National/Federal

Conservative Activists Are Monitoring, and Filming, Voter Registration Sites

DNyuz – Jack Healy (New York Times) | Published: 10/4/2024

As the ground game intensifies ahead of many state voter-registration deadlines in early October, suspicions of election fraud have turned the normally ho-hum work of registering voters into tense confrontations. Despite the many debunked falsehoods about widespread voting by noncitizens, liberal Latino advocacy groups say they are being trailed by conservative activists with cameras and accused of registering undocumented immigrants. The conservative activists say they are just trying to expose flaws in the voter-registration process.

Democrats Try ‘Trump-Proofing’ Their States Ahead of Election Day

MSN – Reis Thebault (Washington Post) | Published: 10/6/2024

From the West Coast to the East, blue states are preparing for the possibility that Donald Trump wins in November by attempting to shield their policy priorities from the reach of a future Trump administration. This preemptive strategy – “Trump-proofing” – encompasses a wide range of issues and programs that Democratic leaders fear could be targeted in another Trump presidency, based on his previous actions and his current campaign promises.

FBI Probe of Kavanaugh Constrained by Trump White House, Report Finds

MSN – Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) | Published: 10/8/2024

In September 2018, as allegations of sexual misconduct against Brett Kavanaugh threatened his confirmation to the Supreme Court, Donald Trump vowed the FBI would have “free rein” to vet the claims. Trump’s comments came as a surprise to the FBI, according to a new report from U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse. FBI officials, directed to conduct a very limited inquiry in a week’s time, requested “additional guidance” from the White House, citing the public remarks by Trump describing a freewheeling investigation. But the White House never authorized the agency to independently probe the allegations, which Kavanaugh staunchly denied.

Lawmakers Spending Even More in 2024 Under Receipt-Free Expense Program

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany and Clara Ence Morse (Washington Post) | Published: 10/10/2024

House lawmakers expensed at least $2.5 million under a program that allows them to be reimbursed for their spending without submitting receipts through the first five months of 2024, over $120,000 more than during the same period last year. The program was intended to help members offset the costs of maintaining two households without requiring them to give themselves a politically toxic raise. Critics have argued that its lack of receipt requirements and reliance on the honor system open it up for abuse.

Trump’s Jan. 6 Role Back in Focus as He Readies New Stolen Election Claims

MSN – Amy Gardner and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 10/3/2024

Donald Trump’s effort to overturn his loss four years ago and his role inciting the violent attack on the Capitol roared onto the 2024 campaign stage even as he continues to suggest he will not accept a defeat if it happens a second time. Special counsel Jack Smith’s recent filing exposed new details about Trump’s lack of concern about the Capitol riot and his push to reverse his loss even as advisers repeatedly told him Joe Biden had legitimately won.

Trump Holds Up Transition Process, Skirting Ethics and Fund-Raising Rules

Seattle Times – Ken Bensinger (New York Times) | Published: 10/9/2024

Donald Trump’s campaign has not yet participated in the government’s official presidential transition process, a break from past practice that could threaten the seamless transfer of power should he win the election. It appears to be guided, at least in part, by Trump’s mistrust of the government he is running to lead. Experts note he may have other incentives. His refusal to sign the documents allows him to circumvent fundraising rules that put limits on private contributions to the transition, along with ethics rules meant to avoid conflicts-of-interest for the incoming administration.

From the States and Municipalities

California – As the Legislature Reaches Towards Gender Parity, the Number of Female Lobbyists Is Also Growing

Capitol Weekly – Brian Joseph | Published: 10/1/2024

There was a time when Sacramento’s female lobbyists were frozen out of meetings, literally not invited to important discussions about their clients’ bills simply because they were women. But female lobbyists say does not happen anymore as gender parity has grown in the lobbying corps alongside that of the Legislature itself and its aides. Female lobbyists attribute the changing culture of the Capitol to a number of factors: Sacramento’s own #MeToo reckoning, and overall society changes when it comes to gender differences and women in the workplace. But one unexpected factor that women lobbyists point to is term limits.

California – S.F. Mayor, City Attorney Broke Law by Deleting Texts, Task Force Says

Mission Local – Joe Rivano Barros | Published: 10/3/2024

The Sunshine Ordinance Task Force, San Francisco’s oversight body responsible for public records and transparency laws, ruled that Mayor London Breed and City Attorney David Chiu both violated city law by deleting text messages dealing with official business. It also referred the mayor’s actions to the San Francisco Ethics Commission for investigation and possible discipline. Public records experts said the practice likely violates California law requiring retaining records for two years.

California – L.A.’s Ex-Deputy Mayor Headed to Prison: ‘Corruption at any level will not be tolerated’

MSN – Brittny Mejia (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 10/4/2024

A federal judge sentenced former Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan to 12 years in prison for his role in a sprawling City Hall corruption case. U.S. District Court Judge John Walter said, “corruption at any level will not be tolerated.” A jury found Chan guilty on a dozen counts – including racketeering conspiracy, bribery, honest services fraud, and giving false statements to investigators – in a case focused on financial benefits provided by real estate developers with projects in former city Councilperson Jose Huizar’s district.

California – Supreme Court Declines to Take Up ‘Dark Money’ Case

Yahoo News – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 10/8/2002

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to take up a challenge to San Francisco’s Sunlight on Dark Money disclosure law, which would have tested the limits of disclosure and free speech in campaign finance. San Francisco voters overwhelmingly approved the initiative in 2019, compelling election ads to include a disclaimer naming the top three donors to the group running the ad. If the donor is another committee, then the committee’s top two donors and the dollar amounts given by both need to be disclosed.

Colorado – Former Colorado Official Sentenced to Prison in Election Data Scheme

MSN – Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) | Published: 10/3/2024

Tina Peters, a former county election official in Colorado, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of charges connected to efforts to copy election data from her office as Donald Trump and his allies spread false claims that the 2020 election was stolen and searched for evidence to prove it. Prosecutors accused Peters of helping to secretly copy Dominion Voting Systems hard drives by sneaking Conan Hayes, a former professional surfer and purported computer expert, into secure areas of her office in 2021 using someone else’s security badge.

Delaware – Why Delaware Received a Failing Grade for Lobbyist Disclosure Transparency

MSN – Amanda Fries (Delaware News Journal) | Published: 10/3/2024

Delaware received a failing grade for its lack of transparency over lobbyist disclosures, which do not require lobbyists to disclose their salaries or the positions they take on legislation on behalf of their clients, according to the climate group F Minus. The group, formed in 2023 to track fossil fuel lobbyists who also represent clients being harmed by the climate crisis, gave Delaware and 27 other states an “F” for their respective lobbyist disclosure systems.

District of Columbia – Informant in Trayon White Case Bribed Another D.C. Official, Records Say

MSN – Meagan Flynn, Jenny Gathright, and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) | Published: 10/3/2024

Allieu Kamara, the FBI informant at the center of District of Columbia Council member Trayon White Sr.’s bribery case, secretly pleaded guilty earlier this year to paying an employee at the city’s Child and Family Services Agency hundreds of thousands of dollars to help rig the contracting process and steer lucrative work to his businesses. The revelation deepens the reach of public corruption allegations that have already rocked local government as White campaigns for reelection while under indictment and as city officials and lawmakers examine the potential for “pay-to-play” schemes in critical city programs.

