March 7, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – March 7, 2014
National: Outrage Over Sexist Remarks Turns Into a Political Fund-Raising Tool New York Times – Amy Choziak | Published: 2/27/2014 With a record number of women in Congress and dozens more on the ballot, gender-charged attacks – […]
National:
Outrage Over Sexist Remarks Turns Into a Political Fund-Raising Tool
New York Times – Amy Choziak | Published: 2/27/2014
With a record number of women in Congress and dozens more on the ballot, gender-charged attacks – stoked by the growth of social media and small-dollar Internet donations – can generate campaign contributions in an instant. In the past few months, Republicans have likened Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alison Lundergan Grimes to an “empty dress” and referred to a pregnant woman as a “host.” Democrats blast these comments out to supporters to build voter lists and drum up donations.
Federal:
Democrats Embrace Super PACs, but Some Fear Lack of Focus on Midterm Elections
Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 2/28/2014
There is now a near-universal view among top donors and strategists that the Democratic Party needs its own super PACs to compete with the growing role such groups are playing on the right. But there are disagreements over how to use the independent organizations. Some say Priorities USA Action and other groups that can accept unlimited contributions are too focused on the 2016 presidential race and a potential Hillary Clinton candidacy, even as Democrats face a costly, uphill fight this year to retain a thin Senate majority and gain seats in the House.
Group Close to Obama Says It Erred on Donation
New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 3/4/2014
Organizing for Action, a political advocacy group backed by President Barack Obama, said its executive director set up a White House meeting for a businessperson entangled in a lawsuit with a federal agency, who then pledged to raise $100,000 for the group one day after the meeting. The organization also said on three occasions its fundraisers or other employees had tried to steer potentially controversial donations to allied liberal groups that did not disclose their donors.
From the States and Municipalities:
California – Senate Dems to Propose New Limits on Gifts, Fundraising
Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 3/5/2014
Countering a series of scandals, California Senate Democrats plan to propose sweeping changes to the Political Reform Act, including stricter limits on accepting gifts and campaign contributions. Sources said the legislation will cut roughly in half the $440 annual limit on gifts to elected state officials, and prohibit candidates from holding political fundraisers at the homes of lobbyists.
Colorado – Critics See Proposed Ethics Commission Cue as Bad Medicine
Colorado Independent – John Tomasic and Tessa Cheek | Published: 3/2/2014
A bill that aims to fix the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission comes as the number of complaints filed with the panel continues to grow. House Bill 1258 seeks to bolster protections for state employees who are brought before the commission. It would ensure they are provided with tax-paid legal counsel and have the right to sue individual members of the commission for damages. Critics say the measure would do more harm than good.
Colorado – First and Only Director of Colorado Ethics Commission Steps Down
Denver Post – Lynn Bartels | Published: 3/1/2014
Colorado Independent Ethics Commission Executive Director Jane Feldman has submitted her resignation, effective at the end of March. Complaints about the commission have led to legislation being introduced this session. That would affect its operations.
Florida – Special Interests Pay Their Way onto Florida’s Legislative Agenda
Bradenton Herald – Mary Ellen Klas (Miami Herald) | Published: 3/3/2014
Many of the decisions about what issues make the agenda of Florida’s 2014 legislative session have already been made, in large part due to special interest groups and a torrent of money flowing into the coffers of legislative political committees. Longtime lobbyist Bob Levy said money has always been a major part of what happens in Tallahassee, but the difference is the number of zeroes. “It existed then, but it was $50,000; today it’s $500,000,” said Levy.
Missouri – Small Number of Donations Fuel Missouri Political Spending
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Walker Moskup | Published: 3/3/2014
From 2011 to 2013, more than half of the money raised by Missouri campaign committees – about $67 million – came from donations of $5,000 or more. Those larger donations represent about three percent of the total number of contributions. The absence of contribution limits in the state exacerbates the reliance on mega-donors, said Missouri State University professor George Connor.
Pennsylvania – D.C.-Based Democratic ‘Super PAC’ Sues to Remove Pa. Law Blocking it from Getting Corporate and Union Money
Harrisburg Patriot-News – Matt Miller | Published: 3/3/2014
A Washington, D.C.-based super PAC filed a lawsuit asking a federal judge to void a Pennsylvania law that is blocking its efforts to raise funds from corporations, associations, and unions in the state. The General Majority PAC contends the U.S. Constitution and a Supreme Court ruling grant it the right to solicit money from those sources to finance its political message during Pennsylvania’s legislative races this year.
Utah – Free Lunches, Receptions Abound for Utah Legislature
Salt Lake Tribune – Lee Davidson | Published: 3/3/2014
While events featuring free food remain a popular way to attract Utah lawmakers to hear lobbying pitches, they appear to be changing. The number of free lunches, which are expensive for sponsors, dropped by nearly half this year. Less-costly receptions nearly doubled. Still, special interests do not see free “wining and dining” disappearing any time soon. That is too bad, say groups who cannot afford that style of lobbying.
