LobbyComply Blog

The 57th Arizona Legislature adjourned its second regular session sine die on June 13 after passing campaign finance and procurement bills. House Bill 2874 updates termination statement requirements; caps the daily accruing penalty for late committee reports at $5,000; and introduces retroactive leniency with respect to certain late committee report penalties. If approved by Gov. Katie Hobbs, the bill will take effect immediately. Senate Bill 1259 allows committee statements of organization to list alternate mailing addresses for persons whose residential address is required to be listed on the statement but is court-ordered protected voter registration information. If approved by Hobbs, the bill will take effect September 12. Senate Bill 1186 requires companies responding to a request for proposal, applying for a grant, or under contract with a state agency to disclose having provided anything of value to the governor and any entity that advocates for the election of the governor or defeat of an electoral opponent within the prior five years. Hobbs vetoed a similar bill in 2025. House Concurrent Resolution 2001, proposing, among other things, to amend the state constitution to prohibit political contributions from foreign nationals, will be on the ballot for voter consideration on November 3.

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The Hawaii Legislature adjourned sine die on May 8. Lawmakers passed bills related to campaign financing. Pursuant to Senate Bill 2532, political committees will be required to electronically file organizational reports, fundraiser notices, and terminations with the Campaign Spending Commission. Under Senate Bill 2247, executive branch employees who were nominated and confirmed to compensated positions with influence on procurement and contract management are prohibited from attending or participating in political fundraising activities until the employment ends.

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Utah Senate Bill 145, signed by Gov. Spencer Cox on March 17, 2026, amends several provisions of the state’s lobbying laws. The changes are effective May 6, 2026, and address procurement lobbying, contingency fee restrictions, university event expenditures, and de minimis gift thresholds.

What Does Utah SB 145 Change?

SB 145 touches four distinct areas of Utah lobbying compliance. Here is a breakdown of each amendment.

Procurement Lobbying Deregulated for Local and Education Entities

SB 145 removes procurement activities from the relevant lobbying definitions that apply to local government lobbying and board of education lobbying. Under the revised definitions, local and education lobbying generally covers legislative and administrative actions, but does not include  adjudicative proceedings and purchasing and contracting decisions.

This change deregulates local and education procurement lobbying, reducing compliance obligations for those communicating with a public official for the purpose of influencing a purchasing and contracting decision  at the local government and board of education level.

Contingency Lobbying Restrictions Extended

Prior Utah law prohibited hiring a lobbyist for compensation contingent, in whole or in part, upon a specific legislative or executive outcome. SB 145 expands these restrictions to also cover local and educational actions.

Under the updated law, incentivized lobbying is prohibited when a lobbyist’s compensation is tied to:

• A government action occurring, or
• The amount appropriated for a government program

Organizations engaging lobbyists in Utah should review existing compensation structures to confirm they remain compliant under the broadened scope. Learn more on our Lobbying Compliance Consulting page

Broader Event Exemptions for University-Sponsored Events

Expenditure reporting will no longer be required for admission, attendance, and travel to or from the following types of events, provided they are hosted by public or nonprofit higher education institutions:

• Recreational events
• Sporting events
• Artistic performances
• Art exhibitions
• Other artistic events

To qualify for the exemption, the event must occur at the institution, and the purpose of the public official’s attendance must be to build a relationship with the institution.

Previously, such attendance offers were only permitted for public colleges and universities as governmental sponsors. The revision extends the exemption to nonprofit higher education institutions as well.

De Minimis Gift Thresholds Increased

SB 145 raises the threshold for de minimis expenditures that lobbyists may make for public officials without triggering reporting requirements:

Item Category	Previous Threshold	New Threshold
Nonfood items	$10	$25
Publications & commemorative items	$30	$50

The adjustment reflects higher costs for such items and responds to the prior thresholds being found overly restrictive in practice.

When Do the Changes Take Effect?

All amendments under Utah SB 145 take effect May 6, 2026.

Lobbyists and their organizations should audit current practices, particularly around contingency compensation structures, to ensure compliance before that date. Lobbyists interested in making larger value expenditures should review the updates to ensure continued compliance.

For jurisdiction-specific guidance, State and Federal Communications maintains regularly updated online compliance guidebooks covering Utah and other states.