Florida – Florida Threatens to Prosecute TV Stations Over Abortion Ad. FCC Head Calls It ‘Dangerous’

MSN – Claire Healy and Ana Ceballos (Miami Herald) | Published: 10/9/2024

Florida’s health department threatened criminal charges for television stations that run a political ad calling for the repeal of the state’s six-week abortion ban. John Wilson, general counsel for the state agency, says claims made in the ad are “categorically false” and it constitutes a “sanitary nuisance” that could put women’s health and lives at risk if it continues to be broadcast. Attorneys representing a political committee sponsoring the abortion ballot measure have issued a defiant legal letter in which they call the effort an “unconstitutional state action.”

Georgia – Fulton Judges Stay Busy Ruling on Lawsuits Spurred by New Georgia State Election Board Rules

Georgia Recorder – Stanley Dunlap | Published: 10/9/2024

A lawsuit filed by the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections seeks to prevent the State Election Board from appointing several election monitors for the November election. Fulton’s election board claims the state board is pressuring it to appoint multiple additional election monitors. The plaintiffs argue the state panel lacks the statutory authority to force the county to hire and pay for extra election monitors. The lawsuit is one of several filed recently contesting the rules changes approved by three right-wing state election officials who support Donald Trump.

Idaho – Idaho Lawmaker Tells Native American Candidate ‘Go Back Where You Came From’ in Forum

MSN – Associated Press | Published: 10/4/2024

Tensions rose during a bipartisan forum after an audience question about discrimination reportedly led Idaho Sen. Dan Foreman to angrily tell a Native American candidate to “go back where you came from.”  Trish Carter-Goodheart, a Democratic candidate for a state House seat and member of the Nez Perce Tribe, said the blowup left her shaken and thinking about security needs for future public events.

Illinois – After Storied Time as the ‘Velvet Hammer,’ Michael Madigan to Face a Jury

Yahoo News – Ray Long, Jason Meisner, and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 10/6/2024

In one of the most anticipated public corruption trials in Illinois history, former House Speaker Michael Madigan faces a 23-count federal racketeering indictment alleging he ran his government and political operations like a criminal enterprise. Madigan and his co-defendant, Michael McClain, a longtime confidant, former lawmaker, and retired contract lobbyist for Commonwealth Edison, have pleaded not guilty. A protege of former Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley, Madigan grew into that rare Illinois politician who both defined and embodied clout.

Indiana – Braun Campaign Releases Attack Ad with Doctored Anti-Gas Stove Photo of McCormick

MSN – Brittany Carloni (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 9/30/2024

U.S. Sen. Mike Braun’s gubernatorial campaign released a television ad showing an image of Democrat Jennifer McCormick’s supporters holding signs behind her declaring “no gas stoves.” But those signs never existed. Braun’s campaign drew criticism for releasing the ad containing the doctored image, along with audio that said McCormick wants to “ban gas stoves.” Braun’s campaign later pulled the ad and replaced it with one containing a disclaimer saying the image had been doctored, which is now required under a new state law.

Indiana – Former Gary Mayor Jerome Prince Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud

Yahoo News – Post-Tribune Staff | Published: 10/9/2024

Former Gary Mayor Jerome Prince admitted he used campaign funds to purchase a house as part of a plea agreement. He was familiar with Indiana campaign finance law and its prohibition against using campaign funds for personal use, according to the court filing, having previously established a campaign committee in 2015.

Iowa – Curious Iowa: What does a lobbyist do?

The Gazette – Bailey Cichone | Published: 10/7/2024

For some people, the word “lobbyist” may elicit images of back room deals and corrupt politicians. But talking with lobbyists who work at the Iowa Capitol, a different picture emerges. Barbra Solberg is the public policy strategist who started her career on Capitol Hill. When she moved back to Iowa, the stories of bad actors in Washington, D.C. stuck with her. But when she started working for the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, she was surprised at how transparent the system for Iowa lobbyists is. “I realized the lobby in Iowa is a really important cog in the wheel that makes the system work, and in a good way,” Solberg said.

Iowa – Former Iowa Lt. Gov. Gregg’s New Job Leading Iowa Banking Association Won’t Violate State Lobbying Laws, Officials Say

The Gazette – Erin Murphy | Published: 10/6/2024

Former Iowa Lt. Adam Gregg resigned in September to take a position as head of the Iowa Bankers Association, a statewide organization that advocates for Iowa banks to the state and federal governments. It lobbied on 135 pieces of legislation at the state Capitol over two years. Iowa law prohibits former government officials from lobbying on legislation for two years after leaving their government position. But state officials say he can lead the association without running afoul of the state’s lobbying law.

Louisiana – Landry Attorney, Legislators Slam Louisiana Ethics Board for ‘Abusive’ Investigations

Louisiana Illuminator – Julie O’Donoghue | Published: 10/9/2024

Stephen Gelé, a personal attorney for Gov. Jeff Landry, delivered sweeping criticism to the Louisiana Board of Ethics for what he called “abusive” investigations into elected officials’ conduct. Gelé joins a growing chorus of political professionals who have criticized the board’s approach and professionalism in recent months. They might feel emboldened to find fault with the board because Landry, who became governor in January, has not been shy about his own frustrations with the board.

Louisiana – Louisiana Health Officials Fly on Hospital Owner’s Plane to Meet Federal Health Care Regulators

MSN – Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) | Published: 10/4/2024

Rock Bordelon, a political donor whose company runs 11 rural hospitals in Louisiana plus behavioral health centers, hospice care, and other medical clinics, offered roundtrip flights on his personal aircraft and paid for “ground transportation” in the Washington D.C., area for state Department of Health officials to meet with federal regulators, according to disclosure forms. Those regulators control how much public money flows to health care facilities like the ones that Bordelon runs.

Maine – State Clashes with CMP, Versant in Federal Court Over Ban on Foreign Spending on Elections

Yahoo News – Rachel Ohm (Portland Press Herald) | Published: 10/9/2024

Attorneys for the state of Maine and two major utility companies argued in federal appeals court over the legality of a state law passed by voters that bans foreign governments from spending money on state and local races and referendum campaigns. A District Court erred when it granted a preliminary injunction preventing the law from being enforced, said Jonathan Bolton, an assistant attorney general. Joshua Dunlap, an attorney for Central Maine Power, argued that  the government should not be able to silence companies and citizens because of a small amount of foreign ownership.

Minnesota – The Minnesota DFL’s Massive, Behind-the-Scenes Political Fundraising Network Explained

Minnesota Post – Michael Nolan and Peter Callaghan | Published: 10/3/2024

The Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL) has an extensive campaign funding system developed over two decades by the DFL and its affiliated organizations – unions, wealthy donors, the state party, the two legislative caucuses, and a triumvirate of committees that raise and spend millions of dollars each election cycle to help elect members of the party. The potent DFL apparatus might not be such a big factor in Minnesota politics if Republicans and their own affiliated organizations could come close to competing.

Missouri – Missouri Sheriffs’ Pension Donates $30K to Ballot Campaign, Sparking Concerns

Yahoo News – Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) | Published: 10/9/2024

The Missouri Sheriffs’ Retirement System made a $30,000 investment recently, hoping for a big return if voters approve a ballot measure imposing a three-dollar fee on court cases to fund the system’s pensions. The contribution was to the Committee to Ensure a Future for Sheriffs & Prosecutors, the committee promoting Amendment 6 on the November ballot. The donation is drawing concern from critics who question whether the pension board is using taxpayer dollars to support a political campaign.

