Campaign Finance

Alaska: “Alaska Ranked Choice Voting Opponents Fined Over $94K for Campaign Ethics Violations” by Iris Samuels for Anchorage Daily News

Elections

Massachusetts: “Liberal Group Files Challenge to Remove Trump from Massachusetts Primary Ballot” by Matt Stoudt (Boston Globe) for MSN

Ohio: “Transgender Ohio House Hopeful Appeals Disqualification for Not Listing Birth Name on Paperwork” by Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN

Texas: “Former U.S. Rep. Mayra Flores Accused of Cribbing Others’ Pictures of Mexican Food as Her Own Cooking” by Robert Downen for Texas Tribune

Ethics

National: “Most Jan. 6 Defendants Get Time Behind Bars, but Less Than U.S. Seeks” by Tom Jackman and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) for MSN

Illinois: “Ed Burke Is Still in Line for Millions in Payouts from Pension, Campaign Funds After Corruption Conviction” by Mitchell Armentrout and Tim Novack for Chicago Sun-Times

Vermont: “Vermont Senate Beefs Up Financial Disclosure Requirements in Response to VTDigger Reporting” by Paul Heinz for VTDigger.org

Lobbying

National: “Wayne LaPierre Resigns from N.R.A. with Trial Set to Open” by Danny Hakim (New York Times) for MSN

National/Federal

Bomb Hoaxes and ‘Swatting’ Attempts Target Public Officials as 2024 Begins

DNyuz – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 1/4/2023

State Capitol buildings in seven states were evacuated or placed on lockdown after the authorities said they had received bomb threats that they described as false and nonspecific. The FBI said it had no information to suggest any threats were credible. There was a “swatting” attempt on Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, which was intended to draw a heavily armed law enforcement response. The incidents intensified a climate of intimidation and the harassment of public officials, including those responsible for overseeing ballot access and voting.

Special Counsel Asks D.C. Judge to Bar Trump Misinformation at Trial

MSN – Perry Stein and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 12/27/2023

Federal prosecutors asked a judge to prohibit Donald Trump’s attorneys from introducing at his federal election obstruction trial “irrelevant disinformation” that is often part of Trump’s campaign speeches, such as President Biden coordinated with the Justice Department to bring criminal charges against him. Such filings are common in legal proceedings and aim to eliminate arguments at trial that prosecutors say are not supported by evidence or are irrelevant to the case and could mislead jurors.

Not Just the Supreme Court: Ethics troubles plague state high courts, too

MSN – Aaron Mendelson (USA Today) | Published: 1/3/2024

Across the country, state Supreme Courts wield enormous power over abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and elections, among other issues. But judicial ethics at the state level receive scant attention. Experts say that is a mistake and potential problems are widespread. Many state high court justices make their own decisions about recusal, with virtually no opportunity for review. They often have a say in their own discipline. In numerous states around the country, they disclose only meager and hard-to-access data about their finances.

Report: Trump businesses received $7.8 million in foreign payments during presidency

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 1/4/2024

During Donald Trump’s presidency, his businesses received at least $7.8 million in payments from the foreign governments and officials of 20 countries, including China, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, according to a report released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee. The report argues the payments were in violation of the Constitution’s foreign emoluments clause, a provision that bars federal officials from accepting money or gifts from foreign governments without permission from Congress.

Appeals Court Reverses Conviction Against Jeff Fortenberry

MSN – Eric Bazail-Eimil (Politico) | Published: 12/26/2023

A federal appeals court overturned a conviction against former U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, saying the decision to try the lawmaker from Nebraska in California over alleged foreign campaign donations violated his due process rights. The panel found Fortenberry should not have been tried in Los Angeles, since the specific crimes he was prosecuted for occurred in the District of Columbia and Nebraska. It also rejected prosecutors’ arguments that criminal conduct also occurs where it would have an effect on a federal investigation.

Lawmakers Who Linger After Accepting New Jobs Stir Concerns

MSN – Justin Papp (Roll Call) | Published: 12/26/2023

U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins will depart Congress in February to start a new job as the director of Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo but will remain in office in the interim. He is not the only member of the House to accept a new job in November but linger in Congress for several months. Watchdogs argue ethical issues can arise when a member knows they have a set start date to work for another employer. Situations like Johnson’s and Higgins’ highlight the opacity of congressional ethics rules around outside employment and job negotiations.

Roberts Sidesteps Supreme Court’s Ethics Controversies in Yearly Report

MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 12/31/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court will be tested in the coming weeks to untangle politically consequential legal questions with the potential to reshape the 2024 presidential election. The court’s reputation remains marred by ethics controversies involving lavish travel and gifts, and public approval ratings remain low following high court rulings to overturn long-standing precedent. But Chief Justice John Roberts did not address any of those contemporary issues in his annual “Year-End Report on the Federal Judiciary.”

Sen. Bob Menendez Accused of Aiding Qatar in Exchange for Bribes

MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 1/2/2024

U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez is facing a new set of federal bribery allegations in a superseding indictment that accuses him of providing assistance to the government of Qatar as well as Egypt. While the indictment does not add charges, it makes public previously unknown allegations of corruption by Menendez, who headed the Foreign Relations Committee until he was charged several months ago. It is the second superseding charging document to be filed since Menendez surrendered.

Justice Dept. Accuses 2 Political Operatives of Hiding Foreign Lobbying During Trump Administration

MSN – Eric Tucker and Alan Suderman (Associated Press) | Published: 1/2/2024

Two political consultants provided false information about lobbying work on behalf of a Persian Gulf country during the Trump administration. Charging documents allege Barry Bennett, an adviser to Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, spearheaded a covert lobbying campaign aimed at advancing the interests of a foreign country. The country for whom the work was done is not named but it matches the description of Qatar. The Justice Department also reached a similar agreement with Douglas Watts, a political consultant who prosecutors say worked alongside Bennett and failed to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act.

Special Counsel: Trump immunity claim threatens democracy

MSN – Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 12/30/2023

Donald Trump’s bold claims that he is immune from criminal prosecution over his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election “threaten to undermine democracy,” special counsel Jack Smith warned a federal appeals court. Smith rejected Trump’s contention that the criminal indictment of him for trying to reverse his loss at the polls three years ago is constitutionally invalid because he was serving as president at the time and because he was acquitted by the U.S. Senate after he was impeached for those actions.

