LobbyComply Blog

On March 6, the Federal Election Commission (FEC) announced in its press release digest it recently updated its electronic form for the submission of miscellaneous items by registered committees. The form, Form 99: Miscellaneous Report to the FEC, is now implemented with new functionality for the electronic filing of uncategorized items, such as letters and similar matters. Committees may upload PDF documents as part of their submissions. According to the FEC, the update form will allow committees to file Schedule C-1s (Loans and Lines of Credit from Lending Institutions), copies of loan agreements, loan forgiveness statements, and Form 8s (Debt Settlement Plans), electronically as attachments with electronic signatures, including required third-party signatures. Before the implementation of this new functionality, filers could be required to file documents with third-party signatures on paper.

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National/Federal

New York Woman Who Duped Investors and Funneled Money to Trump Fundraiser Gets 9 Years in Prison

MSN – Associated Press | Published: 2/27/2026

Sherry Xue Li was sentenced to nine years in federal prison over a financial scheme that ripped off more than $30 million from foreign investors and funneled some of the stolen money into U.S. political campaigns, including a fundraiser for President Trump. Li pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the U.S. by obstructing the FEC’s administration of campaign finance laws. Her co-defendant, Lianbo Wang, also pleaded guilty to similar charges and was sentenced to five years in prison.

DOJ Sues 5 More States for Access to Voter Rolls

MSN – Jacob Wendler (Politico) | Published: 2/26/2026

The Department of Justice filed suit against five additional states, demanding they share election data with the Trump administration amid its nationwide push for access to state voter rolls. With the latest wave of legal action, the department has now sued more than two dozen states as a part of its push for access to voter files. Most of those states are controlled by Democrats, although the latest spate of suits includes four states that supported Donald Trump in 2020 and 2024 The fifth state sued was New Jersey.

Trump Admin Asked a Court to Drop Court Fights Against Law Firms Tied to Democrats. Now It’s Changing Its Mind

MSN – Katelyn Polantz (CNN) | Published: 3/3/2026

The Justice Department told four large law firms targeted by President Trump that its decision to withdraw from court fights with them is being reversed. The latest move appears to restart Trump’s attempts to try to block the firms from federal government access over their ties to Democrats. Trump had attempted to use the powers of the presidency to prevent the firms’ lawyers from accessing federal buildings, securing classified information, and meeting with federal agencies, all mainstays of Washington-based legal work. The firms challenged the executive orders and have so far won in court.

Trump Allies Claim Victory as the Ellisons Expand Their Media Empire

MSN – Will Oremus, Liam Scott, Cat Zakrzewski, and Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2026

Netflix’s withdrawal cleared the way for David Ellison’s Paramount Skydance to take the reins of CNN, whose coverage President Trump has labeled “fake news.” Among power players in politics and media, Paramount’s acquisition is widely viewed as a win for the right amid a broader push to rein in what many conservatives view as a liberal slant in the media and entertainment industries. In Washington, questions have swirled as to what role was played by a president who famously relishes dealmaking.

Trump, Seeking Executive Power Over Elections, Is Urged to Declare Emergency

MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2026

Pro-Trump activists who say they are in coordination with the White House are circulating a draft executive order that claims China interfered in the 2020 election as a basis to declare a national emergency that would unlock extraordinary presidential power over voting. President Trump has repeatedly previewed a plan to mandate voter ID and ban mail ballots in November’s midterm elections, and the activists expect their draft will figure into Trump’s promised executive order on the issue.

Trump Justice Department Aims to Limit Ethics Probes into Its Lawyers

MSN – Andrew Goudsward (Reuters) | Published: 3/4/2026

The U.S. Justice Department is seeking to constrain ethics investigations conducted at the state level into alleged misconduct by its lawyers, according to a proposed rule that would shield prosecutors pursuing President Trump’s agenda. The proposal would give the U.S. attorney general the right to review misconduct allegations against current or former Justice Department attorneys and request that disciplinary authorities at the state level suspend their investigations.

Cornyn, Paxton Reach Runoff; Other Takeaways from Big Election Night

MSN – Teo Armus (Washington Post) | Published: 3/3/2026

The 2026 midterm election season kicked off with primaries in Arkansas, North Carolina, and Texas, featuring several high-profile contests that will set the tone for November as voters weigh in on President Trump’s second administration and Democrats debate their party’s direction. Republicans are defending a thin majority in the House, and they have tried to bolster their efforts by redrawing congressional maps in several GOP-controlled states. The elections put a spotlight on those new maps in Texas and North Carolina, where the party has targeted six Democratic-held seats and prompted some intraparty battles in the process.

Judge Restores Lawmakers’ Unfettered Access to ICE Detention Facilities

Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 3/2/2026

The Department of Homeland Security may not bar members of Congress from making unannounced visits to Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities, a federal judge ruled, blocking a policy imposed in January. U.S. District Court Judge Jia Cobb ruled Noem’s policy was crafted with funds that Congress specifically said could not be used to impede lawmakers’ visits to detention facilities, even if those visits are not announced in advance.

Bill Clinton Says He ‘Did Nothing Wrong’ with Epstein as He Faces Grilling Over Their Relationship

Yahoo News – Stephen Groves (Associated Press) | Published: 2/27/2026

Former President Bill Clinton told members of Congress he “did nothing wrong” in his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and saw no signs of Epstein’s sexual abuse as he faced grilling from lawmakers over his connections to the disgraced financier from more than two decades ago. The closed-door deposition marks the first time a former president has been compelled to testify to Congress. It came a day after Clinton’s wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, sat with lawmakers for her own deposition.

Rep. Tony Gonzales, Forced into Runoff, Admits to Affair with Aide Who Died by Suicide

Yahoo News – Gabby Birenbaum (Texas Tribune) | Published: 3/4/2026

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales admitted to having an affair with Regina Santos-Aviles, a staff member who later died by suicide, after initially denying the allegation. The San Antonio Express-News had published a screenshot of a text sent by Santos-Aviles to a fellow staffer in which she said she had an ‘affair with our boss.” Gonzales’ admission comes after he was forced into a primary runoff against Brandon Herrera, who has criticized Gonzales on both policy and personal fronts.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Senate Passes Republican ‘Pay-to-Play’ Reform Bill, Not Hobbs’ Plan

KJZZ – Wayne Schutsky | Published: 3/3/2026

A bill designed to give the public more information about state contractors who also donate to political campaigns passed the Arizona Senate with just Republican support, despite bipartisan calls to reform the state’s procurement and campaign finance reporting laws. The legislation would require state contractors and companies bidding on state business to disclose “anything of value” they have given to a governor or related political efforts over the past five years.