Montana – Lawmakers Can Decide If Their Communication with Lobbyists Is Public, Judge Rules

Montana Public Radio – John Hooks | Published: 10/4/2024

Montana lawmakers can now decide if their communication with lobbyists and outside groups is available to the public. State District Court Judge Christopher Abbott ruled that lawmakers’ communications with private individuals were privileged, and therefore not subject to the public’s right to know.

Nebraska – Nebraska Governor’s Roundtables with Business Leaders Double as Campaign Fundraisers

Grand Isle Independent – Chris Dunker (Lincoln Journal Star) | Published: 10/7/2024

Since taking office, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has hosted a series of discussions with business and industry leaders, providing insight into policy debates at the Capitol, previews of upcoming elections, and offering a chance for those individuals to provide feedback. The Governor’s Industry Roundtable program also includes invitations to special events, an annual meeting, and cocktail receptions. Business leaders are also asked to make a minimum contribution of $10,000 to Pillen’s campaign committee.

Nevada – Nevada Republican Convicted of Taking Money Meant for Officer Memorial

MSN – María Luisa Paúl (Washington Post) | Published: 10/7/2024

A Nevada politician was found guilty of taking money meant for a memorial honoring a police officer killed in the line of duty and spending it on plastic surgery, rent, and her daughter’s wedding. Michele Fiore, a justice of the peace and former Las Vegas City Council member, faces up to 140 years in prison – 20 for each count.

New Mexico – Jeff Apodaca Campaign Group Collected $143,000

Yahoo News – Colleen Heild (Albuquerque Journal) | Published: 10/3/2024

A political committee aimed at thwarting progressive Democratic influence in this year’s legislative elections appeared to fizzle after the June 4 primary, according to new campaign finance disclosures. The New Mexico Project received a total of $143,220 but reported no contributions after May 28. The organization and its co-founder Jeff Apodaca filed the required reports after defying state campaign reporting laws for months.

New York – Photos Show New York Congressman in Blackface as Michael Jackson

DNyuz – Nicholas Fandos (New York Times) | Published: 10/3/2024

U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler of New York wore blackface as part of a Halloween costume when he was a college student almost two decades ago, according to photographs obtained by The New York Times. The images, taken around October 2006, show a 20-year-old Lawler at a campus social gathering dressed as Michael Jackson. The images may come into play in Lawler’s fight for re-election this fall against Mondaire Jones, a Black former member of Congress, in a suburban swing seat.

New York – Adams Adviser Ingrid Lewis-Martin Was Joined on Trip to Japan by Lobbyist, City Hall Staffer

MSN – Chris Sommerfeldt and Graham Rayman (New York Daily News) | Published: 10/4/2024

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, New York City Mayor Eric Mayor Adams’ embattled chief adviser, and former state Sen. Jesse Hamilton were joined on their recent trip to Japan by registered lobbyist Adam Clayton Powell IV and Lisa Lashley, a senior City Hall official overseeing hiring efforts. The trip, which Lewis-Martin characterized as a vacation, burst into the headlines after it was reported both she and Hamilton, now a top real estate official in Adams’ administration, had their cellphones seized by Manhattan district attorney investigators immediately upon returning from Japan.

New York – A Former Aide to New York Mayor Eric Adams Is Charged with Destroying Evidence as Top Deputy Quits

MSN – Michael Sisak and Jake Offenhartz (Associated Press) | Published: 10/8/2024

A former New York City official was charged with witness tampering and destroying evidence in a federal investigation that led to Mayor Eric Adams’ bribery indictment. The arrest came amid yet more high-profile departures from Adams’ administration. Federal prosecutors allege that Mohamed Bahi, who resigned as a community affairs liaison, told a businessperson and campaign donors to lie to the FBI, and deleted the encrypted messaging app Signal from his cell phone as FBI agents arrived to search his home. Bahi had used the app to communicate with Adams, prosecutors said.

North Dakota – North Dakota’s Likely Next Governor Brushes Off Conflict Concerns, Says His Oil and Gas Ties Would Benefit the State

MSN – Jacob Orledge (North Dakota Monitor) | Published: 10/6/2024

When Kelly Armstrong filed his federal financial disclosure after being elected to Congress in 2018, he revealed his extensive ties to the oil and gas industry in his home state of North Dakota. It detailed his income from hundreds of oil wells and his financial relationship with two of the state’s largest oil producers. Those ties will matter a great deal if, as is likely, he is elected governor in November. Under North Dakota’s system, he will automatically chair two state bodies that regulate the energy industry, meaning Armstrong would be expected to preside over decisions that directly impact companies in which he has financial or familial ties.

Ohio – Appeals Court: Ohio can ban green card holders from donating to ballot campaigns

MSN – Jesse Balmert (Cincinnati Enquirer) | Published: 10/9/2024

Ohio can ban foreign nationals and green card holders from donating to ballot campaigns, a divided federal appeals court panel ruled. The majority ruled the law was not a violation of the First Amendment. They reinstated a law briefly put on hold by a District Court judge. “If the goal is to prevent foreign influence, extending the ban to all non-citizens (including lawful permanent residents) is the most effective means of advancing that goal,” wrote Judge Amul Thapar.

Oklahoma – State Education Department Seeks Bids for 55,000 Classroom Bibles

MSN – Jennifer Palmer, Paul Monies, and Heather Warlick (Oklahoma Watch) | Published: 10/3/2024

Bids opened for a contract to supply the Oklahoma Department of Education with 55,000 Bibles. The bid documents say vendors must meet certain specifications: Bibles must be the King James Version; must contain the Old and New Testaments; must include copies of the Pledge of Allegiance, Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights; and must be bound in leather or leather-like material. A Bible endorsed by Donald Trump and commonly referred to as the Trump Bible is the only one that meets the criteria. They cost $60 each online, with Trump receiving fees for his endorsement.

Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania High Court Declines to Decide Mail-In Ballot Issues Before Election

MSN – Associated Press | Published: 10/6/2024

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court declined to step in and immediately decide issues related to mail-in ballots in the commonwealth with early voting already under way in the few weeks before the November 5 election. The court rejected a request by voting rights and left-leaning groups to stop counties from throwing out mail-in ballots that lack a handwritten date or have an incorrect date on the return envelope, citing earlier rulings pointing to the risk of confusing voters so close to the election.

Texas – CenterPoint ‘Reassessing’ Use of The Pond, Its Houston-Area Lobbying Retreat, CEO Says

MSN – Claire Hao (Houston Chronicle) | Published: 10/8/2024

CenterPoint Energy is “reassessing the use” o its private Chambers County retreat, colloquially known as “The Pond,” as a space to entertain Texas lawmakers, the company’s chief executive said. The country lodge has been key to CenterPoint’s lobbying efforts for decades. More than 70 current or former state and local elected officials said they have visited, reported spending campaign funds on trips there, or were shown on the grounds in public images posted on social media. “In light of the criticism, we are reassessing the use of that facility for things like hosting elected officials,” said Chief Executive Officer Jason Wells.

Virginia – Confusion Over Nonprofit Rules Prompts 3 Virginia Beach Candidates to Return $10,000 Donation

Virginian-Pilot – Stacy Parker | Published: 10/5/2024

Two candidates running for Virginia Beach City Council and Mayor Bobby Dyer are returning campaign donations from a local nonprofit at the request of the donor who says she unwittingly did not follow federal tax rules. Dyer, who is running for reelection, council member Michael Berlucchi, and candidate Stacy Cummings each received $10,000 from BHL Community Service in July. BHL Community Service is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Virginia corporation that holds federal tax-exempt status and is therefore barred from giving campaign donations due to IRS regulations.