Utah Senate Bill 145 FAQs 

The Hawaii Legislature has fundamentally changed the landscape for government contractors by enacting House Bill 412. Effective January 1, 2027, this law expands the definition of “lobbying” to include certain procurement activities. If your organization pursues state contracts, these changes may require you to register as a lobbyist even if you have never considered your activities to be traditional lobbying.

Understanding the New Definition of Lobbying

Previously, Hawaii law defined lobbying primarily as communicating with officials to influence legislative or executive action or ballot issues. Under the new provisions of HB 412, lobbying now includes:

• Financial Disclosure Personnel: Communications with any person required to file financial disclosure statements with the state regarding the following procurement matters.
  • Contract Solicitation and Awards: Any communication regarding the solicitation or award of a contract by proposal before an administrative agency.
  • Vendor Relationships: Discussions concerning potential future vendor relationships with an administrative agency.

It is important to note that the law specifically excludes communications that are initiated by a legislator or a state employee.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

The state has introduced significant penalties to ensure adherence to these transparency requirements. Any contract or action entered into by the state that is found to be in violation of lobbying laws may be voidable within 60 days after a violation is determined. The Attorney General, in coordination with the affected purchasing agency, holds the authority to enforce these penalties.

Determining If You Must Register

Not every vendor interaction will trigger a registration requirement. Registration is typically based on specific thresholds, including:

• The amount of compensation received for lobbying activities.
• The total time spent lobbying during a specific reporting period or calendar year.
• The total expenditures made toward lobbying efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do these procurement lobbying changes actually take effect? While the bill was enacted on May 16, 2025, the expanded definition, specifically targeting procurement and vendor relationships, does not take effect until January 1, 2027. This provides organizations a window to assess their current business development strategies and internal compliance protocols.

Does this mean every sales meeting with a state agency is now “lobbying”? Not necessarily. The law focuses on communications concerning the “solicitation or award of a contract by proposal” or “potential future vendor relationships”. Standard administrative inquiries or communications initiated by the state employee are generally excluded. However, because the line between “sales” and “influence” is now thinner, a formal assessment of your activities is highly recommended.

How can I stay updated on these and other state compliance changes? Rules regarding procurement and lobbying are subject to frequent shifts. For in-house teams who need a reliable reference, our Guidebooks provide up-to-date regional data and statutory summaries. If your organization requires a more tailored approach to navigate these new Hawaii requirements, our Consulting team offers hands-on assistance to ensure your procurement efforts remain compliant and your contracts secure.

The 2026 legislative session adjourned sine die April 2 after lawmakers passed ethics in procurement and campaign finance bills. Effective July 1, House Bill 889 establishes a vendor debarment process for certain infractions, preventing a bidder from bidding on state projects or services for up to three years. The bill includes a revolving door provision restricting former officials and individuals from working with vendors for one year after leaving public office. Vendors, employees of vendors, or any person working on their behalf must report financial expenditures over $50 related to procurement. House Bill 930 requires all political candidates and political committees to open a separate checking account for the purpose of collecting contributions and paying expenses. Campaign funds must not be commingled with any other account. House Bill 930 was delivered to the governor on April 2, and if signed will be effective July 1.

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National/Federal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trump Sons Back New Drone Company Targeting Pentagon Sales

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

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

Pentagon Bars Press Photographers Over ‘Unflattering’ Hegseth Photos

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

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

In Trump’s Washington, Congress Has Little Power Left

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

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

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

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

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

Justice Department Publishes Documents with Sexual Assault Allegations Against Trump

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the States and Municipalities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Idaho – House Ethics Proceedings Would Be Secret Under New Bill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 2026 legislative budget session adjourned sine die on Wednesday, March 11. The session lasted 21 days with 114 bills being passed. Lawmakers adopted the 2027-2028 biennial budget, which includes total net appropriations of over $10 billion, with $3.46 billion in general state funds. Gov. Mark Gordon signed the budget bill on March 5. 

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Comply with state and local procurement lobbying rules. Our online guidebooks make it easy to view regulations all in one place. Learn more here.

