Campaign Finance

Illinois: “Right After Landing a Big Deal with the CTA, Businessman Helps Lightfoot’s Reelection Effort” by Dan Mihalopoulos for WBEZ

New Mexico: “Lawmakers Seek to Close Big Transparency Gap” by Sarah Childress for New Mexico In Depth

Elections

National: “Trump Campaign Paid Researchers to Prove 2020 Fraud but Kept Findings Secret” by Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “After Helping Prince’s Rise, Trump and Kushner Benefit from Saudi Funds” by Michael Kranish (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Biden Fires Architect of the Capitol Over Alleged Abuses” by Lisa Mascaro and Colleen Long (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Florida: “The Rocky Path to the College Board’s A.P. Black Studies Course” by Anemona Hartocollis, Dan Goldstein, and Stephanie Saul (New York Times) for DNyuz

Maryland: “Judge Upholds Two Ethics Violations Against Nick Mosby, but Rules Council President Didn’t Take Money” by Emily Sullivan for Baltimore Banner

Lobbying

California: “Behind the Late Lobbying Disclosure That Earned Midway Rising a Fine for Breaking City Ethics Laws” by Andrew Keatts for Voice of San Diego

Campaign Finance

Hawaii: “‘Pay To Play’: Hawaii moves to expand the ban on contractor campaign donations” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat

Ethics

National: “Free Speech vs. Disinformation Comes to a Head” by Steven Lee Myers (New York Times) for DNyuz

National: “Pence Receives Subpoena from Prosecutors Examining Trump’s Jan. 6 Role” by Josh Dawsey and Perry Stein (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Santos Was Charged with Theft in 2017 Case Tied to Amish Dog Breeders” by Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) for Yahoo News

Oregon: “Top OLCC Officials Kept Popular Booze – Including Pappy Van Winkle – for Themselves, Diverting It from Public” by Noelle Crombie (Portland Oregonian) for MSN

Lobbying

New Mexico: “Ethics Board Fines Ex-Commissioner for Taking Lobbyist’s Contribution” by Jessica Dyer for Albuquerque Journal

New York: “Developer Seeks Aid from Adams’ Housing Commissioner After Scandal That Ensnared Both of Them” by Greg Smith for The City

Wyoming: “Wyoming State Rep. Says No Truth to Ethics Complaint” by Leo Wolfson for Cowboy State Daily

The Los Angeles’ Ad hoc committee on governance reform has recommended the approval of an ethics commission report that would change the rules on persons and organizations lobbying the city.

The commission, whose origins revolves around a controversial leaked audio tape from two former members of the city council, have been tasked on overhauling the city’s ethics laws.

The commission recommended setting a compensation threshold of $5,000 per year that would require a person to register as a lobbyist.

The recommendation also included a requirement for lobbyists to identify their positions on matters about which they are lobbying and lowering the threshold which triggers disclosures when lobbyists distribute political fundraiser solicitations to 15 or more people, down from a threshold of 50 people.

The next step is for the City Council to vote on the commission’s recommendations at their next meeting.

Governor Greg Gianforte has appointed Chris Gallus as Montana’s new Commissioner of Political Practices.

Gallus previously served as legal counsel for the Montana Chamber of Commerce before starting his own private practice.

The Montana Senate has not yet confirmed Gallus’s appointment and no date has been set for his confirmation hearing.

If his appointment is approved, Gallus will serve a six-year term as Commissioner of Political Practices.

The Federal Election Commission (FEC) published its price index adjustments for expenditure limitations and the federal lobbyist bundling disclosure threshold.

The lobbyist bundling disclosure threshold has increased for 2023 from $20,200 to $21,800.

This threshold amount is adjusted annually.

Federal law requires authorized committees of federal candidates, leadership political action committees (PACs), and political party committees to disclose contributions bundled by lobbyists and lobbyists’ PACs.

National/Federal

2016 Trump Campaign in $450,000 Lawsuit Settlement Voids Worker Non-Disclosure Pacts
MSN – Jack Stebbins (CNBC) | Published: 2/4/2023

Former President Trump’s 2016 campaign, as part of a $450,000 settlement of a class-action lawsuit by a former campaign aide, agreed to void non-disclosure agreements that hundreds of campaign workers and volunteers had signed as a condition of their work. The deal ended a federal lawsuit filed by former Trump campaign aide Jessica Denson. The settlement potentially opens the door for campaign workers to publicly discuss events related to the 2016 race, and to Trump himself, without fear of potentially financially ruinous legal retaliation by him.

Despite Fears Agency Could Be Crippled, House Fills Ethics Posts
MSN – Kate Ackley (Roll Call) | Published: 2/7/2023

Even though watchdog groups predicted House Republicans’ changes to the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) could sideline it in the 118th Congress, they now say their worst fears appear unlikely. They credit House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for swiftly filling Democratic slots on OCE’s board and say they are now optimistic about the office’s ability to operate. Still, the state of ethics enforcement in the current Congress remains somewhat uncertain.

Despite Prior Sexual Harassment Probe, Executive Hired to Senior Federal Job
MSN – Lisa Rein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2023

The agency that sets personnel and hiring policy across the federal government hired a senior leader last year who was found in a previous job to have sexually harassed two women who were his subordinates. Frederick Tombar III, hired in October as second-in-command in the Office of Personnel Management’s retirement services division, resigned as executive director of the Louisiana Housing Corp. in 2015 amid an internal probe by a state agency that concluded he harassed the women. The state also paid $89,500 to one of his accusers in a settlement after she sued.

DNC Approves Biden Plan to Remake 2024 Calendar but Hurdles Remain
MSN – Dylan Wells and Tyler Pager (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2023

Democrats voted overwhelmingly to remake the party’s presidential nominating calendar, embracing President Biden’s push for South Carolina to be the first state to hold its contest in 2024 and replacing Iowa amid calls for greater racial, geographic, and economic diversity in the process. The move by members of the Democratic National Committee was long expected, but it does not guarantee the calendar will ultimately be enacted as designed.

Federal Election Commission Hikes Contribution Limits Ahead of 2024 Election Cycle
OpenSecrets – Taylor Giorno | Published: 2/2/2023

The FEC announced new contribution limits for the 2024 election cycle. The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 established limits for donations by individuals to candidates and national party committees. The FEC increases the caps every odd-numbered year to reflect changes in inflation, which skyrocketed in 2022 to the highest level in four decades and the unprecedented increase to the donation limit reflects the historic rise in prices.

Feds Probing Santos’ Role in Service Dog Charity Scheme
MSN – Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) | Published: 1/31/2023

The FBI is investigating U.S. Rep. George Santos’s role in an alleged GoFundMe scheme involving a disabled U.S. Navy veteran’s dying service dog. Richard Osthoff said Santos used his plight to raise $3,000 for life-saving surgery for the dog, then disappeared with the funds. Attorney Joshua Schiller said the veteran’s encounter with Santos could offer prosecutors a quick way to file criminal charges even though they are also investigating possible financial crimes.

Gavels for Top House Committees Don’t Always Come Cheap
MSN – Kate Ackley (Roll Call) | Published: 2/9/2023

Winning control of the most sought-after committees in the House can come with a hefty price tag – in party dues. The eight lawmakers atop the four panels dubbed “A” committees transferred more than $5.2 million from their own political accounts to their respective parties’ campaign arms in the 2022 cycle, according to Issue One, a group that advocates for overhauling campaign finance laws. Although chairperson races and committee assignments do not merely come down to who raised the most money for the party, it can help members move up the hierarchies of the House if they spread campaign money generously.

Heckling of Biden Reflects a New, Coarser Normal for House G.O.P.
Yahoo News – Karoun Demirjian (New York Times) | Published: 2/8/2023

The shouts of “liar,” “that’s not true,” and at least one expletive lobbed at President Biden during his State of the Union address dwarfed outbursts during previous such speeches, most of which have been interrupted by a single disturbance, if at all. The display reflected the ethos that has come to define the Republican-led House, where an emboldened right wing that styles itself after former President Trump is unapologetic about its antipathy for Biden and eager to show it in attention-grabbing ways.

Jordan Fires Off First Subpoenas Against Biden Admin
MSN – Jordain Carney and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 2/3/2023

House Judiciary Committee Chairperson Jim Jordan issued the first subpoenas of the GOP’s new majority, demanding records about certain Biden administration decisions regarding threats against school officials during the Covid-19 pandemic. Jordan sent subpoenas to Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, requesting a laundry list of documents by March 1. The subpoenas are linked to a long-held GOP claim that federal agencies “targeted” parents.

Koch Network to Back Alternative to Trump After Sitting Out Recent Primaries
MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 2/5/2023

The network of donors and activist groups led by conservative billionaire Charles Koch will oppose Donald Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination, mounting a direct challenge to the former president’s campaign to win back the White House. The move marks the most notable example to date of an overt and coordinated effort from within conservative circles to stop Trump from winning the GOP nomination for a third straight presidential election. Some Republicans have grown increasingly frustrated with Trump after disappointing midterm elections in which he drew blame for elevating flawed candidates and polarizing ideas.

Santos’ Unusual $199.99 Campaign Expenses Are Putting Scrutiny on His Longtime Treasurer
MSN – Fredreka Schouten, Kara Scannell, and Gregory Krieg (CNN) | Published: 2/7/2023

U.S. Rep. George Santos and former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin shared a striking set of unusual expenses in their campaign finance reports: 21 payments on a single day that each total exactly $199.99, which is one penny below the figure at which campaigns are required to keep receipts, and all went to anonymous recipients. The Zeldin and Santos congressional campaigns had one more thing in common: they shared a treasurer, Nancy Marks. She resigned from the Santos campaign recently, but the reports Marks filed are the subject of FEC complaints centered on allegations that records were falsified in violation of federal law.