Wisconsin – Wisconsin Supreme Court Grapples with Governor’s 400-Year Veto, Calling It ‘Crazy’

MSN – Scott Bauer (Associated Press) | Published: 10/9/2024

Justices on the Wisconsin Supreme Court said Gov. Tony Evers’ creative use of his expansive veto power in an attempt to lock in a school funding increase for 400 years appeared to be “extreme” and “crazy” but questioned whether and how it should be reined in. The case is the latest flashpoint in a decades-long fight over how broad the governor’s partial veto power should be. The issue has crossed party lines, with Republicans and Democrats pushing for more limitations on the governor’s veto over the years.

Campaign Finance

California: “Supreme Court Declines to Take Up ‘Dark Money’ Case” by Taylor Giorno (The Hill) for Yahoo News

Missouri: “Missouri Sheriffs’ Pension Donates $30K to Ballot Campaign, Sparking Concerns” by Rudi Keller (Missouri Independent) for Yahoo News

Ohio: “Appeals Court: Ohio can ban green card holders from donating to ballot campaigns” by Jesse Balmert (Cincinnati Enquirer) for MSN

Elections

Indiana: “Braun Campaign Releases Attack Ad with Doctored Anti-Gas Stove Photo of McCormick” by Brittany Carloni (Indianapolis Star) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Trump Holds Up Transition Process, Skirting Ethics and Fund-Raising Rules” by Ken Bensinger (New York Times) for DNyuz

New York: “A Former Aide to New York Mayor Eric Adams Is Charged with Destroying Evidence as Top Deputy Quits” by Michael Sisak and Jake Offenhartz (Associated Press) for MSN

Legislative Issues

Wisconsin: “Wisconsin Supreme Court Grapples with Governor’s 400-Year Veto, Calling It ‘Crazy'” by Scott Bauer (Associated Press) for MSN

Lobbying

Iowa: “Curious Iowa: What does a lobbyist do?” by Bailey Cichone for The Gazette

Texas: “CenterPoint ‘Reassessing’ Use of The Pond, Its Houston-Area Lobbying Retreat, CEO Says” by Claire Hao (Houston Chronicle) for MSN

Campaign Finance

Nebraska: “Nebraska Governor’s Roundtables with Business Leaders Double as Campaign Fundraisers” by Chris Dunker (Lincoln Journal Star) for Grand Isle Independent

Elections

National: “Democrats Try ‘Trump-Proofing’ Their States Ahead of Election Day” by Reis Thebault (Washington Post) for MSN

Pennsylvania: “Pennsylvania High Court Declines to Decide Mail-In Ballot Issues Before Election” by Associated Press for MSN

Ethics

National: “FBI Probe of Kavanaugh Constrained by Trump White House, Report Finds” by Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) for MSN

Nevada: “Nevada Republican Convicted of Taking Money Meant for Officer Memorial” by María Luisa Paúl (Washington Post) for MSN

North Dakota: “North Dakota’s Likely Next Governor Brushes Off Conflict Concerns, Says His Oil and Gas Ties Would Benefit the State” by Jacob Orledge (North Dakota Monitor) for MSN

Lobbying

California: “As the Legislature Reaches Towards Gender Parity, the Number of Female Lobbyists Is Also Growing” by Brian Joseph for Capitol Weekly

Iowa: “Former Iowa Lt. Gov. Gregg’s New Job Leading Iowa Banking Association Won’t Violate State Lobbying Laws, Officials Say” by Erin Murphy for The Gazette

Federal Judge John A. Mendes of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California has blocked the implementation of Assembly Bill 2839.

The bill targets election misinformation and attempts to regulate a broad spectrum of election-related content which is materially deceptive and uses AI technology.

The court found the law does not use the least restrictive means available for advancing the state’s interest.

Bills regulating the use of AI in election-related communications continue to be a big part of legislative agendas with over half of the states passing or considering AI legislation.

Joe Wasser, Senior Account Manager, would call himself “a salesperson who sells technology”. He joined State and Federal Communications, Inc. in October 2022 after almost 25 years serving public affairs professionals working at Vocus (now Cision).

He has been in technology sales since the mid-1980s, when he began selling hotel management and point-of-sale computer systems to the hospitality industry all over the country.

“I didn’t know the first thing about government relations,” Joe said. But that didn’t stop him from jumping on board with Vocus when it began building its company. Later, Vocus became Cision and eventually sold its PAC business unit in 2021. Joe found himself available and he re-connected with Elizabeth Bartz, President and CEO of State and Federal Communications, Inc.

As our Senior Account Manager, Joe has helped refine our sales process to showcase the expertise of our team, in addition to the value of our lobbying compliance guidebooks.

“Perhaps my expertise is knowing when to include others in the conversation. Many times, if I’m demonstrating our compliance guidebooks to a government relations professional or compliance lawyer, I’ll include Anthony Didion, who handles client relations. On the other hand, if I’m discussing our amazing compliance consulting and support, I’ll ask Amber Fish Linke, our Vice President, or Elizabeth Bartz herself, to lead the conversation.  They have an amazing track record of helping our clients navigate the challenges of lobbying compliance,” Joe explained.

When meeting prospective clients, Joe has an opportunity to show them that there are easier ways to get the information they need. Instead of spending hours searching on Google or clicking through the websites of different states and cities, they have all the information they need right at their fingertips when using our guidebooks.

Joe also refers to himself as a “consultative salesperson”.

“My goal is to help clients and prospective clients resolve challenges related to lobbying, political contributions, or procurement, while acknowledging our solutions may not be the right fit for everyone,” Joe said.

Joe takes great pride in the fact that State and Federal Communications, Inc. is providing time-saving benefits with our products and services – and bringing them to our clients is a primary part of our mission.

Joe emphasized that, “The tools State and Federal Communications provides are designed to alleviate client concerns, specifically around compliance, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their business.”

The State and Federal Communications, Inc. team is full of experts you can trust. Learn more about what we can do for you at https://stateandfed.com/services/.

Elections

Idaho: “Idaho Lawmaker Tells Native American Candidate ‘Go Back Where You Came From’ in Forum” by Associated Press for MSN

National: “Conservative Activists Are Monitoring, and Filming, Voter Registration Sites” by Jack Healy (New York Times) for DNyuz

Ethics

California: “L.A.’s Ex-Deputy Mayor Headed to Prison: ‘Corruption at any level will not be tolerated'” by Brittny Mejia (Los Angeles Times) for MSN

Washington DC: “Informant in Trayon White Case Bribed Another D.C. Official, Records Say” by Meagan Flynn, Jenny Gathright, and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) for MSN

Illinois: “After Storied Time as the ‘Velvet Hammer,’ Michael Madigan to Face a Jury” by Ray Long, Jason Meisner, and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

Montana: “Lawmakers Can Decide If Their Communication with Lobbyists Is Public, Judge Rules” by John Hooks for Montana Public Radio

New York: “Adams Adviser Ingrid Lewis-Martin Was Joined on Trip to Japan by Lobbyist, City Hall Staffer” by Chris Sommerfeldt and Graham Rayman (New York Daily News) for MSN

Procurement

Oklahoma: “State Education Department Seeks Bids for 55,000 Classroom Bibles” by Jennifer Palmer, Paul Monies, and Heather Warlick (Oklahoma Watch) for MSN

State lawmakers will come together for a one-day session on October 9 to vote on a hurricane relief package.

