Federal:

As Donald Trump Surges in Polls, Democrats Cheer
Washington Post – Philip Rucker | Published: 7/1/2015

With the Republican Party on a mission to woo Latino voters, one of its presidential candidates has been enmeshed for two weeks in a feud over his inflammatory comments about Mexican immigrants. “They’re bringing drugs, they’re bringing crime, they’re rapists,” Donald Trump said in his campaign announcement speech. The comments, and many more since, have prompted an uproar among Latino groups and a series of nasty break-ups between Trump and various corporate partners. His outlandish rhetoric and skill at occupying the national spotlight is also proving to be dangerously toxic for the GOP brand, which remains in the rehabilitation stage after losing the 2012 presidential race.

Bernie Sanders Doesn’t Follow the Money
Politico – Tarini Parti and Jonathan Topaz | Published: 6/28/2015

Working almost exclusively from his website, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders has raised about $8 million so far for his presidential campaign with an average donation of around $40. But Sanders, who has been rising fast in recent early-state polls, is missing an opportunity to capitalize on his momentum with a progressive base that has been without a standard-bearer since U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren declined to run. “I frankly don’t get the restraint ….,” said Harvard University professor Lawrence Lessig, adding that some think Sanders is ruining his presidential chances by not having a super PAC. Sanders faces the daunting task of finding a way to stay competitive in the Democratic primaries against one of the most potent pair of fundraisers in party history, Bill and Hillary Clinton, who are expected to count their receipts on Hillary’s behalf in the billions of dollars.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Justices Rule 5-4 That Independent Panels Can Draw Election District Lines
Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 6/29/2015

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld Arizona’s congressional map, declaring the use of an independent redistricting commission that drew House district lines in the 2012 cycle did not violate the Constitution. About a dozen states have experimented with redistricting commissions that have varying degrees of independence from the state Legislatures, which ordinarily draw election maps. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg rejected the Arizona Legislature’s contention that it alone has power over redistricting. She said the decision by voters to turn reapportionment over to an independent commission “was in full harmony with the Constitution’s conception of the people as the font of governmental power.”

California – Ex-State Sen. Leland Yee Pleads Guilty to Racketeering in Corruption Case
Los Angeles Times – Lee Romney | Published: 7/1/2015

Former California Sen. Leland Yee pleaded guilty to a racketeering charge in an organized crime and public corruption case. He could face a maximum of 20 years in prison when he is sentenced in October. The FBI arrested Yee and 19 others in 2014 during a series of raids targeting a Bay Area organized crime ring. Yee was accused of soliciting and accepting bribes in exchange for providing help from Sacramento. The FBI also alleged that Yee, who was running for secretary of state at the time, conspired to connect an undercover agent with an international arms dealer in exchange for campaign contributions.

Florida – How Marco Rubio Turned Political Star Power into a Soaring Personal Income
Washington Post – Tom Hamburger and Sean Sullivan | Published: 6/29/2015

During his nine years in Tallahassee, as U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio rose in prominence and ascended to the state House speakership, he became increasingly well-compensated as he walked a narrow line between his work as a lawmaker and an employee of outside firms with interests before the state government. An analysis shows about 80 percent of his total income during his House tenure came from Florida law firms that lobby state and local governments. Rubio’s annual income grew from about $72,000 when he was elected to the state House in 2000 to $414,000 in 2008, when his two-year speakership ended.

Maine – Combative Maine Governor Becomes a Party of One
New York Times – Katherine Seelye | Published: 6/28/2015

In the last few weeks, Maine Gov. Paul LePage’s belligerence has surprised even his critics, and prompted some to raise the specter of impeachment. In a standoff that began with differences over tax policy, LePage has alienated just about the entire Legislature, including his fellow Republicans and onetime allies.

New York – Ex-N.Y. State Senator Gets Seven Years in Prison for Bribery
Albany Times Union – Tom Hays (Associated Press) | Published: 7/1/2015

Former New York Sen. Malcolm Smith will spend seven years in prison for a scheme to bribe his way onto the ballot for the 2013 New York City mayoral election. Smith wanted to be mayor but sought to avoid a Democratic primary. He instead decided to obtain the backing of GOP leaders in three boroughs so he could run as a Republican. Prosecutors said he authorized bribes totaling about $200,000. The five other politicians who were arrested with Smith were convicted or pleaded guilty.

New York – IG: State vendor lavished OMIG director with gifts, booze
Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 6/25/2015

A new report accused Joseph Flora, the former director of the New York Office of Medical Inspector General (OMIG), of improperly accepting gifts – including meals, alcohol, and a $130,000-a-year job offer – from a company that has a multimillion-dollar contract with the state. Health Management Systems (HMS) has had multiple contracts with OMIG since 2006. Flora was forced to retire from his state job in 2014 after a probe of his ties to the company. Separately, as a client of a registered lobbyist throughout the entire time period, HMS was subject to certain prohibitions on giving gifts to public officials. The Joint Commission on Public Ethics announced it had reached a settlement under which HMS would pay a $75,000 penalty.