Supreme Court Justices Discussed, But Did Not Agree on Code of Conduct
MSN – Robert Barnes and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 2/9/2023

Although U.S. Supreme Court justices say they voluntarily comply with the same ethical guidelines that apply to other federal judges, the lack of an ethics code has become a prominent complaint on Capitol Hill. In 2019, Justice Elena Kagan told a congressional committee that Chief Justice John Roberts was “seriously” studying the issue. But a discussion among the justices to establish a code failed to produce agreement, people familiar with the matter said. The inertia has frustrated critics, whose demands for reform have intensified.

From the States and Municipalities

Arkansas – Ex-State Senator Hutchinson Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette – Dale Ellis | Published: 2/3/2023

Former state Sen. Jeremy Hutchinson, the son of ex-U.S. Rep. Tim Hutchinson and nephew of former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison after being convicted of bribery and filing a false tax return. He was also ordered to pay $355,535.10 in restitution. Hutchinson admitted to accepting more than $157,000 from a businessperson disguised as legal fees to advance legislation.

California – Calls Intensify for Anaheim’s City Leaders to Keep Promises to Root Out Corruption
Voice of OC – Spencer Custodio and Hosam Elattar | Published: 2/9/2023

Resident watchdogs, activists, community leaders, and the Orange County Democratic Party are all pushing back on Anaheim City Council members, calling on them to stay the course on a contracted corruption investigation into City Hall instead of paring down efforts stemming from a scandal that surfaced last year. The scandal triggered the mayor’s resignation and ended up terminating a proposed stadium deal between the city and the Los Angeles Angels.

California – LA Council’s Governance Reform Committee Recommends Stricter Lobbying Rules
MSN – City News Service | Published: 2/6/2023

In a step toward reforming Los Angeles’s lobbying ordinance for the first time in decades, the city council’s ad hoc committee on reform recommended approval of an city Ethics Commission report that would place stricter rules on people or organizations looking to impact policy. The Municipal Lobbying Ordinance has not been comprehensively updated since its adoption in 1994, with two prior recommendations by the ethics agency expiring after the council did not act on them. But the racist audio involving some council members spurred the creation of the special committee, which took up the May 2022 recommendations.

Florida – Amid Attacks from DeSantis, AP African American Studies Course Is Updated
MSN – Nick Anderson and Lori Rozsa (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2023

After debate on how to construct a class focused on the Black experience, the College Board finalized a plan for its new Advanced Placement course in African American studies that seeks to immerse students in Black history and culture without shying from fraught topics of race and racism in a way that until now has mostly been available only on college campuses. The College Board denied any suggestion it watered down the course after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis attacked an earlier draft as progressive “indoctrination.” But the document now omits mention of certain left-leaning figures who appeared in a previous version.

Florida – Brevard Consultant Failed to Report Political Contributions, Gambled with PAC Funds
Yahoo News – Eric Rogers (Florida Today) | Published: 2/8/2023

A Brevard County political consultant is facing a long list of election law violations over electioneering and a defunct PAC he used during the 2020 election cycle. Florida Elections Commission investigators said Robert Burns failed to file months of campaign finance reports for his short-lived PAC, Friends of Florida, failed to disclose tens of thousands in contributions, regularly spent money the PAC did not have, and failed to properly disclose political ads paid for with PAC funds.

Florida – Fort Lauderdale Follies: City Hall drama gets Seinfeldesque
MSN – Susannah Bryan (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) | Published: 2/8/2023

It was not a Seinfeld episode, but it sounded like one as Fort Lauderdale City Commission members Steve Glassman and John Herbst faced off at a meeting. Glassman needled Herbst over how many hours the city attorney’s office has spent drafting opinions for him on whether a commissioner can accept invites from lobbyists and organizations to pricey and not-so-pricey events without breaking ethics laws.

Hawaii – Hawaii Government Transparency Bills Clear a Key Hurdle in The Legislature
Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 2/7/2023

Four bills that would ban lawmakers from taking donations while in session and increase transparency in Hawaii’s campaign finance system were unanimously approved with bipartisan support in the state House. The bills are the first batch of those aimed at reforming government transparency and ethics in the wake of felony charges against two former lawmakers who took bribes from a businessperson. They now go to the Senate. Gov. Josh Green signaled support for many of the transparency measures being considered this session and said he planned to sign those that came to his desk.

Illinois – New Illinois Supreme Court Justices Got Major Boost from Hidden Spending by Democratic Group
MSN – Ray Long and Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/5/2023

All for Justice spent $7.3 million on the 2022 Illinois Supreme Court races to help expand the Democratic majority on the court. But the PAC failed to follow disclosure guidelines mandated by state election law, which meant its spending went undisclosed until months after the election. In contrast, independent expenditure groups that funded the Republican candidates filed the required ongoing spending reports. Although All for Justice did not file timely expenditure reports, it did file the mandated reports on money it was taking in from donors, indicating an awareness of the campaign finance laws.

Kansas – Kansas Bill Would Limit Subpoena Power of Ethics Commission Amid Ongoing Investigation
MSN – Jenna Barackman (Kansas City Star) | Published: 2/6/2023

A new bill would limit the subpoena power of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. It would require the commission to verify the legitimacy of a claim and determine probable cause before issuing a subpoena. The panel would be unable to use subpoenas to determine whether probable cause exists. The legislation comes after the commission’s executive director, Mark Skoglund, subpoenaed Republican officials last year in relation to an investigation into possible campaign finance violations.

Maryland – Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates Scraps Plans for Foundation While in Office
Baltimore Banner – Justin Fenton and Dylan Segelbaum | Published: 2/8/2023

Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates is scrapping plans for a nonprofit foundation that was expected to accept contributions from donors it would not have to disclose under the law to pay for events while he served as the city’s top prosecutor. Since its formation, Building Bridges for a Better Baltimore Foundation, a 501(c)(4) group, has been mainly a vehicle to fund Bates’ inauguration events. Though state law now requires the governor to disclose donors to inaugural committees, it does not cover other public officials, such as state’s attorneys.

Massachusetts – Limits on Super PACs Stump Top Massachusetts Court
Courthouse News Service – Thomas Harrison | Published: 2/6/2023

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court heard arguments in a case concerning a proposed initiative petition filed in June 2022 and rejected in September. It would have limited contributions to super PACs to $5,000 in a calendar year. Justice Scott Kafker referred to the matter as an “incredibly novel, difficult constitutional issue that probably will get us smacked down by the U.S. Supreme Court” and wondered whether it was appropriate for the state’s highest court to get involved at this stage.

Michigan – Feds Investigate Ex-Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson for Alleged Bribery in Pot Licensing
Gwinnett Daily Post – Robert Snell and Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 2/1/2023

FBI agents and a federal grand jury have spent more than two years investigating whether former Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson and others received bribes in return for awarding state licenses to operate medical marijuana facilities. The probe has the potential to raise new questions about financial influences over Lansing while Republicans controlled the Legislature and how the state’s burgeoning marijuana industry was shaped.

Minnesota – Appeals Court Greenlights Donation Investigation into GOP Group
Yahoo News – Roger Sollenberger (Daily Beast) | Published: 2/8/2023

A federal appeals court said Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison can pursue his investigation into Republican online fundraising giant WinRed over an allegedly deceptive marketing scheme that bilked unwitting donors out of untold amounts of money. The Eighth Circuit of Appeals rejected WinRed’s argument that federal campaign finance laws preempt state attorneys general from enforcing state-level consumer protection laws.

Minnesota – Our Streets Minneapolis Must Register Lobbyists
KMSP – Tom Lyden | Published: 2/2/2023

The Minnesota Campaign Finance Board announced a settlement with Our Streets Minneapolis for failing since 2018 to register some of its employees as lobbyists. Five employees have now registered as lobbyists, while Our Streets Minneapolis will register as a group that engages in lobbying and pay a civil penalty of $4,000. In a response to the complaint, Brian Dillon, an attorney for Our Streets, wrote that the group “Now recognized that it recently began engaging in regulated lobbying activity without knowing that it had done so.”

Missouri – Records Point to Lacy Clay and Brandon Bosley in St. Louis Corruption Scandal
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Jacob Barker and Austin Huguelet | Published: 2/6/2023

Federal officials just sent three former members of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen to prison for taking bribes from a gas station owner. But recently released court documents indicate the FBI provided cash to an informant who offered bribes to at least two other public officials: former U.S. Rep. William Lacy Clay and current Alderman Brandon Bosley. The revelations spring from new details sprinkled through an unsealed search warrant application.

Montana – Helena Attorney Gallus Prepares for Confirmation Hearing as Montana Commissioner of Political Practices
KTVH – Jonathan Ambarian | Published: 2/6/2023

Gov. Greg Gianforte’s choice to be Montana’s commissioner of political practices has already started his new job as the state Senate prepares to consider his confirmation. Chris Gallus has been at work since January 23, several days after Gianforte appointed him to the position. Gallus previously served as legal counsel for the Montana Chamber of Commerce, then started his own legal practice – often working on campaign-related matters, like cases involving ballot measures. He also previously worked as a lobbyist.

New Jersey – Ethical Questions Raised as Murphy Extends Reach at Port Authority with New Nominations
MSN – Colleen Wilson (Bergen Record) | Published: 2/6/2023

Gov. Phil Murphy sent three nominations, including two top staffers, for the state Senate to consider for roles on the board of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Some have raised questions about whether two officials in the governor’s office can sit on the Port Authority board and if there is a conflict-of-interest for the mayor of Elizabeth, a city where authority business and property is located.

New Mexico – Legislation Could Be Fast-Tracked to Resolve Simmering Ethics Law Disagreement
Albuquerque Journal – Dan Boyd | Published: 2/7/2023

New Mexico lawmakers are poised to move quickly to pass legislation clarifying their ability to represent constituents in dealings with state agencies, after a dust-up over the practical implications of a nearly 60-year-old state ethics law. The filing of a Senate bill was prompted by a recent state Ethics Commission advisory opinion that concluded lawmakers could run afoul of the Governmental Conduct Act by writing letters on legislative stationery to state agencies on behalf of constituents, or by making references to their role as legislators.