Additional legislation is being drafted to enable the long-term recovery of the region and House Democratic Leader Robert Reives states hurricane relief could lead to introduction of additional legislation.

This does affect lobbying reporting.

A monthly report is due November 14 if expenditures were made on legislators or legislative employees during the reporting period.

Campaign Finance

Minnesota: “The Minnesota DFL’s Massive, Behind-the-Scenes Political Fundraising Network Explained” by Michael Nolan and Peter Callaghan for Minnesota Post

New Mexico: “Jeff Apodaca Campaign Group Collected $143,000” by Colleen Heild (Albuquerque Journal) for Yahoo News

Elections

Colorado: “Former Colorado Official Sentenced to Prison in Election Data Scheme” by Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Trump’s Jan. 6 Role Back in Focus as He Readies New Stolen Election Claims” by Amy Gardner and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

California: “S.F. Mayor, City Attorney Broke Law by Deleting Texts, Task Force Says” by Joe Rivano Barros for Mission Local

Louisiana: “Louisiana Health Officials Fly on Hospital Owner’s Plane to Meet Federal Health Care Regulators” by Julie O’Donoghue (Louisiana Illuminator) for MSN

New York: “Photos Show New York Congressman in Blackface as Michael Jackson” by Nicholas Fandos (New York Times) for DNyuz

Lobbying

Delaware: “Why Delaware Received a Failing Grade for Lobbyist Disclosure Transparency” by Amanda Fries (Delaware News Journal) for MSN

Gov. Newsom signed a bill into law specifically covering the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LAMTA) Board code of conduct and lobbying rules.

Assembly Bill 3123 revises and recasts the agency’s code of conduct by specifying board members and certain designated employees will be subject to all applicable state law and the authority’s administrative code.

This change eliminates specific rules regarding a construction company, engineering firm, vendor, or other various business entities from giving a board member or employee a contribution of over $10 in value.

The revolving door provision for board members and certain designated employees of LAMTA is also reduced from 3 years to 12 months.

The bill become effective January 1, 2025.

National/Federal

They’ve Made Hats for McCain and Trump. And Obama and Harris.

DNyuz – Charles McFarlane (New York Times) | Published: 9/30/2024

For more than three decades, Unionwear has been responsible for the merchandise of major presidential campaigns on both sides of the aisle, including for both the McCain and Obama campaigns in 2008 and for Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, when the former president introduced the original MAGA hat. Unionwear started making political hats during the 1996 Clinton campaign, it was the 2000 Gore campaign that started to put merchandise – and, by extension, where it was made – center stage.

Vance, Walz Square Off in What Could Be Final Meeting of Presidential Campaigns

MSN – Tyler Pager, Michael Scherer, and Cleve Wootson Jr. (Washington Post) | Published: 10/2/2024

Sen. JD Vance and Gov. Tim Walz shook hands twice before the only vice-presidential debate of the cycle, exchanging smiles before repeatedly paying each other respect as they launched sustained and biting attacks on each other’s running mates. In marked contrast to the September presidential debate between Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, who hardly concealed their disgust with each other, the running mates often went out of their way to be gracious, while focusing more on policy differences than personal slights.

Political Bettors Hit the Jackpot as Court Clears Election Markets for Comeback

MSN – Declan Harty (Politico) | Published: 10/2/2024

Political gambling is back on, less than five weeks before Election Day. A federal appeals court cleared the way for financial exchange startup Kalshi to revive the first fully regulated election-betting markets in the U.S. Now, Kalshi will be able once again to offer trading on whether Republicans or Democrats will control Congress next year, and possibly more.

As Rioters Stormed Capitol with Pence Inside, Trump Allegedly Said ‘So What?’

MSN – Spencer Hsu, Josh Dawsey, Tom Jackman, and Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 10/2/2024

A new filing from special counsel Jack Smith offers a searing portrayal of Donald Trump after the 2020 election. It describes in more extensive detail than before how many people – including Vice President Mike Pence, party and state leaders, his own campaign lawyers, and others – told Trump there was no proof the election was stolen, and how Trump nonetheless waged a campaign to overturn the result. The indictment in the case alleges he conspired to overturn the legitimate results of the 2020 election by using knowingly false claims about fraud to obstruct the government’s processes for collecting, counting, and certifying the vote.

As Election Threats Rise, Justice Dept. Says Its Options Are Limited

MSN – David Nakamura and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 10/3/2024

The Justice Department is expanding efforts to address the possibility of intimidation and violence around the November elections by conducting training seminars for local officials, setting up regional and national command posts, and investigating scores of allegations. But it is bringing criminal charges in a small number of cases, and each of those takes a long time to prosecute.

When Nonprofits and Others Pay for House Members’ Global Travel, Families Often Go, Too

MSN – Philip Randazzo, Haiyi Bi, and Akanksha Goyal (Howard Center for Investigative Journalism at the University of Maryland) | Published: 9/26/2024

Over the past decade, members of Congress have traveled the country and the world on official business paid for by private interest groups, accepting nearly $4.3 million for airfare, lodging, meals, and other expenses. Almost one-third of those payments, just over $1.4 million, covered the costs for a lawmaker’s relative to join the trip. Critics maintain the trips – paid for by nearly 200 advocacy organizations, nonprofits, and liberal and conservative think tanks – are no more than “influence-peddling vacations.”

Justice Dept. Charges Three Men in Alleged Iran Hack of Trump Campaign

MSN – Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) | Published: 9/29/2024

The Justice Department charged three men with carrying out Iran’s alleged hack-and-leak attack against Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, describing a far-reaching effort to steal data from current and former government officials and to sow distrust in the presidential election. Attorney General Merrick Garland warned that Iran was just one of several foreign countries trying to wreak havoc in a presidential election year. He also called out Russia and China for repeatedly trying to interfere with U.S. politics and elections through hacking, disinformation, and surreptitious influence campaigns.

Russia-Paid Influencers, Trolls Step Up Efforts to Influence U.S. Election

MSN – Joseph Menn (Washington Post) | Published: 10/1/2024

Russia’s attempts to influence the 2024 election in favor of Donald Trump are accelerating, federal officials and researchers say, adding to a sea of misinformation about immigration and Vice President Kamala Harris, despite U.S. efforts to blunt the onslaught with indictments, seizures, and public warnings. Clint Watts, who heads Microsoft’s efforts against government disinformation, said Russian trolls have moved to new websites to host bogus news stories, and such influence efforts might work better now than before, simply because the presidential contest is heating up.

Trump Allies Bombard the Courts, Setting Stage for Post-Election Fight

Seattle Times – Nick Corasaniti, Danny Hakim, and Alexandra Berzon (New York Times) | Published: 9/29/2024

Republicans have unleashed a flurry of lawsuits challenging voting rules and practices ahead of the November elections, setting the stage for what could be a far larger and more contentious legal battle over the White House after Election Day. The onslaught of litigation includes nearly 90 lawsuits filed across the country by GOP groups this year. Voting rights experts say the legal campaign appears to be an effort to prepare to contest the results of the presidential election after Election Day should Donald Trump lose and refuse to accept his defeat.

