April 13, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Lobbying Nevada: “Bill to Toughen Nevada Campaign Finance Rules Clears Senate” by Sandra Chereb for Las Vegas Review-Journal New York: “Avella Proposes Lobbying Ban for Political Consultants” by Josefa Velasquez for Capital New York Campaign Finance “In Accepting Bitcoin, Rand […]

April 10, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

North Dakota Democrats File FEC Complaint Over Foreign Contributions

Grand Fork Democrats in District 43 have filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) against state Republican officials and a political action committee (PAC) for receiving foreign campaign contributions. Gov. Jack Dalrymple, state Sen. Lonnie Laffen, and the […]

April 10, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – April 10, 2015

National: This Conservative Group is Tired of Being Accused of Climate Denial – and Is Fighting Back Washington Post – Tom Hamburger, Joby Warrick, and Chris Mooney | Published: 4/5/2015 The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), the conservative partnership of state […]

National:

This Conservative Group is Tired of Being Accused of Climate Denial – and Is Fighting Back
Washington Post – Tom Hamburger, Joby Warrick, and Chris Mooney | Published: 4/5/2015

The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), the conservative partnership of state lawmakers and corporations, is threatening defamation lawsuits against activists who say or suggest the group denies global warming. ALEC recently sent letters to Common Cause and the League of Conservation Voters, asking them to “cease making false statements” and “remove all false or misleading material.” Both organizations have said ALEC, through the policies it lobbies for in states, denies the scientific consensus that humans are significantly changing the climate. They said they would not follow ALEC’s demands. ALEC, among other policies, encourages states to fight regulations and laws meant to combat climate change, like the Environmental Protection Agency’s carbon rules for power.

Federal:

Comcast Recruits Its Beneficiaries to Lobby for Time Warner Deal
New York Times – Eric Lipton | Published: 4/5/2015

Comcast, the media conglomerate long known for its aggressive lobbying operation, has enlisted a vast network of allies to press federal regulators to approve its proposed $45 billion takeover of Time Warner Cable. Letters to Congress supporting the transaction and praising Comcast have come from the Houston Area Urban League and the Dan Marino Foundation in Florida, among others. The argument for the merger has been reinforced by academic papers from groups like the International Center for Law and Economics. More endorsements have come in from elected officials like Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant. But there is a common element to dozens of these appeals: the senders received money from Comcast in recent years, either as a charitable donation, corporate support, or a political contribution.

K St. Firms on Edge about Hacking Threat
The Hill – Elise Viebeck | Published: 4/8/2015

Fearing a data breach, public policy shops on K Street are scrambling to lock down their networks against intrusions by hackers, cyber criminals, and foreign governments. Some firms have begun to encrypt their emails and undergo annual security audits in hopes of avoiding an attack that could tarnish their reputations and send clients fleeing to competitors. The pursuit of better data security is intensifying at a time when Chinese and Russian hackers are targeting Washington with increasingly sophisticated online attacks. Law, lobby, and consulting firms are often privy to sensitive information from their corporate clients, making them appealing targets. But while some firms are focused on strengthening their cyber defenses, experts say progress across the industry is uneven.

Menendez Indictment Marks First Big Corruption Case Involving a Super PAC
Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 4/2/2015

The case against U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez is the first time that super PAC donations have figured prominently as evidence of a political corruption scheme, renewing questions about how independently such groups operate. The indictment. The indictment against Menendez and Dr. Salomon Melgen hinges in part on $600,000 that Melgen gave to the Senate Majority PAC, a Democratic super PAC, earmarked to support Menendez’s 2012 re-election bid. The Justice Department argues the donations were among the things of value Melgen offered Menendez so the senator would use his position to help Melgen’s businesses. The case illustrates how super PACs, which can accept unlimited contributions and are supposed to be walled-off from the candidates they support, are viewed by donors as vehicles to ingratiate themselves with politicians.