Ohio – Lobbyist a Constant in Columbus’ Politics
Columbus Dispatch – Mark Ferenchik and Lucas Sullivan | Published: 6/28/2015

Lobbyist John Raphael has been a presence in Columbus, Ohio for almost 40 years. He has been an aide to a state senator and a member of the Columbus City Council, helped run a restaurant that was frequented by politicians, and currently represents eight clients at City Hall. And now he is at the center of a political and legal firestorm. In a plea agreement, former Redflex Chief Executive Officer Karen Finley said she passed money through Raphael and the Ohio Democratic Party to elected officials in Columbus to obtain contracts for red-light cameras. Council President Andrew Ginther, running this year to succeed Mayor Michael Coleman, has been subpoenaed in the matter, as has Coleman.

Oregon – How Much Pot Can Lawmakers Receive as a Gift? Oregon Democrat Has Some Advice
Portland Oregonian – Denis Theriault | Published: 6/30/2015

The Oregon Government Ethics Commission’s handbook for elected officials spells out a lot of rules in its section on gifts, especially when the people giving the gift have a financial interest in that official’s work. But none of those rules cover marijuana, which is legal in Oregon but not nationally. Rep. Ann Liniger offered some advice in an email to colleagues, recommending they know the value of the quantity of marijuana they are offered so as not to violate the $50 limit on gifts. But Lininger also sought to clarify her advice when asked about it by reporters. “My recommendation is that elected officials not accept gifts of cannabis,” said Linder.

Oregon – Kate Brown Signs Final Ethics Reforms, Mentions ‘Chaos and Confusion’ of Kitzhaber’s Last Days
Portland Oregonian – Denis Theriault | Published: 7/1/2015

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signed the last of three ethics-related bills she requested after Gov. John Kitzhaber resigned amid an influence-peddling scandal. House Bill 2019 expands the Oregon Government Ethics Commission from seven members to nine, while speeding up its timelines for investigating complaints and giving legislative leaders a larger role in appointing its members. House Bill 2020 clarifies that the governor’s partner is a public officials who must join file conflict-of-interest forms. It also raises bans the governor and first partner, and all other statewide elected officials, from accepting speaking fees.

Pennsylvania – Lack of Funding for State Ethics Commission Invites Corruption, Experts Worry
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – Kari Andren | Published: 6/27/2015

The number of staff members at the Pennsylvania Ethics Commission now stands at 17, down 30 percent from the 24 who once worked there. The commission’s funding topped 2009 levels for the first time this year at just more than $2 million. But this year’s $222,000 increase went to the bare essentials: upgrading outdated computers and software and hiring one investigator, the first hire in six years. Executive Director Rob Caruso said with its funding and staffing levels, the commission cannot fully investigate all of the 400 to 500 sworn complaints filed each year. One expert said Pennsylvania’s lack of funding for its watchdog office invites corruption.

Texas – John Wiley Price Associates Enter Guilty Pleas, Agree to Testify
Dallas Morning News – Kevin Krause and Ed Timms | Published: 6/30/2015

Two people have pleaded guilty in a federal corruption probe of Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, who is accused of accepting nearly $1 million in bribes. Christian Lloyd Campbell was a consultant for Price. Campbell pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery. Price, who awaits trial on conspiracy and fraud-related counts, allegedly accepted bribes to leak confidential information to help Campbell’s clients win contracts. Gallery owner Karen Manning pleaded guilty to subscribing to a fraudulent income tax return. Prosecutors say Manning sold African art for Price in a scheme to hide his illicit profits.

Virginia – With McAuliffe in Office, Old Friends Find New Opportunities
Lexington Herald-Leader – Alan Suderman (Associated Press) | Published: 6/26/2015

After Gov. Terry McAuliffe took office in early 2014, some of his friends – who had never lobbied in Virginia before – started registering as lobbyists with several companies interested in contracting with the state. Among the companies are technology and health care businesses, including some Medicaid-related firms. McAuliffe has made expanding Medicaid a top priority for his administration. He has so far been blocked by the Republican-controlled General Assembly.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Q. I recently became a registered lobbyist in my company’s home state.  I am also very active politically.  Are there any restrictions on my political contributions now that I am a registered lobbyist?

A. An individual’s status as a registered lobbyist can place additional restrictions and requirements on him or her related to his or her political contributions. Some jurisdictions place strict restrictions on a lobbyist’s ability to make contributions.  South Carolina prohibits registered lobbyists from making contributions to a candidate or anyone acting on behalf of a candidate if the lobbyist engages in lobbying the public office or public body for which the candidate is seeking election.  California has a similar prohibition, providing lobbyists may not contribute to a state candidate or officeholder, or their controlled committees, if registered to lobby the governmental agency for which the candidate seeks election or to which the officeholder belongs.  Other jurisdictions limit the amount a registered lobbyist can contribute compared to a nonregistered individual.  Registered legislative and executive agents in Massachusetts may contribute no more than $200 in the aggregate to any one candidate and such candidate’s committee during a calendar year.