Virginia – Va. Moves to Tighten Ethics Rules, But Not Too Much
Washington Post – Michael Laris | Published: 3/1/2014
The Virginia House and Senate have passed different bills that address ethics reform. They will work on a compromise as the legislative session draws to a close, but neither bill addresses key loopholes. Lawmakers said it was more difficult than they expected to make far-reaching changes, in part because as they got into the details, they became concerned that imposing tough provisions could end up inadvertently criminalizing their own honest mistakes.
Wisconsin – Wisconsin Senator Seeks to Allow In-Session Lobbyist Checks
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – Patrick Marley | Published: 3/4/2014
Recently introduced bills in Wisconsin would exempt political groups behind issue ads from disclosing donors and allow lobbyists to funnel donations to candidates. Senate Bill 655 would allow lobbyists to provide contributions on behalf of others to elected officials at any time. The bill also would move up the date on which lobbyists can personally give campaign contributions from June 1 to April 15 of election years.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
March 6, 2014 •
Wisconsin Senate Considers Campaign Finance Bills
The Senate is considering campaign finance bills to narrow reporting requirements of advocacy groups and widen the ability of lobbyists to provide campaign contributions. Senate Bill 654 would further distinguish non-reportable “issue advocacy” from reportable “candidate advocacy.” Briefly in 2010, […]
The Senate is considering campaign finance bills to narrow reporting requirements of advocacy groups and widen the ability of lobbyists to provide campaign contributions. Senate Bill 654 would further distinguish non-reportable “issue advocacy” from reportable “candidate advocacy.”
Briefly in 2010, the Government Accountability Board (GAB) used its own discretion to classify campaign activity until both liberal and conservative groups filed lawsuits.
Senate Bill 655 allows a lobbyist to deliver political contributions at any time and allows for lobbyists to make personal contributions as early as April 15 of a general election year. Currently, lobbyists are prohibited from delivering contributions during a legislative session and must wait till June 1 to personally make contributions.
March 6, 2014 •
Thursday News Roundup
Lobbying “K Street gears up for Hillary” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill. “Groups Try to Mute the Comcast Lobby | K Street Files” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call. Louisiana: “Former Jindal aide Rainwater looks to lobbying, consulting” by […]
Lobbying
“K Street gears up for Hillary” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.
“Groups Try to Mute the Comcast Lobby | K Street Files” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call.
Louisiana: “Former Jindal aide Rainwater looks to lobbying, consulting” by Michelle Millhollon in The Advocate.
New Jersey: “Lobbying expenditures climbed over $60 million in 2013, report finds” in PolitickerNJ.
Campaign Finance
“New Challenges to Campaign Finance Regulation” opinion piece by David Friedman in The Stanford Daily.
New York: “Women stump for campaign finance reform” by Casey Seiler in the Capitol Confidential.
Wisconsin: “Walker says he’s not focused on Republican bills affecting campaign donations, spending” by Scott Bauer (Associated Press) in The Republic.
Ethics
California: “Senate Democrats proposing revamp of campaign, gift laws” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.
Campaigns and Elections
“Thought the Senate map was set?” by Jessica Taylor in The Hill.
“2014 Governors Races: A Look at the Too-Close-to-Call Contests” by Louis Jacobson in Governing.
South Carolina: “Cheers! SC Bill Aims to Lift Booze Ban on Election Day” by Drew MacKenzie in Newsmax.
Procurement
“Bringing Innovation to Procurement” by Justin Brown in Government Technology.
March 5, 2014 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “Lobbying World” in The Hill. Kentucky: “Ethics Reporter: First month of session sees one-month record of $1.9 million for lobbyists” by the Kentucky Ethics Commission in KY Forward. Wisconsin: “Wisconsin senator seeks to allow in-session lobbyist checks” by Patrick […]
Lobbying
“Lobbying World” in The Hill.
Kentucky: “Ethics Reporter: First month of session sees one-month record of $1.9 million for lobbyists” by the Kentucky Ethics Commission in KY Forward.
Wisconsin: “Wisconsin senator seeks to allow in-session lobbyist checks” by Patrick Marley in the Journal Sentinel.
Campaign Finance
Illinois: “Rauner’s $6 million sets record in Illinois governor race” by Rick Pearson in the Chicago Tribune.
Wisconsin: “State Senators introduce campaign finance legislation” by Andrew Hahn in The Daily Cardinal.
Ethics
“Former FEC General Counsel Retruns to Battle” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
California: “Scandals cost California Democrats supermajority in Senate” by Jessica Calefati in the Contra Costa Times.