Network of ‘Super PACs’ Says That It Has Raised $31 Million for Ted Cruz Bid
New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 4/8/2015

A set of newly formed super PACs backing U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz for president expects to collect more than $31 million in contributions in one week. Although super-PACs have radically changed the pace at which committees backing presidential candidates can raise money, the Cruz haul is remarkable. There are no known cases in which an operation backing a White House hopeful has collected this much money in such a short period of time.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – California Lawmakers’ Campaign Debt Piled High in 2014
Sacramento Bee – Jim Miller | Published: 4/7/2015

Many California lawmakers and unsuccessful candidates continue to live with reminders of costly campaigns. Lawmakers reported about $3.7 million in unpaid bills and personal loans from last November’s elections. Debt retirement fundraisers around the Capitol have been common in recent weeks. Yet such fundraising has long troubled campaign finance watchers. “When you’re raising the money for yourself, it’s going into your own pocket – you’re more grateful to the donor,” said Robert Stern, the former top attorney at the Fair Political Practices Commission who helped write the Political Reform Act.

Florida – When Leaders Became Lobbyists
InsuranceNewsNet.org – Jason Garcia | Published: 4/5/2015

Since 2006, more than two dozen former lawmakers in Florida have made the jump to lobbying, about one of every eight who have left the Legislature over the last five election cycles. The list includes two former House Speakers (Dean Cannon and Larry Cretul) and two former Senate presidents (Mike Haridopolos and Ken Pruitt). In some respects, the transition into lobbying is a logical extension of the skills that legislators need to advance into leadership positions in the first place. Once in a top spot, legislative leaders must be able to understand and work on a broad range of public policy issues and cultivate, maintain, and balance relationships with all manner of businesses and advocacy groups.

Illinois – Chicago Waiting to See if Runoff Truly Has Humbled Rahm Emanuel
New York Times – Monica Davey | Published: 4/8/2015

Mayor Rahm Emanuel defeated challenger Jesus Garcia on April 7, capturing a second term in Chicago’s first-ever runoff election. Yet the fallout for Emanuel from the past six weeks, a period of frenetic campaigning and humbling public self-examination, will be lasting. A tangible bloc of dissent has loudly made its case in a city where Emanuel and the mayors before him had often governed with little effective opposition and most council members in lock step. Even given a decisive margin of victory, the episode has raised a sense of vulnerability around Emmanuel’s political career, and an expectation from some here that his second term in City Hall may look different, in style and perhaps substance, from the first.

Missouri – Missouri House Passes Lobbyist Gift Cap, Cooling Off Period
Kansas City Star – Jason Hancock | Published: 4/2/2015

The Missouri House passed legislation that would cap lobbyist gifts at $25 and ban lawmakers from becoming lobbyists for at least one year after leaving office. Those two provisions differ from the version passed by the state Senate earlier this year, meaning differences have to be worked out before it could be sent to the governor. Missouri is currently the only state with the no caps on lobbyist gifts, no limits on campaign contributions, and no “cooling-off” period for lawmakers.

Missouri – Suicides by Missouri Politicians Raise Questions about State Ethics
KSMU – Frank Morris | Published: 4/9/2015

In February, state Auditor Tom Schweich, a leading candidate for the Republican Party’s nomination for governor, shot himself. Then in March, his press secretary, Spence Jackson, took his own life. The tragedies have sparked fresh scrutiny of Missouri’s increasingly bruising political system. Friends said Schweich was distraught over a coordinated assault from Republicans colleagues backing his chief primary opponent. With voting still more than a year away, they had already launched an attack ad, in the style of the Netflix series House of Cards. Former U.S. Sen. Jack Danforth said Missouri politics has devolved into an arena where ruthless operatives, financed by a wealthy few, battle for power.

New Jersey – Indictments May Be Near in George Washington Bridge Scandal
New York Times – Kate Zernike | Published: 4/8/2015

The New York Times reported that indictments may be coming soon in the investigation into improper lane closures at the George Washington Bridge that has also led to questions about conflicts-of-interest possibly involving Gov. Chris Christie and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The probe was launched a few months after three lanes were closed to the bridge in 2013, causing gridlock in Fort Lee. Emails revealed the lanes were shut down on the orders of a Christie aide. Some believe the lane closures were retribution for the failure of Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich to endorse Christie’s bid for re-election. The Times reported federal prosecutors may bring indictments under a statute that makes it a crime to use the bridge for something other than it intended purpose.

