Katherine Faulders, Alexander Mallin, and Mike Levine | Published: 10/5/2023

Months after leaving the White House, former President Trump allegedly discussed potentially sensitive information about U.S. nuclear submarines with a member of his Mar-a-Lago Club – an Australian billionaire who then allegedly shared the information with scores of others, including more than a dozen foreign officials, several of his own employees, and a handful of journalists. Prosecutors and FBI agents have at least twice this year interviewed Anthony Pratt, who runs one of the world’s largest packaging companies.

Drawing the Line on AI-Based Deepfakes Proves Tricky for Congress

MSN – Gopal Ratnam (Roll Call) | Published: 10/11/2023

A bipartisan group of lawmakers proposed legislation that would ban the “distribution of materially deceptive AI-generated audio or visual media” about individuals seeking federal office. Civil rights groups, political consultants, free-speech advocates, and lawmakers across the political spectrum have agreed that the use of AI-generated deceptive ads poses risks to the democratic process by misleading voters. The trouble, though, is figuring out where to draw the line on what constitutes deception, or how to enforce prohibitions.

Republicans Fail to Coalesce Around Speaker Choice, Leaving House in Limbo

MSN – Marianna Sotomayor, Leigh Ann Caldwell, and Jaqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 10/11/2023

House Republicans were on the verge of open revolt after the ideologically fractious conference failed to coalesce around a speaker nominee, leaving the chamber rudderless and leaderless. The inability of Republicans to agree on who will lead them has left the chamber in an effective standstill since Rep. Kevin McCarthy was ousted as speaker, unable to consider any legislation to aid Israel in its war against Hamas or pass any appropriation bills to avoid a potential government shutdown. Neither issue produced enough urgency for Republicans to quickly elect a speaker as many had hoped, again highlighting the conference’s deep divisions.

Charles Koch Has Given More Than $5 Billion of His Stock to Two

MSN – Matt Durot (Forbes) | Published: 10/10/2023

Charles Koch is making big moves to ensure his charities and causes are funded long after he is gone. Koch, who is worth $54.5 billion, said that over the last four years he has transferred $5.3 billion of his conglomerate’s nonvoting stock to a pair of nonprofits with fewer restrictions on lobbying and politics than traditional charities. Koch did not make gifts of his company stock directly to the Stand Together nonprofit network. Instead, he chose groups that support the network and are allowed to directly engage in political campaigns and to do an unlimited amount of issue lobbying, as long as those are not their primary activities).

Biden Interviewed About Classified Documents Found at His Office, Home

MSN – Tyler Pager and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 10/9/2023

President Biden was interviewed over the last two days as part of the investigation led by special counsel Robert Hur into the discovery of classified documents at Biden’s private office and Delaware home. When appointing Hur to lead the probe, Attorney General Merrick Garland cited the “extraordinary circumstances” of the Justice Department investigating the president as he considered a reelection bid. Biden formally launched his reelection campaign months later.

New Charges Accuse George Santos of Identity Theft, Credit Card Fraud

MSN – Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) | Published: 10/10/2023

A superseding indictment charges U.S. Rep. George Santos with stealing the identities of family members and using donors’ credit cards to spend thousands of dollars, intensifying the legal peril facing Santos five months after he was charged with a host of other financial crimes. The most recent indictment accuses Santos of running two fraudulent schemes during the 2022 election cycle, in addition to the other shams alleged in May.

Two Families Got Fed Up with Their States’ Politics. So They Moved Out.

Seattle Times – Trip Gabriel (New York Times) | Published: 10/7/2023

Americans are increasingly fracturing as a people, and some are taking the extraordinary step of moving to escape a political or social climate they abhor. Democrats have left red states as Republicans have moved out of blue states, often over views on issues like abortion, transgender rights, school curricula, guns, race, and other matters. While there is no precise count of how many Americans have relocated because of politics and social issues, interviews with demographers and people who have moved or are considering moving, as well as a review of social media postings and polling, show the phenomenon is real.

Menendez Indictment Revives Concerns Over Money and Influence in Politics

Yahoo News – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 10/11/2023

U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez is facing allegations he and his wife accepted “hundreds of thousands of dollars” in bribes. In exchange, he allegedly used his influence to protect three businesspeople and benefit the government of Egypt. The new criminal charges against Menendez have invited scrutiny of the legal ways money may influence public policy, including political contributions and lobbying. Paul Miller, founding partner at Miller/Wenhold Capitol Strategies, takes issue with tying lobbyists to the Menendez case, which centers on alleged bribery by businesspeople who are not registered lobbyists.