Elections
“Texas 2014 Primary Election Results” in the Texas Tribune.
March 4, 2014 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Lobbying “Bottom Line” in The Hill. “Wyden’s rise starts K Street bidding war” by Megan R. Wilson and Kevin Bogardus in The Hill. “Hollywood’s Top Lobbying Group Is Sponsoring CPAC” by Nikki Schwab in U.S. News & World Report. Campaign […]
Lobbying
“Bottom Line” in The Hill.
“Wyden’s rise starts K Street bidding war” by Megan R. Wilson and Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.
“Hollywood’s Top Lobbying Group Is Sponsoring CPAC” by Nikki Schwab in U.S. News & World Report.
Campaign Finance
Florida: “More Ads in Florida Push Independent Expenditures above $7.5 million” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
Ethics
California: “California lawmakers report meals, sports tickets, other gifts” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.
New Jersey: “Port Authority chairman hit with ethics complaint by NJ Working Families Alliance” by Steve Strunsky in The Star-Ledger.
Vermont: “Vermont House working on ethics rules” by Nancy Remsen in the Burlington Free Press.
Congress
“Snow Delays Senate Votes for Another Day” by Niels Lesniewski in Roll Call.
State Legislative Sessions
Florida: “A viewers’ guide to the 2014 Florida Legislature session” by Steve Bousquet in the Miami Herald.
Kansas: “Kansas lawmakers taking a break from session” by The Associated Press on KAKE News.
Utah: “Nine days remain in productive legislative session” by Billy Hextra in the Daily Herald.
Wyoming: “Bill on special legislative session to deal with fallout from Supreme Court decision dies” by Bob Moen (Associated Press) in The Republic.
Elections
Texas: “What to Watch in the Texas Primary” by Ross Ramsey in Governing.
March 4, 2014 •
San Diego Ethics Commission Recommends Amendments to Campaign Disclosure Law
The Ethics Commission will be holding a series of workshops over the next few months to receive input concerning proposed amendments to campaign laws. The suggested reforms include classifying the duplication of candidates’ campaign materials as nonmonetary contributions instead of […]
The Ethics Commission will be holding a series of workshops over the next few months to receive input concerning proposed amendments to campaign laws. The suggested reforms include classifying the duplication of candidates’ campaign materials as nonmonetary contributions instead of independent expenditures.
In addition, the commission seeks to curb the practice of making independent expenditures on credit so as to delay disclosure of donors who verbally agree to pay the debt after the election.
Commission staff researched and produced a report to be discussed at the next commission meeting on Thursday, March 13, 2014. The report is available here.
March 3, 2014 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying “Lobby shop strikes gold with Wyden hire” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill. “Comcast now a $19 million lobbying powerhouse” by Todd Shields, Stephanie Green and Laura Litvan (Bloomberg News) in the Chicago Tribune. “David L. Cohen quite […]
Lobbying
“Lobby shop strikes gold with Wyden hire” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“Comcast now a $19 million lobbying powerhouse” by Todd Shields, Stephanie Green and Laura Litvan (Bloomberg News) in the Chicago Tribune.
“David L. Cohen quite influential without being a ʹlobbyistʹ” by Jonathan Tamari in The Inquirer.
“Shadow lobbying spends three times more than traditional lobbying” in the AG Beat.
Massachusetts: “Lobbying Spending Increases Dramatically” by The Associated Press in WGBH.
Massachusetts: “Review: Mass. health lobby spent $100M since 2007” by Steve LeBlanc (Associated Press) in the Boston Globe.
New Mexico: “New Mexico Debates New Lobbyist Rules” by Liz Farmer in Governing.
Campaign Finance
“Supreme Court disrupted by protest over campaign finance ruling” by Al Kamen in The Washington Post.
“Hidden camera footage surfaces of Supreme Court debate” by Mario Trujillo in The Hill.
“Coming Soon from SCOTUS: Campaign Finance and Affirmative Action” by Damon root in Reason.
“Facing 140,000 Comments, Treasury Braces for IRS Hearing, Legal Fight” by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.
California: “Identity of Campaign Finance Scandal Informant Revealed” by Wendy fry on NBC 7 San Diego News.
Florida: “Why this Florida congressional race is one of the most expensive ever” by Amber Phillips in The Denver Post.
Florida: “Political campaign fundraisers lose the frills” by James L. Rosica in The Tampa Tribune.
Missouri: “Former St. Louis alderman fined for using campaign funds for personal use” by Nicholas J.C. Pistor in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Pennsylvania: “D.C.-based PAC sues, saying Pa. can’t ban campaign contributions” by Kate Giammarise in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Texas: “Interactive: Campaign Finance Viewer for March Primaries” by Ryan Murphy and Travis Swicegood in The Texas Tribune.
The Feds
“Washington-Area Federal Offices Are Closed Monday” by Kellie Lunney in Government Executive.