New York – Cuomo Expands Lobbying Oversight to Localities
Capital New York – Jimmy Vielkind | Published: 4/3/2015

The new ethics laws approved in New York as part of the budget deal greatly expand state oversight of municipal lobbying. New York’s lobbying law requires anyone who spends more than $5,000 in an attempt to influence any local law or ordinance, or any pending procurement action, to register its activities with the Joint Commission on Public Ethics. The law had applied to government entities with more than 50,000 people; that threshold was decreased to 5,000 people and was expanded to include school districts of any size. Experts said the onus of disclosure is on the person or company doing the lobbying.

Utah – Tribe’s Infighting Offers Glimpse into Redskins Foundation’s Tactics
Washington Post – John Woodrow Cox | Published: 4/2/2015

A Utah tribal leader was ousted from office for accepting gifts from the Washington Redskins, which council members say wrongly linked their tribe to the National Football League team’s divisive name. Members of the council of the Paiute Indian Tribe said they voted unanimously to remove Chairperson Gari Lafferty, who was accused of misconduct and ethical violations for taking an autographed football and a trip to Washington to attend a game last year. Lafferty said the tribe does not have an official position on the name, but she does not have a personal problem with it. She said the allegations are more related to her leadership style.

Virginia – Norment Won’t Discuss Lobbyist Relationship
The Daily Press – Travis Fain | Published: 4/6/2015

Virginia Senate Majority Leader Tommy Norment acknowledged seeing a lobbyist “personally” in a response to a state bar complaint lodged against him. A pair of Senate Republicans said they have no reason to believe Norment pushed legislation one way or another based on a relationship with a lobbyist. Nothing in Senate rules forbids a physical relationship with a lobbyist; neither do state ethics rules. Adultery, though, is a misdemeanor under Virginia law. During his career, Sen. John Watkins said he has heard of “maybe a dozen” relationships between legislators and lobbyists, staffers, or state agency officials. “From time to time, yeah, it happens – we’re all human beings,” said Watkins.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

April 9, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday News Roundup

Lobbying “K St. Firms on Edge about Hacking Threat” by Elise Viebeck for The Hill “Lobbyist Spending Is Concentrated at the Top” by Ian Lind for Honolulu Civil Beat “CSKT Accused of Unethical Lobbying” by Tristan Scott for Flathead Beacon […]

April 8, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday Government Relations News

Lobbying “Comcast Recruits Its Beneficiaries to Lobby for Time Warner Deal” by Eric Lipton for New York Times Florida: “Senate Push to Expand Lobbyist Registration to Special Districts like Broward Health” by Dan Christensen for FloridaBulldog.org Florida: “Citizen Lobbyists Endure […]

April 7, 2015 • Written by Allyson Smith

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Last-minute lobbying threatens $200B Medicare package” by Sarah Ferris in The Hill. Illinois: “Chicago Elections Chief Got Lobbying Contracts from Rahm Emanuel’s Administration” by Matthew Cunningham-Cook and David Sirota in International Business Times. Campaign Finance “Gary Hart: Billion-dollar Clinton […]

April 6, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Lobbying “Trucking and Rail Industries Turn State Troopers into Unwitting Lobbyists” by Eric Lipton for New York Times Florida: “In Sunshine State, Big Energy Blocks Solar Power” by Eric Barton for Florida Center for Investigative Reporting Missouri: “Missouri House Passes […]

April 3, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – April 3, 2015

National: The Political Kingmaker Nobody Knows Center for Public Integrity – Ben Wieder | Published: 3/26/2015 Manoj Bhargava and several of his Michigan-based companies have given at least $5.3 million to candidates for state office and political groups around the country […]

National:

The Political Kingmaker Nobody Knows
Center for Public Integrity – Ben Wieder | Published: 3/26/2015

Manoj Bhargava and several of his Michigan-based companies have given at least $5.3 million to candidates for state office and political groups around the country since 2009. But Bhargava remains a mystery man, even to many of the people who are benefiting from his largesse. Such donors are typically well known and aggressively courted by politicians who need their favor and funding to pay for campaigns. Yet Bhargava avoids the spotlight, both in politics and life, and he has gone to great lengths to obscure his political activity, even as his signature product – 5-hour Energy – draws more scrutiny from some of the same politicians he is supporting.