A number of jurisdictions require reporting of lobbyist contributions.  Pennsylvania has extensive registration and reporting requirements for lobbyists who make personal political contributions, requiring them to register with the state before making a personal contribution and to file reports on the same schedule as a PAC.  Maryland’s reporting requirements are not as extensive, requiring certain political contributions to be disclosed on the lobbyist’s activity report.

When an individual becomes a registered lobbyist, he or she must review the applicable rules on his or her political contributions.  If unsure as to the requirements, please be sure to review our website at www.stateandfed.com for up-to-date information.

You can directly submit questions for this feature, and we will select those most appropriate and answer them here. Send your questions to: experts@stateandfed.com.

(We are always available to answer questions from clients that are specific to your needs, and we encourage you to continue to call or e-mail us with questions about your particular company or organization. As always, we will confidentially and directly provide answers or information you need.) Our replies to your questions are not legal advice. Instead, these replies represent our analysis of laws, rules, and regulations.

Lobbying

“Lobbying Typos and Misdemeanors” by James Panichi for Politico

“How Marco Rubio Turned Political Star Power into a Soaring Personal Income” by Tom Hamburger and Sean Sullivan for Washington Post

Ohio: “Lobbyist a Constant in Columbus’ Politics” by Mark Ferenchik and Lucas Sullivan for Columbus Dispatch

Virginia: “With McAuliffe in Office, Old Friends Find New Opportunities” by Alan Suderman (Associated Press) for Lexington Herald-Leader

Campaign Finance

“Bernie Sanders Doesn’t Follow the Money” by Tarini Parti and Jonathan Topaz for Politico

“Money Talks, Especially during Legislative Sessions” by Madison Russ for Philadelphia Inquirer

Ethics

Maine: “Combative Maine Governor Becomes a Party of One” by Katherine Seelye for New York Times

New Jersey: “Backlog of Local N.J. Ethics Cases Fosters Frustration” by Nicholas Pugliese for Bergen Record

Pennsylvania: “Lack of Funding for State Ethics Commission Invites Corruption, Experts Worry” by Kari Andren for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Redistricting

“Justices Rule 5-4 That Independent Panels Can Draw Election District Lines” by Robert Barnes for Washington Post

The National Assembly in Quebec has introduced new legislation proposing to strengthen and expand lobbying activities. Bill 56, titled the Lobbying Transparency Act, expands the scope of the definition of lobbyists to include shareholders lobbying for an entity as well as directors and officers of a non-profit. The bill also expands the types of activity considered to be lobbying.

Under Bill 56, all lobbying engaged in by enterprise or organization lobbyists triggers registration, not just those activities which represent a significant portion of his or her job, as is the threshold under current law. Making an appointment or setting up a meeting with a public office holder is considered lobbying under the proposed legislation.

Bill 56 requires each lobbyist to file a return before engaging in lobbying activity. This provision makes Quebec the only Canadian province to require registration prior to lobbying.

Finally, the bill imposes stricter penalties and higher fines on violators of the law.

Lobbying

New York: “IG: State vendor lavished OMIG director with gifts, booze” by Brendan Lyons for Albany Times Union

Wisconsin: “Madison City Council Member Will Seek to Ban Registered Lobbyists from Serving on City Committees” by Dean Mosiman for Wisconsin State Journal

Campaign Finance

“W.H., Watchdogs Rail against ‘Dark Money’ Provision Tucked into House Bill” by Tom Hamburger for Washington Post

Connecticut: “Election Panel Will Take Democrats to Court over Malloy Campaign” by Ken Dixon for Connecticut Post

Montana: “Montana Moves to Reveal Corporate Campaign Spending” by Alison Noon and Matt Volz (Associated Press) for New York Times

Ethics

Hawaii: “Honolulu Ethics Commission to Director Chuck Totto: Shut up” by Nick Grube for Honolulu Civil Beat

New York: “Former Friend Testifies as Obstruction Trial Begins for Brooklyn State Senator” by Stephanie Clifford for New York Times

Texas: “Abbott Emails Predicted Ethics Reform Failure” by Jay Root for Texas Tribune

Utah: “Audit: Utah A.G.’s office needs clearer whistleblower protection, ethics guides” by Robert Gehrke for Salt Lake Tribune

Elections

“Why Is The GOP Presidential Field So Large in 2016?” by James Pindell for Boston Globe

National:

Calls to Drop Confederate Emblems Spread Nationwide
New York Times – Campbell Robertson, Monica Davey, and Julie Bosman | Published: 6/23/2015

After decades of bitter debate over whether the Confederate battle flag is a proud symbol of regional heritage or a shameful emblem of the nation’s most grievous sins, the argument may finally be moving toward an end. South Carolina is leading the way for other states as it considers removing the flag from its Capitol grounds after nine parishioners were shot to death in a black church in Charleston. Photographs that have since surfaced of the accused killer, Dylann Roof, show him posing with the Confederate flag. The banner was long considered politically sacrosanct in the South, at least among conservative whites. It now appears that a rush is on to banish it, along with other images that evoke the Confederacy and sow racial divisiveness.

