September 2, 2016 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

NYCU Video Digest – September 2, 2016

See what’s happening in government relations this week with our Video Digest. Enjoy!

September 2, 2016 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – September 2, 2016

Federal: Addicted to Making Campaign Contributions? The Atlantic – Russell Berman | Published: 8/30/2016 U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders raised $231 million from more than 2.7 million donors in his campaign for president, depending on grassroots support rather than on wealthy bundlers. […]

Federal:

Addicted to Making Campaign Contributions?
The Atlantic – Russell Berman | Published: 8/30/2016

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders raised $231 million from more than 2.7 million donors in his campaign for president, depending on grassroots support rather than on wealthy bundlers. A benefit of relying on small donations from a large number of backers is that a campaign can go back to them repeatedly before they hit the $2,700 limit for individual contributions. And the Sanders campaign, like most campaigns in the modern era, did so, sending a barrage of urgent pleas for donations in email blasts. The excessive donations point to flaws in how the Sanders campaign managed and communicated with his most passionate supporters. Many of his donors were simply unaware of the federal limits, or if they were aware, they assumed the campaign would prevent them from contributing too much. It did not.

Breitbart Rises from Outlier to Potent Voice in Campaign
New York Times – Michael Grynbaum and John Herrman | Published: 8/28/2016

Breitbart News, once a curiosity of the fringe right wing, is now an increasingly powerful voice, and virtual rallying spot, for millions of disaffected conservatives who propelled Donald Trump to the Republican nomination. Known for bashing the GOP establishment, Breitbart now finds itself at the center of the party’s presidential campaign. Its longtime chairperson, Stephen Bannon, was named campaign chief by Trump, whose nationalist, conspiracy-minded message routinely mirrors the Breitbart worldview. The site received its biggest billing yet in the form of a scathing condemnation. In a nationally televised speech, Hillary Clinton identified Breitbart as the Democratic Party’s leading media enemy, warning about a “de facto merger” between the Trump campaign and a news outlet that she described as racist, radical, and offensive.

Experts Poke Holes in Clinton Foundation’s Promised Donor Ban
The Hill – Jonathan Swan | Published: 9/1/2016

Ethics experts question the Clinton Foundation’s plan to avoid conflicts-of-interest during a Hillary Clinton presidency. The charity pledged not to accept foreign or corporate donations if she is elected. But watchdogs say it would be relatively easy for foreign governments or individuals to funnel cash to the foundation without the public being aware. It is not clear whether Chelsea Clinton would still raise money for the charity if her mother were to win the election. Bill Clinton has promised to step down from its board and stop fundraising if that happens. Assertions that donors to the charity got special access to Hillary Clinton while she was secretary of state have dogged her campaign.

How One Donor Is Profiting Off the Trump and Sanders Campaigns
The Atlantic – Russell Berman | Published: 8/28/2016

Entrepreneur Randy Treibel has contributed about $25,000 in total to Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders, more than any other person has given to both campaigns combined. But Treibel is not donating all this money out of devotion to these unlikely political insurgents – he is just trying to make a profit. He has been buying Trump and Sanders campaign merchandise in bulk and reselling it through his retail company on Amazon at a considerable markup. A Trump sign that costs $10 on his campaign website, for example, will sell for $35 on Amazon, Treibel said. And it is all completely legal under campaign rules. When asked why he did not bother to buy up Hillary Clinton stickers and signs, Treibel responded, “That stuff just doesn’t sell; nobody buys it.”

From the States and Municipalities:

Alabama – More Lawmakers (and Two Ethics Commissioners) Who Got Free Trips on Alabama Lenders’ Dime
AL.com – Kyle Whitmire (Alabama Media Group) | Published: 8/31/2016

The Alabama Lenders Association has amended its last two years’ of lobbying activity reports to include two trips where the organization paid for lodging, meals, and entertainment for numerous state lawmakers and other public officials. Records show the association hosted similar events in earlier years. But it did not disclose those earlier trips because it had not registered as a principal. Because the association had not registered and did not submit lobbying reports, it is impossible to tell which lawmakers it invited on those trips and how much it spent on them.

Alabama – Pro-Marijuana Group Challenges Alabama Lobbying Law
AL.com – Mike Cason | Published: 9/1/2016

The Institute for Justice filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Alabama law that requires all registered lobbyists to attend an ethics training class in Montgomery. The suit was filed on behalf of Maggie Ellinger-Locke and the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP). It contends that the requirement unduly burdens Ellinger-Locke because she lives in Arlington, Virginia and works at the MPP headquarters in Washington, DC. The Alabama Ethics Commission denied Ellinger-Locke’s request to take the class remotely. “If a person wants to talk to an elected official about a matter of public policy, they shouldn’t have to take a government-mandated class; instead, the only thing they should need is an opinion,” said Paul Sherman, a lawyer for the institute.