Elections

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

Ethics

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legislative Issues

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

Procurement

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

Utah’s legislative session adjourned sine die on March 6 after 45 days in session. Lawmakers passed Senate Bill 145, which changes definitions related to lobbying and will remove procurement activities from registration requirements for educational and local lobbying. The bill raises limits on expenditures by lobbyists for public officials from $10 to $25 for nonfood expenditures, and to $50 for publications and commemorative items. The bill also creates exceptions to the definition of expenditure in relation to certain sporting events, performances, or exhibitions of a state institution of higher education or a private, nonprofit institution of higher education. The ban on contingency fees for legislative or executive lobbying is expanded to include all forms of lobbying. If signed by the governor, the bill will take effect May 6.

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Q: My company is a government contractor. What do I need to know about pay-to-play laws?

A: “Pay-to-play” laws are a set of laws that can restrict contributions from, or require disclosures of contributions made by, current and prospective government contractors. The purpose of such laws is to remove the appearance of quid pro quo between contractors and government officials.

The most common type of pay-to-play laws are those restricting contributions. Such laws will typically ban current and prospective contractors from making political contributions during a period which begins with the government putting the contract out for bid and ending when a bidder either fails to be awarded the contract, for a set time after the contract is awarded to the successful bidder, or when the contract ends. The ban on contributions may apply to the contractor and to employees and political action committees associated with the contractor. 

Some jurisdictions also require the extra step of submitting a certification or a disclosure during the bidding process. Contractors or prospective contractors may be required to certify they have not made contributions in violation of the pay-to-play restrictions prior to the bid award. Disclosures of contributions made may also be required. Updates of these certifications or disclosures may be required on a set schedule based on when the bid was awarded.

The restrictions and disclosures may apply to all contractors or they may be specific to certain industries. For example, Georgia’s law includes provisions specific to electric membership corporations, while Indiana’s law only applies to those who contract with the State Lottery Commission. 

Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania require disclosure of contributions made by state contractors or their employees on set dates, regardless of when the contracts were awarded. Each state is unique in what contractors are required to disclose, but for each state it is important to know which contracts trigger the disclosure requirements, what the reporting threshold is, and what contributions need to be disclosed. Reportable contributions can include those made by the corporation itself, by political action committees associated with the corporation, by executives and directors of the corporation, or by employees. Maryland’s pay-to-play law is unique in that it requires a registration to be filed as well as a disclosure. It also extends the list of who must file reports to include corporations with registered lobbyists in the state, regardless of the contracting status of the entity. 

Penalties for violations of the pay-to-play laws can be severe. Fines for missed reports may be imposed. More importantly, contracts can be voided at the discretion of the government, and a ban on future contracting may follow. You can learn more about these pay-to-play provisions and avoid the many pitfalls by consulting State & Federal Communication’s Procurement Lobbying Compliance Guidebook.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pay-to-Play Laws for Government Contractors

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What are pay-to-play laws for government contractors?

Pay-to-play laws are federal, state, and local regulations that restrict or regulate political contributions made by companies seeking or holding government contracts. These laws are designed to prevent the appearance of a quid pro quo relationship between contractors and public officials responsible for awarding contracts.

Depending on the jurisdiction, pay-to-play requirements may include contribution bans, disclosure obligations, bid certifications, or post-award reporting. Because these rules vary significantly by state and sometimes by agency or industry, contractors must evaluate compliance obligations on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis.

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Do pay-to-play laws apply only to the company, or also to executives and employees?

In many jurisdictions, pay-to-play laws extend beyond the corporate entity itself. Coverage may include executives, directors, board members, certain employees, political action committees affiliated with the company, and in some cases subsidiaries or related entities.

This broad scope means individual political contributions can trigger corporate consequences. For that reason, contractors must understand how “covered individuals” are defined in each jurisdiction and how those definitions affect disclosure or contribution restrictions tied to public contracts.

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When do pay-to-play restrictions begin and end?

The timing of pay-to-play restrictions varies by state and locality. In some jurisdictions, restrictions begin when a request for proposal is issued or when negotiations for a public contract start. Other laws trigger compliance obligations upon bid submission or contract award.

Restrictions may continue through the evaluation process and extend into a defined post-award period. Because timing provisions differ significantly, contractors should carefully assess when restrictions apply in each jurisdiction where they pursue public business.

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What happens if a contractor violates pay-to-play laws?

Consequences for violations can be substantial. Depending on the jurisdiction, penalties may include monetary fines, late reporting penalties, voided contracts, disqualification from a pending procurement, or temporary or permanent bans on future contracting.