New Mexico – Legislators Take Aim at Secrecy Rule in Harassment Complaints
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 2/1/2023

New Mexico legislators took a step toward ending the one-sided confidentiality law that keeps people who file a harassment complaint at the Capitol from speaking about their case. Under the current system, a lawmaker accused of harassment is free to comment in public, but the person who lodged the complaint cannot, unless there is a finding of probable cause after an investigation. Lobbyist Marianna Anaya, who accused a prominent state senator last year of sexual harassment and abusive behavior, said the secrecy provision could interfere with a person’s ability to speak to family members and seek out other support.

New York – N.Y. Prosecutors Group Says Former Trump Investigator Violated Ethics with Book
MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2023

An association of New York state prosecutors said a former member of the Manhattan district attorney’s office who investigated Donald Trump violated ethical standards by writing a book about the case during an ongoing criminal investigation. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has previously said former investigator Mark Pomerantz may have broken a law that bars prosecutors from disclosing grand jury material by writing “People vs. Donald Trump: An Inside Account.”

North Carolina – Appeals Court Backs N.C. Attorney General in Battle to Avoid Criminal Libel Prosecution
Yahoo News – Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/8/2023

A federal appeals court sided with North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein in his bid to avoid prosecution under a state law criminalizing “derogatory” statements related to candidates. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals did not outright prohibit a North Carolina district attorney from going forward with a highly unusual prosecution of Stein over his claims related to a rival’s handling of rape test kits. But the appeals court’s decision makes it highly likely a lower federal court will preclude such an action.

North Carolina – NC May Loosen Sanctions for Political Campaigns and PACs After First-Time Violations
MSN – Dan Kane (Charlotte Observer) | Published: 2/7/2023

The State Board of Elections is considering a policy that would allow some campaigns and PACs to keep smaller donations that violate campaign finance rules for first-time infractions. The board is soliciting public comments on the plan. Under the policy, the board would settle cases involving prohibited donations or spending of less than $1,000 per election cycle. First-time rule-breakers would receive warning letters recommending they forfeit prohibited contributions, but not requiring it.

North Carolina – On North Carolina’s Supreme Court, G.O.P. Justices Move to Reconsider Democratic Rulings
DNyuz – Michael Wines (New York Times) | Published: 2/5/2023

The North Carolina Supreme Court moved to rehear two voting rights cases, one striking down a gerrymandered map and another nullifying new voter ID requirements. Such re-hearings are exceedingly rare. What also made the move exceptional was that the cases had been decided less than two months ago by a court that, at the time, contained four Democratic and three Republican justices. The court that voted to rehear the cases has a five-to-two GOP majority after the November midterms. The two Democratic justices criticized the rehearing orders, calling them “an exercise of raw partisanship” that would undermine public trust in the court.

North Dakota – Opposites Align in Push to Clamp Down on Dark Money in North Dakota Campaigns
Dickinson Press – Jeremy Turley | Published: 2/1/2023

State law in North Dakota allows campaign finance groups that classify themselves as “independent expenditure” filers to avoid disclosing their donors. House Bill 1500 would require the nebulous organizations to publicly divulge the “ultimate and true source” of the funds they use to buy political ads. The bill is one of about a half-dozen proposals before lawmakers that would expand public campaign finance reporting requirements for groups or candidates. The wave of legislation comes in response to a perceived increase in the number of attack ads over the last few election cycles.

Ohio – Larry Householder Again Paid His Defense Lawyers with Campaign Funds, Though a Quick Refund Followed
MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/8/2023

Indicted ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder has again used his campaign funds to pay $300,000 in legal bills last year, a practice repeatedly found in the past to be illegal under state law. He refunded the money a day later, however, a shift from past practice that landed him in a case before the Ohio Elections Commission. That case is on hold as Householder faces a criminal trial over a racketeering charge.

Ohio – Reporter Arrested After Broadcast at Ohio Governor’s News Conference
MSN – Ben Brasch (Washington Post) | Published: 2/8/2023

A television reporter was arrested for trespassing and disorderly conduct following a live shot at the back of a news conference held by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. The event was intended to announce that residents in the village of East Palestine can safely return to their homes after a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed days earlier. Video shows Evan Lambert of NewsNation being handcuffed on the ground and taken to a police vehicle. It isn’t clear what led to Lambert being detained.

Oregon – In the Fight Over Gas Stoves, Meet the Industry’s Go-To Scientist
DNyuz – Hiroko Tabuchi (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

When Multnomah County in Oregon convened a recent public hearing on the health hazards posed by pollution from gas stoves, a toxicologist named Julie Goodman was the first to testify. Studies linking gas stoves to childhood asthma, which have prompted talk of gas-stove bans recently, were “missing important context,” she said. What Goodman did not say was that she was paid to testify by a local gas provider. She is a toxicologist who works for Gradient, a consulting firm that provides environmental reviews for corporations.

Pennsylvania – Democrats Sweep Special Elections, Affirming First Pa. House Majority in 12 Years
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 2/7/2023

Democrats swept three Allegheny County special elections, cementing their one-vote majority in the Pennsylvania House, and ending a two-month debate over which party controls the chamber. It is unclear if the wins will be enough for House Democrat Leader Joanna McClinton to claim the speaker’s gavel, which is currently held by Rep. Mark Rozzi. He was elected in a deal Republicans engineered in a last-ditch effort to avoid entering the minority. But Rozzi’s arrangement has not panned out as Republicans planned, and the party now faces an adjustment to life in the legislative minority.

Campaign Finance

National: “Santos’ Unusual $199.99 Campaign Expenses Are Putting Scrutiny on His Longtime Treasurer” by Fredreka Schouten, Kara Scannell, and Gregory Krieg (CNN) for MSN

Massachusetts: “Limits on Super PACs Stump Top Massachusetts Court” by Thomas Harrison for Courthouse News Service

Ethics

National: “Despite Fears Agency Could Be Crippled, House Fills Ethics Posts” by Kate Ackley (Roll Call) for MSN

Kansas: “Kansas Bill Would Limit Subpoena Power of Ethics Commission Amid Ongoing Investigation” by Jenna Barackman (Kansas City Star) for MSN

Missouri: “Records Point to Lacy Clay and Brandon Bosley in St. Louis Corruption Scandal” by Jacob Barker and Austin Huguelet for St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Montana: “Helena Attorney Gallus Prepares for Confirmation Hearing as Montana Commissioner of Political Practices” by Jonathan Ambarian for KTVH

New York: “N.Y. Prosecutors Group Says Former Trump Investigator Violated Ethics with Book” by Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

California: “LA Council’s Governance Reform Committee Recommends Stricter Lobbying Rules” by City News Service for MSN

Campaign Finance

National: “Koch Network to Back Alternative to Trump After Sitting Out Recent Primaries” by Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) for MSN

Elections

North Carolina: “On North Carolina’s Supreme Court, G.O.P. Justices Move to Reconsider Democratic Rulings” by Michael Wines (New York Times) for DNyuz

Ethics

National: “Despite Prior Sexual Harassment Probe, Executive Hired to Senior Federal Job” by Lisa Rein (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “2016 Trump Campaign in $450,000 Lawsuit Settlement Voids Worker Non-Disclosure Pacts” by Jack Stebbins (CNBC) for MSN

Arkansas: “Ex-State Senator Hutchinson Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison” by Dale Ellis for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Florida: “Amid Attacks from DeSantis, AP African American Studies Course Is Updated” by Nick Anderson and Lori Rozsa (Washington Post) for MSN

New Jersey: “Ethical Questions Raised as Murphy Extends Reach at Port Authority with New Nominations” by Colleen Wilson (Bergen Record) for MSN

Lobbying

Minnesota: “Our Streets Minneapolis Bike Coalition Fined for Lobbying Efforts” by Dave Orrick for Minneapolis Star Tribune

Campaign Finance

National: “Federal Election Commission Hikes Contribution Limits Ahead of 2024 Election Cycle” by Taylor Giorno for OpenSecrets

Illinois: “New Illinois Supreme Court Justices Got Major Boost from Hidden Spending by Democratic Group” by Ray Long and Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) for MSN

North Dakota: “Opposites Align in Push to Clamp Down on Dark Money in North Dakota Campaigns” by Jeremy Turley for Dickinson Press

Elections

National: “DNC Approves Biden Plan to Remake 2024 Calendar but Hurdles Remain” by Dylan Wells and Tyler Pager (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Feds Probing Santos’ Role in Service Dog Charity Scheme” by Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) for MSN

Michigan: “Feds Investigate Ex-Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson for Alleged Bribery in Pot Licensing” by Robert Snell and Craig Mauger (Detroit News) for Gwinnett Daily Post

Legislative Issues

New Mexico: “Legislators Take Aim at Secrecy Rule in Harassment Complaints” by Dan McKay for Albuquerque Journal

Lobbying

Oregon: “In the Fight Over Gas Stoves, Meet the Industry’s Go-To Scientist” by Hiroko Tabuchi (New York Times) for DNyuz

National/Federal

At the Supreme Court, Ethics Questions Over a Spouse’s Business Ties
Seattle Times – Steve Eder (New York Times) | Published: 1/31/2023

After Chief Justice John Roberts joined the U.S. Supreme Court, his wife, Jane Sullivan Roberts, gave up her career as a law firm partner to become a legal recruiter to alleviate potential conflicts-of-interest. Now, a former colleague of Mrs. Roberts raised concerns that her recruiting work poses potential ethics issues for the chief justice. Seeking an inquiry, the ex-colleague has provided records to the Justice Department and Congress indicating Mrs. Roberts has been paid millions of dollars in commissions for placing lawyers at firm, some of which have business before the Supreme Court.