New Spin on a Revolving Door: Pentagon officials turned venture capitalists

Seattle Times – Eric Lipton (New York Times) | Published: 12/31/2023

Former Pentagon officials and military officers have joined venture capital firms and are trying to use their connections in Washington to cash in on the potential to sell a new generation of weapons. They represent a new path through the “revolving door” that has always connected the Defense Department and the military contracting business. Retiring generals and departing Pentagon officials once migrated regularly to the established weapons makers. Now they are increasingly flocking to venture capital firms that have collectively pumped billions of dollars into startups offering the Pentagon new war-fighting tools.

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – Commissioner Says No Conflict in Rolling Stones’ Promo at Vancouver City Hall

Vancouver Is Awesome – Mike Howell | Published: 1/3/2024

Vancouver’s integrity commissioner ruled Mayor Ken Sim and three city council members did not breach the code of conduct when they promoted a Rolling Stones concert scheduled for July 2024 at BC Place Stadium. Sim and council members Sarah Kirby-Yung, Peter Meiszner, and Mike Klassen were the subject of a complaint from a citizen concerned about the band’s iconic tongue-and-lips logo being displayed on the facade of City Hall.

Arizona – Judge Rebuffs GOP Lawmakers’ Bid to Block Arizona Voters’ Dark Money Law

Arizona Daily Star – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 12/29/2023

A judge ruled Arizona voters have an absolute right to enact laws requiring disclosure of “dark money’” political donations, even if Republican legislators do not approve. Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Timothy Ryan rejected a bid by House Speaker Ben Toma and Senate President Warren Petersen to block implementation of Proposition 211 ahead of campaign spending for the 2024 election. While Ryan gave the go-ahead for the law to take effect, he did not toss out the entire challenge.

California – Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price Barred from Prosecuting Her Loudest Critic, a Former Prosecutor

MSN – Jakob Rodgers (San Jose Mercury News) | Published: 1/3/2024

A judge barred Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price’s office from prosecuting one her loudest political critics in a misdemeanor case that has become a focal point in the recall effort against her. Superior Court Judge James Cramer ruled Price’s office has a “significant conflict of interest” in prosecuting Amilcar Ford, a former employee of hers who was charged over the summer with violating a little-used section of the state’s business and professions code. As a result, the case will now be handled by the state attorney general’s office.

California – DA Charges Ex-San Francisco Building Inspector Who Inspected His Own Home

San Francisco Standard – Michael Barba | Published: 1/2/2024

A former San Francisco building inspector who had inspected his own home is now facing criminal charges for alleged conflict-of-interest violations, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced Tuesday. Van Zeng was fired and charged after a media investigation revealed he conducted a series of questionable inspections on properties with ties to his family.

Florida – Miami City Manager’s Wife Was Hired for Office Remodeling, Raising Ethics Concerns

WLRN – Daniel Rivero and Joshua Ceballos | Published: 1/4/2024

When Miami City Manager Art Noriega wanted to remodel parts of his office at City Hall, his office picked a familiar salesperson from a familiar company to provide new furniture in contracts worth more than $37,000. The salesperson: Noriega’s wife, Michelle Pradere-Noriega. Her company has been awarded over $440,000 in city contracts for new office furniture and furniture assembly in her husband’s tenure as city manager. Ethics experts say the contracts could raise potential conflicts-of-interest because of Noriega’s high-ranking position in the city and may violate state ethics laws.

Florida – Daughter of Former Broward Mayor Fleeced Thousands of Dollars in Campaign Funds, Feds Say

Yahoo News – Grethel Aguila (Miami Herald) | Published: 1/3/2024

The daughter of former Broward Mayor Dale Holness was charged with fraud, accused of using thousands of dollars in campaign funds for personal expenses. The alleged fraud occurred from April 2019 through October 2020, when Richelle Holness was the treasurer for her father’s campaign. Richelle Holness is not the only family member to have faced federal fraud charges recently.

Georgia – Conservative Group Wins Legal Victory Over 2020 Voting Challenges in Georgia

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 1/2/2024

U.S. District Court Judge Steve Jones ruled a conservative group’s efforts to challenge the eligibility of hundreds of thousands of voters in the U.S. Senate runoff elections in Georgia in 2021 did not violate the Voting Rights Act under a clause outlawing voter suppression. The decision was relatively narrow, applying only to Jones’s district, and will do little to change the status quo. Right-wing election groups have already tried to help bring thousands of challenges to voter registrations in states across the country. But the opinion is likely to encourage conservative activists hunting for voter fraud during the 2024 presidential election.

Georgia – Federal Judge Approves Georgia’s Republican-Drawn Congressional Districts

MSN – Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) | Published: 12/28/2023

A federal judge in Georgia approved congressional districts redrawn by the state’s Republican-led legislature, ruling the new map did not continue to illegally dilute the power of Black voters as Democrats and civil rights groups have argued. Georgia is among several states where challenges to congressional maps could affect the makeup of the U.S. House next year.

Illinois – Ex-Illinois House Speaker Wins Six-Month Raincheck in Federal Corruption Trial

Courthouse News Service – Dave Byrnes | Published: 1/3/2024

A federal judge postponed the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan. The decision pushes back the trial start date from April 1 of this year to October 8. Madigan faces 23 charges for racketeering, fraud, conspiracy, and bribery. Central to the charges against Madigan is the definition of “bribery” for public officials in the law. The Supreme Court threw a wrench into the government’s case against Madigan when it agreed to hear a bribery case out of Indiana challenging the interpretation of the section of the law.

Illinois – Former Chicago Alderman Ed Burke Convicted on 13 of 14 Counts at Landmark Federal Corruption Trial; Jury Convicts One Codefendant and Acquits the Other

MSN – Jason Meisner, Ray Long and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 12/21/2023

A jury found former Chicago Ald. Ed Burke guilty on 13 of 14 corruption charges, including racketeering conspiracy, for scheming to use his clout at City Hall to pressure people into hiring his private law firm. Also convicted was real estate developer Charles Cui, who was accused of hiring Burke’s firm to do property tax appeals in exchange for the council member’s intervention in a permit dispute. Burke’s longtime ward aide, Peter Andrews Jr., was acquitted of all counts against him.

Kansas – Wichita City Council Votes to Amend Campaign Finance Ordinance

KSN – Ryan Newton and Zena Taher | Published: 1/2/2024

The Wichita City Council voted to amend the campaign finance ordinance. The amendment prohibits candidates from accepting contributions from foreign and domestic corporations and limited liability companies in city elections. Other entities, such as sole proprietorships, professional associations, partnerships, and PACs, would continue to be permitted to make political contributions.

