National:

5 Reasons State House Speakers May Be Prone to Corruption
Governing – Alan Greenblatt | Published: 1/26/2015

New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, who is accused of accepting bribes in the form of legal fees, is the fourth speaker of a state House to enter into legal peril over the past 10 months. Last year, Bobby Harrell of South Carolina resigned following his indictment, while Gordon Fox of Rhode Island did the same after a federal raid of his house and his legislative office. Mike Hubbard was re-elected as speaker of the Alabama House, despite being indicted on nearly two-dozen felony corruption charges. Hubbard faces a possible trial this spring. This cluster of indictments opens up the question of whether there is something in the nature of the job of speaker that makes corruption more likely to occur.

Federal:

Koch Brothers’ Budget of $889 Million for 2016 Is on Par With Both Parties’ Spending
New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 1/26/2015

A network of conservative advocacy groups backed by Charles and David Koch aims to spend $889 million in advance of the next presidential election, part of an expansive strategy to build on its 2014 victories. The figure comes close to the $1 billion that each of the two major parties’ presidential nominees are expected to spend in 2016, and it cements the network’s standing as one of the country’s most potent political forces. With its resources and capabilities, including a national field operation and cutting-edge technology, it is challenging the primacy of the official parties.

The Rise of ‘Scam PACs’
Politico – Kenneth Vogel | Published: 1/26/2015

Since the tea party came to prominence in 2009, the conservative movement has been plagued by an explosion of PACs that critics say exist mostly to pad the pockets of the consultants who run them. Combining sophisticated targeting techniques with fundraising appeals that resonate among grassroots activists, they collect large piles of small checks that, taken together, add up to enough money to potentially sway a U.S. Senate race. But the PACs plow most of their cash back into payments to consulting firms for additional fundraising efforts.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Lobbying Lawmakers with a Personal Touch
Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 1/26/2015

A handful of Sacramento lobbyists use their powers of persuasion to advance personal causes. Many of them make their living advocating for the corporations, unions, and Indian tribes that are huge political donors and pour millions of dollars each year into lobbying California lawmakers. But when a piece of legislation hits a chord, concerning a medical condition, for example, or a childhood trauma, these lobbyists use their connections and savoir faire to shape public policy with a personal touch. Some of them deploy their services for free, while others are hired to advocate on a personal cause.

Kansas – Kansas Ethics Official Supports Change to State Lobbying Laws
Wichita Eagle – Bryan Lowry | Published: 1/26/2015

House Bill 2082 would allow individuals to spend up to $1,000 to sway Kansas lawmakers without registering as a lobbyist. The state has had a $100 threshold since 1975. After 40 years of inflation, the threshold should be increased to ensure private residents do not inadvertently break the laws, said Carol Williams, executive director of the Kansas Government Ethics Commission.

Kentucky – Record $18M Spent Lobbying Legislature
Louisville Courier-Journal – Tom Loftus | Published: 1/23/2015

Interest groups spent a record-breaking $18.4 million to lobby the Kentucky General Assembly in 2014. That was about three percent more than the 2012 lobbying total of $17.8 million, the previous spending record. Although the Legislature meets annually, its 60-day sessions in even-numbered years are longer and costlier than its 30-day sessions in odd-numbered years. The spending includes what more than 600 groups and businesses paid to retain lobbyists at the Capitol or host receptions for lawmakers. Starting this year, they also will be required to report what they spend on advertising during the session to influence legislation.

Massachusetts – No Good Deed Goes Unpunished
CommonWealth Magazine – Jack Sullivan | Published: 1/22/2015

Nicole Bollerman, a third-grade teacher at UP Academy Dorchester, has received praise from around the country since she won a $150,000 prize in an essay contest and then donated the money to her school, which educates some of the city’s poorest students. Then she appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” where the host presented Bollerman with a $25,000 check and gave out $500 gift cards for every teacher at her school and backpacks filled with school supplies for every student. But nearly all of the cash gifts, except the students’ backpacks, potentially violate Massachusetts ethics laws, possibly even the $150,000 award that Bollerman gave to the school.

Missouri – Committee OKs Ethics Bill to Close ‘Revolving Door’ of Legislators Becoming Lobbyists
Columbia Daily Tribune – Rudi Keller | Published: 1/27/2015

The Senate Rules, Joint Rules, Resolutions, and Ethics Committee approved legislation that would require Missouri lawmakers to wait two years after leaving office before they can work as lobbyists. The bill also would bar out-of-state travel paid by lobbyists and limit when a lobbyist can report spending on a group of legislators instead of individual members. “There is enough nonsense in this building going on, not necessarily with meals and everything else, I am going to try to clear this up before somebody gets indicted,” said Senate Majority Leader Ron Richard, the bill’s sponsor.