Federal:

Rapper-Backed Group Illustrates Blind Spot in Political Transparency
Center for Public Integrity – Michael Beckel | Published: 3/31/2015

Super PACs are supposed to be transparent political committees, publicly disclosing who funds them. But limited liability companies (LLCs) can serve as vehicles for large donors to contribute to the groups, many of which are aligned with specific political candidates, while hiding their identities from voters. Some states, such as Delaware and Wyoming, do not require LLCs to identify the living, breathing people who own or control them. Instead, they need to provide only the name of a “registered agent,” which is often a company that exists only to serve as the registered agents for LLCs. New rules for LLCs have not been discussed at the FEC.

Sen. Robert Menendez Indicted
Washington Post – Paul Kane and Carol Leonnig | Published: 4/1/2015

U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) was indicted on corruption charges, accused of using his office to improperly benefit a Florida ophthalmologist and political donor. Menendez faces 14 counts, including bribery and conspiracy, over his ties to Dr. Salomon Melgen, who was also was charged in the case. The senator has acknowledged taking actions that could benefit Melgen, among them contacting U.S. health agencies to ask about billing practices and policies. He has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and suggested any gifts he received from Melgen were part of a close friendship. Melgen came under renewed scrutiny when government data last year showed he had received more in Medicare reimbursements in 2012 than any other doctor in the country.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arkansas – Senators Approve Improper-Gifts Bill
Arkansas Online – Michael Wickline ands Spencer Williams | Published: 4/2/2015

State officials who accept improper gifts from lobbyists would be able to avoid sanctions if they returned the gifts within 30 days, under legislation approved by the Arkansas Senate. If the prohibited gift were not returnable, the state official could pay the donor “consideration that is equal to or greater than the value of the gift” within those 30 days without penalty. Senate Bill 967 also would limit who can dine when an event is held for a legislative committee. Under the bill, lawmakers who do not serve on that committee would be prohibited from accepting free food and drinks. Senate Bill 967 amends state ethics laws and Amendment 94 to the Arkansas Constitution and requires a two-thirds vote for approval in both chambers.

Indiana – Indiana Law Draws Republican White House Hopefuls into the Culture Wars
Washington Post – Philip Rucker and Robert Costa | Published: 3/31/2015

Most top Republican presidential hopefuls have moved in lock step to support Indiana Gov. Mike Pence and the state’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which has prompted protests and national calls for boycotts by major corporations. The agreement among the likely GOP candidates illustrates the enduring power of social conservatives in early-voting states such as Iowa and South Carolina, which will help determine who emerges as the party’s nominee next year. But the position puts the field out of step with a growing national consensus on gay rights, handing Democrats a way to portray Republicans as intolerant and insensitive. Some Republicans also fear Indiana is only the first in a series of brush fires that could engulf the party as it struggles to adapt to the nation’s changing demographics and social mores.

Minnesota – Leap from Legislator to Lobbyist a Short One in Minnesota
St. Paul Pioneer Press – Rachel Stassen-Berger and Dan Bauman | Published: 3/28/2015

While many states and the federal government mandate a waiting period for departing lawmakers to become lobbyists, in Minnesota that is not the case. A St. Paul Pioneer Press analysis of registered lobbyists found since 2002 alone, at least five dozen legislators have registered to lobby their former colleagues after their terms expired. Some wait years after leaving the Legislature before becoming lobbyists; others delay only a few days. And a few, like former Sen. Dick Day, left their terms mid-session to lobby for issues on which they had previously voted.

New Mexico – How a Reform Bill Loses Its Teeth in 60 Days
KRGW – Michael Sol Warren (New Mexico In Depth) | Published: 3/27/2015

New Mexico lawmakers debated a bill this year that would have reveal to the public how lobbyists go about influencing legislators. In its original form, House Bill 155 required lobbyists to report a detailed list of expenses and which issues they are employed to work on, and organizations that employ lobbyists would have had to file a separate expense report. The version that passed only requires the secretary of state to create a searchable database of lobbyists. So how did the bill go from its original form, with so many requirements, to the watered-down proposal that now awaits Gov. Susana Martinez’s signature?