In some cases, awarding authorities retain discretion to cancel contracts if a violation is discovered after award. Beyond financial and legal exposure, enforcement actions can create reputational risk that affects future government opportunities. Given the potential impact, proactive compliance oversight is critical.

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Are pay-to-play laws the same in every state?

No. There is no uniform national pay-to-play framework. Each state designs its own regulatory structure, enforcement mechanisms, reporting thresholds, and definitions of covered individuals.

Some states require ongoing disclosure of contributions by contractors regardless of when a contract was awarded. Others impose industry-specific restrictions or apply additional rules to entities with registered lobbyists. This fragmented regulatory environment makes multi-state compliance particularly complex for contractors operating across jurisdictions.

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What types of contracts trigger pay-to-play requirements?

Triggering contracts vary by jurisdiction. Some states apply pay-to-play rules broadly to most state-level contracts above a specified monetary threshold. Others limit coverage to contracts with particular agencies or within designated industries.

Certain laws may apply only to executive branch contracts, while others extend to local government entities or public authorities. Understanding which contracts activate disclosure or contribution restrictions is an essential first step in evaluating compliance exposure.

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How can government contractors stay compliant with pay-to-play requirements?

Effective compliance typically involves understanding jurisdiction-specific rules, identifying covered individuals, monitoring political contribution activity, and ensuring required disclosures and certifications are submitted accurately and on time.

Because pay-to-play laws change frequently and vary significantly between states, contractors often rely on regulatory monitoring, compliance resources, and advisory support to stay informed of evolving requirements. A structured compliance approach helps reduce risk while preserving eligibility for public contracting opportunities.

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How often do pay-to-play laws change?

State and local jurisdictions regularly amend campaign finance and procurement-related statutes, including pay-to-play provisions. Changes may affect contribution thresholds, reporting deadlines, covered officials, or certification requirements.

In addition, enforcement interpretations and agency guidance can evolve over time. For contractors engaged in ongoing public business, continuous monitoring of regulatory developments is essential to maintaining compliance.

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Is pay-to-play compliance the same as procurement lobbying?

While related, pay-to-play compliance and procurement lobbying compliance are distinct regulatory areas. Pay-to-play laws generally focus on political contributions tied to public contracting, whereas procurement lobbying laws regulate registration and reporting obligations related to sales-oriented communications with public officials.

However, Maryland expanded pay-to-play reporting to include entities with registered lobbyists, creating overlap between the two areas. Contractors should evaluate both regulatory frameworks when assessing overall government relations compliance risk.

The Second Session of the 57th Legislature adjourned sine die on February 19 at noon after 30 days in session. During the session, legislators passed bills on topics including universal childcare, medical malpractice reform, mental health commitment standards, and immigration restrictions. Lawmakers failed to advance bills introduced concerning lobbyist reporting, revolving door disclosures, and state procurement amendments. This does affect lobbying reporting. The grassroots lobbying report for advertising campaigns will be due on March 6.

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Comply with state and local procurement lobbying rules. Our online guidebooks make it easy to view regulations all in one place. Learn more here.

National/Federal

This Supreme Court Decision Could Upend Millions in Political Spending Ahead of the Midterms. Here’s How the Parties Are Preparing.

MSN – Elena Schneider and Andrew Howard (Politico) | Published: 2/5/2026

Democratic consultants expected to submit bids to their House campaign committee for contracts to cut up to $100 million worth of television ads by late summer last year. But as the 2026 midterms drew closer, no invitation ever came, a concrete sign of how the political parties are preparing for a potential earthquake in how the battle for Congress is waged. A Supreme Court case could drastically upend how hundreds of millions of dollars are raised and spent every cycle in the fight for control of Congress.

D.C. Grand Jury Declines to Indict Six Democratic Lawmakers

MSN – Perry Stein and Salvador Rizzo (Washington Post) | Published: 2/10/2026

A federal grand jury in the District of Columbia refused the Justice Department’s attempts to indict six Democratic lawmakers over their comments to military service members, the latest rebuke of the Trump administration’s push to prosecute the president’s foes. Federal prosecutors last year launched an investigation into the lawmakers, all of whom served in the military or with intelligence agencies, after they released a short video advising current military members to reject “illegal orders.”

Survey Says Democracies’ Anti-Corruption Efforts Are Slipping and Raises Concern About the U.S.