California – Secret Payments, Win Bonuses Discussed for Angel Stadium Deal, Other Projects

Los Angeles Times – Gabriel San Roman | Published: 2/28/2026

Todd Ament, an Anaheim Chamber of Commerce leader, emailed a lobbyist confidant, Jeff Flint, and asked for a meeting to discuss more than $500,000 in payments from companies with proposed projects in Anaheim. A ledger with handwritten notes suggests the two men, who later emerged as central figures in a political corruption probe into a self-described “cabal” that ran Anaheim, met sometime after the email was sent to divvy up the money. The documents offer a glimpse into a shadowy world where lobbyists collect big bounties for influencing legislation or securing contracts for clients from local government agencies without full disclosure.

California – QAnon Darling, Perennial GOP L.A. Congressional Candidate Sentenced to 4 Years for Fraud

MSN – Cierra Morgan and Clara Harter (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/23/2026

A Republican who raised hundreds of thousands of dollars running unsuccessfully against U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters four times was sentenced to four years in federal prison for misusing campaign funds. Omar Navarro pleaded guilty to a single count of wire fraud for defrauding his own election campaign. The perennial candidate had raised hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years from prominent right-wing figures while promoting QAnon conspiracy theories but never cracked 25 percent of the vote.

California – These Public Documents Are Hidden from View. Two California Lawmakers Want to Change That

MSN – Ryan Sabalow (CalMatters) | Published: 3/3/2026

Two California lawmakers are trying to reveal legislative documents that are technically public records but are difficult for even the most seasoned Capitol insiders to access. The documents are letters registered lobbyists and advocacy groups send the Legislature to support or oppose bills. But having to separately request letters to legislative staff for each bill before lawmakers – more than 2,000 each year – is tedious and time-consuming. Each proposal can generate dozens of letters.

California – San Jose Mayor’s Social Media Use Faces Criticism

SFGate – Keith Menconi (San Jose Spotlight) | Published: 3/2/2026

Just weeks after announcing his run for governor, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan launched two new social media accounts on X and Instagram, each one designated as a city-backed account for official messaging. The move came amid City Hall grumbles about the mayor’s longstanding practice of using individual social media accounts for both city business and to promote his own personal brand. Such complaints have grown louder as Mahan’s personal channels have turned their focus more toward promoting his gubernatorial campaign.

Colorado – Former Colorado State Senator Sentenced to Probation for Fabricating Letters Amid Ethics Investigation

KUNC – Taylor Dolven (Colorado Sun) | Published: 2/27/2026

Former state Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis was sentenced to two years of probation for her attempts to mislead the Colorado Senate Ethics Committee by fabricating letters of support during an investigation into her alleged mistreatment of Capitol aides. She will also have to complete 150 hours of public service and pay a $3,000 fine.

Colorado – Colorado Governor Signals Willingness to Release Tina Peters from Prison Amid Trump Pressure

Yahoo News – Colleen Slevin and Nicholas Riccardi (Associated Press) | Published: 3/4/2026

Colorado’s Democratic governor, facing a pressure campaign from President Trump, is signaling his openness to granting clemency to a former county clerk who was convicted in a scheme that attempted to find proof of fraud in the 2020 presidential election. A social media post by Gov. Jared Polis brought swift rebuke from the state’s attorney general, secretary of state, and the association representing local election officials, who said such an action would send the wrong message to anyone seeking to interfere with elections ahead of this year’s midterms.

Illinois – Aurora Mayor John Laesch’s Proposed Ethics Reform Package Heads to a City Council Vote

Yahoo News – R. Christian Smith (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/4/2026

Aurora Mayor John Laesch’s promised campaign ethics reform package heads to a final City Council vote soon, but several aldermen have expressed concerns with it. The proposed regulations would prevent those who are doing business with the city or seeking a contract from donating more than $1,500 per year to candidates running for city office. It would also expand economic interest disclosures required of candidates and elected officials.

Kentucky – State Republicans Look to Reshape Louisville’s Ethics Commission

Louisville Public Media – Roberto Roldan | Published: 3/2/2026

A proposal currently before the Kentucky House would dissolve Louisville’s Ethics Commission at the end of this year, replacing all its members. House Bill 607 would require that the commission be evenly split between the two parties. One person would have to be a registered Independent or a member of a third party.

Maryland – Maryland Delegate’s Campaign Spending on Travel, Dining, and Resort Raises Legal Questions

WBFF – Gary Collins (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 3/3/2026

A review of campaign finance filings shows that first-term Del. Gary Simmons spent nearly all the money his campaign committee raised in 2025. That includes thousands of dollars on meals, out-of-state travel, and a casino. The reported expenditures raise questions about whether certain expenses complied with Maryland campaign finance law, which prohibits the personal use of donor funds.

Michigan – Up North Resort Ownership Poses More Oakland County Ethics Questions

Blue Water Healthy Living – Dave Boucher (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 2/27/2026

Royal Oak, Michigan is about 200 miles south of the Blue Haven Beach Resort on Lake Huron. But the owners of the resort are very familiar with Royal Oak and Oakland County. The owners and their families are some of that area’s most prominent elected officials. The Up North spot and the people behind it are another example of possible ethical issues in Oakland County, where relationships, investments, and votes on public deals are under scrutiny.

Mississippi – DraftKings and Entergy Spent Over $100K on a Super Bowl Weekend for Two Mississippi Politicians, Staffers and Spouses

Mississippi Today – Michael Goldberg and Taylor Vance | Published: 3/3/2026

Sports gambling giant DraftKings and energy company Entergy spent a combined $107,398 on a 2025 Super Bowl weekend for Speaker Jason White, House Public Utilities Committee Chairperson Brent Powell, White’s staff, and a couple of their spouses. The spending was only recently made public in official lobbying reports because of Mississippi’s weak reporting requirements. In 2025, days after House lawmakers voted to legalize online betting for the second time, the speaker’s staffers enjoyed the hospitality of DraftKings at its Super Bowl festivities.