Can Unlimited Contributions to Political Parties Really Reduce Polarization?
Washington Post – Lee Drutman | Published: 6/23/2015

Ideological polarization has many causes, most of which cannot be altered. But over the past few years, a growing crowd of scholars has explored the possibility that stronger parties could reduce the division. Because different states have different rules on how much money parties can raise, the proposition that making it easier for parties to raise more money reduces polarization can be empirically tested.

Federal:

Lobbyists: Easy target, easy touch
Politico – Tarini Parti | Published: 6/21/2015

In his speech announcing his intention to run for president, Jeb Bush singled out the lobbying industry for criticism, saying, “We will also challenge the culture that has made lobbying the premier growth industry in the nation’s capital – the rest of the country struggles under big government, while comfortable, complacent interest groups in Washington have been thriving on it.” Bush is not alone in calling out the industry. As presidential candidates look to portray themselves as Washington outsiders, lobbyists have emerged as a common, easy target. But lobbying firms still rank high on the list of fundraising stops for presidential hopefuls.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arkansas – Ethics Panel Issues Opinion on Lobbyist Gifts
Arkansas News – John Lyon | Published: 6/19/2015

The Arkansas Ethics Commission issued an advisory opinion stating that state agency directors, agency deputy directors, agency employees, and most local elected officials and their staffs and the staff members of constitutional officers are not barred from accepting gifts from lobbyists under Amendment 94. Gifts that fall outside of the scope of the amendment would still be subject to analysis, the commission said in the opinion, noting the law excludes gifts with a value of $100 or less.

California – Lawmakers’ Calendars List Meetings with Undercover Agents
San Diego Union Tribune – Judy Lin (Associated Press) | Published: 6/23/2015

Providing a rare glimpse at politicians’ lives outside the Capitol, the California Senate released about 300 pages from the calendars of former Sens. Ron Calderon and Leland Yee, who have been indicted on separate corruption charges. The appointment books appear to corroborate allegations that they met with undercover FBI agents at steakhouses and a lobbyist’s office. A judge found in the first ruling of its kind in California that the public’s interest outweighed the Senate’s interest in keeping the records private after news organizations sued to get the lawmakers’ records.

Florida – How Some of Florida’s Top Lobbyists Produce Blockbuster Budget Results
SaintPetersBlog – Peter Schorsch | Published: 6/16/2015

Speculation is part of the budget-making process in Florida as lobbyists and advocates seek funding for projects and programs. Then desperation hangs in the air during the final week of a 60-day session while they wait to see whether a year’s worth of work will result in a line item in the $77 billion state budget. “It’s a different type of animal than any other part of the legislative session, for sure,” said lobbyist Travis Blanton. “You can’t ever relax or take time off with the budget. You’ve got to play through the whole process [because] you don’t know until the moment when they hit the print button that you are in the budget or not.”

Idaho – Lobbying at the Capitol: Should Idaho state employees have to register under the law?
Idaho Statesman – Bill Dentzer | Published: 6/19/2015

State employees who lobby the Idaho Legislature or government officials as part of their jobs – for example, the lobbyists for the state’s universities – always used to register and disclose their spending. But after an attorney general’s opinion found they did not need to, the university lobbyists and other state workers whose jobs entail lobbying stopped filing. Now, Idaho Secretary of State Lawerence Denney wants to propose legislation to make them register and disclose again. He also obtained a new opinion stating that gifts to lawmakers or executive branch officials must be disclosed, even if they come from state employees in the course of doing their jobs.

Kentucky – Florida Group Challenges Kentucky Law That Bans Corporations from Making Political Contributions
Lexington Herald-Leader – Jack Brammer | Published: 6/18/2015

Kentucky’s ban on corporate contributions to political parties and state and local candidates was challenged in a federal lawsuit filed by a group promoting a right-to-work agenda opposed by organized labor. The Florida-based group, Protect My Check Inc., claims the prohibition violates equal protection and free-speech rights. It said the ban is discriminatory because unions and limited liability companies are allowed to donate to candidates and political parties in Kentucky.