Maine – Donald Trump Removed from Maine Primary Ballot by Secretary of State

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 12/29/2023

Maine barred Donald Trump from the primary ballot, becoming the second state to block the former president from running again because of his actions before and during the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The challenges to Trump’s candidacy have focused on primaries because Republicans will not choose their nominee until states hold their nominating contests and the party holds its national convention in July. If Trump’s ability to run has not been resolved by then, attention would shift to the general election.

Maryland – Scott Makes His Baby Registry Private, While Ethics Officials Say the Mayor Never Sought a Gift Solicitation Waiver

Baltimore Brew – Mark Reutter | Published: 12/29/2023

Two days after it was reported that Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott was soliciting online for cash, gift cards, and baby supplies for his newborn son, the registry was switched to a private setting. The action came after the chairperson of the city Ethics Board and Baltimore’s inspector general said the mayor never requested a gift solicitation waiver to conduct online fundraising. Scott and his fiancée, Hana Pugh, have so far received more than 95 gifts on their Babylist site. They include at least six $50 cash gifts. The is a city ban on gifts $20 and over.

Michigan – Staffers for Ex-Speaker Lee Chatfield Plead Not Guilty in Financial Misconduct Case

Detroit Free Press – Arpan Lobo | Published: 1/3/2024

Anne and Rob Minard, who worked for former Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield, were arraigned as they face a series of charges stemming from their alleged misappropriation of funds. Affidavits paint a picture of alleged repeated reimbursements to the couple for expenses that were actually paid for with funds from various nonprofits associated with Chatfield.

Michigan – Michigan Supreme Court Allows Trump to Appear on 2024 Primary Ballot

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 12/27/2023

Donald Trump’s name is set to appear on Michigan’s primary ballot after the state Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to his candidacy. The decision provides Trump with a new victory as he tries to get himself restored to the ballot in Colorado and avoid getting knocked off the ballot in other states.

New Jersey – ELEC Moves to Assert Jurisdiction in Jersey Freedom ‘Dark Money’ Lawsuit

Press of Atlantic City – Michelle Brunetti Post | Published: 1/3/2024

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) is asserting its “primary jurisdiction” over investigating and punishing election reporting violations in an amicus brief in a lawsuit against the “dark money” group Jersey Freedom. The New Jersey Republican State Committee sued Jersey Freedom, alleging the group was not complying with state law on reporting its donors and expenditures. Jersey Freedom’s lawyer moved to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing ELEC should handle any complaints against Jersey Freedom.

New York – Hochul Vetoes Controversial Campaign Finance Changes

Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 12/27/2023

Gov. Kathy Hochul vetoed a bill that would have amended the state’s newly established system to publicly finance political campaigns by changing the dollar threshold for candidates to qualify in state elections. The bill would have allowed for the first $250 of any contribution to a campaign in an election cycle to be matched by state funding. Currently, the program only allows matching donations for contributors who gave no more than $250 in a cycle. The amended version would have allowed larger contributions from wealthy donors to receive a taxpayer-funded boost.

Oregon – Oregon Lawmakers’ Overseas Trips Funded by Lobby Groups, Taiwanese Government

Oregon Capital Chronicle – Julia Shumway | Published: 12/22/2023

Oregon lawmakers jetted off to Taiwan, Portugal, Denmark, and technology hubs in California this fall, all paid for by companies and groups that have a keen interest in the laws they pass. These junkets, once common, have been rarer in recent years due to the COVID pandemic and associated travel restrictions. While some trips took lawmakers to tourist destinations, those who went say they were a far cry from the luxurious lobbyist-paid trips to Hawaii, China, and Israel taken by lawmakers in the 2000s that resulted in stricter state ethics laws.

Pennsylvania – Despite Ethics Concerns, Shapiro Will Keep Accepting Tickets from a Group That Gets State Money

Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso and Katie Meyer | Published: 12/22/2023

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro will continue to receive gifts from Team Pennsylvania, a public-private partnership that says it works to improve the state’s “competitiveness and economic prosperity.” This year it paid for tickets and lodgings for Shapiro to attend the Super Bowl in Arizona and funded his tickets to a Philadelphia Phillies playoff game and a Penn State football game. One expert said taking tickets from Team PA could conflict with Shapiro’s gift ban, which bars executive branch employees from accepting goods or services, like tickets, from any “person or entity” that “has financial relations with the commonwealth.”

South Dakota – ‘Governor’s Cup’ Rodeo Among Recipients of Millions from Public Fund Controlled by Noem

Yahoo News – Joshua Haiar (Sioux Falls Argus Leader) | Published: 12/29/2023

In September, Gov. Kristi Noem carried the American flag on horseback into a Sioux Falls arena full of fans. It was the Cinch Playoffs Governor’s Cup with $1 million in prize money. Noem handed out awards, posed for photos with the winners, and shared the images with thousands of followers on her social media accounts. Several months earlier, Noem had decided to use tax dollars from South Dakota employers to help pay for the event.

Tennessee – Tennessee Legislature Can Shield Its Harassment Investigation Records, Judge Rules

MSN – Melissa Brown (Tennessean) | Published: 1/3/2024

The Tennessee General Assembly can legally shield its records of sexual harassment investigations from the public, a judge ruled in a lawsuit related an investigation last spring that led to the abrupt resignation of then-Rep. Scotty Campbell. A Nashville attorney sued the Office of Legislative Administration and its director over unfulfilled public records requests regarding the Legislature’s response to Campbell’s harassment complaint and the General Assembly’s related expenditures.

Virginia – Push for Campaign Finance Reform to Return in Virginia Legislative Session

Richmond Times-Dispatch – Katie King (Virginian-Pilot) | Published: 1/1/2024

Virginia Del. Marcus Simon prefiled legislation for the next General Assembly session that would prohibit politicians from using campaign donations on personal expenditures. Virginia politicians can legally spend campaign donations on essentially anything, and there is no limit on who can contribute or how much donors can give.  Although past efforts were unsuccessful, the General Assembly will have many new faces this year, meaning the bill could potentially find new supporters.

The Wichita City Council amended the campaign finance ordinance to prohibit city candidates from accepting political contributions from corporations and limited liability companies.

Individuals, political action committees, sole proprietorships, professional associations, and partnerships continue to be permitted to make campaign contributions.

A violation of the ordinance is a misdemeanor, with penalties of up $2,500 in fines and six months in jail.