New York – Loopholes Seen in New Ethics Disclosure Rules for New York Legislators
New York Times – Susanne Craig and Thomas Kaplan | Published: 3/31/2015

New York lawmakers approved a $142 billion state budget that enacts new legislative disclosure rules intended to address corruption in Albany. But watchdogs said the fine print in the agreement suggests much will remain in the shadows. Five good-government groups, which have been pushing for broad changes to the state’s ethics laws, denounced the proposals as “incremental reform” and said it did not address a loophole that allowed corporations to give large campaign donations as smaller gifts that disguise the source of the money. They also criticized lawmakers for not releasing details of the reform until just hours before they were set to vote, leaving little time for public discussion.

Ohio – Political Strings Attached to Ohio College Scholarships?
Columbus Dispatch – Collin Binkley and Jim Siegel | Published: 3/30/2015

The Ohio Association of Career Colleges and Schools, a lobbying group that represents for-profit schools statewide, requires students to get a state lawmaker’s signature to be considered for its Legislative Scholarship program. The awards are valued at up to $44,000 each. Association leaders said the goal is to promote civic engagement by putting students in touch with elected officials. But critics see the program as a veiled lobbying effort intended to gain favor with legislators. It allows lawmakers to take credit for helping students even though the money is from the association. Others worry it could be a foothold for corruption. Two other states have banned or reformed similar programs after lawmakers awarded scholarships to family members, friends, and political backers.

Pennsylvania – AG Kane Quashed Subpoenas in Casino Investigation, Sources Say
Philadelphia Inquirer – Craig McCoy and Angela Couloumbis | Published: 4/1/2015

Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane reportedly undermined a corruption investigation against a former state gaming official, according to a Philadelphia Inquirer story. Anonymous sources said Kane revoked several subpoenas, including one involving former casino owner Louis DeNaples, shortly after taking office in 2013. The subpoenas were reportedly part of an investigation into the actions of Douglas Shiffer, former assistant counsel to the state Gaming Control Board. Shiffer allegedly shared information with DeNaples about a review of DeNaples’ casino license bid. The Inquirer reported Shiffer was hired to serve as general counsel for DeNaples’ Mount Airy Casino and Resort after DeNaples won the license. DeNaples contributed $25,000 to Kane’s campaign several months after the subpoenas were revoked, according to the report.

Texas – Austin’s Lobbying Rules Often Unheeded, Unenforced
Austin American-Statesman – Lilly Rockwell | Published: 3/28/2015

A long-overlooked section of Austin’s city code is murky on the definition of who must register as a lobbyist, which has resulted in the law being all but dismissed by some who advocate at City Hall. Watchdogs say the problem is no that lobbyists secretly shower city council members or staff with lavish meals or gifts, but that there is a lack of transparency about the level of influence some outside groups or individuals have. And by not registering as lobbyists, people with a financial stake in setting city policy are able to sit on boards and commissions.

Texas – Pressure-Packed City Council Vote Ends with Lobbyist Charged with Assault
KTRK – Ted Oberg and Trent Seibert | Published: 3/25/2015

The Houston City Council approved the bulk of $1.6 billion in airport concession contracts despite ongoing controversy about the fairness of the bidding process, including allegations that some winning companies crossed ethical lines. Many well-connected companies have been vying for the lucrative deals in what those at City Hall have dubbed “food fights.” That metaphor turned into an actual scuffle as one lobbyist pressed simple assault charges on another for shoving him in the hallway outside council chambers.

Utah – Mormon Church Lobbying in Utah’s Capitol – Hardball or Light Touch?
Salt Lake Tribune – Lee Davidson | Published: 3/29/2015

Former Utah Rep. Carl Wimmer caused an uproar by accusing the LDS Church of bullying Mormon lawmakers on such controversial topics as illegal immigration, alcohol, and the new law to protect gay and lesbian residents from workplace and housing discrimination. A couple of former legislators back Wimmer, who recently left the LDS Church to become an evangelical Christian. A far larger group of Mormon lawmakers say they have never experienced the kind of heavy-handed tactics described by Wimmer. In a state where more than 80 percent of legislators are Mormon, LDS positions can virtually assure passage of a bill or stop it in its tracks.