Trump’s Claim That He Can’t Be Prosecuted Collides with Precedents

Yahoo News – Adam Liptak (New York Times) | Published: 10/12/2023

Among the bold claims in a recent motion filed by Donald Trump seeking to dismiss the federal indictment accusing him of conspiring to undermine the 2020 election, there was a significant concession. The key U.S. Supreme Court precedent the motion relied on for claiming “absolute immunity” from criminal prosecution, his lawyers acknowledged, did not address criminal prosecutions. Should Trump lose in the trial court and on appeal, there is every reason to think he will ask the Supreme Court to step in.

Democrats Have Relied on One Company’s Tools to Power Its Campaigns. They’re Now Facing a Possible Collapse.

Yahoo News – Brittany Gibson and Madison Fernandez (Politico) | Published: 10/5/2023

A company at the center of the Democratic Party’s digital strategy is on the verge of a meltdown, sparking alarm among a broad constellation of liberal groups that are relying on it ahead of 2024. NGP VAN provides tools used by Democrats, from the White House to local school boards, to raise money and mobilize voters. But with new management in recent years, it has been stripping its operations to the bare bones.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Rep. John Rogers Says He Rejected Plea Deal in Federal Corruption Case, Will Seek 12th Term

MSN – Joseph Bryant (AL.com) | Published: 10/12/2023

As he makes his first court appearance in his federal corruption case, state Rep. John Rogers says he is ready to fight the charges and seek another term in the Alabama Legislature. A grand jury charged Rogers with obstruction in a kickback scheme involving public money from the Jefferson County Community Service fund, a collection of tax dollars that local lawmakers get to dole out to local causes. Prosecutors allege Rogers attempted to bribe someone to lie to investigators about the scheme by promising them additional public money.

Alabama – Court Picks New Alabama Congressional Map That Will Likely Flip One Seat to Democrats

Yahoo News – Zach Montellaro and Madison Fernandez (Politico) | Published: 10/5/2023

A federal court picked Alabama’s new congressional map, which will likely result in an additional Black – and Democratic – member in the delegation. The new map came after the same panel of federal judges twice found that lines drawn by the GOP-dominated Legislature likely violated the Voting Rights Act by weakening the power of Black voters. The new lines will be used for at least the 2024 elections, though Alabama Republicans have vowed to fight them for future cycles.

Arizona – Arizona Recount Law Could Delay Certifying 2024 Election, Officials Say

MSN – Yvonne Winget Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 10/5/2023

If the 2024 presidential election is close in Arizona, a newly enacted state law will mandate a ballot recount that will probably cause the state to miss crucial deadlines for certifying the vote. The battleground state is expected to play a pivotal role in the next presidential election and any holdup in counting votes there could cause chaos.

Arkansas – Scrutiny of Arkansas Governor’s $19,000 Lectern Deepens After New Records Are Released

Yahoo News – Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) | Published: 10/10/2023

Arkansas Gov, Sarah Huckabee Sanders is facing new and deepening questions after newly released public records revealed her office bought a lectern for $19,000 and a whistle-blower accused the office of altering records to cover up the spending. The Arkansas Republican Party paid for the lectern in September, but the words “to be reimbursed” were only added later to the original invoice. The undated reimbursement note adds to weeks of scrutiny over the purchase. A legislative panel is expected to vote on a request for an audit of the lectern’s purchase.

California – Secret Tape Scandal One Year Later: What’s changed at LA City Hall?

MSN – Frank Stoltze (LAist) | Published: 10/10/2023

Outrage followed the release in 2022 of a secretly recorded audio tape of some Los Angeles City Council members making racist and derogatory remarks. The audio was from a meeting where four council members were discussing how to redraw council district boundaries in a way that would maintain their power. For weeks, council meetings were marked by loud, angry protests that often shut down the proceedings. In the year since the tapes were leaked, the fallout from the scandal has fundamentally changed City Hall.

California – SF Government Watchdogs Eye New Ethics Regulations

San Francisco Examiner – Adam Shanks | Published: 10/11/2023

More than three years after a corruption scandal swept through San Francisco City Hall, the Ethics Commission will see its broad proposal for reforms finally land on the ballot. The measure. set to appear before voters in March 2024, would set new restrictions on accepting gifts and expand ethics training for city employees. In the meantime, the Ethics Commission is already contemplating regulations on thorny topics such as city employees’ ability to manage companies that contract with their own departments.