Missouri – Missouri House Speaker Defends Country Club Committee Hearings
PoliticMo.com – Eli Yokley | Published: 1/26/2015

Two Missouri House committee hearings are scheduled to take place at the Jefferson City Country Club and that is drawing criticism. The first hearing is that of the Committee on Utility Infrastructure, chaired by Rep. Lyndall Fraker. He said the Missouri Energy Development Association made the arrangements for his committee to meet at the club, will pay for the meal, and will offer an informational presentation. Pamela Merritt, a spokesperson for Progress Missouri, described the meetings as “sham hearings, away from the Capitol for the sole purpose of consuming free food and drink from lobbyists.” The group is also concerned the hearings might be in violation of the open-meetings law.

Nebraska – Questions Arise after Gov. Ricketts Uses His Own Money to Add Adviser to His Office
Omaha World-Herald – Paul Hammel | Published: 1/27/2015

Jessica Moenning, a longtime political operative of Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts, is joining the administration as a privately paid senior adviser. The arrangement has prompted questions about a private employee, paid out of the governor’s own pocket, being involved in public policies and using, at least for a time, publicly funded office space at the Capitol. Jack Gould of Common Cause Nebraska said a privately paid employee most likely would be accountable to the person who paid them, not to the public, and would most likely not be covered by laws governing ethics involving state officials.

New York – Sheldon Silver to Be Replaced as Speaker of New York State Assembly
New York Times – Jesse McKinley, Thomas Kaplan, and Susanne Craig | Published: 1/27/2015

New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver agreed to give up the leadership position he has held for 21 years in the wake of federal corruption charges. The decision came after Democratic lawmakers met behind closed doors for two days to discuss their response to the turmoil that appears likely to end one of the longest active tenures in state politics, and paved the way for them to choose a new leader in an election to be held February 10. Assemblyperson Joseph Morelle, who is the majority leader and a top contender to succeed Silver, will become interim speaker.

Oregon – Cylvia Hayes Discloses another $118,000 for Consulting Fees
Portland Oregonian – Laura Gunderson | Published: 1/28/2015

More of the consulting work done by Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber’s fiancée is coming to light. Cylvia Hayes confirmed she was paid $118,000 over two years to work with the Clean Economy Development Center. At the time, Hayes was advising the governor on similar topics. Ethics experts said Hayes’ job raises questions, such as whether her compensation was reasonable given the amount of work she did and whether her employer sought to use the connection to influence state policy. The admitted payouts conflict with statements Kitzhaber has made regarding Hayes’ consulting work, how his office handled her contracts, and statements he has made in his annual ethics filings.

South Carolina – Lawmaker Asks Would-Be SC Judges about ‘Supreme Being,’ Gay Marriage, Equal Pay for Women
The State – Cassie Cope | Published: 1/27/2015

South Carolina Rep. Jonathon Hill sent out a 30-question survey asking, among other things, about the “personal relationship” would-be state judges have with the “Supreme Being,” whether they would perform a gay marriage, and how they would rule if a woman sued for equal pay. Candidates for judgeships are barred ethically from responding to some of the questions, said Greg Adams of the University of South Carolina law school. “Answering these questions amounts to a promise to decide future cases in accordance with this political pledge,” said Adams.

Texas – Abbott: State Agencies Must Make Contracting Changes
Texas Tribune – Edgar Walters | Published: 1/28/2015

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said the need for more oversight and transparency in state contracting is so great that it cannot wait for official action from lawmakers. In a letter to all state agency heads, Abbott ordered them to comply with the provisions of a new bill aimed at addressing problems highlighted by a no-bid contract scandal. The legislation, Senate Bill 353, would require the board chair or head of all agencies to sign all contracts worth more than a $1 million and publicly explain the reason for the lack of competition in any no-bid deal. It also would reiterate that state contract managers must disclose conflicts-of-interest and that officials cannot give a deal to a company in which they have a financial interest.

Utah – Lawmakers Use Swallow Scandal to Stall Campaign-Donation Caps
Salt Lake Tribune – Lee Davidson | Published: 1/27/2015

A House committee voted to hold a bill that would place caps on how much could be contributed to candidates. House Bill 60 would limit donations by individuals to $10,000 every two years for statewide races, and $5,000 in legislative races. It would limit contributions to parties, PACs, and labor unions to $40,000. Lawmakers worried that limits might hamper honest politicians in raising enough money to combat groups that sometimes funnel large amounts of untraceable “dark money” into an election.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Lobbying

Federal: “Best Fly-In Ever: How to make the most of your D.C. visit” by Rebecca Gale for Roll Call

Connecticut: “CT Lobbyist’s $10K Fine Stayed If He Behaves” in Hartford Business Journal

Kansas: “Budget Director Sent E-mail from Private Account to Lobbyists on Proposed Budget“ by Bryan Lowry for Wichita Eagle

Minnesota: “Draft Opinion: No conflict in Tomassoni holding RAMS job” by John Myers for Duluth News Tribune

Legislative Issues

South Carolina: “Lawmaker Asks Would-Be SC Judges about ‘Supreme Being,’ Gay Marriage, Equal Pay for Women” by Cassie Cope for The State

Ethics

Nebraska: “Questions Arise after Gov. Ricketts Uses His Own Money to Add Adviser to His Office” by Paul Hammel for Omaha World Herald