Virginia – McAuliffe Vows to Amend Ethics Bills to Close Loopholes
Washington Post – Laura Vozzella and Tom Jackman | Published: 3/27/2015

Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe said he is amending ethics legislation passed by the General Assembly to further limit gifts lawmakers can accept from lobbyists. Lawmakers this year passed bills that would limit each gift to $100. But they came under criticism for perceived loopholes, including the lack of a cap on the number of those $100 gifts. McAuliffe said his amendments include an aggregate cap of $100 annually per lobbyist or entity seeking a contract with the state, a policy he said his administration already follows. The governor said he decided not to push for an ethics commission, independent of the Legislature, that would have powers to audit and issue subpoenas. Lawmakers opposed that idea.

Wisconsin – Campaign Money Tests Wisconsin Justices’ Impartiality
New York Times – Monica Davey | Published: 3/27/2015

The contentious 2011 elections for the Wisconsin Supreme Court wound up costing $5.7 million, including about $4.3 million in so-called issue ads paid for by outside groups. In the coming weeks, that outside campaign spending may be at issue again as the justices consider whether an investigation can proceed into claims that Gov. Scott Walker’s campaign improperly coordinated the spending by conservative groups during campaigns to recall him. Adding to the debate over judicial partisanship is a ballot measure that would allow a majority of justices to select the chief justice, who for over a century has been chosen by seniority. Under a policy approved by the state Supreme Court in 2010, judges need not recuse themselves from a case “based solely” on an endorsement, campaign contribution, independent expenditure, or issue advocacy.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

March 31, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Lobbyists-Turned-Staffers Disclose Salaries, Clients” by Kate Ackley for Roll Call Massachusetts: “State Data: Top 7 Massachusetts lobbying firms earned over $3 million each during 2013-2014 session” by Andy Metzger (State House News Service) for MassLive.com Utah: “Mormon Church Lobbying […]

March 26, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Ban on Corporate and Union Political Contributions Sought in City of Ottawa

Political contributions from corporations and unions may soon be prohibited in Ottawa, Canada’s municipal elections if City Councillor Tobi Nussbaum can convince the city to seek provincial approval for the ban. On March 25, Nussbaum informed the city council he […]

March 24, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Obama Promised to Curb the Influence of Lobbyists. Has He Succeeded?” by Juliet Eilperin for Washington Post “McConnell Urges States to Help Thwart Obama’s ‘War on Coal’” by Coral Davenport for New York Times Vermont: “Senate Passes New Lobbyist […]

March 23, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Lobbying Hawaii: “Gov. Ige Withdraws Controversial Nomination of Carleton Ching to Head DLNR” by Jim Mendoza for Hawaii News Now New Mexico: “Bill Banning Ex-Legislators from Becoming Lobbyists for 2 Years Killed in Senate” by Milan Simonich (Santa Fe New […]

March 20, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – March 20, 2015

National: Evangelicals Aim to Mobilize an Army for Republicans in 2016 New York Times – Jason Horowitz | Published: 3/15/2015 David Lane travels the country trying to persuade clergy members to become politically active. His hope is the politicized pastors will […]

National:

Evangelicals Aim to Mobilize an Army for Republicans in 2016
New York Times – Jason Horowitz | Published: 3/15/2015

David Lane travels the country trying to persuade clergy members to become politically active. His hope is the politicized pastors will help mobilize congregations that have been disheartened by the repeated failure of socially conservative candidates, and by a Republican Party that has softened its opposition to same-sex marriage. It is an organizing approach far different from those in the days when larger-than-life leaders could activate evangelical voters simply by anointing a candidate. But close observers of evangelicals and their political involvement say Lane is emblematic of a new generation of leaders who draw local support or exert influence through niche issues or their own networks.

Federal:

IRS May Broaden Rule to Police Political Nonprofits
Politico – Hillary Flynn and Rachel Bade | Published: 3/18/2015

IRS Commissioner John Koskinen said the agency may expand a yet-to-be-released rule governing 501(c)(4) social welfare groups to include political groups known as 527s, which focus on elections. It could require them both, as well as other types of tax-exempt organizations, to operate under the same definition of “political activity.” The law is currently vague, requiring that 501(c)(4)s operate “primarily” for social welfare. It is one of the reasons the IRS found itself in hot water for pulling tea party groups for extra scrutiny between 2010 and 2012.