The ordinance was passed as an emergency measure, making the changes effective immediately.

Campaign Finance

Kansas: “Wichita City Council Votes to Amend Campaign Finance Ordinance” by Ryan Newton and Zena Taher for KSN

Virginia: “Push for Campaign Finance Reform to Return in Virginia Legislative Session” by Katie King (Virginian-Pilot) for Richmond Times-Dispatch

Elections

Georgia: “Conservative Group Wins Legal Victory Over 2020 Voting Challenges in Georgia” by Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) for DNyuz

Ethics

California: “DA Charges Ex-San Francisco Building Inspector Who Inspected His Own Home” by Michael Barba for San Francisco Standard

National: “Sen. Bob Menendez Accused of Aiding Qatar in Exchange for Bribes” by Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) for MSN

National: “Special Counsel: Trump immunity claim threatens democracy” by Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) for MSN

Legislative Issues

Tennessee: “Tennessee Legislature Can Shield Its Harassment Investigation Records, Judge Rules” by Melissa Brown (Tennessean) for MSN

Lobbying

National: “Justice Dept. Accuses 2 Political Operatives of Hiding Foreign Lobbying During Trump Administration” by Eric Tucker and Alan Suderman (Associated Press) for MSN

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “Judge Rebuffs GOP Lawmakers’ Bid to Block Arizona Voters’ Dark Money Law” by Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) for Arizona Daily Star

Illinois: “Big Money, Big Problems. Deep-Pocketed, Self-Funding Candidates and Dark Money Mar Illinois Politics” by Tina Sfondeles for Chicago Sun-Times

Ethics

National: “Roberts Sidesteps Supreme Court’s Ethics Controversies in Yearly Report” by Ann Marimow (Washington Post) for MSN

Maryland: “Scott Makes His Baby Registry Private, While Ethics Officials Say the Mayor Never Sought a Gift Solicitation Waiver” by Mark Reutter for Baltimore Brew

Pennsylvania: “Despite Ethics Concerns, Shapiro Will Keep Accepting Tickets from a Group That Gets State Money” by Stephen Caruso and Katie Meyer for Spotlight PA

South Dakota: “‘Governor’s Cup’ Rodeo Among Recipients of Millions from Public Fund Controlled by Noem” by Joshua Haiar (Sioux Falls Argus Leader) for Yahoo News

Lobbying

National: “New Spin on a Revolving Door: Pentagon officials turned venture capitalists” by Eric Lipton (New York Times) for Seattle Times

Oregon: “Oregon Lawmakers’ Overseas Trips Funded by Lobby Groups, Taiwanese Government” by Julia Shumway for Oregon Capital Chronicle

Campaign Finance

National: “Appeals Court Reverses Conviction Against Jeff Fortenberry” by Eric Bazail-Eimil (Politico) for MSN

New York: “Hochul Vetoes Controversial Campaign Finance Changes” by Joshua Solomon for Albany Times Union

Elections

Maine: “Donald Trump Removed from Maine Primary Ballot by Secretary of State” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN

Michigan: “Michigan Supreme Court Allows Trump to Appear on 2024 Primary Ballot” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

National: “Clarence Thomas’ Clerks: An ‘extended family’ with reach and power” by Abbie VanSickle and Steve Eder (New York Times) for Yahoo News

Illinois: “Former Chicago Alderman Ed Burke Convicted on 13 of 14 Counts at Landmark Federal Corruption Trial; Jury Convicts One Codefendant and Acquits the Other” by Jason Meisner, Ray Long and Megan Crepeau (Chicago Tribune) for MSN

Legislative Issues

National: “Lawmakers Who Linger After Accepting New Jobs Stir Concerns” by Justin Papp (Roll Call) for MSN

Redistricting

Georgia: “Federal Judge Approves Georgia’s Republican-Drawn Congressional Districts” by Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) for MSN

The U.S. District Court granted a motion for a preliminary injunction in Minnesota Chamber of Commerce v. Choi (0:23-cv-02015), preventing the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board from enforcing a bill restricting political activities by foreign-influenced corporations.

House File 3 was to be effective January 1, 2024, and would require a corporation making a contribution to a ballot question or an independent expenditure to submit a certification to the board that it was not a foreign-influenced corporation as of the date the contribution or expenditure was made.

The bill defines a foreign-influenced corporation as one for which a single foreign investor owns 1% or more; two or more foreign investors own 5% or more; or a foreign investor participates directly or indirectly in the corporation’s decision-making process with respect to the corporation’s political activities in the United States.

San Jose City Council voted to pass a memorandum to bar multinational corporations from spending money to influence elections.

Corporations would be prohibited from spending money in elections if they are foreign-influenced.

This would be defined as 1 percent or more ownership by a single foreign investor or five percent or more ownership by multiple foreign investors.

The passage of this memorandum will go to a final reading at a city council meeting in January where it is expected to pass unanimously.

 

Campaign Finance

Oklahoma: “Oklahoma Rural Water Association PAC Turns Itself in for Ethics Violations” by Graycen Wheeler for KOSU

Oregon: “Portland’s Campaign Finance Program Scales Back Ahead of 2024 Election” by Alex Zielinski for OPB

Elections

Colorado: “Trump Disqualified from Colorado’s 2024 Primary Ballot by State Supreme Court” by Patrick Marley and Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) for MSN

Georgia: “Appeals Court Shoots Down Mark Meadows’ Bid to Derail Georgia Racketeering Case” by Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) for Yahoo News

Ethics

California: “Fresno Councilmember Under Scrutiny for Private Jet Travel with Executive” by Tim Sheehan (Fresno Bee) for Yahoo News

National: “A ‘Delicate Matter’: Clarence Thomas’ private complaints about money sparked fears he would resign” by Justin Elliot, Joshuaq Kaplan, Alex Mierjeski, and Brett Murphy for ProPublica

National: “Material From Russia Investigation Went Missing as Trump Left Office” by Maggie Haberman, Julian Barnes, Charlie Savage, and Jonathan Swan (New York Times) for Seattle Times

Indiana: “Supreme Court to Review Former Indiana Mayor’s Corruption Appeal” by Lydia Wheeler for Bloomberg Law News

Lobbying

California: “Orange Becomes the Latest City in OC to Strengthen Lobbyist Rules” by Hosam Elattar for Voice of OC

Campaign Finance

National: “Ron DeSantis Wanted to Change the Way Campaigns Were Funded. Then the Fights Started.” by Michael Scherer, Hannah Knowles, and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN

South Carolina: “Nancy Mace Racked Up Nearly $17K in Fines as a State Rep. She Will Only Pay a Fraction of It.” by Nick Reynolds for Charleston Post and Courier

Elections

Georgia: “Rudy Giuliani Ordered to Pay $148 Million for False 2020 Election Claims” by Spencer Hsu, Tom Jackman, Rachel Weiner, and Olivia Diaz (Washington Post) for MSN

Michigan: “Appeals Panel Won’t Block Trump from Michigan’s Presidential Primary Ballot” by Beth LeBlanc for Detroit News

Ethics

National: “The Rise of AI Fake News Is Creating a ‘Misinformation Superspreader'” by Pranshu Verma (Washington Post) for MSN

New York: “State Ethics Panel in Limbo as It Appeals Ruling It’s Unconstitutional” by Brendan Lyons for Albany Times Union

Oklahoma: “Ethics Commission Retains Attorney Ahead of ‘Nightmare’ Guardian System Scenario” by Michael McNutt for NonDoc

South Dakota: “New Briefs Details South Dakota Officials’ Questions About Conflict of Interest Clause” by Annie Todd (Sioux Falls Argus Leader) for Yahoo News

Campaign Finance

National: “FEC Revises Rules for Candidates Drawing Salaries from Campaigns” by Daniela Altimari (Roll Call) for MSN

Elections

Georgia: “Judges Dubious of Mark Meadows’ Bid to Avoid Facing Charges in Georgia State Court” by Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) for Yahoo News

Kansas: “Kansas Supreme Court Rules Against Kris Kobach and Scott Schwab in Election Law Case” by Jason Alatidd (Topeka Capital Journal) for MSN

National: “A Fight for Black Representation, with a Civil Rights Landmark on the Line” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN

Ethics

California: “Independent Governance Reform Group Calls for Stronger Ethics Commission” by Caroline Petrow-Cohen (Los Angeles Times) for MSN

New Mexico: “Ethics Board Advances Search for Online Critic ‘Jay Baker'” by Carina Julig for Santa Fe New Mexican

New York: “After 40 Witnesses and 43 Days of Testimony, Here’s What We Learned at Trump’s Civil Fraud Trial” by Michael Sisak and Jennifer Pelz (Associated Press) for MSN

Redistricting

Kentucky: “Kentucky Supreme Court Upholds Congressional Boundaries Passed by GOP-Led Legislature” by Bruce Scheiner (Associated Press) for ABC News

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed three campaign finance bills effective February 13, 2024.

House Bill 5141, House Bill 5143, and House Bill 5144, prohibit distributing materially deceptive media and amend the disclaimer requirements for political ads and add definitions to the Campaign Finance Act to facilitate the implementation of the new laws.

House Bill 5144 prohibits a person from distributing materially deceptive media if all of the following apply:

• The person knows the media falsely represents a depicted individual;
• The distribution occurs within 90 days before an election;
• The person intends the distribution to harm the reputation or electoral prospects of a candidate in an election and likely to cause that result; and
• The person intends the distribution to change the voting behavior of electors in an election by deceiving the electors.

House Bill 5141 amends the disclaimer requirements for political ads, including special requirements for ads generated by artificial intelligence.

House Bill 5143 adds the definitions to the Michigan Campaign Finance Act including artificial intelligence, ballot question committee, bundling committee, and business.

National/Federal

Kevin McCarthy Uses PAC to Lavish Cash on High-End Resorts, Private Jets and Fine Dining

MSN – Paul Pringle and Adam Elmahrek (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 12/7/2023

As her exits Congress two months after his historic ouster as House speaker, political obituaries tout Kevin McCarthy’s skills as a prolific fundraiser on behalf of Republican candidates. Also setting him apart from other congressional leaders was his roughly decade-long pattern of using his Majority Committee PAC to spend lavishly on hotels, private jets, and fine dining establishments, according to a Los Angeles Times analysis. From 2012 through last June, McCarthy’s PAC shelled out more than $1 million on hotels, private air travel, and eateries.

Trump Gag Order Reinstated but Narrowed in Jan. 6 Case

MSN – Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 12/8/2023

A federal appeals court narrowed an order limiting what Donald Trump can say about people involved in the criminal case alleging he tried to subvert the 2020 election results, saying he cannot talk about witnesses’ involvement or single out other individuals in ways likely to interfere with the case. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan had prohibited him from “targeting” any individuals involved in the case involved in the case. The judges said “targeting” was too broad a prohibition on Trump and could be “chilling speech” unlikely to have any impact on the case.

House Ethics Committee Requests Interview with Witness in Gaetz Probe

MSN – Paula Reid and Annie Grayer (CNN) | Published: 12/7/2023

The House ethics committee reached out to at least one witness as part of its investigation into U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz to schedule an interview in the coming weeks, the latest sign the once dormant probe remains open. The Justice Department in February informed Gaetz’s lawyers it would not bring criminal charges against the Florida Republican after a yearslong sex-trafficking investigation. Gaetz has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

Dictator-for-a-Day? Scholars Say Trump Can Do Damage Without Being One.

MSN – Sarah Ellison (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2023

For autocracy scholars and constitutional law experts, Donald Trump’s statements about being a dictator for a day if he is elected again raised alarms that he had thought carefully about how to consolidate the levers of power should he return to office in ways that eluded him in his first four years in the White House. Scholars say even without violating the letter of the law, Trump would have access to broad powers granted to him as chief of the executive branch. He does not need to become a dictator to subvert democracy, they say: he can simply use the tools of democracy to do so.

As Advertisers Flee Musk’s X, Democrats Splurge on Political Ads

MSN – Cristiano Lima and Aaron Schaffer (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2023

Advertisers are fleeing Elon Musk’s X amid rising concerns the social media site and its owner are amplifying antisemitic and hateful material. But an unlikely group of holdouts has continued to pump ad dollars into the embattled platform: Democrats running for office. Democrats have spent over a million dollars to run thousands of political ads on X since the platform lifted its ban on such messages earlier this year.

Supreme Court Will Consider Fast-Tracking Trump Appeal in D.C. Trial

MSN – Devlin Barrett, Perry Stein, Robert Barnes, and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 12/11/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court will consider special counsel Jack Smith’s request to fast-track consideration of Donald Trump’s claim he is immune from prosecution for alleged election obstruction in 2020, intensifying the legal jockeying over whether Trump’s criminal trial will stay on schedule for early next year. The response by the Supreme Court came hours after Smith’s office filed its request seeking to essentially leapfrog an appeals court process that Trump has already started but which could take months to resolve.