Ethics
Colorado: “Critics see proposed ethics commission cure as bad medicine” by John Tomasic and Tessa Cheek in the Colorado Independent.
Colorado: “Director Jane Feldman leaves Colorado Ethics Commission” by Lynn Bartels in The Denver Post.
South Carolina: “Ethics reform bill heads back to SC House without changes to legislative oversight of members” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
February 28, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – February 28, 2014
National: In Some States, gaming Industry Consultants Double as Gambling Regulators Las Vegas Review-Journal – Hannah Dreier (Associated Press) | Published: 2/23/2014 As more cities and states embrace legalized gambling across the country, private companies are being […]
National:
In Some States, gaming Industry Consultants Double as Gambling Regulators
Las Vegas Review-Journal – Hannah Dreier (Associated Press) | Published: 2/23/2014
As more cities and states embrace legalized gambling across the country, private companies are being hired to write regulations and vet casinos, even as the same firms work the other side of the fence, helping casinos enter new markets and sometimes lobbying for their interests. Letting consulting companies with deep ties to the gambling industry decide how casinos are run is a significant departure from how established gambling states, including Nevada and New Jersey, do things.
Federal:
Where Have All the Lobbyists Gone?
The Nation – Lee Fang | Published: 2/19/2014
January records show spending on federal lobbyists decreased for the third consecutive year, and the number of registered lobbyists dropped to the lowest level since 2002. Despite word if its demise, some experts believe lobbying is not becoming extinct; it is only going underground. The combination of a loophole-ridden law, meager enforcement efforts, and a sophisticated strategy permitting third parties to develop faux-grassroots campaigns, as well as White House executive orders that dissuaded lobbyists from registering, all combined to collapse the system designed to track federal lobbying.
From the States and Municipalities:
California – California State Sen. Ron Calderon Indicted on Corruption Charges
Fresno Bee – Laurel Rosenhall (Sacramento Bee) | Published: 2/21/2014
California Sen. Ron Calderon was charged with accepting $100,000 in bribes, lavish trips, and no-show jobs for his children in exchange for pushing legislation to benefit a hospital engaged in billing fraud and participating in a film industry tax scheme that actually was an FBI sting. Calderon’s brother, Tom, a former state lawmaker-turned-lobbyist, was charged with money-laundering for funneling bribes through a tax-exempt group he controlled.
California – Lobbyist Kevin Sloat’s Penalty Falls Short, Ex-Employee’s Lawyer Says
Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy and Paige St. John | Published: 2/20/2014
The California Fair Political Practices Commission signed off on a $133,500 fine for lobbyist Kevin Sloat, who made improper campaign contributions to elected officials. The attorney whose lawsuit triggered the investigation, criticized the commission for not addressing other allegations. The suit said Sloat and his firm arranged free golf games for lawmakers at a course run by a client, helped legislators get sports and concert tickets, and assisted one state Assembly member in buying art at a deep discount.
Connecticut – Federal Grand Jury Probes GOP Contracts
Connecticut Post – Ken Dixon and Neil Vigdor | Published: 2/21/2014
Lawmakers say they believe federal authorities are trying to determine whether any Connecticut House Republicans were pressured to use a particular company for their political campaign mailings. Federal subpoenas show the FBI wants to see contracts and correspondence between the House Republicans and two direct mail companies that have been used by the caucus members and the caucus’ PACs.
Georgia – Ethics: The ghost of Legislatures past
Georgia Public Broadcasting – Jeanne Bonner | Published: 2/20/2014
Georgia lawmakers attended a joint question and answer session to straighten out growing confusion about how to abide by the law that lobbyists’ spending on individual legislators to $75 per expenditure. Critics and supporters alike say it contains exceptions that may undermine the intent to rein in lobbyists’ power. The state ethics commission probably will not issue guidelines on complying with the law until this summer.
Hawaii – Lobbyists Would Have to Disclose More Details on Political Spending
Honolulu Civil Beat – Nathan Eagle | Published: 2/25/2014
Hawaii lawmakers are advancing legislation this session that would require lobbyists to account for the money they are spending by breaking it into categories that show how much goes toward food, entertainment, gifts, loans, and other areas. A separate bill aims to make lobbying disclosure reports available in a timelier manner, particularly after a special legislative session.
Minnesota – Bill Seeks to Undo Senjem’s Loosening of Gift Ban
Rochester Post-Bulletin – Heather Carlson | Published: 2/25/2014
During the last legislative sessionin Minnesota, a campaign finance bill was successfully amended to allow lawmakers and legislative employees to attend receptions thrown by lobbyists without having to pay for food and drinks. It does require that all 201 lawmakers be invited and given at least five days’ notice. Now, state Rep. Ryan Winkler has sponsored a bill to reinstate a ban on the practice.