Missouri – Missouri Bill Targets ‘Date Rape’ Drugs After Lawmaker Suspects She Was Drugged

Yahoo News – Jason Hancock (Missouri Independent) | Published: 3/3/2026

When state Rep. Elizabeth Fuchs first arrived in Jefferson City as a lobbyist, a woman who had been around the Capitol longer offered advice that sounded absurd for a statehouse job. Do not drink from the “special refrigerator” in someone’s office. Do not go for one-on-one drinks after hours. Do not accept an open beverage you did not see poured. Fuchs followed the rules and then won a seat in the House. During her first session last year, she broke one rule: she took a drink from someone she did not know well. After that, her memory collapses into gaps.

New Mexico – Miyagishima Says Secretary of State Guidance Led to $125K in Excess Campaign Contributions

New Mexico In Depth – Azure Mitchell | Published: 2/27/2026

Former Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima’s campaign for governor exceeded New Mexico’s contribution limits by more than $125,000 of in-kind support last year. He hopes to get on the fall ballot as an independent. Miyagishima said he received guidance from a staff member of the secretary of state that made him believe the amounts were allowed. In-kind contributions are goods or services provided to a candidate, rather than monetary donations.

New York – Election Officials Say Senate Candidate Defrauded State of Over $200,000

MSN – Emilie Munson (Albany Times Union) | Published: 2/26/2026

Former state Senate candidate Caleb Slater allegedly defrauded the state of more than $200,000 in a fundraising scheme during his 2024 campaign, a probe by the New York Public Campaign Finance Board concluded. A media investigation revealed Slater allegedly paid homeless people and other individuals to make donations to his campaign in exchange for prepaid cash gift cards. Slater then reported those contributions to collect generous matching funds from the state for his campaign.

New York – Supreme Court Blocks Redrawing of Republican-Held Congressional District in New York Over Liberal Dissent

Yahoo News – John Fritze (CNN) | Published: 3/2/2026

The U.S. Supreme Court approved an emergency appeal from a Republican member of Congress from New York who asked the justices to block a state court ruling that ordered her Staten Island-based district to be redrawn ahead of the midterm election. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and state GOP election officials had urged the Supreme Court to allow New York’s current map to be used, an outcome that will benefit Republicans in the midterm amid a flurry of mid-decade redistricting in other parts of the country.

Ohio – A Dead Man’s Actions Take Center Stage in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/2/2026

Two former FirstEnergy executives have spent weeks in court facing corruption accusations. Yet much of the conversation has focused on Sam Randazzo. His death has cast a wide shadow over the trial of the company’s ex-Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and ex-lobbyist Michael Dowling, who are accused of bribing Randazzo, a former state utility regulator. For more than a month, prosecutors and defense attorneys have sparred over Randazzo’s motivations, decisions, and his relationship with FirstEnergy.

Ohio – US Sen. Jon Husted Expected to Testify in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial, Defense Attorney Says

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/4/2026

U.S. Sen. Jon Husted is expected to testify in the bribery trial of two former FirstEnergy executives accused of bribing a former state regulator. Husted’s potential testimony has long been a matter of speculation. He was Ohio’s incoming lieutenant governor at the time that prosecutors say Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling bribed Sam Randazzo, the pick of Husted and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine to chair the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. The commission regulates utilities such as FirstEnergy.

Ohio – Longtime FirstEnergy Lobbyist Accused of Paying a $4.3 Million Bribe Speaks Out for the First Time

Signal Ohio – Jake Zuckerman | Published: 3/2/2026

“It’s greased.” That is how Mike Dowling, the former senior vice president of external affairs of FirstEnergy, described a complex amendment to pending legislation worth tens of millions per year to the company in a text message to the utility’s then-chief executive officer. Not long after, Ohio lawmakers rolled the amendment into House Bill 6, which also included a $1.3 billion bailout for nuclear plants owned by FirstEnergy Solutions, and sent it to Gov. Mike DeWine who signed it into law. Dowling’s deposition on the matter was shown to jurors in his corruption trial.

Ohio – An Ohio Newspaper Has a New Star Writer. It Isn’t Human.

Yahoo News – Will Oremus and Scott Nover (Washington Post) | Published: 3/1/2026

The Plain Dealer, Cleveland’s largest newspaper, has begun to feature a new byline. On recent articles about an ice carving festival, a medical research discovery, and a roaming pack of chicken-slaying dogs, a reporter’s name is paired with the words “Advance Local Express Desk.” It means this article was drafted by artificial intelligence (AI). As once-robust metropolitan newspapers across the country lay off reporters, shutter bureaus, and scale back ambitions, the Plain Dealer is at the forefront of an industry-wide push to reimagine journalism for the AI age.  

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Ethics Board Launches Temporary Portal for Local Campaign Finance Reporting

Yahoo News – Emma Murphy (Oklahoma Watch) | Published: 3/3/2026

Oklahoma’s local election candidates can now comply with a new state campaign finance law by using a temporary electronic filing system. Oklahoma Ethics Commission officials said candidates filing for local elections will ultimately be integrated into the existing Guardian system in the coming months once upgrades are completed, but for now they can file electronically using a temporary portal.

Oklahoma – Bill to Delay Ex-Lawmakers from Becoming Lobbyists Fails Committee Vote

Yahoo News – Spencer Humphrey (KFOR) | Published: 2/25/2026

A bill that would have required former Oklahoma lawmakers to wait several years before returning to the Capitol as lobbyists failed in committee, with concerns centering on the First Amendment rights of former legislators and the groups who may want them as lobbyists. The bill’s author argues the vote shows lawmakers are beholden to special interests.

Oregon – Oregon Lawmakers Advance Bill to Revise Campaign Finance Law Despite Significant Confusion About What It Would Do

MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 3/4/2026

Oregon lawmakers are moving to revise the state’s landmark 2024 campaign finance law, even as significant confusion remains about which changes are necessary and good government advocates continue to say a proposed bill would weaken the law. Several lawmakers have acknowledged House Bill 4018 is not perfect. But with key provisions of the law set to go into effect in January, they say they are running out of time to provide the secretary of state’s office the funding and guidance needed to avoid a disastrous rollout.

Oregon – Oregon House Speaker Reprimands Republican Gubernatorial Candidate for Fundraising During Session

Yahoo News – Shaanth Nanguneri (Oregon Capital Chronicle) | Published: 2/27/2026

Oregon House Speaker Julie Fahey chided the chamber’s sole gubernatorial candidate, state Rep. Ed Diehl, for violating self-imposed House rules by collecting campaign donations during this year’s short legislative session. In a letter of correction sent to Diehl, Fahey urged him to return the money and refrain from accepting further contributions during the session, which must end by March 8.