DeSantis’ Campaign and Allied Super PAC Face New Concerns About Legal Conflicts, AP Sources Say

MSN – Steve Peoples and Thomas Beaumont (Associated Press) | Published: 12/12/2023

As Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis works to project strength in the Republican presidential primaries and cut into Donald Trump’s huge lead, DeSantis’s expansive political machine is facing leadership challenges, stagnant polling numbers, and new concerns about potential legal conflicts. There has been concern in recent weeks among some within DeSantis’s operation that interactions between his campaign and his network of outside groups are blurring the lines of what is legally permissible.

Still Lacking Evidence, House GOP Votes to Formalize Biden Impeachment Inquiry

MSN – Jaqueline Alemany and Matt Viser (Washington Post) | Published: 12/13/2023

House Republicans voted to formally authorize an impeachment inquiry against President Biden to strengthen their oversight powers as GOP lawmakers continue to investigate the Biden family’s finances. The foundation of the impeachment inquiry rests on an unsubstantiated allegation that has become the linchpin of conspiracy theories and false claims regarding the Biden family’s purported corrupt and criminal conduct.

A ‘Black Hole’ Exists in State Lobbying Disclosures: Report

Yahoo News – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 12/13/2023

A report commissioned by Public Citizen found 98 percent of S&P 500 companies do not provide their investors with state-specific data on lobbying activity. Since 2010, investors have filed 576 shareholder resolutions requesting more details on how much companies spend on lobbying activities and oversight of those activities, the report found. The only S&P 500 company that disclosed material risk connected to lobbying on its annual report to investors was FirstEnergy, which was wrapped up in a recent scandal that thrust this issue into the spotlight.

Supreme Court Will Review Scope of Obstruction Law That Trump Is Charged with Breaking

Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 12/13/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to take up a case that could derail hundreds of January 6 felony prosecutions and could also deal a blow to special counsel Jack Smith’s prosecution of Donald Trump. The case, arising from the prosecution of a defendant accused of pushing against police and inflaming a mob attempting to breach the Capitol, calls into question prosecutors’ handling of an Enron-era obstruction law to punish those who stormed Congress.

Kansas Republican Watkins, Ousted Amid Voter Fraud Charges, Returns to Congress as Lobbyist

Yahoo News – Daniel Desrochers (Kansas City Star) | Published: 12/11/2023

Former Rep. Steve Watkins is back in the U.S. Capitol, this time as a lobbyist. He waited more than two years after leaving office before registering as a lobbyist. Watkins entered a diversion agreement on three felony charges for voting in the wrong city council race in Topeka’s 2019 municipal election. A little less than a year after admitting guilt, Watkins registered a company called Huxley Rock LLC. Huxley Rock is a one-man firm. Watkins’ LinkedIn page says it specializes in business and political consulting.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – Alaska Campaign Watchdog Rules Anti-Ranked Choice Group Can Continue Gathering Signatures

Yahoo News – Iris Samuels (Anchorage Daily News) | Published: 12/7/2023

An anti-ranked choice voting ballot group will be allowed to continue operating with no immediate consequences for alleged campaign finance violations after a decision by the Alaska Public Offices Commission. The commission considered whether to expedite the adjudication of a complaint alleging the ballot group was helped by an Anchorage church, in violation of the law, as the group works to repeal Alaska’s voting system. By the time the commission rules on whether the law was violated, the group’s work will be done.

Arizona – Phoenix Approves Ethics Commission After 6 Years and on the Fourth Attempt

MSN – Sam Kmack (Arizona Republic) | Published: 12/13/2023

The Phoenix City Council approved the creation of ethics commission after spending six years trying and failing to convene the group, which will now independently investigate complaints of ethical violations against elected officials and other city leaders. Such groups exist in almost every other sizable city in the country, said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. But since 2017, Phoenix has struggled to put the commission together thanks to consistent objections from officials on both sides of the isle.

Arizona – Arizona GOP Leaders Sued to Stop ‘Dark Money’ Transparency. A Judge Will Rule by Year’s End

Yahoo News – Mary Joe Pitzl (Arizona Republic) | Published: 12/13/2023

A judge said he will rule by December 29 in a case challenging the constitutionality of a voter-approved law on campaign finance transparency. Attorneys representing Republican legislative leaders are asking Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Timothy Ryan to issue a preliminary injunction to block the law. It requires disclosure of major donors to campaigns that until now has been able to mask their contributors by creating a class of nonprofit organizations that do not have to name their donors.

California – How Well Is Your Legislator Representing You?

CalMatters – Sameea Kamal | Published: 12/10/2023

Despite the hundreds of laws that legislators pass each year, many Californians are not always aware of what their representatives do, or how their decisions impact their lives. Their job description is modeled after what federal lawmakers do, in response to specific needs, or based on how legislators interpret the principles of representation. Given the lack of strict requirement, how do we measure how well a lawmaker is performing?

Colorado – Lawyer on Denver Health Board Says He’s Stopped Lobbying for Tobacco Giant Altria After Getting a Call to Resign

Colorado Public Radio – John Daley | Published: 12/13/2023

Denver updated its application for those who want to sit on one of the city’s 130 boards and commissions. The application now includes questions that ask applicants if they are a registered lobbyist and if they would have a conflict-of-interest in their new position. The change was a request from the city council to add transparency after some members thought there was not enough when the former mayor appointed a lobbyist whose clients included a tobacco company to the board of Denver Health.

Florida – DeSantis Staffers Blocked Release of Travel Records, Whistleblower Says

MSN – Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) | Published: 12/13/2023

During a meeting, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) officials said some of Gov. Ron DeSantis’s travel records should be released, but the governor’s aides overruled them, citing a new state law that restricts access to those records. The dispute escalated into a major battle over the law limiting disclosure of DeSantis’s travel activities and information about his state taxpayer-funded security detail as he crisscrosses the country seeking the Republican presidential nomination. The FDLE is tasked with protecting and transporting the governor and maintaining his travel records.

Florida – A Report Rips Disney for Freebies to Its Local Board. It Omits Gifts to Top Florida Politicians.

NBC News – Noah Pransky and Alec Hernández | Published: 12/7/2023

A war of words – and regulations – escalated when a board, hand-picked by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, endorsed an audit alleging Disney World for decades used free park perks to improperly influence public officials and employees tasked with the oversight of the park. The audit claimed Disney gave complimentary annual passes and steep discounts to the public employees, calling the perks “akin to bribes.”