Missouri – Ethics Bills Draw Little Praise from Missouri Lawmakers They Would Regulate
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 2/26/2014
Members of the Missouri House General Laws Committee agreed the state needs to update its ethics laws, but were divided on how to do it and how far an overhaul should go. The committee considered several proposals, including ones that would require limits on campaign contributions and lobbyist gifts.
New Jersey – Bergen County Freeholders Tighten Limits on Political Donations by No-Bid Contractors
Bergen Record – John Ensslin | Published: 2/20/2014
Bergen County freeholders approved a “pay-to-play” bill that will drastically lower the amount of money contractors can donate to county political parties. The freeholders passed a resolution that will lower the allowed contribution from no-bid county contractors from $5,200 to $2,000. The move represents a reversal of a 2013 measure that softened restrictions during a critical election year for both parties and led to criticism from watchdog groups.
Oregon – Oregon Secretary of State’s Website is Back Up and Running
Salem Statesman Journal – Hannah Hoffman | Published: 2/24/2014
Oregon Secretary of State Kate Brown announced her department’s online systems – the Central Business Registry and ORESTAR, the state’s online campaign finance reporting system – are back up and running after being shut down for nearly three weeks following a security breach. Brown said a grace period has been established for political campaigns filing overdue reports, with fines for late transactions being waived.
Pennsylvania – Council Committee OKs Private Gifts of Up to $99 in Value to City Workers
Philadelphia Inquirer – Bob Warner | Published: 2/24/2014
A Philadelphia City Council committee gave initial approval to specific limits on the value of gifts that city workers can accept. The city’s five-decades-old gift law had never sets limits on the value of gifts that city workers, including elected officials, can receive. The ordinance would allow city employees to annually accept noncash gifts worth up to $99, even from people with official business before them.
Utah – Utah Legislature: Vote up or down – conflict or not
Salt Lake Tribune – Lee Davidson | Published: 2/24/2014
Utah and Oregon are the only two states where lawmakers cannot abstain and are required to vote even if they have a major conflict-of-interest on a bill. Utah Rep. Jim Nielson has introduced legislation to allow lawmakers to abstain or vote “present.” But he does not expect it to go far. In part, that is because leaders see conflicts as natural in a citizen Legislature, and they worry that creating more pressure to declare them and skip votes could get out of hand. Ethics reformers say a better system is needed.
Virginia – House Passes Ethics Bill with ‘Turkey Dinner Amendment’
The Daily Progress – Marcus Schmidt (Richmond Times Dispatch) | Published: 2/26/2014
The Virginia House passed a Senate ethics reform package. Senate Bill 649, which is almost identical to a proposal a House committee hammered out over several weeks, puts a $250 cap on gifts from lobbyists and anyone with business before the state, and it creates an ethics advisory council that will oversee and update Virginia’s financial disclosure system. Del. C. Todd Gilbert said he expects both bills to be dealt with in conference committee before one broad proposal heads to Gov. Terry McAuliffe.
Washington – State Legislators’ Financial Disclosures Fall Short
Seattle Times – Jim Brunner | Published: 2/22/2014
Although Washington frequently gets high marks from national open-government groups, some experts say one area where the state is lagging is in the personal financial disclosure by public officials. There are other flaws in the state’s disclosure system that leave holes in the public’s understanding of the financial affairs of their elected officials. As a result, some lawmakers file erroneous or confusing reports that go uncorrected unless spotted by political opponents, journalists, or activists.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
February 27, 2014 •
Thursday News Roundup
Lobbying “Tax plan sends shockwaves down K Street” by Vicki Needham in The Hill. “Movie Industry, In a Switch, Is Courting the GOP” by Brody Mullins and Ben Fritz in The Wall Street Journal. “Former software lobbyist tapped for […]
Lobbying
“Tax plan sends shockwaves down K Street” by Vicki Needham in The Hill.
“Movie Industry, In a Switch, Is Courting the GOP” by Brody Mullins and Ben Fritz in The Wall Street Journal.
“Former software lobbyist tapped for trade post” by Julian Hattem in The Hill.
“Patton Boggs begins new merger talks” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“‘Card check’ victors reap little reward” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.
“Buying alpha: Here’s the easiest way to stock gains” by Jeff Cox on CNBC.
Missouri: “Who bought lawmakers’ lunch? Lobbyist splits hairs” by Virginia Young in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
New Mexico: “N.M. lobbyists spent $200K on dinners, golf, skiing” by The Associated Press on KFDA News.
New York: “Mayor Accepted Lobbyist Money, Amid Improper Payments” by Jeff Preval on WGRZ.
Campaign Finance
Connecticut: “New campaign finance law sparks debate” by Isabelle Taft in the Yale Daily News.
West Virginia: “Campaign finance bill dies in the House” in the West Virginia Metro News.