MSN – Geir Moulson (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/10/2026

Established democracies’ efforts against public-sector corruption appear to be flagging, according to a survey released that serves as a barometer of perceived corruption worldwide. It raised concern about developments in the United States. The U.S. was down one point from 2024 for its worst showing yet under the methodology Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index started using for its global ranking in 2012, putting it in 29th place in the first year of President Trump’s second term.

‘Another Reminder’: Capitol Hill braces for Trump ethics standoff over crypto bill

MSN – Declan Harty and Jasper Goodman (Politico) | Published: 2/5/2026

A new controversy over President Trump’s ties to the cryptocurrency industry is sharpening Democratic demands that a sweeping digital assets bill include a provision reining in the first family’s crypto empire. Even as the White House presses Congress to pass the industry-friendly legislation, the Trump family’s growing crypto businesses are emerging as an unavoidable obstacle after news that an Abu Dhabi royal backed a $500-million investment in a Trump-linked venture called World Liberty Financial.

Legality of Trump’s $400M in Private Funding for White House Ballroom at Issue

MSN – Dan Diamond, Aaron Schaffer, and Jonathan Edwards (Washington Post) | Published: 2/10/2026

A federal judge is expected to soon rule on whether President Trump’s planned $400 million White House ballroom project can proceed, zeroing in on whether the administration’s plan to rely on private donations allows it to bypass congressional approval. U.S. District Court Judge Richard Leon, congressional Democrats, and watchdog groups have questioned an arrangement that relies on donations from corporations with business before the federal government, funneled through a nonprofit intermediary that stands to collect millions of dollars in fees, to fund the most significant alteration to the White House in decades.

Embattled Labor Secretary Has History of Questionable Spending That Eluded Congress

MSN – Robert Schmad (Washington Examiner) | Published: 2/10/2026

Public records spanning more than a decade suggest Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer has long used funds derived from donors and taxpayers to cover luxury expenses, a now-relevant detail that did not come up during her confirmation hearing. Chavez-DeRemer is facing allegations of improperly using the Labor Department to commit “travel fraud” by ordering her top staffers to “make up” official trips to select destinations so that she could spend time with friends and family on the public’s dime, according to a complaint.

National Guard Troops Were Quietly Withdrawn from Some U.S. Cities

MSN – Tara Copp and Alex Horton (Washington Post) | Published: 2/11/2026

The Trump administration has withdrawn all federalized National Guard troops from U.S. cities, after its repeated attempts to surge forces into Democratic-run states encountered judicial roadblocks. It is a remarkable turnabout after Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had insisted the mobilizations were necessary to combat what they claimed was unchecked violence and to support enforcement of the nation’s immigration laws.

Lutnick Distances Himself from Epstein, Says He Had Lunch on His Island

MSN – Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) | Published: 2/10/2026

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told members of Congress he and his family had lunch with Jeffrey Epstein on his Caribbean island, but he denied any suggestion he had a meaningful relationship with the convicted sex offender. Lutnick said last year that he and his wife decided to distance themselves from Epstein around 2005. But exchanges recently released by the Justice Department related to Epstein show Lutnick and Epstein continued to remain in contact after that.

Republicans Rarely Criticize Trump in His Second Term. A Racist Post Briefly Changed That

MSN – Matt Brown (Associated Press) | Published: 2/7/2026

President Trump received rare blowback from Republican lawmakers over a video posted to social media that included a racist image of former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, depicted as primates. Since Trump’s return to the White House, Republican lawmakers have tread carefully when disagreeing with the president, often communicating their concerns in private for fear of suffering his wrath.

DOJ Seeks to Undo Bannon’s Conviction for Defying Jan. 6 Subpoena

MSN – Salvador Rizzo and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 2/9/2026

The Justice Department is taking steps to throw out Stephen Bannon’s conviction for defying a congressional subpoena about the Capitol riot, its latest shift in a legal position to benefit a close ally of President Trump. The department asked the Supreme Court to send Bannon’s case back to the district court, where the U.S. attorney filed a separate motion seeking to dismiss the charges against him.