Voting Technology Firm, Conservative Outlet Reach Settlement in 2020 Election Defamation Case

Yahoo News – Randall Chase (Associated Press) | Published: 9/26/2024

A settlement was reached in a defamation lawsuit brought by electronic voting machine manufacturer Smartmatic against conservative news outlet Newsmax for airing accusations about vote manipulation in the 2020 election made by allies of Donald Trump. Smartmatic claimed Newsmax program hosts and guests made false and defamatory statements implying Smartmatic participated in rigging the results and its software was used to switch votes.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Number of Arizona Voters Missing Citizenship Proof Doubles

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 9/30/2024

A failure to document the citizenship status of Arizona voters is now estimated to affect as many as 218,000 people, more than double what state election officials initially said after discovering the mistake in September. State election officials have previously said the number of affected voters could change as they investigate the scope of the 20-year-old problem, which began as part of an effort to implement a Republican-led state law intended to prevent rare instances of voting by noncitizens.

California – New Law Closes Campaign Finance Loophole Exploited by Convicted Ex-Anaheim Mayor

Los Angeles Times – Gabriel San Román | Published: 10/1/2024

California politicians convicted of a crime will no longer be able to use campaign funds to cover legal expenses. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2803 into law, which closes a campaign finance loophole that former Anaheim Mayor Harry Sidhu used last year to pay his criminal defense attorney amid an FBI corruption probe. Sidhu eventually pleaded guilty to four felonies, including charges connected to the attempted sale of Angel Stadium.

California – Judge Blocks California Deepfakes Law That Sparked Musk-Newsom Row

MSN – Tyler Katzenberger (Politico) | Published: 10/2/2024

A federal judge blocked a California law restricting the use of digitally altered political “deepfakes” just two weeks after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law. Chris Kohls, known as “Mr Reagan” on X, sued to prevent the state from enforcing the law after posting an Artificial Intelligence generated video of a Kamala Harris campaign ad on the social media site. He claimed the video was protected by the First Amendment because it was a parody.

California – Irvine Officials Backtrack Approving New Lobbying Rules

Voice of OC – Angela Hicks | Published: 9/30/2024

The Irvine City Council is making more changes to their lobbying rules after resident concerns about unintended consequences on union members and a possible lawsuit. The council originally approved updates to the city’s lobbying ordinance on September 10. The changes would require more people to register as lobbyists more often and publicly disclose their activities to the city, but a second vote was required to officially adopt the changes. The second vote was scheduled for September 24, but the council was met with concerned public speakers and a letter from a law firm alleging Brown Act violations and threatening to sue.

District of Columbia – Rudy Giuliani Disbarred in D.C. for His Role in 2020 Election Subversion

MSN – Keith Alexander (Washington Post) | Published: 9/26/2024

The District of Columbia Court of Appeals revoked Rudy Giuliani’s ability to practice law in the city after an attorney discipline board found the former personal attorney for Donald Trump violated the terms of his license while challenging the results of the 2020 presidential election. The city’s law licensing oversight committee had scrutinized Giuliani’s conduct, focusing on claims he made about the election in a lawsuit filed in Pennsylvania that the committee called “utterly false” and “recklessly so.”

District of Columbia – Nonprofit in Trayon White Bribery Case Got Millions in D.C. Contracts

MSN – Paul Schwartzman, Meagan Flynn, Spencer Hsu, Jenny Gathright, and Katie Shepherd (Washington Post) | Published: 10/2/2024

The FBI informant who allegedly bribed District of Columbia Councilperson Trayon White Sr. operated a nonprofit that was awarded millions in city contracts even after it committed an error serious enough that officials nearly barred it from government work. The nonprofit, Life Deeds, is at the center of the federal investigation into White, who prosecutors allege took $35,000 this summer in exchange for his promise to pressure city officials into awarding the contractor additional work.

Florida – Ex-Congressional Candidate Charged with Threatening ‘Hit Squad’ Against Opponent

MSN – Jiselle Lee (Washington Post) | Published: 10/1/2024

A former congressional candidate in Florida was charged after allegedly threatening to send “the Russian mafia” after his opponent. William Braddock III was charged in federal court with threatening now-U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna. In a June 2021 phone call, Braddock told an acquaintance of Luna’s, Erin Olszewski, that if he were not ahead in a soon-to-be-released poll, he would have to “sacrifice” his opponent, according to the charging documents.

Florida – Staff Donations Draw Fire in Tampa’s Prosecutor Race. But It’s Legal – and Customary.

MSN – Dan Sullivan (Tampa Bay Times) | Published: 10/3/2024

A top assistant for Hillsborough State Attorney Suzy Lopez sent a text last year to several senior prosecutors asking them to donate to their boss’s election campaign. While noting the contribution did not need to be the $1,000 maximum, she advised them to “make the donation sooner rather than later.” Employee donations to a supervisor’s campaign are not illegal and they occur in many campaigns. While they are legal and common, they still raise ethical qualms, said Darryl Paulson, a professor emeritus of government at the University of South Florida.

Florida – Former State Senator Artiles Found Guilty of Campaign Finance and Registration Violations

Yahoo News – Charles Rabin (Miami Herald) | Published: 9/30/2024

A jury convicted former state Sen. Frank Artiles of three of four charges in a scheme to help Republicans capture a Florida Senate seat in 2020. Artiles was accused of offering $50,000 to Alex Rodriguez, a so-called ghost candidate, to run for the seat in 2020 and cause the Democratic incumbent to lose by siphoning votes in the close race. Alex Rodriguez received more than 6,000 votes. The incumbent, Democrat Jose Javier Rodriguez, lost by 32 votes in a recount.

Georgia – Democrats Take Legal Action Against Georgia Election Board

MSN – Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 9/25/2024

Democrats asked a court to force Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp to take up their ethics complaints accusing three members of the State Election Board of holding an illegal meeting and overstepping their legal authority by passing rules that critics say will sow chaos and uncertainty in the presidential race. The petition says Kemp is required to hold hearings on the matters and to remove the board members if he finds they violated state law.

Illinois – With Jury Deadlock Ending La Schiazza Trial, Prosecutors in Looming Madigan Case Face Clear Challenge

MSN – Jason Meisner and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 9/20/2024

Former Portage, Indiana, Mayor James Snyder’s fight to overturn his own bribery case ended with a U.S. Supreme Court decision that raised the bar for prosecutors in a number of Illinois public corruption cases. Now, all eyes turn to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s trial on racketeering charges, which could pose similar problems for prosecutors, particularly on several counts where they now must prove there was an agreement with Madigan ahead of time to exchange something of value for an official act.

Louisiana – Randy Farrell Indicted on Federal Charges That Directly Implicate Mayor Cantrell in a Criminal Conspiracy

WWL – David Hammer | Published: 9/30/2024

Businessperson Randy Farrell is accused of bribing a New Orleans public official, believed to be Mayor LaToya Cantrell, in exchange for a city employee being fired after that employee uncovered an alleged kickback scheme through the Department of Safety and Permits. The indictment alleges Farrell bought Cantrell tickets to the NFC Championship game in 2019, lunch at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, and a new iPhone, gifts that totaled more than $9,200. Prosecutors say the mayor had a city official fired who had been investigating Farrell for alleged wrongdoing.

Massachusetts – ‘Hamilton’ Tickets Donated to Boston Public School Students Went to Admins’ Sons

MLive – Will Katcher | Published: 10/1/2024

A pair of Boston Public School administrators took their sons to the hit musical “Hamilton” using tickets donated for students to attend the show. Natasha Halfkenny, the former principal of the Tobin School, and the school’s assistant principal, Coreen Miranda, each paid a $4,000 civil penalty for violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law.