Ethics
Alabama: “‘Clean’ ethics legislation passes in Senate” by Kala Kachmar in the Montgomery Advertiser.
Virginia: “House passes ethics bill with ‘turkey dinner amendment’” by Markus Schmidt in the Times Dispatch.
Campaigns, Conventions, and Elections
“And the finalists for the GOP convention are ….” by Rebecca Shabad in The Hill.
“Practitioner’s Toolbox: One Political Startup’s Efforts To Engage Potential Supporters Online” by Sarah Lai Stirland in TechPresident.
Arkansas: “Ark. House committee approves lt. gov. bill” by The Associated Press in the San Francisco Chronicle.
From the State Legislatures
Tennessee: “Bill would give Tennessee Legislature power over attorney general” by Todd South in the Times Free Press.
West Virginia: “Lawmakers push dozens of bills before deadline” by Jonathan Mattise (Associated Press) in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
February 26, 2014 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “Lobbying World” in The Hill. “Lobbying is booming under Obama. Here’s why.” by Jeremy Slevin on MSNBC. “Who Says There Are No Second Acts in Politics?” by Jordan Michael Smith in Politico. “Lobbyist drafts bill to ban gays from […]
Lobbying
“Lobbying World” in The Hill.
“Lobbying is booming under Obama. Here’s why.” by Jeremy Slevin on MSNBC.
“Who Says There Are No Second Acts in Politics?” by Jordan Michael Smith in Politico.
“Lobbyist drafts bill to ban gays from NFL” by Rebecca Shabad in The Hill.
“Firm disowns lobbyist selling anti-gay bill” by Mike Lillis and Rebecca Shabad in The Hill.
“More downsizing at Patton Boggs” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
Virginia: “Report: Va commerce secretary broke lobbying rule” by The Associated Press in The Washington Post.
Campaign Finance
“Worse Than it Looks? How to Depict Big Money in Politics.” by Ciara Torres-Spelliscy in the Brennan Center for Justice Blog.
Louisiana: “Louisiana politicians who owe $908,000 in fines for campaign finance violations: List” in The Times-Picayune.
Pennsylvania: “New Website Design Aims to Make Campaign Finance Reports Easier to Find” by Deanna Garcia in WESA/NPR News.
Utah: “Bill would impose fine for late campaign finance reporting” by Dennis Romboy in Deseret News.
Political Advertising
Rhode Island: “R.I. panel proposes repealing law banning anonymous, negative campaign literature” by Philip Marcelo in the Providence Journal.
Ethics
Missouri: “Missouri lawmakers divided on ethics law process” by Jordan Shapiro (Associated Press) in the Connecticut Post.
Missouri: “Ethics bills draw little praise from Missouri lawmakers they would regulate” by Virginia Young in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
February 24, 2014 •
US Supreme Court Ruling on Aggregate Limits of Political Contributions May be Coming Soon
A United States Supreme Court ruling deciding the constitutionally of aggregate limits on federal campaign contributions may be issued as early as this week. The case, McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, seeks to allow Shaun McCutcheon to make political contributions […]
A United States Supreme Court ruling deciding the constitutionally of aggregate limits on federal campaign contributions may be issued as early as this week.
The case, McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, seeks to allow Shaun McCutcheon to make political contributions to several federal candidates exceeding the two-year aggregate limit set in 2 U.S.C §441a(a)(3)(A). The plaintiff argues the limit is unconstitutional because it violates a citizen’s right to speak and to associate with not just any candidate, but every candidate of his choosing.
The Supreme Court decided to grant a review of the case in February 2013 and oral arguments were made on October 8, 2013.
Photo of the United States Supreme Court Building courtesy of UpStateNYer on Wikimedia Commons.
February 24, 2014 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying “Lobbying Goes Underground: Influence spending now largely off-the-books” by Lee Fang in Politico. “Largest Lobbying Organization Spends $312K for U.S. Senate Leader” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call. “Soros group triples its lobbying spending” by Holly Yeager in The […]
Lobbying
“Lobbying Goes Underground: Influence spending now largely off-the-books” by Lee Fang in Politico.
“Largest Lobbying Organization Spends $312K for U.S. Senate Leader” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
“Soros group triples its lobbying spending” by Holly Yeager in The Washington Post.
“K Street rumor mill in overdrive” by Bernie Becker and Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.
“Lobbying shop McBee Strategic represents the changing business of influence” by Holly Yeager in The Washington Post.
California: “State lobbying efforts extend to local, regional agencies” by John Howard in the Press Democrat.
Illinois: “Mid-size Illinois cities to form lobbying alliance” by The Associated Press in The State Journal-Register.
New York: “Buffalo Benefited Little From Lobbyists That Were Improperly Paid” by Jeff Preval on WGRZ News.