Indiana: “Energy Chairman’s Gas and Oil Investments Raise Ethics Questions” by Tony Cook for Indianapolis Star

Texas: “Case against Former Gov. Perry to Proceed” by Teri Langford for Texas Tribune

New York: “Sheldon Silver to Be Replaced as Speaker of New York State Assembly” by Jesse McKinley, Thomas Kaplan, and Susanne Craig for New York Times

Campaign Finance

Utah: “Lawmakers Use Swallow Scandal to Stall Campaign-Donation Caps” by Lee Davidson for Salt Lake Tribune

Lobbying

“Lobbying Lawmakers with a Personal Touch” by Laurel Rosenhall for Sacramento Bee

Kansas: “Kansas Ethics Official Supports Change to State Lobbying Laws” by Bryan Lowry for Wichita Eagle

Missouri: “Missouri House Speaker Defends Country Club Committee Hearings” by Eli Yokely for PoiliticMo.com

Campaign Finance

“Public Swamps FEC with Post-McCutcheon Rulemaking Comments” by Peter Olsen-Phillips for Sunlight Foundation

“U.S. Appeals Court Upholds Conviction of Reid Fundraiser” by Suzannah Gonzalez for Reuters

“Koch Brothers’ Budget of $889 Million for 2016 Is on Par With Both Parties’ Spending” by Nicholas Confessore for New York Times

Ethics

Indiana: “Gov. Mike Pence’s State-Run News Outlet Will Compete with Media” by Tom LoBianco for Indianapolis Star

Montana: “Montana Senate Backs Bill to Change Selection of Political Practices Commissioner” by Charles Johnson for The Missoulian

Virginia: “Virginia Gov. McAuliffe, Observing Self-Imposed Limit, Donates Gifts over $100” by Laura Vozzella for Washington Post

Lobbying

Indiana: “House Education Chair Robert Behning Backs Off Lobbying Plan” by Tom LoBianco for Indianapolis Star

Kentucky: “Record $18M Spent Lobbying Legislature” by Tom Loftus for Louisville Courier-Journal

Tennessee: “Lobbyists Spent Record Amount of $725K Last Year on ‘Wining and Dining’ Events” by The Associated Press for Greenfield Daily Reporter

Vermont: “Should Lobbyists Be Required to Wear Nametags at Vt. Statehouse?” by Kyle Midura for WCAX

Campaign Finance

“The Rise of ‘Scam PACs’” by Kenneth Vogel for Politico

New York: “Legalized Bribery” by Zephyr Teachout for New York Times

New York: “Developer Who Keeps Low Profile Is Embroiled in Silver Scandal” by Charles Bagli for New York Times

Ethics

Massachusetts: “No Good Deed Goes Unpunished” by Jack Sullivan for CommonWealth Magazine

Elections

“Romney’s Consideration of Candidacy Is Closely Tied to His Faith, Allies Say” by Ashley Parker and Alex Thompson for New York Times

Lobbying

“K Street: We’re not the ‘boogeyman’” by Megan Wilson for The Hill

“Out of Jack Abramoff’s Ashes” by Anna Palmer for Politico

Missouri: “Ethics Bill Gets Early Hearing as Senate Leader Pushes Changes in Lobbying Rules” by Rudi Keller for Columbia Daily Tribune

Rhode Island: “Mollis’ Former Attorney Ordered by R.I. Superior Court Judge to Pay $18,000 Fine” by Jennifer Bogdon for Providence Journal

Campaign Finance

“How Public Funding of Elections Makes Politics Even More Polarized” by John Sides for Washington Post

Ethics

Florida: “Inquiry Sought After Former Commissioner Accuses Gov. Rick Scott of Meddling” by Lizette Alvarez for New York Times

New York City, NY: “Ethics Probe Targets City Council Speaker, Consultant” by Chris Bragg for Crain’s New York Business

New York: “Silver’s Case May Have Vast Impact and Alter Entrenched Way of Governance” by Michael Grynbaum and Jesse McKinley for New York Times

National:

‘Competitive Disadvantage’?: Pay-to-pay rules and the 2016 stakes
NBC News – Carrie Dunn | Published: 1/15/2015

Governors may face a unique challenge when it comes to raising the big money it takes to be president from some of the most generous donors out there: denizens of Wall Street. That is because of federal “pay-to-play” rules put into place by the Securities and Exchange Commission that effectively bar many state officials from receiving substantial political contributions from financial advisers interested in the often-lucrative business of state contracts, particularly the management of huge state pension funds. The rules can be fuzzy and even experts say it is not always entirely clear which donations trigger a violation. It all means that big-dollar Wall Street donors are playing it safe.

The Wealthiest Are Getting Wealthier, and Lobbying Has a Lot to Do with It
PBS – Simone Pathe | Published: 1/19/2015

Oxfam predicts a widening wealth gap and points a finger at lobbying for much the of wealth accumulation at the top. The world’s richest one percent is likely to control over 50 percent of global wealth by next year, according to a report from Oxfam. The report zeroes in on the political influence affordable to the wealthy: lobbying, specifically in the financial and pharmaceutical and health care industries.