Rhode Island – Ethics Panel Sets Hearing Date as Supervisor During Infamous Philly Trip Fights to Clear His Name

Yahoo News – Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) | Published: 3/2/2026

A quasi-judicial public hearing before the Rhode Island Ethics Commission will put former Director of Administration James Thorson on trial for his behavior during a now-infamous state business trip to Philadelphia. Thorsen and David Patten, former state properties director, toured a site to see the work of Scout Ltd., a design firm awarded a state contract to redevelop the Cranston Street Armory in Providence. A state investigation found “probable cause” for ethical misconduct by Thorsen on the trip. Thorsen is seeking to clear his name and using a rarely invoked option to contest the findings of ethics investigators.

South Carolina – New Bill Aims to Eliminate Statute of Limitations for Prosecuting Illegal Lobbying

WOLO – Lee Williams | Published: 2/26/2026

A new bill making its way through the state Legislature would get rid of the current four-year statute of limitations for prosecuting illegal lobbying. “If misconduct is uncovered five years from now or 10 years from now, the people of South Carolina still deserve justice …,”  said House Bill 5247’s sponsor, Rep. Joe White.

South Dakota – Some Ethics Documents Meant to Reveal State Board Members’ Conflicts Are Missing

Yahoo News – Joshua Haiar (South Dakota Searchlight) | Published: 2/27/2026

Nearly half of the financial disclosure documents for South Dakota gubernatorial appointees requiring state Senate approval were not available on the secretary of state’s website, sparking contradictory claims from state offices. When South Dakota’s governor makes a board or commission appointment that requires Senate approval, the appointee is legally obligated to file a financial disclosure document that can be scrutinized for conflicts-of-interest.

Tennessee – Cothren Sent $80,000 Fine for ‘Strawwoman’ PAC

Nashville Scene – Eli Motycka | Published: 3/4/2026

Tennessee campaign finance officials levied an $80,000 fine against former top Republican aide Cade Cothren for obscuring his involvement in the Faith Family Freedom PAC during the 2020 election cycle. State proceedings were delayed due to a federal trial related to Cothren’s involvement in another campaign finance violation. Cothren faced prison time for the scandal before receiving a pardon from President Trump in November.

Tennessee – Conflict of Interest? Lobbying Firm on Metro Schools Payroll Never Revealed Its Work for Major Vendor

WTVF – Phil Williams | Published: 3/3/2026

A high-powered Nashville lobbying firm now admits that while it was getting paid to advise Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS), it was also secretly working for a longtime MNPS vendor that was vying for a multimillion-dollar contract. MNPS says the Ingram Group should have revealed the relationship, but the firm insists there was nothing to disclose since the person working on both contracts, former MNPS official Hank Clay, kept the clients separate.

Virginia – Virginia Court Allows a Referendum on Democratic-Led Redistricting That Could Flip 4 US House Seats

Yahoo News – Olivia Diaz (Associated Press) | Published: 3/4/2026

For the second time, Virginia’s Supreme Court ruled voters can cast ballots on a Democratic-led congressional redistricting plan that could help the party win four more U.S. House seats, as the justices review legal challenges to the effort. The court ruled a statewide referendum can be held on April 21 on whether to authorize mid-decade redistricting, upending a temporary restraining order put in place by a Tazewell County judge.

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “Arizona Senate Passes Republican ‘Pay-to-Play’ Reform Bill, Not Hobbs’ Plan” by Wayne Schutsky for KJZZ

California: “QAnon Darling, Perennial GOP L.A. Congressional Candidate Sentenced to 4 Years for Fraud” by Cierra Morgan and Clara Harter (Los Angeles Times) for MSN

Oklahoma: “Oklahoma Ethics Board Launches Temporary Portal for Local Campaign Finance Reporting” by Emma Murphy (Oklahoma Watch) for Yahoo News

Oregon: “Oregon Lawmakers Advance Bill to Revise Campaign Finance Law Despite Significant Confusion About What It Would Do” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Rep. Tony Gonzales, Forced into Runoff, Admits to Affair with Aide Who Died by Suicide” by Gabby Birenbaum (Texas Tribune) for Yahoo News

National: “Trump Justice Department Aims to Limit Ethics Probes into Its Lawyers” by Andrew Goudsward (Reuters) for MSN

Ohio: “US Sen. Jon Husted Expected to Testify in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial, Defense Attorney Says” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Lobbying

Tennessee: “Conflict of Interest? Lobbying Firm on Metro Schools Payroll Never Revealed Its Work for Major Vendor” by Phil Williams for WTVF

The Senate passed a bill related to pay-to-play disclosure. 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 of the governor within the prior five years. Last year, Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed a bill containing similar language, calling it a political stunt. This February, Hobbs unveiled a forward-looking ethics reform proposal focused on a state contractor database, a contribution cap during bid consideration, and a lobbyist gift ban. The competing visions on ethics reform come against the backdrop of lawmakers and the governor’s office trading scrutiny over past transparency.

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Make sure you understand pay-to-play regulations in your state. See all 50 states and nearly 300 jurisdictions in our online guidebooks. Check them out here.

When you buy Girl Scout cookies, you are doing far more than satisfying a sweet tooth. You are investing in leadership, confidence, and opportunity for young girls in your community.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches essential life skills— goal setting, communication, financial literacy, and perseverance. Girls learn how to speak up, handle challenges, and celebrate success. These lessons last long after cookie season ends.

Cookie sales also fund meaningful experiences such as summer camps, STEM programs, community service projects, and outdoor adventures. Much of the money raised stays local, directly supporting Girl Scouts right where you live.

Why am I going on and on about Girl Scouts? I was one a very long time ago. Today I helped every single Scout who asked me to buy cookies—in fact, I bought 12 boxes from each Scout. In 2026, I purchased 1,932 boxes of cookies. And these days those boxes do not cost $.50 like when I was selling them. My poor credit card needed resuscitation!!!

What I love the most is when the Scouts send me notes or their moms/dads thank me for buying the cookies. So why should you help the
Girl Scouts?