Biden Lawyer: FBI finds no classified docs at beach house
Associated Press News – Eric Tucker, Colleen Long, and Zeke Miller | Published: 2/1/2023

The FBI searched President Joe Biden’s vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, without finding any classified documents, the president’s attorney said. Agents did take some handwritten notes and other materials relating to Biden’s time as vice president for review. The search was the latest discomfiting moment for a president who has sought to contrast his sensitivity to rule-following with that of Donald Trump, who faces a criminal investigation into his handling of classified documents.

Court Blocks DOJ Review of Scott Perry’s Phone in Jan. 6 Probe
MSN – Spencer Hsu, Jacqueline Alemany, and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

An appeals court put on hold the search of U.S. Rep. Scott Perry’s phone data in the probe of the Capitol insurrection pending appeal. Perry’s appeal sets the stage for a constitutional test over the scope of immunity held by members of Congress from criminal investigation by the Justice Department under the Constitution’s “speech or debate clause,” which protects legislative work from executive branch interference. House leaders from both parties concluded that at least reviewing Perry’s case and weighing in on its impact on Congress’s constitutional independence is in its best interests.

EU Lobby Register Still Riddled with Errors
EU Observer – Nikolaj Nielsen | Published: 1/31/2023

The European Union’s lobby register remains riddled with errors, as pro-transparency campaigners demand better data and mandatory oversight rules. The latest findings come amid a raft of proposals by the European Parliament president to weed out corruption in the wake of a lobbying scandal. Vicky Cann of the Corporate European Observatory identified some 431 suspicious entries, which were then reviewed by the register’s secretariat. The secretariat then reached out to each one and found only three percent of the original entries were correct.

Google’s Ex-CEO Eric Schmidt Tapped for Federal Biotech Commission That Allows Members to Keep Biotech Investments
CNBC – Eamon Javers | Published: 1/31/2023

Leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services committees announced the selection of former Google Chief Executive Officer Eric Schmidt and 11 others to serve on a new commission on biotechnology. It is tasked with reviewing the biotech industry and suggesting investments that would benefit national security. But the appointment does not require members to divest their own personal biotech investments. Schmidt holds stakes in several biotech companies, placing him in a position to potentially profit if those companies are the beneficiaries of a new wave of federal spending.

GOP Report Shows Plan to Ramp Up Focus on Disproven Election Fraud Claims
MSN – Amy Gardner and Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

A new internal report prepared by the Republican National Committee proposes creating a permanent infrastructure in every state to ramp up “election integrity” activities in response to perceptions within GOP ranks of widespread fraud and abuse in the way the country selects its leaders. The report suggests building a massive new party organization involving state-level “election integrity officers” and intensive new training models for poll workers and observers, all based on unsubstantiated claims that Democrats have implemented election procedures that allow for rigged votes.

How Barr’s Quest to Find Flaws in the Russia Inquiry Unraveled
DNyuz – Charlie Savage, Adam Goldman, and Katie Benner (New York Times) | Published: 1/26/2023

Then-Attorney General William Barr in 2019 set out to dig into the theory the investigation to Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign ties to Russia likely stemmed from a conspiracy by intelligence or law enforcement agencies. Barr turned to prosecutor John Durham to prove the theory, and later granted him special counsel status. But after almost four years, Durham’s work is coming to an end without uncovering anything like the deep state plot alleged by Trump and suspected by Barr. The New York Times found Durham’s inquiry was marked by some of the very same flaws that Trump allies claim characterized the Russia investigation.

Hunter Biden’s Lawyers, in Newly Aggressive Strategy, Target His Critics
MSN – Matt Viser (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2023

Hunter Biden’s lawyers sent a series of letters to state and federal prosecutors urging criminal investigations into those who accessed and disseminated his personal data and sent a separate letter threatening Fox News host Tucker Carlson with a defamation lawsuit. The string of letters, which included criminal referrals and cease-and-desist missives aimed at critics and detractors, marked the start of a new and far more hard-hitting phase for the president’s son just as House Republicans prepare their own investigations into him.

‘Just Off K Street’ Lobbyist Sheds Instagram Alias and Day Job
Bloomberg Law – Jack Fitzpatrick | Published: 1/26/2023

The lobbyist behind the popular Instagram account about Washington’s lobbying culture is stepping away from the daily grind on Capitol Hill, but not before shedding her anonymity. Katie McMichael, manager of government relations at Aurora Innovation, said she will maintain her “Just Off K Street” Instagram presence, but she is taking a reprieve from government affairs to spend more time with her family. Most of her 1,500 posts frequently lament the exhausting absurdity of Congress, told from the perspective of a bedraggled industry association lobbyist just trying to get through the day.

Justice Department Asks FEC to Stand Down as Prosecutors Probe Santos
MSN – Isaac Stanley-Becker and Emma Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 1/27/2023

The Justice Department asked the FEC to hold off on any enforcement action against U.S. Rep. George Santos, who lied about key aspects of his biography as prosecutors conduct a parallel criminal probe.  The request also asked the FEC to provide any relevant documents to the Justice Department. The FEC ordinarily complies with the department’s requests to hold off on enforcement. Those requests arise from a 1977 memorandum of understanding between the agencies that addresses their overlapping law enforcement responsibilities.

National Archives Asks Past Presidents, VPs to Look for Classified Items
MSN – Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 1/26/2023

The National Archives sent a letter to representatives of living former presidents and vice presidents asking them to review their personal records to verify that no classified materials are outstanding. The request comes after a limited number of records bearing classified markings were found in recent weeks at President Biden’s home and a think tank bearing his name, as well as at the home of former Vice President Mike Pence.

Redistricting Lawsuits Could Shape the 2024 Battle for House Control
MSN – Daniel Altimari (Roll Call) | Published: 1/30/2023

The reconfiguration of political districts after the 2020 census resulted in a flood of legal challenges, some of which remain unresolved. The 15 states with ongoing litigation include New York and Texas – home to 64 seats combined – along with the battleground state of Georgia. After Republicans flipped nine seats in November, Democrats need to win five back to retake the majority, so redrawn maps could be a factor in shaping party control in the 2024 elections.

Rep. George Santos Is Stepping Down from Committees Amid Fabrications About His Biography
MSN – Meryl Kornfield, Leigh Ann Caldwell, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

Embattled U.S. Rep. George Santos told House Republicans he will step down temporarily from his committee assignments amid multiple investigations into his campaign finances after he lied about key aspects of his biography. The temporary retreat from committees marks Santos’s first major concession after weeks of maintaining a steadfast resistance to any consequences over his fabrications.

Statehouse Efforts to Avoid Partisan Gridlock Hit Obstacles
Yahoo News – Amee LaTour (The Hill) | Published: 1/31/2023

Leaders in state Legislatures across the country have turned to cross-party alliances and power-sharing agreements as they seek to avoid the political deadlock that has hindered lawmakers in Congress, but signs are emerging that some of those efforts might be in vain. It underscores the fact that while these coalitions may enable lawmakers to avoid political paralysis at least temporarily, they are not a cure-all for the hyper-partisanship plaguing the country as a whole.

Trump’s Evolution in Social Media Exile: More QAnon, more extremes
Yahoo News – Ken Bensinger and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

In September, former President Trump went on Truth Social and shared an image of himself wearing a lapel pin in the form of the letter Q, along with a phrase closely associated with the QAnon conspiracy theory movement: “The storm is coming.” In doing so, Trump ensured the message would be hugely amplified, visible to his more than 4 million followers. Even as Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, announced Trump would be reinstated, there is no sign he has curtailed his behavior or stopped spreading the kinds of messages that got him exiled in the first place.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Republicans Exempt Lawmakers from the State’s Open-Records Law
MSN – Patrick Marley and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 1/26/2023

Arizona Republicans shielded legislators from the state’s open-records law, a move that comes months after the release of thousands of documents detailing extensive efforts to undermine Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election in the state. Senators will not have to disclose any text messages sent on personal devices, even when dealing with state business. For lawmakers in both the Senate and the House, emails and other documents will be destroyed after 90 days – in many cases, well before members of the public know to ask for them.

Arizona – GOP Leaders Pressure Hobbs to Donate $1.3M in Excess Inaugural Cash
KJZZ – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 1/26/2023

The top two Republican lawmakers want Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs to put money left over from the inaugural celebration into a state account, where it cannot be used to elect more Democrats. House Speaker Ben Toma and Senate President Warren Petersen called on her to surrender control of what is left from the more than $1.5 million she collected for the celebration. At the same time, the costs totaled only about $207,000.

Florida – Hide Your Books to Avoid Felony Charges, Fla. Schools Tell Teachers
MSN – Hannah Natanson (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

School officials in at least two Florida counties, Manatee and Duval, have directed teachers to remove or wrap up their classroom libraries. The removals come after the State Board of Education ruled a state law restricting the books a district may possess applies not only to schoolwide libraries but to teachers’ classroom collections, too. The law mandates that schools’ books be age-appropriate, free from pornography, and “suited to student needs.” Breaking the law is a third-degree felony, meaning a teacher could face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine for displaying or giving students a disallowed book.

Florida – Penalty Decided for Manatee Commissioner Baugh Who Violated Ethics in Vaccine Rollout
MSN – Ryan Callihan (Bradenton Herald) | Published: 1/27/2023

The Florida Ethics Commission on Ethics accepted Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh’s proposed settlement over scheduling herself an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine site she helped organize. Baugh was ordered to pay $8,000 and accept a public reprimand. Baugh sent an email to county staff with personal information for herself, a developer, and two former neighbors. Staff members said they understood the list to be a clear directive to ensure those people received a COVID-19 vaccine. At the time, more than 100,000 people were in the county’s vaccine waiting pool.