Rep. Aaron Schock to Resign amid Spending Scandal
Washington Post – Mike DeBonis, Robert Costa, and Paul Kane | Published: 3/17/2015

U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Ill.) will resign on March 31 following questions about spending by his office and campaign. Schock has faced a torrent of bad publicity that began when it was revealed he had his office redecorated – for free – in the style of the PBS series “Downton Abbey.” Schock repaid $40,000 for the redecoration, but the initial story set off a series of reports on his lavish spending habits. Subsequent reports detailed a dozen charter flights worth over $40,000 on donors’ planes and $24,000 in campaign funds spent on concerts and events. The Chicago Tribune published a report raising questions about the use of campaign funds to finance the construction and sale of a house that Schock owned in Peoria.

The ‘Moneyball’ Effect on K Street: The influence game gets scientific
Washington Post – Catherine Ho | Published: 3/15/2015

Companies rooted in data analytics are attempting to change the way lobbying is done in Washington, D.C. At least four companies have introduced new ways to sell data-based political and competitive intelligence that offers insight into the policymaking process. They are turning lobbying, which was once based entirely on personal connections, into more of a science, and the idea is gaining traction among the field’s most established power brokers. In some ways, technology is just automating and verifying knowledge a lobbyist may already have, based on instincts and experience. But access to statistics is now key to selling lobbying services to clients, who increasingly want empirical evidence to back up claims about a lawmaker’s reputation.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Big Money Arrived Too Late for L.A. Election Debate
Los Angeles Times – David Zahniser | Published: 3/15/2015

The campaign behind Charter Amendments 1 and 2, which changed Los Angeles’ election dates and gave some officials an extra 18 months in office, reported its funding from the union that represents most Department of Water and Power employees 90 minutes before the polls closed. That money was part of a larger phenomenon in this year’s campaign season: big contributions that arrived too late to be disclosed on mailers or, in some cases, too late even to be part of the public debate.

Connecticut – Rowland Sentenced to 30 Months, a Decade after Last Imprisonment
New York Times – Kristin Hussey and Marc Santora | Published: 3/18/2015

Former Connecticut Gov. John Rowland was sentenced to 30 months in prison for his role in a political consulting scheme, exactly one decade after he was ordered behind bars in an earlier scandal that forced him from office. Rowland committed the latest crimes as he maneuvered to insert himself in two separate congressional campaigns. He was convicted on charges he conspired to conceal payment for the work, which he knew would bring unwelcome publicity to the candidates because of his criminal history. Prosecutors said Rowland was paid $35,000 to work on the failed 2012 campaign of Lisa Wilson-Foley and conspired to hide those payments through a consulting contract with a business owned by her husband. They say he tried to strike a similar deal with another failed congressional candidate.

Florida – Marco Rubio’s House of Horrors
Politico – Marc Caputo | Published: 3/16/2015

A house in Tallahassee jointly owned by U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and former U.S. Rep. David Rivera (R-Fla.) could be a headache for Rubio if he goes ahead with an expected run for president. The property is a stubborn symbol of both a politically problematic friendship and lingering questions about Rubio’s personal finances, which dogged him on the campaign trail in 2010 and may do so again. Rubio’s critics are waiting to make hay of any revelations that may come of the federal campaign finance investigation of Rivera and to point to their status as roommates during the years when Rivera allegedly engaged in illegal campaign activities.

New Mexico – Freshman Lawmaker Determined to ‘Pay My Own Way’ at the Roundhouse
KRQE – Matt Grubs | Published: 3/17/2015

New Mexico Rep. Jim Dines agreed to run for a House seat with the condition that he would not take campaign money from lobbyists or special interests. When Dines got to Santa Fe, he continued his independent streak. He refused to accept all the coffee mugs, jewelry, and free food that normally find their way onto a lawmaker’s desk during the session. Dines does not think a free meal or a stuffed animal or even free golf passes from a lobbyist equate to a promise to vote the way that lobbyist would prefer. But he said that does not really matter. “The perception of the public is … there’s a reason things are being given,” said Dines.