Florida – Mayor Suarez Praised Ken Griffin’s Controversial Plan. Billionaire’s Aide Wrote the Quote

Yahoo News – Sarah Blaskey, and Tess Riski (Miami Herald) | Published: 10/5/2023

When a reporter asked Miami Mayor Francis Suarez to comment on billionaire Ken Griffin’s controversial plan to relocate a historic home from his $106 million bayfront estate and turn it into a tourist attraction, the mayor expressed his full support. But Suarez’s sentiments were scripted, word for word, by Griffin’s spokesperson, who gave them to the city, emails indicate. The mayor’s office then presented the statement as Suarez’s own words to the Miami Herald.

Illinois – Illinois Democrats Drew New Maps. The Changes Pushed the GOP to the Right.

MSN – Kevin Sullivan and Clara Ence Morse (Washington Post) | Published: 10/7/2023

Illinois Democrats used their supermajority to redraw congressional district lines in a way that would strengthen their already solid lock on power. The strategy worked, adding one Democratic seat to the Illinois delegation, and trimming two Republican ones as GOP voters were packed into a smaller number of districts. The new map also accomplished what experts say gerrymandering does with ruthless efficiency, regardless of whether Democrats or Republicans are responsible: hollowing out the moderate political center and driving both parties further toward the ideological fringes.

Illinois – City Settlement Deal Demands Silence from Whistleblowers Fired by Chicago Treasurer Conyears-Ervin

MSN – Gregory Pratt (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 10/11/2023

In a departure from usual practices at City Hall, Chicago’s $100,000 settlement agreement with whistleblowers who were fired by Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin prohibits them from publicly discussing their negative experiences in her office. Of more than three dozen settlements reached with city workers over the past five years, the deal that Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s administration reached with the treasurer’s ex-employees was the only one that contained what amounts to a gag order. In a handful of cases, former employees agreed not to discuss the terms of their settlements, but they could still speak freely about their time in city government.

Illinois – ‘You Added Another Star to Chicago’s Walk of Shame’: Berrios son-in-law gets 5 1/2 years in prison in bribery case involving two state legislators

Yahoo Finance – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 10/11/2023

James Weiss, the son-in-law of former Cook County Democratic boss Joseph Berrios, was sentenced to five-and-one-half years in prison, bringing an end to a bribery case centered on the shady world of sweepstakes gaming with elements of political corruption, a state senator turned government mole, and even alleged mob ties. In handing down the sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Steven Seeger decried Chicago’s long history of public corruption, saying cases like Weiss’ cause people to “roll their eyes” when they meet someone from Chicago.

Iowa – Democrats Remove Iowa Caucuses from First-in-the-Nation Status

MSN – Tyler Pager and Michael Scherer (Washington Post) | Published: 10/6/2023

The Democratic Party officially dislodged Iowa from its prized status as the first state in the presidential nominating process, approving the state Democratic Party’s plan to release their results on Super Tuesday next year. The decision ends a nearly two-year fight over Iowa’s place in selecting a Democratic nominee, which resulted in a complete overhaul of the calendar.

Kentucky – Louisville’s Ethics Board Sues City Over Control of Its Own Records

WDRB – Marcus Green | Published: 10/10/2023

Metro government’s ethics agency is suing Louisville and Jefferson County Attorney Mike O’Connell, claiming it does not have total control over its own records as local law requires. The lawsuit argues the mayor-appointed Louisville Metro Ethics Commission is :at the mercy” of Metro government and its open records personnel to fulfill those requests under Kentucky law. As a result, the suit alleges, some records have been made public without the commission’s input, while it is not known if documents have been withheld.

Michigan – Michigan Republican Party Faces Financial Turmoil, Bank Records Show

Killeen Daily – Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 9/30/2023

The Michigan Republican Party had about $35,000 in its bank accounts in August, according to internal records that flash new warning signs about the dire state of the GOP’s finances and raise questions about whether the organization is complying with campaign finance laws. The party has regularly transferred money from an account that is usually focused on federal elections to other accounts to afford expenses. Earlier this year, the party’s federal account was loaned $15,000 after that account’s balance turned negative. The transaction was not reported in disclosures from the campaign or the party’s federal committee.

Montana – Political Commissioner Dismisses Dems’ Ethics Complaint Against Lt. Gov

Helena Independent Record – Seaborn Larson | Published: 10/11/2023

Montana Commissioner of Political Practices Chris Gallus dismissed an ethics complaint regarding Lt. Gov. Kristen Juras’ rental agreement with a religious advocacy group. Gallus found the complaint filed by state Democrats failed to articulate a violation and instead urged his office to investigate the party’s suspicions. The Montana Democratic Party asserted Juras was given a lease agreement below market rate for a rental home owned by the Montana Family Institute. That organization is closely aligned with the Montana Family Foundation, a longtime proponent of conservative causes.