Federal:

How Citizens United Has Changed Politics in 5 Years
U.S. News & World Report – Gabrielle Levy | Published: 1/21/2015

In its Citizens United decision, the U.S. Supreme Court said political spending is protected under the First Amendment, meaning corporations and unions could spend unlimited amounts of money on political activities, as long as it was done independently of a party or candidate. The legal protections for corporations mean much of this spending, known as “dark money,” never has to be publicly disclosed. Most observers say the justices made a good-faith effort to promote transparency and prevent coordination in the ruling. But the contradiction between the court’s stated desire for transparency and its definition of corporations as people protected by the First Amendment created a loophole that campaigns and PACs can use to their advantage.

IRS Rarely Audits Nonprofits for Politicking
Center for Public Integrity – Julie Patel | Published: 1/22/2015

More than 100 nonprofit groups have directly involved themselves in elections during recent years, some spending tens of millions of dollars. The rest, largely charities that are generally prohibited from campaigning for politicians, are seldom monitored by the IRS to ensure they follow federal law. The situation leaves the groups largely free to operate like political committees without fear of reprisal. The IRS told the Center for Public Integrity that it has only begun auditing 26 organizations specifically for political activity since 2010. That represents a tiny fraction of the more than 1 million nonprofits regulated by the agency.

Supreme Court Considers Whether Judges Can Directly Ask for Campaign Donations
Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 1/20/2015

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared divided as it weighed a free speech challenge to a Florida law that bars candidates running for elected judge positions from soliciting campaign contributions. Lanell Williams-Yulee, who ran for county court judge in Tampa, objected when Florida’s Supreme Court publicly reprimanded her for violating a rule preventing candidates from seeking donations. She argued the rule violated her free speech rights. Conservatives on the Supreme Court appeared to favor her free speech argument. The court’s liberals voiced support for the state’s right to ensure the judiciary’s impartiality.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Phoenix Stalls on Overhaul of Ethics Rules
Arizona Republic – Dennis Gardiner | Published: 1/20/2015

Phoenix City Council members have spent months debating a list of ethics reforms recommended by a task force. The council initially warmed to major changes, but several members reversed course on a proposal to create a commission to enforce any new rules and voted it down. Although the subcommittee scuttled plans for an ethics commission, they have advanced new gift-reporting requirements for elected officials and board members. By requiring leaders to report gifts exceeding $50, supporters say, the new rules promote transparency. But council members added a few exemptions to the requirement, including a provision that would allow elected officials not to report gifts they receive related to travel for city business.

California – Billboard Firm to Put Up Signs Backing Six L.A. Council Candidates
Los Angeles Times – David Zahniser | Published: 1/20/2015

A billboard company challenging Los Angeles’ restrictions on digital signs will donate tens of thousands of dollars in advertising to help city Councilperson Jose Huizar, who heads the committee drafting new sign regulations, and five other candidates in the March 3 election. City law bars campaign contributors from giving council candidates more than $700 during an election cycle. But there are no limits on expenditures such as those being made by Lamar Advertising, as long as they are made independently from a candidate’s campaign.

Connecticut – Can Connecticut’s Campaign Finance Reforms Be Saved?
CT Mirror – Mark Pazniokas | Published: 1/19/2015

Prescriptions for fixing Connecticut’s system of publicly financing campaigns vary wildly. Its tight limits on contributions and spending turned porous in 2014, tarnishing what had been a shiny instrument of campaign finance reform. One basic challenge is how the Citizens’ Election Program can remain relevant in an era of unlimited independent expenditures. Another is how it can survive some of the changes made in 2013 in response to the fear of outside money.

Florida – Jeb Bush Kept Key Roles in Florida Firm amid Signs of Trouble
Washington Post – Tom Hamburger and Matea Gold | Published: 1/19/2015

One of the first business ventures that Jeb Bush got involved with after leaving the Florida governor’s mansion in 2007 was InnoVida, a company that ended up bankrupt, with two top executives in federal prison. Previously unreported court documents suggest Bush was more involved with the company than has been publicly known, and he deepened his role even as others grew concerned about its financial practices. Bush’s aides say he broke from the company and voluntarily repaid consulting fees as soon as questions arose. Nevertheless, Bush’s involvement with InnoVida provides insight into his approach as a businessperson and illustrates how his corporate ties could affect his presidential aspirations.

Missouri – At $37 Million and Counting, Mega-Donor Sinquefield Says He’s Not Going Anywhere
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Kevin McDermott and Virginia Young | Published: 1/18/2015

To hear U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill tell it, multimillionaire Rex Sinquefield pulls Missouri’s political strings like a high-priced puppet master. “He is, methodically, through a number of front groups, trying to buy government, buy judges, buy journalists … buy the Legislature,” warns McCaskill. It is a view widely echoed by fellow Democrats and even some Republicans. Since 2005, Sinquefield has donated more than $37 million to state-level candidates and causes. He is by far the most prolific political patron in the history of the state, and one of the biggest in the country.