Illinois – Ethics Board Warns Candidates: Don’t use uniformed cops in your ads
WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 2/1/2023

The Board of Ethics warned candidates running for mayor, city council, and Police District Council to not use images of uniformed Chicago police officers, firefighters, or city personnel in campaign advertisements. U.S. Rep. Jesús García edited his first television advertisement in the race for mayor to remove images of the candidate talking to two uniformed officers while promising to get tough on crime. Representatives of the police department confirmed the two officers were under investigation.

Illinois – Jury Finds Son of Former State Rep. Edward Acevedo Guilty of Tax Evasion Charges with Ties to ComEd Bribery Probe
MSN – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 1/30/2023

The son of former state Rep. Edward Acevedo was found guilty of tax evasion charges that were an offshoot of the investigation into Commonwealth Edison’s (ComEd) alleged attempts to influence then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Alex Acevedo was convicted for underreporting his lobbying income by about $70,000 in 2016 and 2018, resulting in a total tax loss of about $20,000. Though relatively minor in scope, the indictment against Alex Acevedo, along with separate charges filed against his younger brother and their father, received widespread attention due to the connection to the ComEd probe.

Iowa – State Agency Can’t Enforce Iowa’s Campaign Finance Laws; Asks Lawmakers for Changes
KCRG – Ethan Stein | Published: 1/27/2023

According to data from the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board, thousands of politicians and advocacy groups have received fines for submitting campaign finance reports late. An investigation found hundreds of fines have not been paid because state law does not set a deadline for when the penalty is paid. It also found the agency’s data is inaccurate and campaigns, along with advocacy groups, were not notified about penalties.

Kansas – Kansas Republicans Tried to Oust Ethics Head Amid Subpoenas. Will They Try Again?
Yahoo News – Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) | Published: 1/26/2023

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson wants to reopen discussions about the scope and management of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission as the office pursues an investigation into campaign finance violations involving Republican officials. Masterson did not provide details on what action would be pursued but he said that under previous directors, lawmakers looked to the commission for guidance and cannot anymore. Although the ethics agency is an independent body that has jurisdiction to investigate lawmakers, Masterson said legislative efforts to change the commission were appropriate.

Massachusetts – Mass. Republican Party Elects New Leader, Rejecting Chairman Jim Lyons’ Bid for Third Term
MSN – Emma Platoff (Boston Globe) | Published: 1/31/2023

After years of dismal election results and weak fundraising, the Massachusetts Republican Party picked a new leader, narrowly rejecting the embattled chairperson, Jim Lyons. in favor of Amy Carnevale, a lobbyist for K&L Gates who promised to steady the party and reverse its electoral decline. Documents obtained by the Globe showed Lyons used party funds to investigate two fellow Republicans. He also appears to have communicated directly with an outside PAC about digging up dirt on Gov. Maura Healey during last year’s election.

Missouri – Former St. Louis County Official Sentenced to Prison for COVID Relief Kickback Scheme
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Katie Kull | Published: 1/26/2023

A former St. Louis County jail official who was long involved with politics and government was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for engaging in a pandemic relief kickback scheme. While still working for the county, Tony Weaver filled out fraudulent applications and sought kickbacks from a small businessperson who applied for multiple grants during the COVID-19 pandemic, a scheme Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith said revealed Weaver’s “unbridled arrogance.”

New Mexico – New Mexico Bill to Restrict Lobbyist ‘Revolving Door’ Advances
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 1/30/2023

A proposal moving through the New Mexico Senate would prohibit former legislators and executive branch appointees from returning immediately to the Capitol as paid lobbyists. The legislation was sharply expanded in committee. The change adds employees who serve at will under the governor to the two-year lobbying ban. At least 20 former legislators and state officials are among the hundreds of people registered to lobby this session, though many of them served several years ago.

New Mexico – New Mexico Considers Roasted Chile as Official State Aroma
MSN – Susan Montoya Bryan (Associated Press) | Published: 2/1/2023

The smell of green chile roasting on an open flame permeates New Mexico every fall, wafting from roadside stands and grocery store parking lots. Now one state lawmaker says it is time for everyone to wake up and smell the chile. Sen. Bill Soules’ visit with fifth grade students in his district sparked a conversation about the hot peppers and the potential for New Mexico to become the first state to have an official state aroma, a proposal now being considered by lawmakers.

New York – Hochul’s Vow to Boost Ethics and Sexual Harassment Training Falls Flat
DNyuz – Jay Root (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

On her first day as governor of New York, Kathy Hochul vowed to overhaul policies on ethics and sexual harassment in the government workplace. Her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo, had just resigned amid a sexual harassment scandal. Hochul said she would strengthen the training, requiring state workers to participate in live classes and seminars. No longer would employees “click their way through a class,” Hochul said. Nearly a year and a half later, there is still no universal live training in either subject for the state’s work force.

New York – Inside George Santos’s District Office: Nothing to see here
Buffalo News – Dana Rubinstein (New York Times) | Published: 1/30/2023

The storefront in the Tudor Revival building in the Douglaston neighborhood of Queens has lived many lives: It was a flower shop; the satellite office of former U.S. Rep. Thomas Suozzi, whose name still adorns the green awning. Now it is home to perhaps its most notorious tenant: U.S. Rep. George Santos. With the northern half of Long Island’s Nassau County falling into Santos’s district, County Executive Bruce Blakeman has said he will direct all federal constituent calls to Anthony D’Esposito, another Long Island representative. “My office will have no interaction with George Santos or his staff until he resigns,” said Blakeman, a Republican.

New York – Lobbying on LaSalle Nomination Shows Apparent Gap in Reporting Requirements
Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 1/30/2023

Citizens for Judicial Fairness spent between $75,000 to $100,000 on its brief efforts trying to influence the vote of state senators on the Judiciary Committee as they considered New York Gov. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s nomination of Hector LaSalle for chief judge of the Court of Appeals. State law is silent on the issue of nominations and appointments to public office, according to a spokesperson for the state’s ethics commission. It leads to a near-impossible dynamic for observers who want to follow either the money or those seeking to influence the nominations.

New York – Manhattan Prosecutors Present Trump Case to Grand Jury
Buffalo News – William Rashbaum, Ben Protess, Jonah Bromwich, and Hurubie Meko (New York Times) | Published: 1/30/2023

The Manhattan district attorney’s office began presenting evidence to a grand jury about Donald Trump’s role in paying hush money to a porn star during his 2016 presidential campaign, laying the groundwork for potential criminal charges against the former president in the coming months. The grand jury was recently impaneled, and the beginning of witness testimony represents a clear signal that the district attorney, Alvin Bragg, is nearing a decision about whether to charge Trump.

North Dakota – North Dakota Senate Cuts Back Ethics Panel’s Bill to Expand Authority
Bismarck Tribune – Jack Dura | Published: 1/31/2023

North Dakota’s ethics panel might not get everything it sought in a bill for tweaks to state laws. The Senate approved legislation advanced by the Ethics Commission for several requested changes, including a proposed but deleted expansion to include nearly 9,000 more state employees under its authority. Changes also include extending the time frame to notify an accused person of an ethics complaint, and adding criteria for who can make complaints.

Ohio – Corporate Jets, Bribes and Dark Money: Householder trial spotlights weaknesses in Ohio ethics laws
MSN – Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/29/2023

Aspects of Larry Householder’s corruption prosecution show grey areas or even loopholes in Ohio ethics laws that either enabled his activities or, perhaps, made them legal. But lawmakers have taken no substantive action to address any of the ethical issues underlined in the case, with several bills stalling despite at times getting bipartisan support. On the eve of the trial’s start, a group of House Republicans announced a proposed set of ethics reforms they said would address some of the issues exposed by the scandal. But the bill, which has yet to be introduced, has an uncertain future.

Oregon – Oregon Elections Director Who Worked for Democratic Party Will Not Recuse Herself from Investigation into Party’s Crypto Donor
Portland Oregonian – Hillary Borrud | Published: 2/1/2023

Oregon’s new elections director, Molly Woon, will not recuse herself from the investigation into a $500,000 donation the state Democratic Party received from an FTX executive last year even though she previously worked as a top employee of the party. In October, the Democratic Party accepted the contribution the party claimed was from a Las Vegas cryptocurrency company Prime Trust. But Prime Trust was not the actual donor. Under state law, it is a felony to make a campaign contribution under a “false name” and elections employees are deciding whether the case should be forwarded to the state attorney general for prosecution.

Pennsylvania – Lobbyist Says She Was Harassed by Current Pa. Lawmaker, Wants Legislature to Change Misconduct Rules
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 1/27/2023

A lobbyist for one of Pennsylvania’s most influential unions says a sitting state lawmaker sexually harassed her, and she is urging the Legislature to expand internal rules that govern who can bring misconduct complaints. Andi Perez, who advocates on behalf of Service Employees International Union, made the allegation during a listening session organized by new Speaker Mark Rozzi. He has scheduled a series of public meetings to solicit feedback about the House’s operating procedures Amid a partisan deadlock over which party controls the chamber.

Rhode Island – AG’s Office Nixes $40,000 in Funding as NAACP President Faces Campaign-Finance Charges
Yahoo News – Mark Reynolds and Amy Russo (Providence Journal) | Published: 1/27/2023

Gerard Catala, the newly elected president of the Providence NAACP and a former city council candidate, faces criminal prosecution for failing to report on the finances of his 2022 campaign as required by state law. Because of the charges against Catala, the state attorney general’s office will withhold the $40,000 it had planned to give the branch over the course of four years. The funds were part of a large grant from the U.S. Department of Justice meant to support “hate-crime prevention and education.”

South Dakota – House Kills Bill That Would Have Increased Campaign Donation Limits
KEVN – Austin Glass | Published: 1/31/2023

The South Dakota House defeated a bill that would have increased the campaign contribution limits for individuals and entities. Proponents said the increase would be good in light of inflation. But opponents said the current system works well and increasing the caps would allow wealthy donors to have more influence.