Missouri – Police Report Reveals Past Diehl Affair with Nixon Staffer
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 6/19/2015

Former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl, who resigned after exchanging sexually suggestive text messages with a Capitol intern, also had affair with a former aide to Gov. Jay Nixon. While announcing his resignation, Diehl said he had not had any other inappropriate relationships with other women. But a Jefferson City police report notes Diehl and former Nixon aide Brittany Burke acknowledged to police they had an affair last year. At the time, Burke was lobbying the Legislature for the administration.

New Mexico – Transparency-Pushing Nonprofit Discloses Donors
NMPolitics – Heath Haussamen | Published: 6/19/2015

The IRS does not require most nonprofits to disclose their donors publicly even if they engage in lobbying or issue advocacy. But Common Cause’s national policy requires that it release information about donors of $250 or more when requested, which is how NMPolitics.net obtained the list of New Mexico donors. Common Cause New Mexico Executive Director Viki Harrison said her organization believes “it is very important to have full transparency in any efforts to influence policy.” She said she hopes additional nonprofit groups will voluntarily disclose their funding, “just like we hope elected officials, parties, lobbyists, and PACs go above and beyond what is simply the law when they disclose information.”

Ohio – Former Traffic Camera Exec Admits to Bribing Officials in Columbus, Cincinnati
Cleveland Plain Dealer – Jeremy Pelzer (Northeast Ohio Media Group) | Published: 6/19/2015

Karen Finley, a former chief executive officer of Redflex Traffic Systems, pleaded guilty to bribery in an eight-year scheme involving elected city officials from both Cincinnati and Columbus to win or keep traffic-camera contracts. Court records show campaign contributions were funneled to the officials through a political consultant, and the money intended for Columbus officials was given to the Franklin County Democratic Party and Ohio Democratic Party, according to the plea agreement. Finley left the company in 2013 following a similar scandal in Chicago.

Oregon – Cannabis Industry Flexes Its New Political Muscle
Oregon Public Broadcasting – Conrad Wilson | Published: 6/21/2015

The 300 attendees at a recent fundraiser in Portland for U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer represented a newly energized group – members of the cannabis industry, now in an era where their product is legal for recreational use in Oregon. The Oregon Cannabis PAC hosted the event, which raised $100,000. Its leaders say that is the largest sum ever contributed by the industry to a politician during a single event. As the marijuana industry grows around the county, its political clout is growing, too. For members of Congress who are constantly fundraising, the industry offers new, high-yield donors. But it also raises questions about where the money came from and what those donors expect in return.

Oregon – Kate Brown Gets Her Wish: Last of her ethics reforms win approval
Portland Oregonian – Denis Theriault | Published: 6/18/2015

Oregon lawmakers approved the last of Gov. Kate Brown’s ethics reform bills. House Bill 2019 speeds up investigations by the state Government Ethics Commission and sharply limits the governor’s role in appointing its members. House Bill 2020 affirms that the governor’s partner is subject to state ethics rules and bans statewide officers from accepting speaking fees. Both join Senate Bill 9, which Brown has signed. It orders an audit of state agencies’ handling of public records, with its findings expected to serve as the basis of reforms as soon as next year.

Texas – Abbott Vetoes Spousal Loophole
Texas Tribune – Jay Root | Published: 6/20/2015

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed two ethics reform bills that would have given lawmakers cover to hide their spouses’ financial dealings. The vetoes capped Abbott’s inability in his first year to strengthen ethics laws as promised. He even named it one of five legislative priorities. Lawmakers fought for months over allowing more transparency about their personal wealth and curbing conflicts-of-interest. Although the vetoed bills would have tightened some disclosure rules, even ethics watchdogs considered what became known as the “spousal loophole” amendment far too toxic.

Washington – Vaping Giveaways Raise Eyebrows at State Capitol
The Olympian – Melissa Santos (Tacoma News Tribune) | Published: 6/24/2015

In a contest promoted by a group that supports stores that sell electronic cigarettes, customers who emailed Washington legislators to oppose new taxes on vapor products were entered into a drawing for prizes. Other shops told customers that if they emailed or called their lawmakers from inside a participating store, they would get a discount on their purchases. It is an unusual type of lobbying that has frustrated some state lawmakers who are looking to regulate the vaping industry. A spokesperson for state Public Disclosure Commission said providing discounts or giveaways in exchange for people contacting their lawmakers is not against the law, it is just something the agency has not seen before.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Lobbying

Hawaii: “Former Lobbyist Who Wined and Dined Council Members Now Vice Chair of Key Panel” by Keoki Kerr for Hawaii News Now

Nebraska: “Common Cause Complaint against Former Senator Dismissed” by Joanne Young for Lincoln Journal Star

Campaign Finance

“This Chart Seemingly Proves How Wrong I Am about Money in Politics” by Chris Cillizza for Washington Post

“Cannabis Industry Flexes Its New Political Muscle” by Conrad Wilson for Oregon Public Broadcasting

Ethics

“Calls to Drop Confederate Emblems Spread Nationwide” by Campbell Robertson, Monica Davey, and Julie Bosman for New York Times