New York – Sheldon Silver, New York Assembly Speaker, Is Accused of Taking Millions in Graft
New York Times – William Rashbaum, Thomas Kaplan, and Susanne Craig | Published: 1/22/2015

New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver was arrested on public corruption charges, accused of using his position as one of the most powerful men in Albany to obtain millions of dollars in bribes and kickbacks masked as legitimate income. He is charged with mail fraud, wire fraud, and extortion. The complaint maintains that for more than a decade, Silver devised a scheme “to induce real estate developers with business before the state” to use a real estate law firm controlled by a lawyer who had once worked as Silver’s counsel who orchestrated payments to the speaker for referrals to the firm.

Pennsylvania – Wolf Bans Gifts for Executive Branch First Day as PA Governor
Watchdog.org – Andrew Staub (PA Independent) | Published: 1/21/2015

On his first day in office, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf signed executive orders banning gifts for members of the executive branch and prohibiting no-bid contracts for private law firms. The ban makes exceptions for gifts from family and friends, bank loans, and free participation in gatherings in which officials are acting in their official duties and have been invited. There also are at least six proposals addressing gifts in the state House and Senate.

Texas – Prosecutor: Perry veto forced an end to several cases
Texas Tribune – Ross Ramsey and Reece Hamilton | Published: 1/17/2015

Texas Governor Rick Perry was indicted last summer for a veto threat of the Travis County public investigation unit’s funding. The vetoed funding killed an investigation into the state Department of Public Safety’s no-bid contracts. The Public Integrity Unit had been investigating the agency for awarding up to $20 million in no-bid contracts to a Virginia defense contractor for Perry’s expanding border security measures. Perry’s nixing of $7.5 million of the unit’s funding depleted its resources, reportedly shuttering the investigation.

Virginia – Judicial Appointment for Puckett’s Daughter Clears Va. Legislature
Washington Post – Laura Vozzella and Jenna Portnoy | Published: 1/20/2015

The Virginia Legislature voted to give Martha Puckett Ketron a juvenile court judgeship. In previous sessions, the Senate had always refused to appoint her to a full, six-year term while her father, Phillip Puckett, served in the chamber, citing an anti-nepotism policy. Phillip Puckett stepped down in June, in part, he said, to clear the way for her appointment. But the timing of his exit, which threw control of the evenly divided Senate to Republicans, infuriated fellow Democrats and triggered a six-month federal investigation that concluded without charges. Puckett also left as he was discussing a job for himself with the state tobacco commission. Democrats accused him of trading his Senate seat for jobs for himself and his daughter.

Washington – House Follows Senate, Bans Open Gun Display in Visitor Galleries
Seattle Post-Intelligencer – Joel Connelly | Published: 1/19/2015

The Washington Legislature adopted rules prohibiting display of weapons in the visitor galleries after an incident in which about 15 armed “open carry” advocates marched from a demonstration on the Capitol steps into the House gallery. Such arms-packing gun rights advocates in the future will be asked to leave or subject to arrest for criminal trespassing.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Rep. Debbie McCune Davis has introduced a bill in the statehouse requiring lobbyists registered in Arizona to report their compensation.

House Bill 2136 amends the Arizona lobbying law by requiring every lobbyist, including a lobbyist for compensation, authorized lobbyist, authorized public lobbyist, designated lobbyist, and designated public lobbyist, to file a statement of compensation paid to the lobbyist for lobbying activities at the same time quarterly expenditure reports are due. Currently a lobbyist’s salary is not reported.

Photo of the Arizona State Capitol by Jeff Dean on Wikimedia Commons.

Lobbying

“K Street’s Small Shops Are Winning Big” by Megan Wilson for The Hill

Arizona: “Lawmaker Wants Lobbyists’ Compensation to Be Public Information” by Kristena Hansen for KJZZ

Illinois: “Fioretti Wants to Rein in Lobbyists for Ethics Reform” by Fran Spielman for Chicago Sun-Times

Texas: “Companies Tied to Patrick’s Advisers Lobby Heavily” by Morgan Smith, Becca Aaronson, and Jolie McCullough for Texas Tribune

Campaign Finance

California: “Long Beach City Council Approves Increasing Caps for Officeholder Accounts” by Eric Bradley for Long Beach Press-Telegram

California: “Billboard Firm to Put Up Signs Backing Six L.A. Council Candidates” by David Zahniser for Los Angeles Times

Ethics

Kansas: “Senate Panel Takes Up Election Bills Vetoed by Brownback” by Tim Carpenter for Topeka Capital Journal

Pennsylvania: “Wolf Bans Gifts for Executive Branch First Day as PA Governor” by Andrew Staub (PA Independent) for Watchdog.org

South Carolina: “Independent Investigation of SC Lawmakers Heads to House, Senate Floors” by Cassie Cope and Andrew Shain for The State