1. You’re supporting leadership skills in young girls–Cookie sales teach real-world skills such as goal setting, money management, communication, and confidence. You are backing the next generation of leaders, analytical people, and entrepreneurs.
2. It funds meaningful experiences–Proceeds help pay for camps, community service projects, STEM programs, outdoor adventures, and leadership training—especially for girls who might not otherwise have access.
3. You are investing locally–Most cookie money stays within the local council, directly benefiting Girl Scouts in your own community rather than a distant corporation.
4. It builds confidence and courage–Every YES helps a girl learn that her voice matters. Even the polite “no, thank you” moments teach resilience—but your support makes those wins feel huge.
5. It strengthens community connections–Stopping to chat, encourage, or buy a box creates positive interactions between generations and reminds girls that their community is rooting for them.
6. You are modeling kindness and generosity–When kids see adults support youth efforts, it reinforces the value of giving back and helping others succeed.
7. Let’s be honest…cookies–They’re delicious—and buying them feels even better knowing they are tied to a good cause. Perhaps most importantly, your support sends a powerful message: your efforts matter.
   

Perhaps most importantly, your support sends a powerful message: your efforts matter. A simple purchase or word of encouragement can boost a girl’s confidence and remind her the community believes in her.

Just so you know, all of the cookies are donated to nonprofits in Akron, Ohio for the work they do. Food banks, summer programs, and anyone who can share the goods with people unable to afford them receive the donations.

What a great way to spread goodness at this time.

Thank You,

Elizabeth Z. Bartz

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The U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii recently ruled that a 2024 state law (Act 191) aimed at regulating deceptive election media is unconstitutional. In the case of The Babylon Bee, LLC and Dawn O’Brien v. Anne E. Lopez, et al., the court granted a permanent injunction against the law, finding that it violated the First and Fourteenth Amendments. While the state argued the law was necessary to protect electoral integrity from AI-generated “deepfakes,” the court determined the restrictions were too broad and lacked the narrow tailoring required by the Constitution.

Understanding Act 191 and the Court’s Ruling

Act 191 was designed to prevent the reckless distribution of “materially deceptive” election media. This included any video, audio, or images created via digital technology or artificial intelligence that depicted a candidate engaging in speech or conduct that did not actually happen. The law specifically targeted content intended to harm a candidate’s reputation or influence voter behavior from February through Election Day.

The court’s decision centered on several key legal principles:

• Content and Speaker Discrimination: The court found that Act 191 discriminated based on the content of the speech and the identity of the speaker.
• Failure of Strict Scrutiny: Even though protecting elections from deceptive media is a “compelling interest,” the law failed the strict scrutiny test because it was not narrowly tailored.
• Vagueness and Overbreadth: Under the Fourteenth Amendment, the law was ruled unconstitutionally vague because it required speakers to guess at the “risk” of their content rather than following clear, objective standards.
• Compelled Speech: The requirement to include a state-mandated disclaimer was found to impermissibly alter the intended message and effect of the political speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why did the court rule against a law meant to stop deceptive AI content?

While the state has a valid interest in protecting elections, the court found that Act 191 was “substantially overbroad”. Instead of focusing solely on clearly harmful misinformation, it created a system in which creators of political satire or commentary had to assess vague risks of “harming reputation” before publishing. The court noted that less restrictive methods, such as electoral literacy campaigns or existing defamation laws, could address these concerns without infringing on free speech.

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Does this ruling mean all AI-generated political content is now unregulated?

No, this specific ruling applies to the enforcement of Hawaii’s Act 191. The court suggested that the state could use speech-neutral alternatives to combat deepfakes, such as targeted counter-speech or enforcement of laws related to actual harm or defamation, rather than broad preventive restrictions.

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What was the issue with the disclaimer requirement in Act 191?

The court determined that forcing a speaker to use a specific disclaimer is a form of compelled speech. In the context of political satire or parody, such a disclaimer would fundamentally change the content and the message the creator intended to convey, which is a violation of First Amendment protections.

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.

Elections

Texas: “Cornyn, Paxton Reach Runoff; Other Takeaways from Big Election Night” by Teo Armas (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Trump Admin Asked a Court to Drop Court Fights Against Law Firms Tied to Democrats. Now It’s Changing Its Mind” by Katelyn Polantz (CNN) for MSN

National: “Trump Allies Claim Victory as the Ellisons Expand Their Media Empire” by Will Oremus, Liam Scott, Cat Zakrzewski, and Scott Nover (Washington Post) for MSN

Ohio: “Longtime FirstEnergy Lobbyist Accused of Paying a $4.3 Million Bribe Speaks Out for the First Time” by Jake Zuckerman for Signal Ohio

Rhode Island: “Ethics Panel Sets Hearing Date as Supervisor During Infamous Philly Trip Fights to Clear His Name” by Nancy Lavin (Rhode Island Current) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

California: “These Public Documents Are Hidden from View. Two California Lawmakers Want to Change That” by Ryan Sabalow for CalMatters

Mississippi: “DraftKings and Entergy Spent Over $100K on a Super Bowl Weekend for Two Mississippi Politicians, Staffers and Spouses” by Michael Goldberg and Taylor Vance for Mississippi Today

Redistricting

New York: “Supreme Court Blocks Redrawing of Republican-Held Congressional District in New York Over Liberal Dissent” by John Fritze (CNN) for Yahoo News

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission released an interim campaign finance reporting tool that allows local government campaigns and committees to upload campaign finance reports and forms while the commission integrates local government filing into the Guardian system. When full integration is complete, all local government political committees will need to register, pay any registration fees, and file all reports in the Guardian online system. The interim reporting tool is located at https://localcampaignfilings.ok.gov/filer.

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Today, 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 2026 from $23,300 to $24,000. 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. Additionally, the FEC published its adjusted Coordinated Party Expenditure Limits for political parties for 2026.

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Campaign Finance

National: “New York Woman Who Duped Investors and Funneled Money to Trump Fundraiser Gets 9 Years in Prison” by Associated Press for MSN

Oregon: “Oregon House Speaker Reprimands Republican Gubernatorial Candidate for Fundraising During Session” by Shaanth Nanguneri (Oregon Capital Chronicle) for Yahoo News

Elections

National: “DOJ Sues 5 More States for Access to Voter Rolls” by Jacob Wendler (Politico) for MSN

Ethics

Kentucky: “State Republicans Look to Reshape Louisville’s Ethics Commission” by Roberto Roldan for Louisville Public Media

Ohio: “An Ohio Newspaper Has a New Star Writer. It Isn’t Human.” by Will Oremus and Scott Nover (Washington Post) for Yahoo News

Ohio: “A Dead Man’s Actions Take Center Stage in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial” by Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

South Dakota: “Some Ethics Documents Meant to Reveal State Board Members’ Conflicts Are Missing” by Joshua Haiar (South Dakota Searchlight) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