Florida – Howland Files Legislation for Certain No-Bid Contracts to Go Through Jacksonville City Council

Yahoo News – Hanna Holthaus (Florida Times-Union) | Published: 12/11/2023

New legislation could bring an end to no-bid lobbying contracts in Jacksonville city government. The city council’s finance committee criticized the $300,000 federal grant writing and lobbying contract to Langton Consulting, owned by Mayor Donna Deegan supporters, because the administration offered it directly without shopping for other bids. Committee Chairperson Nick Howland asked the administration to drop the contract and filed a bill to require all future state and federal lobbying and grant writing contracts to be approved by city council.

Georgia – Georgia Libertarians Fight Two-Party Campaign Finance Law at 11th Circuit

Courthouse News Service – Kayla Goggin | Published: 12/13/2023

An appeals court will decide whether to give the Libertarian Party of Georgia another chance at pursuing its challenge to a campaign finance law that allows some candidates to accept unlimited campaign contributions, a fundraising advantage the party says benefits Republican and Democratic hopefuls over third-party contenders. The lawsuit claims the act unfairly allows Republican and Democratic candidates to create special leadership committees to accept campaign contributions over the typical limits.

Georgia – Giuliani Could Pay Millions as Ga. Election Worker Defamation Trial Starts

MSN – Spencer Hsu and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 12/10/2023

Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani could be on the hook for up to $43.5 million in damages as a defamation lawsuit filed against him by two Georgia election workers goes to trial. The showdown between the financially strapped Giuliani and the two temporary poll workers he baselessly accused of ballot tampering in 2020 will highlight a major court battle over false claims that became central to former President Trump’s efforts to stay in power and is now at the heart of two criminal cases against him.

Illinois – Four Years Later, City Council Finally Poised to Extend Lobbyist Requirements to Nonprofits

Chicago Sun-Times – Fran Spielman | Published: 12/11/2023

Chicago is finally getting around to broadening the definition of registered lobbyists to include nonprofits, but only after softening the blow to avoid tying their hands with costly red tape. The city council’s Committee on Ethics and Government Oversight passed a revised ordinance that calls for Chicago to join New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Philadelphia in requiring nonprofit lobbyists to register and file regular reports with the Board of Ethics.

Illinois – Board of Ethics Finds Probable Cause Four Lobbyists Improperly Donated to Johnson

MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 12/13/2023

The Chicago Board of Ethics found two registered lobbyists appeared to violate an executive order by giving money to Mayor Brandon Johnson. The violations do not carry a penalty for the mayor but could mean those lobbyists lose their ability to work at City Hall. Former Mayor Rahm Emanuel in 2011 signed the orders barring donations from city contractors and lobbyists, which will remain in place until a future mayor rescinds them.

Iowa – Iowa Lawmaker Calls for Gov. Kim Reynolds to Remove Satanic Display from Capitol

MSN – Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez and Noelle Alviz-Gransee (Des Moines Register) | Published: 12/11/2023

A satanic display placed in the Iowa Capitol is unconstitutional, said Rep. Brad Sherman, who is calling on Gov. Kim Reynolds to order its removal. But other Republican legislators say they would oppose the government limiting freedom of speech in reaction to the display, which will be in place for a total of two weeks.

Maine – Anti-Super PAC Campaign Says They Have Enough Signatures to Get on the Maine Ballot

Maine Beacon – Dan Neuman | Published: 12/7/2023

A ballot campaign led by activist Lawrence Lessig to limit contributions to super PACs says it has collected enough signatures to qualify for the Maine ballot in 2024. Super PACs differ from traditional PACs in that they give corporations the ability to make unlimited contributions. Maine Citizens to End Super PACs, the group behind the ballot question, argues that if successful, the initiative would cap donations to super PACs at $5,000, all but eliminating their effectiveness.

Maine – Maine Media Groups, Utilities Challenge New Law on Foreign Spending on Referendums

Portland Press Herald – Rachel Ohm | Published: 12/12/2023

Maine’s two largest power companies and groups representing media outlets filed separate federal lawsuits challenging a state law passed by voters in November to ban foreign governments and affiliated organizations from spending money on state and local referendum campaigns. The measure is largely a response to foreign government spending in the referendum campaign two years ago over the future of a planned electricity corridor in western Maine.

Massachusetts – Brookline School Officials Violated Massachusetts Campaign Finance Laws by Sending Emails About Tax Increases

MSN – James Vaznis (Boston Globe) | Published: 12/9/2023

Tucked inside various newsletters to parents in Brookline last spring were appeals from school administrators to support property tax hikes at the ballot box for the school budget, accompanied by warnings about devastating cuts if the votes failed. Brookline officials got their way at the ballot box, but repeatedly broke the state’s campaign finance law by sending out the emails to influence the vote, according to an investigation by the Massachusetts Office of Campaign and Political Finance.

Michigan – Records: Michigan senator helped steer $25M Clare grant now under investigation

Bridge Michigan – Jonathan Oosting and Mike Wilkinson | Published: 12/13/2023

A state senator and a lobbyist intervened to help a former legislative staffer obtain a $25 million grant that is now under investigation by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel for possible prosecution. Records shed new light on how a no-bid contract was awarded to a nonprofit created and run by Dave Coker, who once worked for them-House Speaker Jason Wentworth. State Sen. Rick Outman acknowledged he phoned state health officials on behalf of the project, but maintained he had no idea that Coker would benefit.

Michigan – Whitmer Signs Bills Criminalizing Election Official Intimidation, Curbing AI in Campaigns

Detroit News – Beth LeBlanc | Published: 11/30/2023

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed nearly 20 bills that will create penalties for intimidating an election worker, solidify the process for presidential electors, change the way young people register to vote, and put restrictions on the use of artificial intelligence in campaign ads. Bill sponsors described the legislation as a way to button up state laws in the wake of controversy over the 2020 presidential election.

Michigan – Whitmer Signs Bills Implementing Proposal 1

MSN – Clara Hendrickson (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 12/9/2023

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed bills implementing requirements for top state officials and lawmakers to report information about their finances after voters approved a constitutional amendment mandating the disclosures. The bills go beyond Proposal 1, subjecting candidates for office to financial reporting requirements, for instance. But they do not go as far as some Democratic lawmakers and transparency advocates had hoped.