Campaign Finance
“How ‘the next Citizens United’ could bring more corruption — but less gridlock” by Richard L. Hasen in The Washington Post.
“Dems learn to love super-PACs” by Alexander Bolton in The Hill.
“At last! Sleeker super PACs give rich more options to boost clout” by Zachary Roth on MSNBC.
California: “Bills strengthen campaign finance reporting laws, will require more disclosure from nonprofit” by Fenit Nirappil (Associated Press) in The Republic.
California: “California campaign finance reporting bills on verge of governor’s desk” by Jeremy B. White in the Sacramento Bee.
Hawaii: “Hawaii election campaign fund needs boost” by The Associated Press in the Sun Herald.
Kansas: “Kan. Senate panel OKs campaign finance changes” by The Associated Press on KFDA News.
New York: “Push for public financing of NY campaigns resumes” by Michael Gormley in Newsday.
Rhode Island: “National Rifle Association pays off $63,000 R.I. campaign finance fine” by Philip Marcelo in the Providence Journal.
Ethics
California: “Fraud, bribery cases won’t affect state elections much, analysts say” by Chris Megerian and Melanie Mason in the Los Angeles Times.
South Carolina: “SC Senate ethics bill wouldn’t change oversight” by Seanna Adcox in the Houston Chronicle.
South Carolina: “State House: A look at the proposed compromise on ethics reform” by Adam Beam in The State.
Vermont: “Vt. bills spur conflict-of-interest questions” by Dave Gram (Associated Press) in the San Francisco Chronicle.
Congress
“The Top 10 Legislative Issues to Watch in 2014” by Liz Farmer, Chris Kardish, J.B. Wogan, Mike Maciag, Ryan Holeywell in Governing.
Government Tech and Social Media
New York City: “Digital Engagement Starting to Be New Normal in New York City Council and City Hall” by Miranda Neubauer in TechPresident.
February 21, 2014 •
California Campaign Disclosure Bills Closer to Passing
Lawmakers approved a pair of bills to strengthen the authority of the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) and require political nonprofits to reveal their donors. The Assembly approved Senate Bill 27, requiring tax-exempt nonprofits actively involved in elections to comply […]
Lawmakers approved a pair of bills to strengthen the authority of the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) and require political nonprofits to reveal their donors. The Assembly approved Senate Bill 27, requiring tax-exempt nonprofits actively involved in elections to comply with campaign finance reporting requirements.
The bill also requires campaign committees raising more than $1 million to maintain an accurate list of the top 10 contributors of $10,000 or more. Those lists would be placed on the FPPC website before elections.
The Senate approved Assembly Bill 800 to give the FPPC more enforcement powers including the ability to audit campaign reports before elections and for two years after elections. Both bills return to their original house for votes on amendments.
If signed by Gov. Jerry Brown, the changes would be effective July 1, 2014.
Photo of the California State Capitol courtesy of Sascha Brückon Wikimedia Commons.
February 21, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – February 21, 2014
National: Last Call for State Parties? Politico – Byron Tau | Published: 2/16/2014 State party officials across the country say the increase in money going to super PACs, nonprofits, and presidential campaigns has made fundraising more difficult. […]
National:
Politico – Byron Tau | Published: 2/16/2014
State party officials across the country say the increase in money going to super PACs, nonprofits, and presidential campaigns has made fundraising more difficult. Some of those outside groups are starting to take over the traditional local roles state parties play, spending big on voter contact and outreach operations. The effect is that candidates can be more beholden to national organizations or single-issue groups rather than state party leaders.
Federal:
A Wave of Capitol Hill Retirements May Force Some Lobbyists to Rebrand Themselves
Washington Post – Holly Yeager | Published: 2/17/2014
The retirements of several powerful members of Congress are affecting former aides that have moved to K Street. Across a variety of areas, the departures – more than two dozen at last count – are prompting former Capitol Hill staffers whose biographies boast of their high-level connections to try to reassure their lobbying clients that they bring more to the job than links with their old bosses.
From the States and Municipalities:
California – Ex-SF Supervisor Yaki Heads off Suit, Pays $75K
San Francisco Chronicle – John Coté | Published: 2/20/2014
Former San Francisco Supervisor Michael Yaki agreed to pay $75,000 to settle a lawsuit in which the city alleged he was an unregistered lobbyist who broke the municipal lobbying law “in every way.” The proposed settlement would be the largest payment in state history to resolve allegations of unreported lobbying. Yaki also must register retroactive to 2012 and report all of his contacts with city officials from that point forward.