For $1 Million, Donors to U.S.A. Birthday Group Offered Access to Trump

Seattle Times – Kenneth Vogel, Lisa Friedman, and David Fahrenthold (New York Times) | Published: 2/8/2026

President Trump’s allies are offering access to him and other perks to donors who give at least $1 million to a new group supporting initiatives he is planning around the nation’s 250th birthday. The group, Freedom 250, has emerged as another vehicle, akin to the White House ballroom project, through which people and companies with interests before the Trump administration can make tax-deductible donations to gain access to, and seek favor with, a president who has maintained a keen interest in fundraising, and a willingness to use the levers of government power to reward financial supporters.

Man Who Tried to Shoot Trump at a Florida Golf Course Gets Life in Prison

Yahoo News – David Fischer (Associated Press) | Published: 2/4/2026

A man convicted of trying to assassinate President Trump on a Florida golf course in 2024 was sentenced to life in prison. Ryan Routh was convicted of trying to assassinate a major presidential candidate, using a firearm in furtherance of a crime, assaulting a federal officer, possessing a firearm as a felon, and using a gun with a defaced serial number.

State Election Officials Brace for Possible Trump Interference in Midterm Results

Yahoo News – Erin Doherty and Andrew Howard (Politico) | Published: 2/6/2026

Top bipartisan election officials from around the country are growing increasingly alarmed by what they see as President Trump’s unprecedented push to interfere in the midterm elections. A series of recent moves – from his administration’s requests for access to state voter rolls to a surprise FBI raid at a Fulton County election office – have solidified those concerns, with more than a dozen election officials from both parties saying they fear Trump is laying the groundwork to undermine results still months away.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – Orr: Bill would close nonprofit ‘loophole’ in campaign finance law

Alabama Daily News – Mary Sell | Published: 2/10/2026

Nonprofit organizations making campaign contributions in Alabama would have to report their donors under recently filed legislation. Senate Bill 220 would require nonprofits that make contributions to register as “political donor organizations” and report their activities on a schedule determined by the secretary of state.

California – Anaheim’s City Manager Resigns

Voice of OC – Hosam Elattar | Published: 2/3/2026

Anaheim City Manager Jim Vanderpool, whose tenure was plagued by a City Hall corruption scandal, resigned amid renewed scrutiny and questions over his close ties to resort interests investigated by FBI agents. Recently, Vanderpool started facing questions on why he did not disclose he went on an Anaheim Chamber of Commerce paid trip to Lake Havasu with city officials about to vote to finalize the chamber-backed Angel Stadium deal in 2020.

Georgia – Georgia Senate Passes Bill to Police Out-of-State Campaign Money

Capitol Beat News Service – Mark Niesse | Published: 2/5/2026

Millions of dollars of out-of-state campaign money flowing into Georgia could soon be more strongly policed in the wake of mysterious political ads and big spending on recent elections. A bipartisan state Senate passed a bill that allows the state’s ethics commission to seek subpoenas against groups or individuals located in other states who are suspected of breaking Georgia campaign finance laws, such as contribution limits or transparency requirements.

Georgia – FBI Cited Debunked Claims to Obtain Warrant for Fulton County Vote Records, Documents Show

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 2/10/2026

The FBI relied heavily on previously debunked claims of widespread election irregularities in Georgia as it persuaded a federal judge to sign off on plans to seize 2020 voting records from the state’s most populous county, court documents show. In a pair of search warrant affidavits, authorities said they were seeking evidence that would determine whether “deficiencies” in the vote tabulation in Fulton County, home to Atlanta, were the result of intentional wrongdoing that could constitute a crime.

Georgia – Fulton County Goes to Court to Demand Return of Ballots Seized by FBI

MSN – Mark Berman and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2026

Officials in Georgia filed a court challenge seeking the return of scores of election records seized by federal agents from a warehouse in Fulton County, which has been central to right-wing conspiracy theories about President Trump’s loss in the 2020 presidential election. Robb Pitts, chairperson of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, vowed that county officials would use “every resource” to secure ballots and other material and cast the court fight as part of a broader effort to ensure the future of independent elections.

Hawaii – $35K Case: New development sparks calls for independent probe

Honolulu Civil Beat – Christina Jedra | Published: 2/10/2026

A coalition of government accountability advocates is calling on the Hawaii attorney general to recuse herself from the investigation into a lawmaker who took $35,000 in a paper bag and instead appoint an independent prosecutor. The demand comes after Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke told multiple media organizations that she might be the “influential” state lawmaker the Department of Justice identified during a federal bribery investigation. Luke said she did not take that much, and it came in the form of two campaign contribution checks over dinner.