Virginia: “Judicial Appointment for Puckett’s Daughter Clears Va. Legislature” by Laura Vozzella and Jenna Portnoy for Washington Post

Lobbying

“The Wealthiest Are Getting Wealthier, and Lobbying Has a Lot to Do with It” by Simone Pathe for PBS

“Poll Shows Wide Public Support for Lobbyist Disclosure” by Steve Terrell for Santa Fe New Mexican

Campaign Finance

“Supreme Court Is Divided Over Judges’ Fundraising” by Richard Wolf for USA Today

“The ‘Draft Elizabeth Warren’ Movement Is About to Get Help from New Campaign Finance Rules” by Emily Schultheis for National Journal

Ethics

“Phoenix Stalls on Overhaul of Ethics Rules” by Dustin Gardiner for Arizona Republic

“Jeb Bush Kept Key Roles in Florida Firm amid Signs of Trouble” by Tom Hamburger and Matea Gold for Washington Post

“Cuomo Plans Panel on Legislative Pay and Restricting Outside Income” by Susanne Craig for New York Times

“Spokane Updates its Ethics Code” by Nick Deshais for Spokane Spokesman-Review

Legislative Issues

“House Follows Senate, Bans Open Gun Display in Visitor Galleries” by Joel Connelly for Seattle Post-Intelligencer

“The Freshmen: New lawmakers experience highs, lows of serving in Legislature” by Laura Hancock for Casper Star-Tribune

Lobbying

“Some K Street Donors Slow to Commit to another Romney Bid” by Fredreka Schouten for USA Today

“Gifts to Va. Lawmakers down Last Year Following McDonnell Scandal” by Jenna Portnoy for Washington Post

Campaign Finance

“RNC Date Change Gives Dark Money More Room to Operate” by Jacob Fenton and Peter Olsen-Phillips for Sunlight Foundation

“Outside Donors, ‘Dark Money’ Influenced Ariz. Races” by Alia Beard Rau for Arizona Republic

“Can Connecticut’s Campaign Finance Reforms Be Saved?” by Mark Pazniokas for CT Mirror

“Jury Returns Split Verdict in Campaign Finance Case” by Hugh McQuaid for CTNewsJunkie.com

“With Ballot Question, Maine Group Aims to Bolster Struggling Public Financing Elections Law” by Alanna Durkin (Associated Press) for Greenfield Daily Reporter

“At $37 Million and Counting, Mega-Donor Sinquefield Says He’s Not Going Anywhere” by Kevin McDermott and Virginia Young for St. Louis Post-Dispatch

“Changes Afoot to Tighten Campaign Finance Reporting Laws in Montana” by Mike Dennison for The Missoulian

Ethics

“Prosecutor: Perry veto forced an end to several cases” by Ross Ramsey and Reeve Hamilton for Texas Tribune

Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma and House Minority Leader Scott Pelath have co-sponsored an ethics bill aimed at improving transparency and reducing conflicts of interest.

The proposal would tighten the rules on waivers for the one-year “cooling off” period for state agency officials taking private-sector jobs dealing with their former departments.

It would also expand the financial disclosure requirements for legislators and require them to disclose any relatives who are lobbyists.

Campaign Finance

“Two PACs Fined over Disclosure Failures” by Anita Wadhwani for The Tennessean

Ethics

California: “Alfred Villalobos, Fixture in CalPERS Corruption Scandal, Apparently Commits Suicide” by Dale Kasler for Sacramento Bee

Florida: “Court Hears Case Challenging Constitutionality of Florida’s Blind Trust Law” by Mary Ellen Klas for Tampa Bay Times

Florida: “Hialeah Mayor Hit with Ethics Charges Related to Ponzi Schemer” by Jay Weaver for Miami Herald

Elections

California: “Online Announcements Replace Speeches in California Senate Race” by Sharon Bernstein for Reuters

National:

How Campaigns Are Courting 16-Year-Olds
Politico – Darren Samuelsohn | Published: 1/11/2015

Presidential campaigns are looking to target teenagers who are not yet 18 but will be by Election Day 2016. More than eight million people will become legal adults eligible to vote for the first time by the next general election. Campaigns are eager to find ways to get through to these 16- and 17-year-olds who are still minors and, in most cases, more likely to be concerned with making it to class on time than who should be elected president. Indeed, both Democrats and Republicans are desperate for any edge at the polls, and they say they will be employing data mining techniques in search of supporters from this ripe demographic that has little or no track record in politics.

Federal:

Rating 2016 Candidates by Donors Busts Conventional Wisdom
CNN – Chris Moody | Published: 1/14/2015

Crowdpac uses public campaign finance records, along with other data, to plot where potential White House contenders fall on the political spectrum. Crowdpac’s algorithm displays the contenders on a liberal–conservative spectrum, and rates each person on 15 issues. The third piece of the algorithm, which includes the ideology of donors and examines how the politicians spend their own money, makes Crowdpac’s analysis unusual, and helps provide a clearer picture of how those seeking the White House compare to their peers.  The results can confound commonly held perceptions.