Massachusetts – Massachusetts Deputy Sheriff Fired, Fined After Auctioning Home to His Wife Who Sold It for $300K-Plus

MSN – Rick Sobey (Boston Herald) | Published: 9/27/2024

A fired deputy sheriff paid $65,000 for an ethics violation after the state found out he auctioned a seized home to his wife, which she later renovated with his help and sold at a massive profit. Ex-Bristol County Deputy Sheriff Floyd Teague paid a $40,000 civil penalty and $25,000 in economic advantage damages for violating the conflict-of-interest law, according to the Massachusetts State Ethics Commission.

Massachusetts – Boston Mayor Wu Fundraiser Invite ‘Mistake’ Raises Campaign Finance Law Violation Questions

MSN – Gayla Cawley (Boston Herald) | Published: 10/2/2024

An invitation to a fundraiser for Boston Mayor Michelle Wu listed a public employee as a member of the host committee, an apparent violation of state law, but Wu’s campaign said it did nothing wrong and the name was listed mistakenly. A similar mistake prompted former Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker to cancel and later reschedule a 2021 fundraiser.

Michigan – Michigan Bill Aims to Crack Down on Dark Money

The Center Square – Thérèse Boudreaux | Published: 9/26/2024

The Michigan House passed legislation that would make campaign finance violations easier to address as they happen, part of a larger package of bills to improve accountability and transparency in state government. House Bill 5583 would amend the Campaign Finance Act to allow the secretary of state to seek immediate court injunctions against campaign finance violations, rather than go through the current months-long court process.

New Hampshire – New Hampshire Will Start the New Year with a New Ethics Law. Here’s What’s Inside.

New Hampshire Bulletin – Ethan DeWitt | Published: 9/30/2024

House Bill 1388 in New Hampshire will require lawmakers to abstain from participating in votes and discussions on bills that might affect them or members of their household financially. The law will take effect January 1, just before a newly elected Legislature is sworn in. It also stops a lawmaker from voting on bills if they or a household member works for an organization that lobbies for those bills.

New York – Mayor Adams Could Owe Millions in Taxpayer-Funded Campaign Cash – or Get Millions More

Gothamist – Brigid Bergin | Published: 10/1/2024

Candidates on New York City seeking taxpayer-funded matching dollars for their 2025 campaigns must submit fundraising statements to the Campaign Finance Board by October 11. The board will decide who gets the first round of public matching funds in December. If Mayor Eric Adams qualifies, his campaign could collect almost $4 million in taxpayer dollars. An indictment charges Adams with accepting illegal campaign contributions in exchange for gifts and official government acts. The charges he faces come with a maximum sentence of 45 years in prison. Separately, they could deliver seismic blows to his 2025 campaign.

New York – Treasurer for Brooklyn Boro Prez Candidate Anthony Jones Charged in Straw Donor Scheme

MSN – John Annese (New York Daily News) | Published: 10/2/2024

Erlene King, the treasurer for unsuccessful Brooklyn borough president candidate Anthony Jones, faces federal charges for a failed straw donor scheme to trick the city Campaign Finance Board out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. King is accused of trying to take advantage of the city’s Matching campaign funds programs by submitting to Jones’ campaign $25,000 in straw donations, along with five corresponding “fictitious records,” in the hopes of getting $400,000 in matching funds. The Campaign Finance Board noticed something fishy and denied the matching funds.

New York – Top Aide to Eric Adams Forced Out Amid Sprawling Corruption Probes

MSN – Sally Goldenberg, Joe Anuta, and Jeff Coltin (Politico) | Published: 9/30/2024

Timothy Pearson, one of New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ most trusted aides, resigned as senior advisor for public safety after federal agents seized his cell phone in a mushrooming investigation into the mayor’s inner circle. It has been reported that Pearson pushed the fire department to sign a contract with a technology company, Remark Holdings, while he had a close personal relationship with a consultant for the firm.

North Carolina – Helene Sets Off a Scramble to Keep Voting on Track in North Carolina

MSN – Amy Gardner and Colby Itkowitz (Washington Post) | Published: 10/1/2024

Hurricane Helene’s destructive path across western North Carolina threatens to upend the fall election in the key battleground, with halted mail service disrupting absentee voting, thousands of voters cut off from polling locations, and election administrators scrambling to adjust. Even as emergency response teams continued their search for survivors of the storm and airlifted food and water into remote communities, state and local election teams began the difficult task of assessing damage to election infrastructure.

North Carolina – She’s Running with All She’s Got for a Seat She Can’t Win. That’s the Point.

MSN – Colby Itkowitz (Washington Post) | Published: 9/30/2024

Wherever she appears in her campaign for a North Carolina Senate seat, Kate Barr’s opening line is always the same: “Hi. I’m Kate Barr. And I’m your losing candidate for state Senate District 37.” Barr is trying to make a serious point about the state of American politics. In many state legislative and congressional districts across the country, aggressive gerrymandering has helped erase competitive elections, effectively guaranteeing the result and leaving voters without a real choice.

Ohio – ‘That’s Highly Illegal’: Complaints Allege Inmates Did Work for Portage Sheriff’s Campaign

MSN – Diane Smith (Ravenna Record-Courier) | Published: 9/25/2024

Two people, including a former inmate in the Portage County Jail, filed complaints alleging inmates performed work for Sheriff Bruce Zuchowski’s re-election campaign. Zuchowski has gained national attention for Facebook post that critics say amounted to voter intimidation. Zuchowski is running for a second term against Democratic challenger Jon Barber in the November 5 election.

Ohio – Ohio Supreme Court Justice Says Democrats Want Redistricting Reform Because They ‘Can’t Win’

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 9/27/2024

A Republican Ohio Supreme Court justice running for his first full term said he views a proposed constitutional amendment as Democrats’ play to change the rules because they cannot win under the current system. Justice Joe Deters, who was appointed to the court by Gov. Mike DeWine, compared the redistricting reform effort in Ohio to other concepts occasionally floated by Democrats like adding new justices to the U.S. Supreme Court or letting the popular vote decide presidential elections.

Ohio – FirstEnergy Didn’t Charge Customers to Fund Bribery Scheme, State Audit Finds

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 10/1/2024

Of the $75 million FirstEnergy paid in lobbying costs and self-professed bribes to get a bailout, only $4.9 million came from its three utility companies in Northeast Ohio, according to a state audit. Of that sum, less than $15,000 was charged to ratepayers. All the money paid for an aggressive, sprawling lobbying strategy to pass House Bill 6 in 2019, legislation that provided nuclear plants owned by the company at the time a $1.3 billion, ratepayer-funded bailout.

Oregon – City Won’t Match Contributions Between Portland City Council Candidates for Now

MSN – Jamie Goldberg (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 10/1/2024

The city of Portland paused matching the campaign donations made between candidates and their family members following reports that a number of city council hopefuls were trading contributions as they sought to hit the threshold for the public matching funds. The primary benefit of those donations was to help each other qualify for public funding, which kicks in for city council candidates who receive at least 250 contributions from Portland residents and mayoral candidates who receive 750.