California: “Lawmakers’ Calendars List Meetings with Undercover Agents” by Judy Lin (Associated Press) for San Diego Union Tribune

Kentucky: “Kentucky Legislature Resolves Sexual Harassment Lawsuit” by Adam Beam (Associated Press) for Lexington Herald-Leader

Elections

“Bobby Jindal Announces Entry into 2016 Presidential Race” by David Fahrenthold and James Hohmann for Washington Post

“Democratic Super PAC to Take on Koch Brothers” by Maggie Haberman for New York Times

Lobbying

Rhode Island: “Edward Fitzpatrick: A final test for R.I. General Assembly on lobbying law” by Edward Fitzpatrick for Providence Journal

Campaign Finance

“Can Unlimited Contributions to Political Parties Really Reduce Polarization?” by Lee Drutman for Washington Post

“Will Doug Hughes Do Hard Time for Embarrassing Congress?” by Hannah Hess for Roll Call

Ethics

“Council of Conservative Citizens Promotes White Primacy, and G.O.P. Ties” by Michael Wines and Lizette Alvarez for New York Times

“House Ethics Panel Extends Review of Azerbaijan Trip, Slams Leaks” by Rachel Roubein for National Review

Kentucky: “Former Pike Lawmaker Had Mine Inspector in ‘His Back Pocket,’ Prosecutor Says as Bribery Trial Begins” by John Cheves for Lexington Herald-Leader

Oregon: “Kate Brown Gets Her Wish: Last of her ethics reforms win approval” by Denis Theriault for Portland Oregonian

Pennsylvania: “Philly Elections Chief Clark Agrees to Pay $4G Ethics Fine” by Chris Hepp for Philadelphia Inquirer

Virginia: “Marsh Returns Money from Golf Outing” by Jim Nolan for Richmond Times-Dispatch

Lobbying

“Lobbyists: Easy target, easy touch” by Tarini Parti for Politico

Florida: “How Some of Florida’s Top Lobbyists Produce Blockbuster Budget Results” by Peter Schorsch for SaintPetersBlog

Idaho: “Lobbying at the Capitol: Should Idaho state employees have to register under the law?” by Bill Dentzer for Idaho Statesman

New Mexico: “Transparency-Pushing Nonprofit Discloses Donors” by Heath Haussamen for NMPolitics

Campaign Finance

“Don Young Raises Money in Puerto Rico, Then Holds Hearing” by Anna Palmer, John Bresnahan, and Jake Sherman for Politico

Utah: “Feds: Jeremy Johnson skirted campaign finance laws in contributions to Shurtleff, Lee, Reid” by Ben Lockhart for Deseret News

Ethics

Missouri: “Police Report Reveals Past Diehl Affair with Nixon Staffer” by Virginia Young for St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Ohio: “Former Traffic Camera Exec Admits to Bribing Officials in Columbus, Cincinnati” by Jeremy Pelzer (Northeast Ohio Media Group) for Cleveland Plain Dealer

South Carolina: “Nikki Haley, South Carolina Governor, Calls for Removal of Confederate Battle Flag” by Frances Robles, Richard Fausset, and Michael Barbaro for New York Times

Lobbying

Arkansas: “Ethics Panel Issues Opinion on Lobbyist Gifts” by John Lyon for Arkansas News

Campaign Finance

“White Supremacist Leader Was a Political Donor” by Nick Gass for Politico

Kansas: “No Charges Filed after Federal Probe into Election Loans to Brownback’s Campaign” by Peter Hancock for Lawrence Journal World

Massachusetts: “Invitation to Political Fundraiser Might Skirt Ethics Laws” by Frank Phillips for Boston Globe

North Carolina: “NC Sen. Hartsell’s Campaign Finance Case Referred to Prosecutors” by Lynn Bonner for Raleigh News & Observer

Ethics

New York: “In Corruption Cases, Speculation Undermines Justice” by Richard Lipsky for Albany Times Union

Oregon: “Oregon Impeachment Resolution Expected to Die in Senate” by Dennis Theriault for Portland Oregonian

Tennessee: “State Rep. Joe Armstrong Indicted” by Richard Locker for Memphis Commercial Appeal

Texas: “Abbott Vetoes Spousal Loophole” by Jay Root for Texas Tribune

Washington: “Rachel Dolezal Told to Quit 2nd Post” by Kirk Johnson for New York Times

Federal:

Jeb Bush Announces Presidential Bid: ‘We will take command of our future once again’
Washington Post – Ed O’Keefe | Published: 6/15/2015

Jeb Bush announced he is running for president, promising to remove Washington as an obstacle to effective government and economic prosperity. Bush is declaring his White House ambitions nearly 27 years after his father was elected president, molding a political dynasty that would propel one son into a governor’s office and another into the White House. But Bush will enter a presidential contest that is unlike any faced by his father, who won the office in 1988, or his brother, who claimed it in 2000.