Who Needs Lobbyists? See What Big Business Spends to Win American Minds
The Center for Public Integrity – Erin Quinn | Published: 1/15/2015

When Washington, D.C.’s biggest trade associations want to wield influence, they often put more of their money into advertising and public relations. The Center for Public Integrity attempted to review spending by the nation’s most “politically active” trade groups, ones that spent more than $1 million on lobbying in 2012. The IRS requires the groups to report their top five contractors. Of $3.4 billion in contracts reported by trade groups from 2008 through 2012, more than $1.2 billion, or 37 percent, went toward advertising, public relations, and marketing services, more than any other category.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – L.A. Alliance for a New Economy Confirms Failure to Report Lobbying
Los Angeles Times – Emily Alpert Reyes | Published: 1/9/2015

The Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE), an influential group that successfully advocated for hiking the minimum wage for hotel workers, confirmed it left off information on reports filed with the city about how much it had paid to employees who act as lobbyists. Between 2009 and 2014, LAANE did not report any payments to its registered in-house lobbyists or any related expenses, despite the fact that emails and calendars for city officials show those lobbyists met regularly with lawmakers and their aides and helped suggest wording to city lawyers for the hotel wage ordinance. The group also did not list any matters its representatives lobbied on.

Florida – Ethics Deadbeats: Debt collectors seek $500K in outstanding fines from Florida public servants
Miami Herald – Christina Veiga | Published: 1/12/2015

The Florida Commission on Ethics has hired debt collectors to chase $487,549.96 in late fees from public officials and employees that have accumulated, in some cases, for more than a decade. Financial disclosure forms, which list net worth, sources of income, real estate holdings, and debts have been the repeated source of trouble or controversy for politicians over the years. Scofflaws are fined $25 a day until they file or they hit the cap of $1,500 per year. After 60 days, unpaid debts get sent to collections. If the person is still in public office, and receives a salary, then the commission can garnish paychecks, a new power that was given to the agency last year.

Illinois – Illinois Inauguration Raises Questions of Corporate Influence
Reuters – Mark Guarino | Published: 1/11/2015

Watchdog groups say activities surrounding Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner’s inauguration are among the priciest of any incoming governor and take advantage of a loophole in campaign finance that allows wealthy special interests to gain access to those who hold political power. These groups say Rauner’s inauguration festival, with a total tab estimated to reach $10 million, is emblematic of a trend in other states. Critics say the costly celebrations, funded by private donors, skirt ethics laws and open conflicts-of-interest for elected officials.

Illinois – Rauner Spends 1st Full Day as Governor on Ethics, Reversal of Quinn Actions
Chicago Tribune – Monique Garcia, Rick Pearson, and Ray Long | Published: 1/13/2015

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner issued an executive order banning some state employees from negotiating for a lobbying job while working for the state. The order also prohibits employees in state agencies and the executive branch from taking lobbying positions for one year after they leave their public sector job. The new rules prevent state employees from receiving any free meals, beverages, or gifts from lobbyists and government business interests, or have travel expenses covered to discuss state business. State workers could still receive food and beverages served at business meetings or receptions in the course of their official duties, subject to approval from the governor’s office or agency.

Kansas – Grand Jury Investigates Loans to the Re-Election Campaign of Gov. Sam Brownback
Kansas City Star – Roxana Hegeman (Associated Press) | Published: 1/8/2015

Federal grand jurors are scheduled to hear testimony about loans made to the re-election campaign of Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback. Lt. Gov. Jeff Colyer made three $500,000 loans to the campaign in 2013 and 2014 and was repaid for two of them in days. Such large loans by candidates to campaigns are uncommon in Kansas, and the pattern of repaying one within days is a highly unusual move that has generated unanswered questions about where Colyer obtained such a large amount of cash.  Brownback and his wife also lent the campaign $200,000 last year. No other loans are listed in public reports.

Kentucky – Draft of Report on Kentucky Legislature Remains Untouched, Unreleased after Nine Months
Lexington Herald-Leader – John Cheves | Published: 1/14/2015

In October 2013, the Kentucky Legislature faced a scandal: a lawmaker who resigned over accusations he sexually harassed women at the Legislative Research Commission (LRC); allegations that sexual misconduct and favoritism made the LRC a hostile workplace; and the abrupt departure of longtime Director Bobby Sherman, whom police investigated for shredding documents days after he quit. The Legislature gave a $42,410 contract to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) to perform a performance audit of the LRC, the bureaucracy that runs the legislative branch of state government. NCSL submitted a draft report in April to Senate President Robert Stivers and House Speaker Greg Stumbo. But the leaders never responded, and rank-and-file lawmakers said they have not seen the report.

Minnesota – Minnesota Sen. Tomassoni Takes Job with Group That Lobbies Legislature
Minneapolis Star Tribune – J. Patrick Coolican | Published: 1/12/2015

Minnesota Sen. David Tomassoni was hired as executive director of the Range Association of Municipalities and Schools, an organization funded in part by public money that lobbies for those interests at the Capitol. His hiring immediately raised questions about whether the two roles would clash. Tomassoni said his role will be administrative, so he will not be lobbying his fellow lawmakers; the group will hire an independent lobbyist if it feels it needs to. He also promised to recuse himself from any votes where the association stands to benefit. Tomassoni’s work will not start until after the 2015 legislative session ends in late May, and he will take an unpaid leave of absence during every session.