Connecticut – Inside the Political Fundraising Game
CT Post – Ken Dixon, Angela Carella, and Neil Vigdor | Published: 8/28/2016

A dozen contractors barred from contributing to state political candidates in Connecticut gave almost $1 million to the Democratic Governors Association, which in turn funneled $3.9 million to a PAC supporting Gov. Dannel Malloy’s 2014 re-election campaign. The transfer of money, though apparently legal, effectively circumvented Connecticut’s clean election laws, which are intended to limit the influence of wealthy special interests on state government. Michael Brandi, executive director of the State Elections Enforcement Commission, said it is hard to ferret out the source of campaign cash if donors want to remain anonymous.

Illinois – Chicago Insider Who Took $2 Million in Bribes in Red Light Camera Scandal Gets 10 Years in Prison
Los Angeles Times – David Kidwell (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 8/29/2016

A former Chicago transportation official embroiled in a corruption scandal over the award of a lucrative contract for red-light cameras was sentenced to 10 years in prison. John Bills, who served as assistant commissioner at the Department of Transportation, was convicted on 20 counts, including fraud, bribery, conspiracy, and tax fraud for taking up to $2 million in bribes and gifts in return for awarding $100 million in red lights camera contracts. The contracts went to Redflex Traffic Systems in 2003. Bills was also ordered to pay the city $2 million in restitution.

Maine – Paul LePage, Maine Governor, Now Says He’s Not Quitting
New York Times – Jess Bidgood | Published: 8/31/2016

Facing pressure to resign after comments many called racist and a profanity-laced voicemail left for state Rep. Drew Gattine, Maine Gov. Paul LePage told reporters he will not be stepping down and will seek spiritual guidance. LePage had hinted that he would not finish his current term after facing intense criticism for his latest actions. His six years in office have been marked by controversy. Even as he fueled outrage among Democrats and angst among many moderate Republicans, his well of support, fed by voters who are drawn to his unfiltered political style, never seemed to run dry. But the events of the past week have led to a rupture in his own Republican Party.

Missouri – Audit Finds Senate Slush Fund for Lobbyist-Financed Meals
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Kurt Erickson | Published: 8/29/2016

Missouri lawmakers overall do a good job managing taxpayer funds, but are too generous with time off for staff and too willing to accept lobbyist money for meals, according to a pair of audits that also criticize legislators for secrecy. State Auditor Nicole Galloway said the Senate should close a bank account used to solicit lobbyist donations to buy meals for lawmakers. The audit says a House interim committee asked lobbyists for contributions to pay for a tour bus. The Senate says it will look for other ways to pay for meals, but it does not see a solution that will work. The House noted representatives failed this year to ban lobbyist-financed travel for lawmakers.

Nebraska – Panel Tells Embattled Nebraska Senator to Resign by Friday
ABC News – Grant Schulte (Associated Press) | Published: 8/29/2016

State Sen. Bill Kintner, who is ensnared in a cybersex scandal, was given another opportunity to resign before the Nebraska Legislature’s Executive Board determines possible action against him. Kintner was fined $1,000 by the state Accountability and Disclosure Commission after admitting to the online sexual encounter on a state-owned laptop with a woman. The woman, who is believed to have ties to an Ivory Coast crime syndicate, later threatened to expose the encounter unless Kintner paid her $4,500.

New York – Judge: Citizens United must disclose donor information to NY
ABC News – Larry Neumeister (Associated Press) | Published: 8/29/2016

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit in which Citizens United sought to block New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman from enforcing rules requiring the conservative group to disclose more information about its donors. U.S. District Court Judge Sidney Stein said the attorney general did not violate Citizens United’s First Amendment rights by requiring registered charitable organizations to disclose names, addresses, and contributions of big donors before soliciting funds in the state. Citizens United is best known as the plaintiff in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that allowed unlimited independent spending by corporations and labor unions in election campaigns.

North Carolina – North Carolina Republicans Accused of Dodging Order to Fix Election Rules
New York Times – Michael Wines | Published: 8/30/2016

When a federal appeals court overturned much of North Carolina’s 2013 election law in July, saying it had been deliberately intended to discourage African-Americans from voting, it also tossed out the ground rules for this year’s elections in a critical swing state. In each of the state’s 100 counties, local elections boards filed new election rules with the state. Now, critics are accusing some of the boards, all of which are controlled by Republicans, of staging an end run around a court ruling they are supposed to carry out. Like the law that was struck down, say voting rights advocacy groups and some Democrats who are contesting the rewritten election plans, many election plans have been intentionally written to suppress the black vote.