California: “Secret Payments, Win Bonuses Discussed for Angel Stadium Deal, Other Projects” by Gabriel San Roman for Los Angeles Times

Campaign Finance

New Mexico: “Miyagishima Says Secretary of State Guidance Led to $125K in Excess Campaign Contributions” by Azure Mitchell for New Mexico In Depth

New York: “Election Officials Say Senate Candidate Defrauded State of Over $200,000” by Emilie Munson (Albany Times Union) for MSN

Elections

National: “Trump, Seeking Executive Power Over Elections, Is Urged to Declare Emergency” by Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

Colorado: “Former Colorado State Senator Sentenced to Probation for Fabricating Letters Amid Ethics Investigation” by Taylor Dolven (Colorado Sun) for KUNC

National: “Bill Clinton Says He ‘Did Nothing Wrong’ with Epstein as He Faces Grilling Over Their Relationship” by Stephen Groves (Associated Press) for Yahoo News

Michigan: “Up North Resort Ownership Poses More Oakland County Ethics Questions” by Dave Boucher (Detroit Free Press) for Blue Water Healthy Living

New York: “Refugee Released by Border Patrol Found Dead, Sparking Outrage” by Evan Hill and Joanna Slater (Washington Post) for MSN

Lobbying

South Carolina: “New Bill Aims to Eliminate Statute of Limitations for Prosecuting Illegal Lobbying” by Lee Williams for WOLO

National/Federal

Texts Show Rep. Tony Gonzales Asked for Explicit Photos from Aide Who Later Died by Suicide

MSN – Eleanor Klibanoff (Texas Tribune) | Published: 2/23/2026

A newly revealed 2024 text exchange appears to show that U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales encouraged one of his aides to send him an explicit photo, leading the aide, Regina Santos-Aviles, to push back. Just over a year later, the staffer died after setting herself on fire. Her husband, Adrian Aviles, released these text messages to The San Antonio Express-News as evidence of an affair between Gonzalez and his staffer. Aviles said the relationship and the professional ostracization his wife faced after it was discovered led her to become despondent before her death.

Judge Says Government May Not Search Devices Seized from Post Reporter

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2026

A federal judge in Virginia rejected the Justice Department’s request to search through a Washington Post reporter’s electronic devices as part of a national security leak investigation, ruling the court would instead be responsible for conducting the search. Magistrate Judge William Porter admonished the Justice Department, saying the government could not be trusted to conduct the search on its own and prosecutors’ actions in obtaining a search warrant for reporter Hannah Natanson’s home had shaken the deference and latitude that judges typically afford to government attorneys.

Why More Lawmakers Are Quitting Congress, and What It Means for the Midterms

MSN – Eric Lau and Anna Liss-Roy (Washington Post) | Published: 2/22/2026

Like no time in recent memory, lawmakers are setting their sights anywhere but Capitol Hill, setting the stage for crucial midterm elections that will feature fewer incumbents than usual and ensure more fresh faces in Congress next year. As of late February, 68 Senate and House members have said they will not seek reelection. While looming midterms often prompt a swell of retirements, the number of announced departures at this point in the election cycle is notably higher than in other recent cycles.

Judge Cannon Orders Secrecy for Report on Trump Classified-Documents Case

MSN – Perry Stein and Jeremy Roebuck (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2026

A federal judge in Florida blocked public release of special counsel Jack Smith’s extensive report on the classified-documents case against President Trump, a victory for Trump’s efforts to block public viewing of what probably would be damaging details about his retention of classified materials after he left the White House in 2021. U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon ruled that releasing the special counsel report could violate grand jury secrecy rules and could result in impugning the presumption of innocence for Trump and his co-defendants in a case that did not result in guilty verdicts.

Justice Department Withheld and Removed Some Epstein Files Related to Trump

NPR – Stephen Fowler | Published: 2/24/2026

The Justice Department has withheld some Epstein files related to allegations that President Trump sexually abused a minor, an NPR investigation found. It also removed some documents from the public database where accusations against Jeffrey Epstein also mention Trump. Some files have not been made public despite a law mandating their release. These include what appear to be more than 50 pages of FBI interviews, as well as notes from conversations with a woman who accused Trump of sexual abuse decades ago when she was a minor.

How AI Money Is Flooding into the Midterm Elections

Seattle Times – Theodore Schleifer and Matt Zdun (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2026

The artificial intelligence (AI) industry is well on the way to spending hundreds of millions of dollars on the midterm elections in an extraordinary demonstration of political power from Silicon Valley. The spending is broadly expected to benefit Republicans more than Democrats and, so far, it has. Republicans are seen as friendlier to the industry and more opposed to stringent AI regulations. But the analysis shows some Democratic politicians who represent the San Francisco Bay Area or have longtime ties to the tech industry were significant recipients of AI cash.

Kyrsten Sinema Accused of Illegally Spending $700,000 in Campaign Funds on Personal Expenses

Yahoo News – Jim Small (Arizona Mirror) | Published: 2/19/2026

A watchdog group accused former U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of illegally spending more than $700,000 in campaign cash on personal expenses, including on luxury hotel rooms, concert tickets, and fancy meals. In its complaint with the FEC, the Campaign Legal Center says Sinema spent the money in 2025, after she left the U.S. Senate, in violation of the Federal Election Campaign Act’s prohibition on personal use of campaign funds.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Political Feud Over Government Accountability in Arizona Gets Personal

Arizona Daily Star – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 2/22/2026

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs is launching a political attack on state Sen. T.J. Shope after his refusal to accept her plan for accountability in government contracts over his own. Gubernatorial staffers prepared a list showing Shope was the beneficiary of more than $4,900 in meals and other entertainment last year from lobbyists. Press aide Liliana Soto noted none of that showed up in the annual financial disclosure statement all elected officials file. That statement specifically requires the disclosure of all gifts with a cumulative value of more than $500.

California – Charter Reform Commission Recommends Sweeping Changes to City Government to Rebuild Public Trust

MSN – Frank Stoltze (LAist) | Published: 2/26/2026

The Los Angeles City Charter Commission approved a set of recommendations aimed at improving how the city operates, including streamlining the city attorney’s office and creating an anti-corruption office. The commission also recommended spelling out more clearly how to suspend any council member who is accused of a crime.