North Carolina – Lobbyists, Not Just Lawmakers, Descend on Raleigh as New Session Begins
Raleigh News & Observer – Lynn Bonner | Published: 1/14/2015

North Carolina lawmakers filled the chambers of the Legislative Building for the start of a new session. But the day also launched the intense work of lobbyists. With 443 registered so far, lobbyists outnumber lawmakers by a ratio of more than two-to-one. While the state’s part-time legislators get much of the attention and cast the deciding votes, many ideas for new laws come from the lobbyists and their employers, which cover all sorts of interests. With permission from lawmakers, lobbyists can submit suggested bill language to legislative staffers.

Texas – House Panel Recommends Texas Legislature Take Action on Dark Money
Houston Chronicle – David Saleh Rauf | Published: 1/8/2015

Labeling “dark money” spending a corrupting force in the democratic process, the House Committee on State Affairs released a series of recommendations in a report that suggests the Texas Legislature take action to require disclosure of contributors to 501(c)(4) nonprofits. 501(c)(4)s are allowed to make independent expenditures to influence elections without having to disclose donors and have become a hot topic for state lawmakers after Gov. Rick Perry vetoed a dark money disclosure measure last session. The state Ethics Commission passed new rules intended to define when a 501(c)(4)’s political activity crosses the line and should have to disclose donors like a traditional PAC. The regulation is currently being challenged in court.

Texas – Judge Blocks City Campaign Fundraising Rule
Houston Chronicle – Theodore Schleifer | Published: 1/9/2015

A federal judge temporarily blocked a law limiting when candidates in Houston municipal elections can raise money. An ordinance prevented city candidates from raising money prior to February 1. The lawsuit against the city, filed by candidate Trebor Gordon, argued his First Amendment right to political expression authorized him to raise money for his campaigns whenever his contributors wished to donate.

Virginia – Jailed Lawmaker’s Return Brings Virginia Capitol More Unwanted Attention
Washington Post – Jenna Portnoy and Laura Vozzella | Published: 1/14/2015

A newly re-elected Virginia lawmaker hitched a ride from the jailhouse to the statehouse to be sworn in, even as legislative leaders discussed how to throw him out. Del. Joseph Morrissey, who spends his nights in jail because of a conviction for contributing to the delinquency of a minor, resigned his seat when he was convicted but won it back in a January 13 special election. He was back in his familiar legislative arena as the session convened, but with a whole new set of circumstances: colleagues ignored him, he was stripped of committee assignments, he had to give up his old office, and his desk on the House floor was put in a far corner.

West Virginia – In Unusual Arrangement, W.Va. Party Chairmen Double as Lobbyists
Charleston Gazette – David Gutman | Published: 1/11/2015

Larry Puccio left then-West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin’s staff in early 2010 and became a lobbyist a week later. He was elected as state Democratic Party chairperson five months after that. Now, he is not alone in serving in the dual roles. West Virginia GOP Chairperson Conrad Lucas registered as a lobbyist with the state Ethics Commission in early December. While this might not be unusual in West Virginia – former Democratic Party Chairpersons Nick Casey, Chuck Smith, and Steve White all lobbied while they were leading the party – it is very unusual nationwide. Other than Puccio and Lucas, there are only two other party chairs anywhere in the country who are active registered lobbyists.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

Campaign Finance

Federal: “In 2014, Outside Groups Spent More Than the Candidates in Most Top Races” by Jamie Fuller for Washington Post

Federal: “Rating 2016 Candidates by Donors Busts Conventional Wisdom” by Chris Moody for CNN

Wisconsin: “Wisconsin Elections Board Recommends Lawmakers Overhaul Campaign Finance Laws” by Todd Richmond for Greenfield Reporter

Lobbying

Hawaii: “Ex-Chief of Staff Negotiates Revolving Door as Lobbyist” by Ian Lind for Honolulu Civil Beat

Washington: “Check, Please: Lawmaker would ban free meals for state officials” by Jordan Schrader for Bellingham Herald

Washington: “From State Job to Lobbying Gig? Officials Want ‘Cooling-Off’ Year First” by Jim Brunner for Seattle Times

Ethics

California: “Ex-Schools Boss Sent to Prison” by Greg Moran for San Diego Union Tribune

Illinois: “Rauner Spends 1st Full Day as Governor on Ethics, Reversal of Quinn Actions” by Monique Garcia, Rick Pearson, and Ray Long for Chicago Tribune

South Carolina: “Ex-Sen. Ford Pleads Guilty Then Says ‘I Ain’t No … Crook’” by John Monk for The State

Virginia: “Ethics Issues Loom over General Assembly’s Start” by Patrick Wilson for The Virginian-Pilot