New York – Appellate Division Says State Ethics Panel Can Keep Working

Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 10/10/2023

A state appeals court said New York’s ethics panel can remain in operation as it seeks to overturn a lower court decision that determined its structure violates the state constitution. The appeals court’s decision comes a month after a state Supreme Court justice ruled the Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government was created in violation of the constitution and must suspend its work.

New York – After Years of Exaggerating His Business Assets, Trump Confronts Them in Court

MSN – Jonathan O’Connell and Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 10/10/2023

Thousands of pages of court documents prepared by New York Attorney General Letitia James as evidence in the fraud case she has filed against Donald Trump show how accounting, banking, and real estate experts repeatedly informed Trump how much his properties and businesses were really worth. But over and over again, the documents reveal that Trump, his adult sons, and top executives allegedly ignored or sidelined those experts, exchanging their figures for numbers from another source: Trump’s own intuition.

New York – Mob Allegations Tail Tow Truckers in City Hall Bribery Scandal

The City – Greg Smith | Published: 10/10/2023

A tow company owner who raised money for New York City Mayor Eric Adams and faces bribery charges tied to his interactions with a former top mayoral aide has been enmeshed in scandals dating back 25 years, including one in which prosecutors alleged his company was controlled by the Genovese crime family. Mazzio was indicted on charges of bribing aide Eric Ulrich. In exchange for cash and New York Mets tickets, prosecutors allege Ulrich got Mazzio access to Adams’ chief advisor and a dinner with the mayor.

North Carolina – North Carolina Republicans Override Governor’s Veto on Key Election Law

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 10/10/2023

Republican lawmakers overrode North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of a bill that overhauls who runs elections and achieves a long-sought goal of the state GOP. The legislation creates bipartisan boards that could deadlock on establishing early voting locations or certifying results in a state that may prove crucial in next year’s presidential election. Republicans contend the bill helps guarantee elections will be run fairly by establishing bipartisan election boards that will take politics out of the process.

Ohio – Ohio’s GOP Supermajority Tests Limits of Democracy Before Abortion Vote

MSN – Annie Gowan (Washington Post) | Published: 10/6/2023

In state after state since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Democrats and their abortion rights allies have won victories over Republicans and others who oppose abortion. The latest battleground is Ohio, where a GOP supermajority has fought to consolidate its power in ways that critics, and even some within the party, say threatens democracy.

Ohio – Ohio GOP Rivalry Escalates with Lawsuit Against House Speaker, Fight for Campaign Fund Control

MSN – Samantha Hendrickson (Associated Press) | Published: 10/11/2023

A schism between House Republicans appears to only be widening after a rival GOP-contingent sued fellow conservative Speaker Jason Stephens to seize control of over $1 million in campaign money from the Ohio House Republican Alliance and its coffers that fund campaigns for state GOP legislators. The lawsuit argues Rep. Derek Merrin is the leader of the alliance after a closed-door vote by the majority of the House Republican caucus earlier this year. Therefore, he leads the alliance and has authority over distributing its funds, which are expected to grow as campaign season revs up.

Ohio – Ex-Cincinnati Councilman PG Sittenfeld Sentenced to 16 Months in Federal Prison

WVXU – Nick Swartsell | Published: 10/10/2023

Former Cincinnati City Councilperson P.G. Sittenfeld will spend 16 months in prison, one year on probation, and pay a $40,000 fine on corruption charges. A jury found Sittenfeld guilty on one charge of bribery and one charge of extortion in 2022. At the center of Sittenfeld’s conviction are allegations he received $20,000 from undercover FBI agents.

Oklahoma – Okla. Board Moves Forward with Nation’s First Religious Charter School

MSN – Moriah Balingit (Washington Post) | Published: 10/9/2023

A state board in Oklahoma approved a contract with St. Isidore of Seville Virtual Charter School, bringing the institution one step closer to becoming the first publicly funded religious charter school in the nation. The Statewide Virtual Charter School Board voted for the contract despite opposition from the state’s attorney general and a lawsuit that seeks to stop the school from opening. If the school opens, it would represent a new model in education: a tuition-free school with a religious curriculum that is funded largely with taxpayer dollars.