Oregon – Portland Auditor to Reconsider Whether Mayoral Candidate Rene Gonzalez’s Wikipedia Edits Broke Campaign Finance Rules

MSN – Jamie Goldberg (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 10/2/2024

The Portland auditor’s office plans to take another look at whether city Commissioner Rene Gonzalez, who is running for mayor, broke campaign finance rules when he used public funds to spruce up his Wikipedia page. Chief Deputy Auditor Reed Brodersen said the office has received new information that prompted it to reconsider the matter.

Texas – In an Unusual Hearing, Ethics Commission Advances Complaints Against Greco and Watson to Next Phase

Austin Monitor – Amy Smith | Published: 9/26/2024

Ethics complaints against mayoral candidate Doug Greco and incumbent Austin Mayor Kirk Watson will move to a final hearing, but an anticipated court ruling could circumvent the proceedings. The Ethics Review Commission determined there was reason to believe Greco and Watson violated the city’s campaign finance ordinance by exceeding the $46,000 contribution threshold from donors who live outside Austin city limits. Greco has a lawsuit pending in federal court claiming the city’s limitations on contributions violate donors’ constitutional rights.

Texas – A Pair of Billionaire Preachers Built the Most Powerful Political Machine in Texas. That’s Just the Start.

MSN – Ava Kofman (ProPublica) | Published: 10/2/2024

Over the past decade, Tim Dunn and Farris Wilks, billionaires who made their fortunes in the oil industry, have built the most powerful political machine in Texas – a network of think tanks, media organizations, PACs, and nonprofits that work in lock step to purge the state Legislature of moderate Republicans. Like the Koch brothers, the Mercer family, and other conservative billionaires, Dunn and Wilks want to slash regulations and taxes. Their endgame, however, is more radical: not just to limit the government but also to steer it toward Christian rule.

Utah – Cox Campaign Accepted $10K from Foreign Subsidiary as Appointee Reviewed Controversial Lithium Project

MSN – Emily Anderson Stern and Anastasia Hufham (Salt Lake Tribune) | Published: 9/27/2024

During a three-month period when the governor-appointed state engineer was reviewing a controversial lithium extraction application from an Australian company, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox’s reelection campaign accepted a $10,000 donation from the company’s U.S. subsidiary. The donation comes amid a push from state lawmakers to bar foreign entities from giving to voter-led initiatives as it seeks to enshrine control over the future of such ballot questions in the state constitution.

Campaign Finance

California: “New Law Closes Campaign Finance Loophole Exploited by Convicted Ex-Anaheim Mayor” by Gabriel San Román for Los Angeles Times

New York: “Treasurer for Brooklyn Boro Prez Candidate Anthony Jones Charged in Straw Donor Scheme” by John Annese (New York Daily News) for MSN

Oregon: “City Won’t Match Contributions Between Portland City Council Candidates for Now” by Jamie Goldberg (Portland Oregonian) for MSN

Elections

Florida: “Ex-Congressional Candidate Charged with Threatening ‘Hit Squad’ Against Opponent” by Jiselle Lee (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “As Rioters Stormed Capitol with Pence Inside, Trump Allegedly Said ‘So What?'” by Spencer Hsu, Josh Dawsey, Tom Jackman, and Amy Gardner (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Political Bettors Hit the Jackpot as Court Clears Election Markets for Comeback” by Declan Harty (Politico) for MSN

North Carolina: “Helene Sets Off a Scramble to Keep Voting on Track in North Carolina” by Amy Gardner and Colby Itkowitz (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

Washington DC: “Nonprofit in Trayon White Bribery Case Got Millions in D.C. Contracts” by Paul Schwartzman, Meagan Flynn, Spencer Hsu, Jenny Gathright, and Katie Shepherd (Washington Post) for MSN

Texas: “A Pair of Billionaire Preachers Built the Most Powerful Political Machine in Texas. That’s Just the Start.” by Ava Kofman (ProPublica) for MSN

In the midst of a turbulent political landscape, every four years we are reminded the choice we make at the ballot box shapes our country’s course for the next generation. This November’s presidential election is no exception — the stakes are higher than ever before.

We have serious issues, and we need serious people heading all levels of our governments (Yes, The American President from 1995 is one of my favorite movies). We need to talk about climate change, healthcare, economic inequality, housing, reproductive rights, and immigration. These are not issues we can keep pushing off to another year or another decade.

Do not even get me started on the U.S. Supreme Court and the long-term influence it has on all of us. Take a look at the Justices. They are not spring chickens. And let us get some ethnic reform for them.

Unlike any midterm election, this one carries a weight affecting us globally due to our position in world politics. This election will impact different demographics — young voters, marginalized communities, and different economic classes. It is not just for us. Remember everyone in your circle. For me, it definitely includes my daughter, son-in-law, two grandsons, and three nephews. They will never hear me say I did not think it was important to vote or get involved.

This November, the choice is clear: vote not just for yourself but for the future of your community, your country, and your planet. Every vote is a thread in the fabric of democracy, and in this election, more than ever, that fabric needs your voice.

 

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz   
@elizabethbartz

Campaign Finance

Florida: “Former State Senator Artiles Found Guilty of Campaign Finance and Registration Violations” by Charles Rabin (Miami Herald) for Yahoo News

Elections

National: “Russia-Paid Influencers, Trolls Step Up Efforts to Influence U.S. Election” by Joseph Menn (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “They’ve Made Hats for McCain and Trump. And Obama and Harris.” by Charles McFarlane (New York Times) for DNyuz

National: “Vance, Walz Square Off in What Could Be Final Meeting of Presidential Campaigns” by Tyler Pager, Michael Scherer, and Cleve Wootson Jr. (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

Louisiana: “Randy Farrell Indicted on Federal Charges That Directly Implicate Mayor Cantrell in a Criminal Conspiracy” by David Hammer for WWL

Massachusetts: “‘Hamilton’ Tickets Donated to Boston Public School Students Went to Admins’ Sons” by Will Katcher for MLive

New Hampshire: “New Hampshire Will Start the New Year with a New Ethics Law. Here’s What’s Inside.” by Ethan DeWitt for New Hampshire Bulletin

Lobbying

Ohio: “FirstEnergy Didn’t Charge Customers to Fund Bribery Scheme, State Audit Finds” by Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Campaign Finance

Michigan: “Michigan Bill Aims to Crack Down on Dark Money” by Thérèse Boudreaux for The Center Square

New York: “Eric Adams Allegedly Abused the City’s Matching Funds Program. A City Council Member Wants Him to Stop Having Access to It” by Sahalie Donaldson for City & State New York

Elections

National: “Justice Dept. Charges Three Men in Alleged Iran Hack of Trump Campaign” by Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Trump Allies Bombard the Courts, Setting Stage for Post-Election Fight” by Nick Corasaniti, Danny Hakim, and Alexandra Berzon (New York Times) for Seattle Times

Ohio: “‘That’s Highly Illegal’: Complaints Allege Inmates Did Work for Portage Sheriff’s Campaign” by Diane Smith (Ravenna Record-Courier) for MSN

Ethics

Massachusetts: “Massachusetts Deputy Sheriff Fired, Fined After Auctioning Home to His Wife Who Sold It for $300K-Plus” by Rick Sobey (Boston Herald) for MSN

Lobbying

California: “Irvine Officials Backtrack Approving New Lobbying Rules” by Angela Hicks for Voice of OC

Redistricting

North Carolina: “She’s Running with All She’s Got for a Seat She Can’t Win. That’s the Point.” by Colby Itkowitz (Washington Post) for MSN