Texas – Ex-Legislator Tests Lobbying Revolving Door Law by Repping Big Energy Companies
MSN – Lauren McGaughy (Dallas Morning News) | Published: 1/27/2023

A former Texas representative is testing a state law meant to crack down on the “revolving door” between the Legislature and lobbying firms. Chris Paddie chaired a powerful House’s committee that held hearings to demand answers from energy firms after 2021’s deadly winter storm. Now, he has registered to lobby for a handful of the same power companies he was previously tasked with scrutinizing. His activities come despite a law that bans state legislators from becoming lobbyists within two years of using their own campaign cash to donate to other politicians.

Virginia – GOP-Led Panel Again Defeats Campaign Finance Reform
MSN – Sarah Rankin (Associated Press) | Published: 2/1/2023

A Virginia House panel voted down legislation that would prohibit lawmakers from using campaign funds for personal expenses such as a vacation, mortgage, or country club membership. Virginia’s elected officials are currently outliers in the nation for their ability to spend money donated to their campaigns on virtually anything. Similar legislation is still alive in the Senate, but the vote signals it is likely to meet a similar fate should it cross to the House.

Washington – As Capital Gains Tax Goes to WA Supreme Court, a Push to ‘Microtarget’ Justices
Seattle Times – David Gutman | Published: 1/26/2023

As the Washington Supreme Court prepares to decide the fate of the state’s new capital gains tax, a conservative think tank, whose leadership sued to stop the tax, is “microtargeting” the state’s nine justices with an ad campaign. The Washington Policy Center wrote to donors recently outlining its advertising strategy as the justices prepare to hear challenges to the tax. The campaign focused on areas “where justices spend the bulk of their time (work and home) as well as secondary places our research found that may be relevant,” the think tank wrote to supporters.

Washington – Prominent Lobbyist Barred from WA Capitol After Ruling He Stalked State Representative
Seattle Times – Jim Brunner | Published: 1/31/2023

A prominent lobbyist was barred from the Capitol campus after a judge ruled that he had stalked a state representative, leading her to flee her home for months. Rep. Lauren Davis last year obtained a domestic violence protective order against lobbyist Cody Arledge, citing what she said was an escalating pattern of obsessive and threatening behavior after she broke off their romantic relationship. Their dispute is now before the state Court of Appeals, where Arledge is challenging the restrictions on him as an “Orwellian” violation of his constitutional right to privacy and ability to work. Davis’s attorneys are defending the restrictions as necessary to protect her.

Ethics

National: “Rep. George Santos Is Stepping Down from Committees Amid Fabrications About His Biography” by Meryl Kornfield, Leigh Ann Caldwell, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “At the Supreme Court, Ethics Questions Over a Spouse’s Business Ties” by Steve Eder (New York Times) for DNyuz

Florida: “Penalty Decided for Manatee Commissioner Baugh Who Violated Ethics in Vaccine Rollout” by Ryan Callihan (Bradenton Herald) for MSN

New York: “Hochul’s Vow to Boost Ethics and Sexual Harassment Training Falls Flat” by Jay Root (New York Times) for DNyuz

Washington: “Prominent Lobbyist Barred from WA Capitol After Ruling He Stalked State Representative” by Jim Brunner for Seattle Times

Legislative Issues

National: “Statehouse Efforts to Avoid Partisan Gridlock Hit Obstacles” by Amee LaTour (The Hill) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

Europe: “EU Lobby Register Still Riddled with Errors” by Nikolaj Nielsen for EU Observer

New Mexico: “New Mexico Bill to Restrict Lobbyist ‘Revolving Door’ Advances” by Dan McKay for Albuquerque Journal

Campaign Finance

Iowa: “State Agency Can’t Enforce Iowa’s Campaign Finance Laws; Asks Lawmakers for Changes” by Ethan Stein for KCRG

Ethics

National: “Trump’s Evolution in Social Media Exile: More QAnon, more extremes” by Ken Bensinger and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) for Yahoo News

Missouri: “Former St. Louis County Official Sentenced to Prison for COVID Relief Kickback Scheme” by Katie Kull for St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Ohio: “Corporate Jets, Bribes and Dark Money: Householder trial spotlights weaknesses in Ohio ethics laws” by Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Washington: “As Capital Gains Tax Goes to WA Supreme Court, a Push to ‘Microtarget’ Justices” by David Gutman for Seattle Times

Legislative Issues

New York: “Inside George Santos’s District Office: Nothing to see here” by Dana Rubinstein (New York Times) for Buffalo News

Lobbying

New York: “Lobbying on LaSalle Nomination Shows Apparent Gap in Reporting Requirements” by Joshua Solomon for Albany Times Union

Redistricting

National: “Redistricting Lawsuits Could Shape the 2024 Battle for House Control” by Daniel Altimari (Roll Call) for MSN

Campaign Finance

National: “Justice Department Asks FEC to Stand Down as Prosecutors Probe Santos” by Isaac Stanley-Becker and Emma Brown (Washington Post) for MSN

Rhode Island: “AG’s Office Nixes $40,000 in Funding as NAACP President Faces Campaign-Finance Charges” by Mark Reynolds and Amy Russo (Providence Journal) for Yahoo News

Ethics

National: “National Archives Asks Past Presidents, VPs to Look for Classified Items” by Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) for MSN

Kansas: “Kansas Republicans Tried to Oust Ethics Head Amid Subpoenas. Will They Try Again?” by Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) for Yahoo News

Pennsylvania: “Lobbyist Says She Was Harassed by Current Pa. Lawmaker, Wants Legislature to Change Misconduct Rules” by Stephen Caruso for Spotlight PA

Legislative Issues

Arizona: “Arizona Republicans Exempt Lawmakers from the State’s Open-Records Law” by Patrick Marley and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

National: “‘Just Off K Street’ Lobbyist Sheds Instagram Alias and Day Job” by Jack Fitzpatrick for Bloomberg Law

Texas: “Ex-Legislator Tests Lobbying Revolving Door Law by Repping Big Energy Companies” by Lauren McGaughy (Dallas Morning News) for MSN

National/Federal

2-Year Sentence for Hawaii Woman’s Trump Lobbying Scheme
MSN – Associated Press | Published: 1/18/2023

An American consultant was sentenced to two years in prison for an illicit lobbying effort to get the Trump administration to drop an investigation into the multibillion-dollar looting of a Malaysian state investment fund, and to arrange for the return of a Chinese dissident living in the U.S. Nickie Mali Lum Davis pleaded guilty in 2020 to one count of aiding and abetting in violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act.

Classified Documents Found at Pence’s Indiana Home
MSN – Jamie Gangel, Jeremy Herb, and Evan Perez (CNN) | Published: 1/24/2023

A lawyer for former Vice President Mike Pence discovered about a dozen documents marked as classified at Pence’s Indiana home and he has turned those classified records over to the FBI. The Justice Department’s National Security Division and the FBI have launched a review of the documents and how they ended up in Pence’s house. Pence asked his lawyer to conduct the search of his home out of an abundance of caution, and the attorney began going through four boxes, finding a small number of documents with classified markings.

Cyberthieves Jacked a U.S. Senator’s Campaign and Stole Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars
MSN – Dave Levinthal (Raw Story) | Published: 1/23/2023

Cyberthieves stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from the campaign committee of U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran and the FBI is investigating. It is the latest in a series of thefts from the political accounts of prominent politicians, party committees, trade associations, and advocacy groups representing all points across the political spectrum. Together, the money lost early in this decade has soared into the millions of dollars.

Dark Money Group Linked to Leonard Leo Is Dissolved
MSN – Heidi Przybyla (Politico) | Published: 1/20/2023

A “dark money” group tied to conservative judicial activist Leonard Leo was dissolved three days after Politico inquired about whether it helped to facilitate the multi-million-dollar sale of former White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway’s polling company. The BH Fund, which was formed in 2016 with an anonymous $24 million donation, has been a nerve center for distributing millions of dollars around Leo’s network of groups bolstering former President Trump’s Supreme Court picks.

Four Oath Keepers Convicted of Jan. 6 Seditious Conspiracy
Associated Press News – Michael Kunzelman and Alanna Durkin Richer | Published: 1/24/2023

Four members of the Oath Keepers were convicted of seditious conspiracy in the attack on the Capitol in the second major trial of far-right extremists accused of plotting to forcibly keep Donald Trump in power. It is another major victory for the Justice Department, which is also trying to secure sedition convictions against the former leader of the Proud Boys and four associates. It was one of the most serious cases brought so far in the sweeping January 6 investigation which continues to grow two years after the insurrection.

Judge Sanctions Trump, Habba Nearly $1 Million for ‘Completely Frivolous’ Clinton Suit
MSN – Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 1/20/2023

A federal judge ordered nearly $1 million in sanctions against Donald Trump and his attorney Alina Habba, calling the former president a “mastermind of strategic abuse of the judicial process.” U.S. District Court Judge Donald Middlebrooks said Trump’s sprawling lawsuit against Hillary Clinton and dozens of former Justice Department and FBI officials was an almost cartoonish abuse of the legal system. Trump continues to face peril in advancing criminal probes and civil lawsuits related to his effort to overturn the 2020 election and his retention of sensitive national security records at his Mar-a-Lago estate after leaving office.

Justice Dept. Search of Biden Home in Wilmington Turns Up More Documents
MSN – Matt Viser and Tyler Pager (Washington Post) | Published: 1/21/2023

The Justice Department completed an extensive search of President Biden’s home in Wilmington and turned up additional classified documents, some of which date to his time in the U.S. Senate and others from his eight-year tenure as vice president. After being given full access to Biden’s home, the Justice Department took possession of six items. The department also took some of Biden’s handwritten notes from his vice-presidential years to further review them.