New Mexico – House Democrat Questions Lobbyist Bill Delay, Seeks Probe
Taos News – Steve Terrell (Santa Fe New Mexican) | Published: 3/16/2015

State Rep. Brian Egolf wants an investigation into why the New Mexico House delayed sending a bill on lobbyist disclosure to the Senate. Egolf says the delay in sending the measure to the Senate likely killed it as the legislative session nears its end. House Bill 155 would require lobbyists to disclose what issues or causes they have been hired to represent. It also would extend how long the state keeps lobbyist records. The House approved the legislation on March 7 but did not send it to the Senate until March 13. Normally, bills are sent within a day.

North Carolina – Sex, Romance Would Be a Conflict of Interest under NC General Assembly Proposal
Raleigh News & Observer – Colin Campbell | Published: 3/17/2015

The North Carolina Ethics Commission in February ruled that sex between a lobbyist and state official is not a gift that must be formally disclosed. Some lawmakers now want to make it clear that such relations require officials to step back from governmental action. House Bill 252 says an official must avoid acting if the official is married to a lobbyist and the lobbyist or the company the person works for could gain financially. It also applies if the two are dating or have a sexual relationship.

North Dakota – Lawmakers Say ‘No’ to Letting Voters Decide on State Ethics Commission
Dickinson Press – Mike Nowatzki (Forum News Service) | Published: 3/16/2015

The North Dakota House defeated a resolution that would have allowed voters to decide if a state ethics commission should be established. Assistant Minority Leader Corey Mock, the prime sponsor of House Concurrent Resolution 3060, said the lack of an ethics agency creates a perception problem for the state, and he questioned why lawmakers would want to wait until something egregious happens before creating one. But Rep. Scott Louser said while some states have a culture of corruption, North Dakota has a culture of openness and accessibility.

Texas – In Dallas, Most Ethics Complaints Go Nowhere
Dallas Morning News – Elizabeth Findell | Published: 3/15/2015

The Dallas City Council recently took steps to cut down on the number of frivolous complaints filed with the city’s Ethics Advisory Commission, and to allow the city to reimburse the subjects of such complaints for their defense costs. But ethics complaints, frivolous or otherwise, are rare at City Hall, shows a review by The Dallas Morning News. And when a complaint is filed, the chances are slim that anything will happen as a result. Of the 69 complaints filed since 2001, six were immediately declared invalid because they were submitted incorrectly or related to activities by people not affiliated with the city. Of the remainder, 56 were dismissed by a preliminary panel review.

Vermont – Senate Grumbles about Lobbyist Disclosure Bill
Seven Days – Terri Hallenbeck | Published: 3/17/2015

The Vermont Senate passed Senate Bill 93, which would require registered lobbyists, principals, and lobbying firms to disclose advertisements or advertising campaigns that they spend $1,000 or more on during a legislative session. The advertising report requirement is in addition to lobbyists’ current obligations to file expenditure reports, and the bill would increase the number of times per year lobbyists need to file those expenditure reports from three to five.

Washington – Zombie Lobby Descends on Capitol to Rally for Expanding Film and TV Tax Incentive Program
The Daily Journal – Rachel La Corte (Associated Press) | Published: 3/17/2015

Supporters of Washington’s film and television industry staged a mock zombie apocalypse at the Capitol as part of their lobbying efforts on a measure to expand a tax-incentive program designed to lure more projects to the state. More than 200 people, including actors, crew, and support staff, staged a daylong shoot for a spot they planned to release later in support of Senate Bill 6027, which would increase the amount of money available every year under Washington’s tax incentive program for the industry. Dozens of actors dressed as zombies were part of action scenes where the script included monologues or conversations about the bill.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

March 19, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday News Roundup

Lobbying New Mexico: “Freshman Lawmaker Determined to ‘Pay My Own Way’ at the Roundhouse” by Matt Grubs for KRQE Vermont: “Senate Grumbles about Lobbyist Disclosure Bill” by Terri Hallenbeck for Seven Days Washington: “Zombie Lobby Descends on Capitol to Rally […]

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