Oregon – Oregon Audits Division Urged to Pull OLCC Report After Inquest into Potential Influence from Former Secretary of State’s Cannabis Ties

KGW – Jamie Parfitt | Published: 10/11/2023

A newly released report dives into the role that former Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan played in an audit of the state’s cannabis regulatory agency, completed just before Fagan resigned amid ethics concerns due to her moonlighting work in the cannabis industry. Oregon’s audits division, like its election division, is overseen by the secretary of state. Around the time that Fagan resigned, Gov. Tina Kotek requested that Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum conduct an examination of the audits division’s cannabis audit in order to determine if there had been any influence from Fagan’s ties to the industry.

Oregon – Oregon Ethics Commission Dismisses Complaint Against Lobbyist Who Led Failed Holvey Recall

Yahoo News – Alan Torres (Eugene Register-Guard) | Published: 10/7/2023

The Oregon Government Ethics Commission voted unanimously to dismiss a complaint against Michael Selvaggio, the United Food and Commercial Workers Local (UFCW) 555 lobbyist who led the failed recall campaign against state Rep. Paul Holvey. The lawmaker accused Selvaggio of violating state law by filing the recall while House Bill 3183, a priority bill for UFCW that Holvey opposed, was in the House Rules Committee. It is illegal for a lobbyist to influence a legislator’s vote by funding or threatening to fund opposition.

Pennsylvania – Inside a Tangled Web of Pa. Businesses and Big Campaign Cash

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Matt Bernardini and Mike Wereschagin | Published: 10/9/2023

The flood of campaign donations by businessperson Adam Kidan and the access he gained through those contributions to prominent politicians illustrates how top political donors can enter the corridors of power through doors not open to average voters. With critical campaigns next year for president and U.S. Senate, good-government experts worry the use of corporations to dump cash into elections is undermining laws designed to show the public who is behind the most consequential decision-makers in the country.

South Carolina – Supreme Court Likely to Side with South Carolina GOP in Racial Gerrymandering Case

Yahoo News – Zach Montellaro and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 10/11/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority appeared likely to uphold a Republican-drawn congressional district in South Carolina that a lower court found was racially gerrymandered. The case tests the legal limits of partisan gerrymandering when it intersects with race. The NAACP is accusing GOP lawmakers of drawing the state’s First Congressional District by shuffling Black voters in and out of the district to make it reliably Republican.

Texas – Texas Republicans’ Internecine Fights Overshadow Special Session

MSN – Molly Hennessey-Fiske (Washington Post) | Published: 10/8/2023

A civil war is raging among Texas Republicans. As lawmakers returned to Austin to address school vouchers and border security, that infighting threatens to consume the third special session of the year. The GOP has ruled all three branches of state government for decades, but this year tensions within the party have boiled over into very public battles. “… You have leadership of the Republican Party … trying to fend off challenges from the grassroots, certainly populist wing of the party,” said Brendan Steinhauser, a Republican strategist based in Austin.

Washington – Port of Seattle Commissioner Felleman Violated Ethics Code, Board Finds

Seattle Times – Renata Geraldo | Published: 10/5/2023

Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Felleman violated the Port’s code of ethics by using his position to gain special privileges or exemptions with a nonprofit, the Port Board of Ethics found. Felleman tried using his commissioner status to get involved in the leadership of nonprofit Washington Maritime Blue’s Quiet Sound program. Quiet Sound, partly funded by the Port, seeks to reduce the underwater noise impact of large vessels on orcas. The program’s procedures say nontribal elected officials cannot join its leadership committee.

Wisconsin – As Wisconsin Supreme Court Takes Up Maps Case, Impeachment Threat Looms

Yahoo News – Reid Epstein and Julie Bosman (New York Times) | Published: 10/6/2023

The liberal majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging the state’s Republican-drawn legislative districts, a decision that could spur impeachment proceedings against a newly elected justice, Janet Protasiewicz, who refused to recuse herself from the case. The decision to accept the case, known as an original action because it means the case will bypass Wisconsin’s trial and appeals courts, comes over the objections of at least two of the court’s three conservative justices and the state’s leading Republicans.

 

Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order 208 calling for a special session of the Legislature to begin Wednesday, September 20.

The session will consider and act upon two proposals to enact a comprehensive workforce development package.

The proposals would use some of the state’s projected $4 billion surplus in this biennium to:

• Support child care providers,
• Support a paid family and medical leave program for private employers,
• And create new investment in higher education.

Gov. Jim Justice called a special legislative session convening on Sunday, August 6.

The proclamation issued for this special session lists 44 items for consideration including the creation of a new state park and several bills regarding the state correctional officer shortage.

This special session is expected to last through at least Tuesday, August 8.