Lobbying Gold Rush May Persist Despite Divided Congress
Yahoo News – Karl Evers-Hillstrom (The Hill) | Published: 1/23/2023

K Street lobbying firms expect a historic earnings boom to continue, even as a divided Congress threatens to slow legislation to a crawl. The top firms reported massive earnings for the final three months of 2022, capping off a record-breaking year for K Street. The strong fourth-quarter performance, which defied election season norms, boosted hopes that corporations will continue to spend big on lobbyists in the new year.

Meta to Reinstate Donald Trump’s Facebook Account
MSN – Rebecca Kern (Politico) | Published: 1/25/2023

Meta will lift the ban on Donald Trump’s Facebook and Instagram accounts after a suspension that lasted more than two years. The decision restores the former president’s access to a platform that he used to powerful effect as a campaigner and could potentially boost his faltering 2024 fundraising. But a Trump return could also lead to more election misinformation on the platform, Democrats warn, since Facebook has a policy of not fact-checking candidates. The company said Trump will have to abide by new rules if he decides to post again, but ultimately decided to reinstate him because the public deserves to hear from politicians.

Mystery Deepens Around George Santos’s $700,000 in Campaign Loans
Seattle Times – Michael Gold and Nicholas Fandos (New York Times) | Published: 1/24/2023

An updated campaign finance report raised new questions about the source of six-figure loans that U.S. Rep. George Santos gave his congressional campaign. In previous filings, the Santos campaign has reported he lent his own campaign more than $700,000. But in an update to a report originally filed in April 2022, the campaign unmarked a box that had originally indicated $500,000 of those loans came from Santos’s own personal funds. Experts said they were struggling to interpret the change, especially because in filings from later in 2022, the box marking “personal funds of the candidate” remains checked.

Students Want New Books. Thanks to Restrictions, Librarians Can’t Buy Them.
MSN – Hannah Natanson (Washington Post) | Published: 1/22/2023

States and school districts nationwide have begun to constrain what librarians can order. At least 10 states have passed laws giving parents more power over which books appear in libraries or limiting students’ access to books. At the same time, school districts are passing policies that bar certain kinds of texts – most often, those focused on issues of gender and sexuality – while increasing administrative or parental oversight of acquisitions. School librarians said in the past they had wide latitude to choose the books they thought would best supplement the curriculum and stimulate students’ literary appetites.

Supreme Court Asks Biden Administration to Weigh in on Social Media Case
MSN – Robert Barnes and Cat Zakrzewski (Washington Post) | Published: 1/23/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court asked the Biden administration to weigh in on whether states may bar giant social media platforms from removing certain types of political speech, a major First Amendment case that could determine how the constitutional right to free speech applies to the marketplace of ideas on the internet. At stake is the constitutionality of state laws in Florida and Texas that would restrict platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube from blocking or limiting political speech, and require transparency in how such decisions are made.

Supreme Court Says It Can’t Determine Who Leaked Draft Dobbs Opinion
MSN – Robert Barnes and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 1/19/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court said it cannot identify the person who in the spring leaked a draft of the opinion that overturned Roe v. Wade, an inconclusive likely finale to what the justices declared “one of the worst breaches of trust” in the court’s history. Although the report did not indicate it was against the law to disclose the draft opinion, those interviewed were told they could be fired if they refused to answer or did not truthfully respond to questions. The report did not indicate clearly whether the justices themselves or others close to them were questioned.

US: Ex-FBI counterintelligence agent aided Russian oligarch
MSN – Michael Sisak and Eric Tucker (Associated Press) | Published: 1/23/2023

A former high-ranking FBI counterintelligence official who investigated Russian oligarchs was indicted on charges he secretly worked for one, in violation of U.S. sanctions. The official was also charged in a separate indictment with taking cash from a former foreign security officer. Charles McGonigal, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s counterintelligence division in New York from 2016 to 2018, is accused in an indictment of working with a former Soviet diplomat-turned-Russian interpreter on behalf of Oleg Deripaska, a Russian billionaire they purportedly referred to in code as “the big guy” and “the client.”

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Voter Fraud Unit in Arizona Will Shift Focus to Voter Rights
Las Vegas Sun – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 1/23/2023

Arizona’s new Democratic attorney general, Kris Mayes, is redirecting an election integrity unit her Republican predecessor created, focusing its work instead on addressing voter suppression. The unit’s former leader, Jennifer Wright, meanwhile, has joined a legal effort to invalidate Mayes’s narrow victory in the November election. Former Attorney General Mark Brnovich, a Republican who ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate last year, created the office to investigate voter fraud complaints in Arizona, a battleground state.

California – Ex-State Democratic Party Leader Who Helped FBI in Anaheim Probe Agrees to Plead Guilty to Wire Fraud
MSN – Hannah Fry and Gabriel San Román (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 1/19/2023

A California Democratic Party leader who was central to a wide-reaching corruption investigation in Anaheim involving the proposed sale of Angel Stadium agreed to plead guilty to attempted wire fraud. Melahat Rafiei was a well-known political consultant in Orange County. In late 2019, according to a plea agreement, Rafiei told a commercial cannabis company owner she would work to pass a marijuana related ordinance in Anaheim that would benefit the business in exchange for a payment of at least $300,000.

California – Former L.A. Councilmember Jose Huizar Pleads Guilty in Corruption Case
MSN – Michael Finnegan and David Zahniser (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 1/19/2023

Former Los Angeles City Councilperson José Huizar pleaded guilty to two federal charges stemming from a bribery and money laundering scheme in which he took more than $1.5 million in cash, gambling trips, and escorts in exchange for his support of a planned hotel project. Prosecutors said they will request a 13-year prison term. Huizar will also pay restitution of about $1.85 million. The plea deal came after developers were convicted of bribing Huizar and an array of other players at City Hall pleaded guilty to felonies.

Florida – Florida Blocks High School African American Studies Class
Yahoo News – Anthony Izaguirre (Associated Press) | Published: 1/19/2023

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s administration blocked a new Advanced Placement course on African American studies from being taught in high schools, saying it violates state law and is historically inaccurate. DeSantis has opposed what he calls liberal ideologies in schools, including lessons around critical race theory, which examines systemic racism and has become a frequent target of conservatives.

Florida – ‘This Is Not Over.’ Judge Says DeSantis Was Wrong, but Declines to Restore Andrew Warren to Office
MSN – Dan Sullivan and Sue Carlton (Tampa Bay Times) | Published: 1/20/2023

Despite concluding Gov. Ron DeSantis violated the Florida Constitution and the First Amendment last year when he suspended Hillsborough State Attorney Andrew Warren, a federal judge ruled he did not have the power to restore Warren to office. U.S. District Court Judge Robert Hinkle found DeSantis suspended Warren based on the allegation that the state attorney had blanket policies not to prosecute certain kinds of cases. Yet Hinkle concluded the U.S. Constitution prohibits a federal court from awarding the kind of relief Warren seeks – namely, to be restored to office.

Georgia – Fulton County DA Says Charging Decisions in Trump Investigation Are ‘Imminent’
MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 1/24/2023

An Atlanta-area district attorney investigating whether former President Trump and his allies broke the law when they sought to overturn Trump’s 2020 election loss in Georgia said charging “decisions are imminent.” Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis told a judge that a special grand jury report into the matter should remain sealed to protect the ongoing criminal investigation and the rights of potential “defendants” in the case. Willis’s comments came during a hearing on whether to release the final report of the special grand jury, which was formally dissolved after a roughly eight-month investigation into alleged 2020 election interference.

Idaho – Idaho Legislature Introduces Bill Creating Waiting Period Before Officials Can Become Lobbyists
Idaho Capital Sun – Clark Corbin | Published: 1/23/2023

Legislation in Idaho would prohibit lawmakers, executive branch employees, and other elected officials from registering as a lobbyist or lobbying during the next regular legislative session and for at least six months after leaving office. Although it had bipartisan support and similar “revolving door” provisions are common in most other states, the House State Affairs Committee had a tricky time with the bill.

Illinois – Ethics Board Sends Lightfoot Campaign Complaints to Watchdogs
MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 1/23/2023

The Chicago Board of Ethics decided more thorough investigations needed to be done before rendering judgment about whether Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s campaign violated city ethics rules when it solicited public school teachers to encourage students to help her reelection efforts. The board tasked the inspectors general for both City Hall and Chicago Public Schools to conduct investigations into the matter.

Illinois – Former Cook County Board of Review Employee Sentenced to 3 Months in Prison for Taking Bribes to Fix Tax Appeals
MSN – Adriana Pérez (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 1/24/2023

A former employee of the Cook County Board of Review was sentenced to three months in prison and at least one year of probation for taking bribes to fix tax appeals on more than two dozen properties. Unbeknownst to Barjaktarevic, an individual named in documents as “CS-1” was a confidential source operating at the direction of the FBI. Barjaktarevic told the source he would accept $2,000 to lower assessments for each commercial property, while he would charge $1,000 for each residential property, for a total cost of $43,000.

Illinois – Swept Into Office by Promises of Reform, Lightfoot Faces New Scrutiny on Ethics Record
WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 1/18/2023

Lori Lightfoot won every ward in her first bid for mayor after her campaign was fueled by promises that she alone could end the notion that placing Chicago government and integrity in the same sentence is an oxymoron at best, or a joke at worst. Lightfoot’s campaign for a second term has been weighed down by a growing amount of evidence that she has at times governed more like an old-school machine politician than a reformer. Lightfoot has said her administration has made strides in pushing back against corruption.

Maine – House Speaker Calls on Waldoboro Lawmaker to Resign After He Was Indicted for Signature Fraud
Maine Public Radio – Steve Mistler | Published: 1/24/2023

A newly elected member of the Maine House of Representatives was indicted for allegedly forging multiple signatures to obtain public funds through the state’s public campaign finance system. Rep. Clinton Collamore is accused of forging the signatures of more than two dozen people to receive financing for his successful legislative campaign through the Clean Election Act. According to the state’s ethics commission, he received more than $14,000 through the program.