California – Oakland’s Most Influential Lobbyists

Oaklandside – Eli Wolfe | Published: 2/23/2026

Look behind most major city decisions in Oakland and you will probably find a lobbyist. There are dozens of lobbyists in the city who spend their days chatting up politicians, meeting with public employees, and doing their best to help their clients. Last year, there were 57 lobbyists registered in Oakland, the lowest of any year since the start of the pandemic. But some of these lobbyists were very busy, reporting 801 contacts with city officials in 2025. Seventy percent of all contacts with public officials were made by just 10 lobbyists.

Georgia – Ga. Gubernatorial Hopeful Burt Jones Suffers Setback in Funding Battle

MSN – Tim Darnell (WRDW) | Published: 2/20/2026

A federal court issued a temporary restraining order against Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ leadership committee, an organization which has been the target of every other Republican gubernatorial hopeful this election. Judge Thomas Thrash issued the order in response to a lawsuit filed by GOP candidate Rick Jackson. The lawsuit aimed to prevent Jones from using funds in his leadership committee for his gubernatorial campaign.

Hawaii – ‘I Want You to Hear the Facts’: Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke releases video clarifying campaign funding scandal

MSN – Cameron Macedonio (KHON) | Published: 2/23/2026

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke released a campaign video in which she addressed campaign funding questions in an ongoing corruption investigation. The questions come from a mystery $35,000 cash payment in a paper bag to an unknown lawmaker in 2022. Earlier this year, the state Legislature became aware of the possible bribery and adopted House Resolution 8 to call for an investigation into the payment.

Illinois – Ex-ComEd Executive Who Went Undercover for FBI in Madigan Bribery Probe Gets Probation

Yahoo News – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/19/2026

Fidel Marquez, Commonwealth Edison’s (ComEd) then-legislative affairs leader, learned his bosses had been running a secret scheme to influence then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan in a bid to win hundreds of millions of dollars in rate hikes. After being confronted by the FBI, he agreed to go undercover, helping to build a case that would rock the Illinois political landscape and land Madigan, ComEd’s former chief executive, and others in federal prison. Marquez was sentenced to probation for his role in a massive conspiracy to funnel hundreds of thousands of dollars in payments to do-nothing subcontractors favored by the speaker.

Indiana – Exclusive: Indiana township leaders and their families profit from contracts

USA Today – Hayleigh Colombo (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 2/24/2026

Across Indiana’s nearly 1,000 township governments, elected officials and public servants are earning thousands of dollars not just from their taxpayer-funded salaries, but also from business relationships their private businesses are inking with the government, according to an analysis of township documents. At least 100 conflict-of-interest disclosures were filed in 2024 and 2025 by township employees who reported everything from earning thousands of dollars from lawn care and training contracts, to collecting rent as a landlord from the township’s poor relief clients. The family members of township employees also benefit from such contracts.

Kansas – Kansas House Passes Election Bills Targeting Noncitizens, Advanced Voting

Yahoo News – Anna Kaminski (Kansas Reflector) | Published: 2/23/2026

Kansas lawmakers could transform elections with a series of bills that squeeze advanced voting timelines, stamp out rare instances of noncitizen voting, and tinker with some candidate filing and advocacy rules. One bill sought to eradicate elections exclusively conducted by mail.

Maine – Ethics Commission Staff Say Maine Dems Failed to File Reports on Fall Campaign Spending

Maine Public – Kevin Miller | Published: 2/25/2026

The Maine ethics commission voted to continue investigating whether the state Democratic Party failed to file campaign finance reports as part of its efforts to defeat a Voter ID referendum last fall. But the commission disagreed with a complaint that the state party should have created a separate ballot question committee because of its heavy involvement in the campaign.

Maryland – Gov. Wes Moore’s Redistricting Plan Is Poised to Die. He’s Still Fighting.

MSN – Erin Cox (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2026

Gov. Wes Moore’s months-long fight to redraw Maryland’s congressional maps and oust its lone Republican member of Congress produced zero movement among Democrats in the state Senate. Despite a public pressure campaign, the unofficial deadline to act on mid-cycle redistricting ahead of the 2026 midterms passed without fellow Democrats heeding Moore’s demands for a vote.

Michigan – Michigan Lawmakers Use Political Funds for Rent, Car Expenses, Netflix

Blue Water Healthy Living – Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 2/19/2026

Michigan lawmakers have used money from political donors to rent housing near the Capitol, fund electricity bills, make car payments, and bankroll repairs to their vehicles, according to a review of how state leaders wield their campaign cash. State policies bar lawmakers’ campaigns from using their funds for personal benefit. Multiple lawyers said some of the expenditures uncovered by The Detroit News might violate that standard. But, according to others, the transactions raised different concerns about whether state law does enough to prevent interest groups’ money from flowing into the pockets of officials who are supposed to regulate them.

Minnesota – Trump Administration to Withhold $259M in Minnesota Medicaid Funds, Citing Fraud

MSN – Matt Viser and Dan Diamond (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2026

Vice President JD Vance announced Trump administration would withhold $259 million in Medicaid payments for Minnesota, escalating its fight with the state as the White House seeks to elevate health care fraud as an election-year issue. Vance said the decision could presage similar crackdowns in other states, including California, as part of a “war on fraud” that President Trump announced in his State of the Union address. Trump’s administration has been at odds on a wide range of fronts with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Missouri – Proposal Targeting Missouri Initiatives Lowers Penalties for Fraud, Foreign Donations

Yahoo News – Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) | Published: 2/25/2026

While a judge is rewriting the ballot summary for a proposal to put new barriers in front of Missouri initiative campaigns, opponents are focusing on a new line of attack as the ballot the measure cuts financial penalties for accepting foreign contributions or committing petition fraud. Opponents argue the problems go beyond the ballot summary. They point out the amendment would lower the maximum financial penalty for initiative petition fraud from $10,000 to $1,000 and would reduce the penalty for illegal foreign contributions from up to five times the contribution amount to three times the amount, while adding the possibility of up to a year in jail.

North Carolina – SBI Probing Kentucky Distillery Tours Taken by NC Lawmakers and Lobbyists

MSN – Dan Kane (Raleigh News & Observer) | Published: 2/20/2026

The State Bureau of Investigation has launched a probe into trips sponsored by a nonprofit with ties to a former powerful lawmaker that took North Carolina legislators and lobbyists on distillery tours in Kentucky in 2022 and 2024. The investigation follows a complaint by Carolina Forward that claimed lobbying, ethics, and charitable solicitation laws were violated by the nonprofit Greater Carolina, lawmakers who attended, and lobbyists who promoted and attended the 2024 tour.