Neil Young Message to Donald Trump: Stop rockin’
Christian Science Monitor – Jessica Mendoza | Published: 6/17/2015

Donald Trump announced his presidential candidacy to the sound of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” but Trump did not have permission to use the song, said Elliot Roberts, Young’s manager. The incident makes the real estate developer the latest candidate to butt heads with a musician about song copyright in a campaign. A spokesperson said Trump, a fan of Young’s music despite their differing views, used the song legally through a licensing deal with the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. But even when a campaign does get copyright permission, artists can still object to the use of their music under other laws that protect their brand or image, or ban implications of endorsement.

Republican Operative Sentenced to 2 Years in Landmark Election Case
Washington Post – Matt Zapotosky and Matea Gold | Published: 6/12/2015

A Republican political operative was sentenced to two years in prison after becoming the first person convicted of illegally coordinating campaign donations between a super PAC and a congressional campaign. Tyler Harber said he knew what he was doing was wrong, but he did it anyway because of his desire to win elections and his belief that the law banning such coordination is routinely ignored. “This shows [the U.S. Justice Department is] willing to venture into areas of criminal enforcement in the 2016 election, beyond what they had done previously,” said Kenneth Gross, a former associate general counsel at the FEC.

Russ Feingold’s PAC Funded Fees, Salaries for Former Staffers, Himself
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel – Daniel Bice | Published: 6/15/2015

Former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold, co-author of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, founded a PAC that has given only five percent of its funds to candidates and political parties. Instead, nearly half of the $7.1 million that Progressives United PAC has spent since 2011 has gone to raising more money for itself. The data also show the group has paid another sizable portion of money on salaries or consulting fees for Feingold, his top aide, and former staffers. Feingold is taking on U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson in 2016 to try to win back his old seat.

From the States and Municipalities:

Illinois – $2M Rauner Donor’s Company Does Business with State, Has Exceeded $50K Limit Past 4 Years
State Journal-Register – Bernard Schoenburg | Published: 6/13/2015

Richard Uihlein, chief executive officer of Uline, a packaging supply company, gave $2 million to Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner’s campaign fund in December. Uihlein’s wife, Elizabeth, is president of the firm, and she donated $25,000 to Rauner in October. The company has done more than $50,000 in business with the state in each of the last four years, which means the contributions may have violated state campaign finance law.

Kentucky – John Schaaf to Head Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission
Connecticut Post; Associated Press –   | Published: 6/16/2015

The Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission named current general counsel John Schaaf as its new executive director effective August 1. Schaaf has worked as the commission’s lawyer since 2004, following 16 years as general counsel of the Legislative Research Commission. He helped craft legislation in 1992 that paved the way for ethics reform in the state.

Massachusetts – Lobbyists Were Quick to Donate to Both Baker, Coakley
WCVB; Associated Press –   | Published: 6/13/2015

Lobbyists hedged their bets during the 2014 Massachusetts gubernatorial race, often giving to both Charlie Baker and Martha Coakley. The strategy of contributing to multiple candidates in the same race is not new, according to Pam Wilmot, executive director of Massachusetts Common Cause. “Lobbyists give because they want access – that means access to whoever is elected and the best way to ensure that is to give to both candidates,” Wilmot said.

New York – Education Reforms Spur N.Y. Lobbying ‘Arms Race’
USA Today – Jon Campbell (Gannett Newspapers) | Published: 6/14/2015

Various education interests have spent at least $124 million trying to influence New York lawmakers, officials, and the general public at the state and local level since the start of 2006, including a record of at least $16 million last year. That is in addition to $45.3 million in lobbying expenses reported by the New York State United Teachers union and its New York City affiliate over the past nine years. They are tallied as labor organizations, not education groups, by the state’s lobbying regulator. Add in political spending and the numbers are starker: Education interests and teachers unions have spent $285.5 million on lobbying, campaign contributions, and independent political expenditures over the past decade.

Pennsylvania – Fifth Former LCB Official Accused of Violating State Ethics Laws
Pittsbugh Tribune-Review – Kari Andren | Published: 6/12/2015

A former state Liquor Control Board (LCB) executive was fined for illegally accepting gifts. The Pennsylvania Ethics Commission ordered Timothy Fringer to pay $7,200. The commission said Fringer, the board’s former chief of product management and pricing, accepted gifts from vendors such as meals, golf outings, and tickets to sporting events. Fringer told investigators he was instructed to accept the gifts by Jim Short, the LCB’s former marketing director, and as long as no one complained, “it’s like it never happened.” Short and three other officials in 2014 were fined for a variety of violations stemming from gifts they received from vendors.