Massachusetts – E-mails Appear to Show Coordination Between Mass. GOP Chairman and Outside PAC, in Alleged Violation of State Law
MSN – Emma Platoff (Boston Globe) | Published: 1/18/2023

Embattled Massachusetts Republican Party Chairperson Jim Lyons appears to have communicated directly with an outside PAC about digging up dirt on Gov. Maura Healey during last year’s election, according to emails. The emails follow accusations levied by the state GOP’s treasurer, who told party officials he believed the coordination between Lyons and the PAC violated state campaign finance laws and he would report the matter to state regulators. The treasurer, Pat Crowley, has previously clashed with Lyons over party finances.

Michigan – Who Funded Michigan Campaigns? For Nearly Every Legislator, It Wasn’t the Folks They Ran to Represent.
MLive – Simon Schuster | Published: 1/24/2023

When new district maps were finalized at the end of 2021, many incumbent state legislators and first-time candidates pivoted to appealing for votes from new communities they had not reached out to in the past. But did lawmakers rely on the people they hoped to represent to fund their campaigns? According to a new analysis of campaign finance records, the answer is largely no. PACs remain the dominant force in legislative fundraising, and their financial footprint has grown significantly over the last decade. PACs can donate 10 times as much as individuals, and many incumbent legislators create PACs as a means of wielding influence with their colleagues.

Minnesota – Why Some Want to Make Public Spending on Political Campaigns in Minnesota Less Like Menards Rebates
MSN – Peter Callaghan (MinnPost) | Published: 1/24/2023

In Minnesota, individuals can donate to politicians using tax dollars, but only a small percentage of residents use the system. The process is awkward. People contribute $50 and get a receipt. Then they must fill out a form, mail it in or file on a government website, and wait for two state agencies to verify their eligibility. Then they get a reimbursement check. Supporters of a new bill want to simplify the system and increase usage with “Democracy Dollars,” a program pioneered in Seattle.

Nebraska – Watchdog Group Says State Capitol Bible Study Leader Should Register as Lobbyist
Nebraska Examiner – Paul Hammel | Published: 1/20/2023

Arin Hess, the chaplain and president of Capitol Studies, holds Bible study sessions for Nebraska lawmakers and staff members during the legislative session. While Hess says he is merely maintaining a four-decade-long tradition of “serving civil servants with Scripture” at the Capitol, some watchdogs, along with at least one state senator, contend what happens at those studies amounts to lobbying and Hess should register as one. Common Cause Nebraska said his teachings have led to the introduction of bills and his work fits the definition of a lobbyist.

Nevada – Nevada’s New Governor Vilified Lobbyist’s Influence in COVID Lab Scandal, Then Asked Him to Help with Budget
ProPublica – Anjeanette Damon (Nevada Independent) | Published: 1/25/2023

During his contentious campaign to become Nevada governor, Joe Lombardo accused the Democratic incumbent of catering to the family of a donor and their lobbyist who helped an error-prone COVID-19 testing lab get licensed in the state. Shortly after he won the race, Lombardo turned to that same lobbyist for help in building the state budget, giving him access to confidential documents and putting him in a position that allowed him to advocate for state funding sought by his clients. Lobbyist Mike Willden’s name does not appear on the list of people Lombardo appointed to his transition team.

New Mexico – Proposal Aims to Keep Legislators from Drinking While on the Job
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 1/23/2023

For some New Mexico legislators, drinking is part of the Capitol culture. At least a few have been known to keep alcohol in their offices. And it is common for lawmakers to head to dinner before a late-night floor session at restaurants serving alcohol. But Sen. Harold Pope Jr. said he has seen enough. The first-term legislator is proposing a Senate rule that would prohibit members of the chamber from drinking alcohol before committee meetings or floor sessions. They could not drink during the meetings either.

New York – City Council Passes New Disclosure Requirements for Spending to Influence Votes on Ballot Referendums
Gotham Gazette – Ethan Geringer-Sameth | Published: 1/18/2023

The New York City Council passed legislation that requires entities spending to influence voters in local referendums to disclose their funders. The bill would close a loophole in the city’s campaign finance law that watchdogs have decried for years. If signed by the mayor, independent expenditures of $5,000 or more would be subject to disclosure. It also requires ads for or against ballot questions to include a “paid for by” notice, including the names of up to three of its top donors

New York – Email Describes Hochul Meeting Before $637 Million Deal with Donor for Covid-19 Tests
Buffalo News – Chris Bragg | Published: 1/23/2023

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration used emergency authority to buy $637 million in coronavirus tests through a company owned by a major Hochul campaign donor. Hochul and her allies have insisted the governor did not have any direct involvement in the deal. The governor said her “only involvement” was directing her team to purchase as many tests as possible from any available sources. But an email from the company’s owner, Charlie Tebele, suggested he may have directly discussed Covid-19 tests with Hochul at a campaign fundraiser Tebele had thrown for the governor.

New York – Trump Withdraws Second Lawsuit Against New York Attorney General
MSN – John Wagner (Washington Post) | Published: 1/24/2023

Donald Trump withdrew a second lawsuit against New York Attorney General Letitia James related to her office’s fraud probe of his business practices. No reason was given for the withdrawal. Trump first filed the lawsuit in federal court in Syracuse, claiming James was violating his rights and that of his company by pursuing a politically motivated investigation. After a judge in May found “no evidence” James had acted with bias, Trump appealed the ruling. The withdrawal of the appeal was the second time in five days that Trump had abandoned litigation against James, who is pursuing a $250 million against Trump.

Ohio – ‘Clear as Mud’: Ohio’s new voting restrictions from GOP raise alarm
MSN – Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 1/19/2023

Weeks after a Republican-backed voting law significantly reshaped Ohio’s election procedure, local officials, advocates, and voters are still making sense of the changes and how the alterations could restrict who might cast ballots in 2024. Legal challenges of the law could further complicate the situation: A federal lawsuit brought against Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose by groups representing the homeless, teachers, seniors, and veterans argues the restrictions are unconstitutional and suppress votes.

Ohio – Ohio’s Historic Corruption Case Tests Limits of Citizens United
Bloomberg Law – Alex Ebert | Published: 1/20/2023

Former House Speaker Larry Householder and ex-Ohio Republican Party Chairperson Matt Borges are on trial in what federal prosecutors have called the largest corruption case in the state’s history. Prosecutors allege Householder, Borges, and consultants Jeffrey Longstreth, Neil Clark, and Juan Cespedes accepted millions of dollars in “dark money” from FirstEnergy to pass legislation that included a $1 billion bailout for the utility’s nuclear power plants. The defense maintains the arrangement was politics as usual and protected by the U.S. Supreme Court in its Citizens United v. FEC decision and other precedent.

Pennsylvania – Refusal to Release Inaugural Donors Exposes Gap in Pa. Law
MSN – Marc Levy (Associated Press) | Published: 1/23/2023

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s refusal to disclose who paid for his inaugural bash exposed the gap in state law that lets governors escape the kind of transparency that is sometimes required elsewhere. Presidential inaugural committees are required by federal law to disclose donors who give over $200 to inaugural celebrations. States like Virginia, Maryland, and New Jersey have such laws, as do cities including New York and Philadelphia, where city officials also cap the amount that an individual donor can give to an inauguration. Many other states have no such disclosure laws.

Pennsylvania – Shapiro Bars Gifts from Lobbyists, Requires Ethics Training
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Capitolwire | Published: 1/20/2023

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order barring staff under his jurisdiction from accepting gifts from lobbyists and requiring state officials to sign an ethics pledge and complete ethics training. Eric Fillman, chief counsel for the House Ethics Committee who will lead the ethics training, said the new gift ban is intended to provide a degree of reasonableness that will ensure lobbyists cannot use gifts to gain undue influence while at the same time ensuring state officials can accept modest gifts from members of the community.

Virginia – Campaign Finance Reform Advocates Put Pressure on Virginia General Assembly
OpenSecrets – Jimmy Clothier | Published: 1/25/2023

A coalition of grassroots organizations gathered at the Virginia General Assembly to urge state lawmakers to pass campaign finance reform. While lawmakers have already rejected some proposals, multiple bills that failed in prior legislative sessions advanced out of committee. Others are up for consideration in the coming days. Virginia’s laws governing political spending are among the least restrictive in the country, with virtually no limits on the amount of money state politicians can accept from donors, as well as loopholes that allow for the personal use of campaign funds.

Wisconsin – 2023’s Biggest, Most Unusual Race Centers on Abortion and Democracy
DNyuz – Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 1/25/2023

Wisconsin will hold an election that carries bigger policy stakes than any other contest in 2023. The April race for a seat on the state’s evenly divided Supreme Court will determine the fate of abortion rights, gerrymandered legislative maps, and the governor’s appointment powers – and perhaps even the state’s 2024 presidential election if the outcome is again contested. The contest will almost certainly shatter spending records for a judicial election in any state. The seat is nonpartisan in name only. Indeed, the clash for the court is striking because of how nakedly political it is.

Wyoming – Bill Would Prohibit Former Legislators from Immediately Becoming Lobbyists with 2-Year Wait Period
Cowboy State Daily – Leo Wolfson | Published: 1/23/2023

The Wyoming Legislature is considering a bill that would prevent former state lawmakers from serving as lobbyists within two years after leaving elected office. Under House Bill 146, those who violate the waiting period could face up to $5,000 in fines. Rep. Scott Smith, who sponsored the bill, said his attention was drawn to the issue when he learned his opponent in last summer’s Republican primary, former Rep. Shelly Duncan, had become a lobbyist. Until Smith was sworn in this year, Duncan was the House District 5 representative.