Indiana – Jennifer-Ruth Green Broke State Ethics Law. Her Donors Helped Pay Her Legal Expenses

MSN – Hayleigh Colombo and Ryan Murphy (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 2/11/2026

Former congressional candidate Jennifer-Ruth Green launched her short-lived campaign amid a state ethics investigation into her conduct as part of Indiana Gov. Mike Braun’s cabinet before dropping out of the race about three months later. But she used her federal campaign account to pay for legal expenses associated with the probe, a move that is raising red flags with campaign finance and ethics experts.

Maryland – Maryland Gov. Wes Moore Said He’s Working with Judges on Redistricting, Prompting Ethics Concerns

MSN – Tinashe Chingarande (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 2/9/2026

When asked recently if Maryland Courts might strike down his efforts to redraw congressional districts to stamp out the state’s only Republican seat, Gov. Wes Moore told “MS NOW” his team has been “working with judges” to prepare for legal challenges. The statement raised ethical red flags among some law professors and Republicans.

Michigan – Departing Head of Major State Government Agency Registers as Lobbyist

MSN – Paul Egan (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 2/4/2026

A former member of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s cabinet has registered as a Lansing lobbyist, days after resigning as director of a major state government agency, prompting renewed “revolving door” concerns in Michigan. Michelle Lange, who stepped down as director of the Department of Technology, Management and Budget on January 31, registered as a lobbyist with the law firm Dykema on February 3, state records show.

Missouri – Missouri House Backs Bill to Ban Candidates from Using Automatic Recurring Donations

Yahoo News – Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) | Published: 2/4/2026

A bill aimed at curbing the use of automatically recurring campaign donations, a fundraising tactic employed by a prominent Republican candidate, won first-round approval without opposition in the Missouri House. The bill would prohibit candidates from setting up recurring contributions without explicit authorization from donors. It also would require campaigns to shut off recurring donations once an election is over.

Nebraska – Pillen Team Offers New Explanation for Timing of $2.5 Million No-Bid Emergency Contract

MSN – Aaron Sanderford (Nebraska Examiner) | Published: 2/5/2026

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen’s administration, facing scrutiny for a no-bid emergency contract with a lobbyist to whom he steered more than $2 million in state money, again changed its story about how and why the contract was awarded. A gubernatorial spokesperson said Global Sustainability LLC executive Julie Bushell had already been helping the state, free of charge, boost a federal grant application during the Biden administration, so it made sense to award the formal contract to her once lawmakers approved the funding for it. But that is at least the third different story the Pillen administration has told about the contract.

Nevada – Lombardo’s 2025 Campaign Fundraising Heavily Reliant on Donors Using Legal Loophole to Give More

MSN – Eric Neugeboren (Nevada Independent) | Published: 2/8/2026

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo’s 2025 campaign fundraising haul of $4.3 million relied heavily on so-called bundling arrangements, where donors are easily and legally able to skirt contribution limits by sending donations through different names. About $1.9 million of Lombardo’s fundraising total came from these kinds of arrangements, which The Nevada Independent defined as donations from entities with known connections or with the same listed address that totaled more than the single-cycle contribution limit. This made up about 44 percent of his campaign’s haul.

New York – Conflicts Board Slaps Adams for Cuomo Whistle Low Blow

MSN – Katie Honan (The City) | Published: 2/9/2026

Former Mayor Eric Adams was fined $4,000 for an August 2025 press conference where he ordered City Hall staff to buy whistles to make a political opponent look bad. Adams had his staffers put whistles on reporters’ chairs as dig at Andrew Cuomo who was running for New York City mayor and faced sexual harassment allegations as governor.

Ohio – Jury Can Hear How HB 6 Hiked Electric Bills in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/9/2026

Prosecutors can tell a jury in the FirstEnergy bribery trial that customers’ electricity rates spiked because of the House Bill 6 scandal that erupted in 2019, a judge ruled. Assistant Ohio Attorney General Matthew Meyer had argued in a prior hearing the evidence was crucial to prosecutors’ case that former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and onetime top lobbyist Michael Dowling paid a $4.3 million bribe to former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo.