North Carolina – State Auditor Says He Wants New Campaign Finance System Running by Next Summer

WUNC – Adam Wagner | Published: 2/24/2026

North Carolina Auditor Dave Boliek wants a new commission he appointed to suggest an overhauled campaign finance reporting system by next summer, if possible. Boliek announced the new Modernization of Elections Data Systems Commission in early February, saying its 22 members would be tasked with developing an election data management system. It is also set to overhaul how campaign finances are reported in North Carolina.

Ohio – Ohio Supreme Court Strikes Down Media Restrictions in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial

MSN – Adam Ferrise (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/17/2026

Media outlets fighting a judge’s press restrictions in the high-profile FirstEnergy bribery case marked a victory recently. The Ohio Supreme Court struck down part of an order blocking news outlets from hearings that would reveal why certain witnesses can testify without being photographed or recorded.

Ohio – DeWine, Husted Messages to Execs Come into Focus at FirstEnergy Trial

MSN – Bryce Buyakie (Akron Beacon Journal) | Published: 2/19/2026

Jurors viewed text messages and emails showing that high-ranking elected Ohio officials worked behind the scenes to pass a $1.3 billion nuclear bailout and appoint Sam Randazzo as chairperson of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and former lobbyist Michael Dowling are accused of paying Randazzo a $4.3 million bribe before his appointment to lead PUCO. Messages exchanged between Jones and Dowling showed an open line of communication with Gov. Mike DeWine, former House Speaker Larry Householder, and former Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, now a U.S. senator.

Ohio – FirstEnergy CEO Visited Ohio Regulator’s Florida Mansion After $4.3M Payment, Executive Testifies

Signal Ohio – Jake Zuckerman | Published: 2/24/2026

Former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones stopped in at the Florida mansion owned by Ohio’s most senior utility regulator – the recipient of Jones’ alleged $4.3 million bribe four months prior – for a private conversation, an executive who was present at the meeting testified at a corruption trial. Dennis Chack, a FirstEnergy senior vice president, walked jurors through different intersections between the Jones and Sam Randazzo, the regulator accused of taking money under the table.

Ohio – FirstEnergy Trial Witness Says Randazzo Dodged Payment Disclosures

Yahoo News – Patrick Williams (Akron Beacon Journal) | Published: 2/25/2026

Ohio Ethics Commission Executive Director Paul Nick testified in the criminal trial of two former FirstEnergy leaders about a former top state utility regulator neglecting to report income from FirstEnergy in financial disclosures. Defendants Charles Jones and Michael Dowling are accused of bribing former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairperson Sam Randazzo with more than $4.3 million in exchange for favorable energy policy. Randazzo did not list the payment to the Ethics Commission when reporting his 2019 income.

Oklahoma – Committee Rejects Proposal to Stop Legislators from Quickly Becoming Lobbyists

Oklahoma Watch – Keaton Ross | Published: 2/23/2026

A bill aimed at stopping a “revolving door” of legislators becoming lobbyists was rejected in committee. House Bill 3727 would have required former lawmakers to wait at least four years after exiting office to register as lobbyists in Oklahoma. Several committee members questioned the bill, raising concerns that it would place undue restrictions on private citizens.

Oregon – Shut Out of Campaign Finance Bill, Good Governance Groups Tell Lawmakers to Vote Against It

MSN – Alex Baumhardt (Oregon Capital Chronicle) | Published: 2/23/2026

Good governance groups behind a historic 2024 campaign finance reform law are calling on lawmakers to vote against a proposal meant to provide technical fixes to the law. They say business and lobbying groups wrote it to render political spending limits moot, and fights over language in the bill have come to an apex in the Capitol. Supporters say it is needed to ensure contribution limits are enacted as scheduled in January 2027, and to give the secretary of state’s office enough time to roll out infrastructure needed to enhance reporting requirements.

Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania Holds Tons of Special Elections. That Costs Taxpayers Millions.

Votebeat – Carter Walker | Published: 2/24/2026

According to data from Ballotpedia, Pennsylvania has held 47 special elections for vacant state legislative and congressional seats since 2017. That is more than in any other state over that period. It is not clear why Pennsylvania has had so many special elections, though observers have pointed to the state’s large full-time legislature as a possible factor. But what’s more clear is the cost.

Utah – Redistricting: Federal panel denies bid to overturn Utah’s court-ordered congressional map

Yahoo News – Katie McKellar (Utah News Dispatch) | Published: 2/23/2026

Anti-gerrymandering groups in Utah’s yearslong redistricting battle celebrated another victory when a three-judge federal panel denied a bid to overturn the state’s new court-ordered congressional map. The ruling affirmed that District Court Judge Dianna Gibson had the power to set new congressional boundaries after she determined the Utah Legislature failed to adopt a lawful map.

Vermont – Corporate Requests for Public Records Are Weighing Down Already Burdened Town Officials in Vermont

VTDigger – Shaun Robinson | Published: 2/26/2026

In one of Vermont’s largest towns, most of the requests that officials get for public records are not coming from local residents. Instead, said Renae Marshall, Colchester’s deputy town manager, they are coming from people and companies around the country. She said the town is spending more time fielding requests from companies that are not based in Vermont but that collect and sell its public information for a profit. The volume of corporate requests, combined with a limited window of time officials have to respond under state law, has been making it hard to keep up, Marshall said.

West Virginia – Dems: WV ‘going backwards’ as House passes bill to shield political donors’ employer info

Yahoo News – Caity Coyne (West Virginia Watch) | Published: 2/20/2026

A bill to keep the public from accessing certain information about political donors could soon become law after the West Virginia House passed it recently. Senate Bill 640 would stop the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office or any other government agency from publicly posting information that some lawmakers say could be used by advocates to target donors. Under the legislation, a campaign treasurer’s and political donors’ house numbers and street names will be publicly redacted.

The Virginia redistricting referendum allowed to move forward by the state’s Supreme Court just a few weeks ago has been blocked by a circuit court judge. A temporary restraining order was issued by Tazewell County Circuit Judge Jack Hurley Jr. to halt election officials from working on the April 21 referendum. Now, municipalities are enjoined from preparing for the election but not enjoined from holding the election. With conflicting orders, cities and counties in Virginia are asking for clarification on what they are required to do. Republicans in the state aim to block this vote as it will possibly open four additional seats for Democrats in the state and counteract redistricting efforts in other states. Final decisions are still pending in both the Republican suit and the appeal of another case.

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