California – San Francisco 49ers Drop Embattled Lobbyist Kevin Sloat
San Louis Obispo Tribune – Laurel Rosenhall and Christopher Cadelago (Sacramento Bee) | Published: 2/14/2014
The San Francisco 49ers fired their Sacramento lobbying firm, Sloat Higgins Jensen and Associates, after the company was fined $133,500 by the California Fair Political Practices Commission for violating the state’s lobbying laws. Kevin Sloat acknowledged hosting elaborate fundraising parties for nearly 40 politicians, providing liquor, cigars, and other hospitality that amounted to campaign contributions that are prohibited from lobbyists.
Florida – Should David Beckham Have Registered as a Miami-Dade County Hall Lobbyist?
Miami Herald – Patricia Mazzei | Published: 2/14/2014
In June, during his early days exploring Miami as a location for his expansion Major League Soccer franchise, David Beckham and his investors had meetings with local officials. Now, Miami-Dade’s ethics commission is examining whether Beckham and his partners broke any rules requiring lobbyists to register with county government before making a pitch to public officials.
Louisiana – David Vitter’s Super PAC Challenges Louisiana’s Campaign Contribution Limits
New Orleans Times Picayune – Julia O’Donohue | Published: 2/18/2014
A super PAC set up to support U.S. Sen. David Vitter and his 2015 gubernatorial run is asking a federal court to rule Louisiana’s cap on donations to PACs unconstitutional. The Fund for Louisiana’s Future argues the state is restricting political speech by imposing a contribution limit on PACs of $100,000 per four-year election cycle from individuals, corporations, and unions. It wants the court to make a decision before April 5, when the next round of Louisiana’s local and state elections take place.
New Jersey – Trenton Mayor Tony Mack May Not Be Leaving Office Anytime Soon
NJ.com – Alex Zdan and Jenna Pizzi | Published: 2/16/2014
Trenton Mayor Tony Mack has refused to step down after he was found guilty February 7 on corruption charges. His conviction in a federal court does not trigger his automatic removal from office; without a resignation, Mack will remain mayor until state prosecutors can get a judge to sign off on an order of forfeiture. Removal after a conviction in state court is automatic, but not if the official is tried by federal prosecutors as Mack was.
New York – JCOPE Returns to Waivers
Albany Times Union – Casey Seiler | Published: 2/18/2014
At a recent meeting, members of the Joint Commission on Public Ethics debated exemptions to rules that require the disclosure of donors by nonprofit groups that engage in lobbying. The controversy over the exemptions began last summer, when it was revealed the state arm of the pro-choice group NARAL had been granted an exemption, prompting Republicans to complain that the panel had created a secret path for political giving.
North Carolina – Duke’s Giving Favored the GOP as Lawsuits Threatened, Watchdog Group Says
Raleigh News & Observer – Bruse Henderson | Published: 2/14/2014
North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory denied he had any talks with Duke Energy executives or lobbyists about his administration’s now scuttled deal to settle environmental violations at two of the company’s coal ash dumps. McCrory worked at Duke 28 years before retiring to make his first run for governor in 2008. On a state disclosure form, McCrory last year indicated his investment portfolio includes holdings of Duke stock valued in excess of $10,000, though he is not obligated to disclose the specific amount.
Salem Statesman Journal – Hannah Hoffman | Published: 2/19/2014
The Oregon secretary of state’s office shut down most its public online systems after detecting an intrusion into its website. Secretary of State Kate Brown is waiving fines for missing a campaign finance reporting deadline while ORESTAR remains down.
South Carolina – SC Poised to Elect First Black Candidate to Statewide Office
The State – Adam Beam | Published: 2/18/2014
The last time South Carolinians elected an African-American to statewide office was 1872, when Richard Howell Gleaves was elected the state’s second – and last – black lieutenant governor. The black community’s political influence was squashed in 1895 when then-Gov. Ben Tillman rewrote the state constitution, which is still in place today, to virtually eliminate all black influence in state politics. Now, 142 years later, that influence appears to be returning, albeit it in small steps.
Vermont – No Second Bite at Campaign Finance Limits
Rutland Herald – Neal Goswami (Vermont Press Bureau) | Published: 2/14/2014
The Vermont House defeated an attempt by one member to delay implementation of the state’s new campaign finance law until 2019. Rep. Cynthia Browning tried to add the delay as an amendment to a bill making a technical correction to the campaign finance law signed by Gov. Peter Shumlin in January. Browning and other critics have charged it did too little to clamp down on the influence of wealthy political donors.
Wisconsin – Scott Walker, Eyeing 2016, Faces Fallout from Probes as Ex-Aide’s E-mails Are Released
Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman | Published: 2/20/2014
Thousands of recently unsealed documents link Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker to a secret email system used in his office that would avoid public scrutiny when he was Milwaukee County executive. The documents show just how intertwined Walker’s campaign operation was with his taxpayer-paid county staff in the months leading to the November 2010 election. It is against state law for public employees to work for political parties and campaigns while being paid by taxpayers to provide government services.
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