Pennsylvania – Some Critical That Officials Caught in Sting Keep State Pensions
Philadelphia Inquirer – Craig McCoy and Angela Couloumbis | Published: 6/13/2015

By pleading guilty to violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law, four defendants in a Pennsylvania corruption case are now disgraced. The two legislators in office at the time of their plea had to resign immediately, as required by the state constitution. But former Philadelphia Traffic Court President Judge Thomasine Tynes and the former lawmakers – Michelle Brownlee, Harold James, and Ronald Waters – did not get hit with prison time or have to forfeit their annual government pensions, estimated at $54,000 to $85,000. To critics, the deals seem unduly lenient, especially the failure to go after their taxpayer-financed retirement checks.

Utah – Ex-A.G. Mark Shurtleff Defers Evidence Hearing; Prosecutors Amend Charges
Deseret News – Dennis Romboy | Published: 6/15/2015

Prosecutors amended charges against former Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, dropping three bribery counts his lawyer insists were the foundation of allegations that the state’s former top lawyer had operated a “pay-to-play” scheme while in office. Prosecutors say Shurtleff accepted money and gifts like beach vacations and the use of luxury homes and boats while he was attorney general. Seven charges remain against Shurtleff, including accepting improper gifts, obstruction of justice, and a count alleging he tried to bribe a victim to derail an investigation. It appears that prosecutors are tailoring the charges to the evidence, not necessarily scaling back the case, said former prosecutor Kent Morgan. The charge of accepting improper gifts is generally simpler to prove at trial than bribery.

Washington – Lawmakers’ Watchdog Asks for Money
Tacoma News Tribune – Jerry Cornfield | Published: 6/15/2015

The interim executive director of the Washington Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has been asking lawmakers for more money in the next state budget to help deal with a backlog of enforcement cases. Under the Senate budget proposal, the job of general counsel would be eliminated and a portion of the savings used to hire a contract lawyer. Also, the Senate approach would axe one position handling requests from the public and another one dealing with the agency’s website and campaign finance database. “This work is important; it is part of that entire ecosystem of good government,” said Fred Kiga, who took over at PDC on June 1.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Gov. Peter Shumlin has signed Senate Bill 93, changing lobbyist reporting requirements. Reports must now be filed for each month the legislature is in session with an additional report in September.

The new law also requires identification of lobbyists contributing to advertisements meant to influence legislation and a report must be filed within 48 hours if such advertisement cost $1,000 or more. Furthermore, a legislator’s candidate committee and a legislative leadership committee may no longer solicit or accept a contribution while the legislature is in session.

These provision are effective July 1, 2015.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill

“Lobbyist bundlers pledge allegiance to Team Bush” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill

“Coalitions of the willing are latest lobbying trend” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post

Minnesota: “Reports offer peek at state Capitol lobbying in 2015 session” by Brian Bakst and Kyle Potter (Associated Press) in The Washington Times

Campaign Finance

“Presidential candidates defy campaign finance limits through well-funded outside groups” by Julie Bykowicz (Associated Press) in Newser

Kentucky: “Florida group challenging Kentucky law that bans corporations from making political contributions” by Jack Brammer in the Lexington Herald-Leader

New Mexico: “New Mexico AG wants more ‘transparency’ in campaign finance” by The Associated Press in The Washington Times

Ethics

“Charlie Dent got clearance for trip with donor to Nantucket” by Jake Sherman, Anna Palmer, and John Bresnahan in Politico

Florida: “Donald Trump cleared in Miami-Dade ethics probe” by Douglas Hanks in the Miami Herald

North Carolina: “Elections board points prosecutors to NC senator’s potential misspending of campaign money” by Emery P. Dalesio (Associated Press) in The Republic

Lobbying

“Where the Billions Spent on Lobbying Come From, in Maps” by Philip Bump for Washington Post

Texas: “Ethics Commission Seeks to Force Empower Texans to Turn over Records” by Tim Eaton for Austin American-Statesman

Campaign Finance

“State and Local Bills Try to Rein in Political Spending” by Tarini Parti for Politico

“Jeb Bush’s Smooth Money Machine” by Anna Palmer and Tarini Parti for Politico

California: “Tow Company Campaign Trickery Alleged” by Jeff McDonald for San Diego Union-Tribune

Ethics

Kentucky: “John Schaaf to Head Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission” by The Associated Press for Connecticut Post

Oklahoma: “State Ethics Commission to Investigate Sen. Rick Brinkley” by Nolan Clay for The Oklahoman

Oregon: “Kate Brown Signs First of Her Ethics Bills, Calling for Public Records Audit” by Denis Theriault for Portland Oregonian

Pennsylvania: “Some Critical That Officials Caught in Sting Keep State Pensions” by Craig McCoy and Angela Couloumbis for Philadelphia Inquirer

Utah: “Ex-A.G. Mark Shurtleff Defers Evidence Hearing; Prosecutors Amend Charges” by Dennis Romboy for Deseret News

Elections

“Donald Trump Runs for President (This Time for Real, He Says)” by Alexander Burns for New York Times