Nevada – Lombardo Spurned Ethics Commissioner’s Reapplication Ahead of Major Vote, Emails Show

Nevada Independent – Tabitha Mueller | Published: 12/13/2023

Days before a Nevada Commission on Ethics on a potential $1.6 million fine for using his sheriff’s badge and uniform during his 2022 campaign for governor, Gov. Joe Lombardo appointed two new members to the eight-member board, both of whom later voted against fining or censuring the governor. Emails indicate Lombardo made the new appointments despite a former Republican commissioner expressing interest in serving another term.

New Jersey – Judge Throws Out Suit That Tried to Block Changes to NJ Campaign Finance Law

Yahoo News – Ashley Balcerzak (Bergen Record) | Published: 12/11/2023

A state judge dismissed a lawsuit that  the former leader of New Jersey’s campaign finance watchdog agency filed against Gov. Phil Murphy seeking to overturn a controversial new law revamping campaign finance rules. It was the second of two lawsuits filed by Jeff Brindle, the former executive director of the Election Law Enforcement Commission. The judge dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning Brindle cannot file the same lawsuit again.

New York – Hochul Vetoes Lobbying Loophole Bill After Chief Judge Battle

Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 12/10/2023

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul vetoed bipartisan legislation intended to close a loophole in lobbying laws that was exposed during a political battle over her initial, and failed, nomination of a new chief judge of the Court of Appeals. The efforts to influence the selection of the state’s top judge had centered on Hochul’s efforts to install Justice Hector LaSalle as the top jurist on the state’s highest court. The nomination triggered well-funded efforts to influence the Legislature’s decision on LaSalle’s appointment, revealing a gap in state law that allows unregistered lobbying in judicial nominations and other top state offices.

New York – New York High Court Allows State Democrats Chance to Alter Congressional Maps

MSN – Maegan Vazquez and Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) | Published: 12/12/2023

The New York State Court of Appeals granted Democrats who control the state Legislature a chance to approve a new set of congressional district lines, effectively throwing out a map that led to several Republican victories in 2022 House races. The ruling could be consequential in determining which party controls the House during the next Congress. In 2022, Republicans flipped four districts in New York, giving them a razor-thin majority in the House.

New York – Appeals Court Denies Trump’s ‘Presidential Immunity’ Argument in Defamation Lawsuit

MSN – Philip Marcelo (Associated Press) | Published: 12/13/2023

A federal appeals court ruled Donald Trump gave up his right to argue presidential immunity protects him from being held liable for statements he made in 2019 when he denied he raped advice columnist E. Jean Carroll. A three-judge panel upheld a lower court’s ruling that Trump had effectively waived the immunity defense by not raising it when Carroll first filed a defamation lawsuit against him four years ago.

Oklahoma – Okla. Ethics Commission Names New Executive Director

NonDoc – Michael McNutt | Published: 12/7/2023

Lee Anne Bruce Boone was named as the new executive director of the Oklahoma Ethics Commission. She will start her duties on January 4, succeeding Ashley Kemp. Commission Chairperson Jarred Brejcha said Boone’s leadership skills stood out among the 14 applicants for the post. All the applicants were from Oklahoma.

Oregon – ‘Thank God They Walked Out’: Oregon’s partisan divide highlights heightened animosity in statehouses

Yahoo News – Paul Demko (Politico) | Published: 12/13/2023

Ten Oregon Republican state senators may face the end of their legislative careers for a six-week legislative walkout aimed at thwarting what they see as a radical Democratic agenda. The lawmakers are banned from running for reelection for accumulating at least 10 unexcused absences during this year’s legislative session. It is arguably the most glaring example of how Washington’s toxic partisan culture is increasingly infecting statehouses across the country.

Pennsylvania – The Philly Ethics Board Dropped Its Case Against the ‘Super PAC’ That Backed Mayoral Candidate Jeff Brown

MSN – Sean Collins Walsh (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 12/11/2023

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics dropped its lawsuit against the super PAC that supported Jeff Brown’s unsuccessful run for mayor, ending a legal saga that shook up the election and contributed to Brown’s fifth-place finish in the Democratic primary. The board announced it will instead focus on revising the campaign finance regulations that were at the center of the dispute.

Texas – Supreme Court Allows Texas Voting Map Challenged by Civil Rights Advocates

MSN – Robert Barnes and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 12/12/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court allowed a local Texas election to go forward under a map that a lower court had found diluted the votes of Black and Latino residents. The order came in response to a challenge from civil rights advocates opposed to the voting districts in Galveston County. While the case involves the boundaries in just one locality, it could have broader implications for challenges to election maps and the protection of voting rights nationwide.

Washington – WA GOP Fights Secretary of State’s Effort to Track Election Misinformation

Seattle Times – Jim Brunner | Published: 12/11/2023

An effort by Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs to track and refute viral online misinformation about elections has prompted objections from the state Republican Party. The state GOP recently filed a formal complaint with the Executive Ethics Board, accusing Hobbs of violating the constitution and his oath of office by hiring a firm to scour social media for harmful “narratives and threats” about Washington elections officials and voting.

Campaign Finance Maine: “Maine Media Groups, Utilities Challenge New Law on Foreign Spending on Referendums” by Rachel Ohm for Portland Press Herald Elections National: “Supreme Court Will Review Scope of Obstruction Law That Trump Is Charged with Breaking” by Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) for Yahoo News Ethics Florida: “DeSantis Staffers Blocked Release of Travel Records, Whistleblower Says” by Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) for MSN Nevada: “Lombardo Spurned Ethics Commissioner’s Reapplication Ahead of Major Vote, Emails Show” by Tabitha Mueller for Nevada Independent Legislative Issues Oregon: “‘Thank God They Walked Out’: Oregon’s partisan divide highlights heightened animosity in statehouses” by Paul Demko (Politico) for Yahoo News Lobbying Colorado: “Lawyer on Denver Health Board Says He’s Stopped Lobbying for Tobacco Giant Altria After Getting a Call to Resign” by John Daley for Colorado Public Radio Illinois: “Board of Ethics Finds Probable Cause Four Lobbyists Improperly Donated to Johnson” by A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) for MSN National: “A ‘Black Hole’ Exists in State Lobbying Disclosures: Report” by Taylor Giorno (The Hill) for Yahoo News Redistricting New York: “New York High Court Allows State Democrats Chance to Alter Congressional Maps” by Maegan Vazquez and Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) for MSN Texas: “Supreme Court Allows Texas Voting Map Challenged by Civil Rights Advocates” by Robert Barnes and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) for MSN