Ohio – Former FirstEnergy Lawyer Says He Was Troubled by Randazzo Agreement

MSN – Patrick Williams (Akron Beacon Journal) | Published: 2/10/2026

A former lawyer for FirstEnergy said he was not sure why the company agreed to pay Sam Randazzo hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for five years. Mark Hayden formerly worked as an attorney at FirstEnergy Services Co., a subsidiary of the Akron-based electric utility. Hayden testified he held “a number of concerns” about an agreement that FirstEnergy Services Company had with Sam Randazzo, who at the time was a prominent attorney in the energy space. Later, in 2019, Randazzo became chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, a state regulatory agency.

Oregon – Oregon House Republicans Test Rule Barring Political Donations During Session

KLCC – Dirk VanderHart (OPB) | Published: 2/6/2026

The rules of Oregon’s House of Representatives are clear: representatives cannot accept campaign donations during a legislative session. As he runs for governor, state Rep. Ed Diehl is doing it anyway. The contributions buck decades of practice in the House, but they also might be perfectly legitimate.

Oregon – Key Pieces of Oregon’s Campaign Finance Overhaul Could Be Delayed Under Democrats’ Proposal

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/10/2026

Two years after Oregon lawmakers approved new limits on and oversight of political contributions, a top Democrat has proposed delaying major pieces of the campaign finance law, leaving the limits intact but pushing back some other provisions by several years. An amended version of House Bill 4018 represents the first substantial step that lawmakers have taken to refine the 2024 law since they rushed to craft and approve the policy. Key aspects of the law, including the limits on campaign contributions, are set to go into effect next January.

Texas – Austin Officials Correct Campaign Donation Cap After Providing Incorrect Information

MSN – Chaya Tong (Austin American-Statesman) | Published: 2/6/2026

Individual donors to Austin City Council candidates may contribute up to $500 per election, not $450 as previously stated by city officials. The clarification follows recent reporting that raised questions about whether Councilperson Paige Ellis had accepted campaign contributions exceeding the city’s individual contribution limit. At the time, both Ellis and the city told the media the limit was $450.

Virginia – Virginia Democrats Quickly Approve Proposed Redistricting Map

MSN – Gregory Schneider (Washington Post) | Published: 2/10/2026

Virginia Democrats approved legislation setting out proposed political maps that could give them a 10-to-one advantage in the state’s congressional districts during elections this fall, setting the stage to send the matter to Gov. Abigail Spanberger. The maps are part of a multistep process that still faces a legal challenge and would have to be approved by state voters before going into effect.

Campaign Finance

Georgia: “Georgia Senate Passes Bill to Police Out-of-State Campaign Money” by Mark Niesse for Capitol Beat News Service

National: “This Supreme Court Decision Could Upend Millions in Political Spending Ahead of the Midterms. Here’s How the Parties Are Preparing.” by Elena Schneider and Andrew Howard (Politico) for MSN

Nevada: “Lombardo’s 2025 Campaign Fundraising Heavily Reliant on Donors Using Legal Loophole to Give More” by Eric Neugeboren (Nevada Independent) for MSN

Elections

National: “State Election Officials Brace for Possible Trump Interference in Midterm Results” by Erin Doherty and Andrew Howard (Politico) for Yahoo News

Ethics

California: “Anaheim’s City Manager Resigns” by Hosam Elattar for Voice of OC

National: “DOJ Seeks to Undo Bannon’s Conviction for Defying Jan. 6 Subpoena” by Salvador Rizzo and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) for MSN

Procurement

Nebraska: “Pillen Team Offers New Explanation for Timing of $2.5 Million No-Bid Emergency Contract” by Aaron Sanderford (Nebraska Examiner) for MSN

Redistricting

Maryland: “Maryland Gov. Wes Moore Said He’s Working with Judges on Redistricting, Prompting Ethics Concerns” by Tinashe Chingarande (Baltimore Sun) for MSN

National/Federal

Don Lemon Arrested by Federal Officials in Connection with Church Protest

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

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

Justice Department Releases Large Cache of Additional Epstein Files

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

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

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

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

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

DOJ Misconduct Complaint Against D.C. Federal Judge Dismissed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Election Officials Grapple with a Brain Drain as Threats Rise

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

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

Standoff Over ICE Tactics Could Trigger Another Partial Government Shutdown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the States and Municipalities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

California – Oakland Councilmember Asked City Contractor to Fund Her Nonprofit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kentucky – KY Legislature Considers Ethics Commission Changes Amid Grossberg Case

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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