Pennsylvania – State Not Tracking Lobbying by Marijuana Companies
Allentown Morning Call – Scott Kraus | Published: 8/25/2016

It is very difficult find out how much has been spent trying to tilt the playing field for a potentially lucrative but also controversial medical marijuana industry that is in its infancy in Pennsylvania. That is because there is no category for lobbyists or the principals they represent to report marijuana lobbying, and state officials have no immediate plans to add one. The lobbying detected in the state’s search for The Allentown Morning Call was reported under the “other” category, where filers wrote in medical marijuana. Many states’ lobbying disclosure laws are weak and fail to track lobbying by subject at all, according to the Center for Public Integrity.

Virginia – The Money Floods in When the General Assembly Gathers
The Daily Press – Dave Ress | Published: 8/28/2016

Virginia lawmakers received more than $227,000 in campaign contributions over the past five years during the days they were actively considering bills, many of which affected donors, a review of more than 100,000 contributions found. State law bans legislators and statewide officials from accepting political donations “on and after the first day of a regular session of the General Assembly through adjournment.” Senate Minority Leader Dick Saslaw accepted $5,000 from Anderson Financial on the first day of the 2016 session. Saslaw said he believes it is legal to receive donations on the morning of the first day of the session, since the Legislature formally convenes at noon.

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

August 30, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Campaign Finance “How One Donor Is Profiting Off the Trump and Sanders Campaigns” by Russell Berman for The Atlantic Connecticut: “Inside the Political Fundraising Game” by Ken Dixon, Angela Carella, and Neil Vigdor for CT Post South Dakota: “Koch Brothers-Backed […]

August 29, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Lobbying Florida: “Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez’s Son Rose to the Top Skirting Lobbying Rules, Critics Say” by Francisco Alvarado for FloridaBulldog.org Hawaii: “Just 2 Lobbyists Have Donated $650k to Hawaii Candidates in the Past 10 Years” by Jaelynn Grisso for […]

August 24, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday Government Relations News

Lobbying New York: “NY State Ethics Watchdog Investigating Nonprofit with Ties to Large Corporate Political Donor” by Larry Kaplan for Nonprofit Quarterly Campaign Finance “Sanders’ New Group Exempt from Campaign Finance Laws” by Jasper Craven for VTDigger.org Florida: “On 2nd […]

August 23, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Signs Suggest Hillary Clinton May Be More Open to Lobbyists in Her Administration” by Catherine Ho for Washington Post “The Lobbying Law at the Center of Manafort’s Trouble with Ukraine” by Megan Wilson for The Hill Missouri: “Republican Resigns […]

August 22, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Campaign Finance “How One Family’s Deep Pockets Helped Reshape Donald Trump’s Campaign” by Nicholas Confessore for New York Times “Rep. Ami Bera’s Father Sentenced to Prison for Funneling Money to His Son’s Campaigns” by John Myers and Sophia Bollag for […]

August 19, 2016 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – August 19, 2016

National: Will Donald Trump Hand State Capitols to Democrats? The Atlantic – Russell Berman | Published: 8/12/2016 With Donald Trump’s falling poll numbers, some Democrats see an opportunity to not only put Hillary Clinton in the White House, but wrest control […]

National:

Will Donald Trump Hand State Capitols to Democrats?
The Atlantic – Russell Berman | Published: 8/12/2016

With Donald Trump’s falling poll numbers, some Democrats see an opportunity to not only put Hillary Clinton in the White House, but wrest control of the U.S. Senate and shrink the party’s gap in the House, if not flip it entirely. There could also be a Trump effect that could shape the political landscape further into the future: the elections for control of state Legislatures. With more states in play, Democrats are now aiming to flip at least 10 and as many as 13 legislative chambers. The stakes for control of state governments are all the higher because unlike Congress, Legislatures outside Washington, D.C. have been hotbeds of activity rather than gridlock.

Federal:

Obama Facing Pressure to Rip Up His Lobbyist Rules
Politico – Sarah Wheaton | Published: 8/12/2016

Some are calling on President Obama to revoke the executive order that restricts lobbyists from serving in the White House. “There are political optics reasons why there’s a lot of attractiveness to make the ethics bars really strict, but in governing, you’ve got to be careful that you’re not losing on actual talent,” said Max Stier, the head of a nonprofit that is working to facilitate an orderly transition of power after the election. But ending the order could be seen as an acknowledgment Obama failed to uphold one of the major pledges of his 2008 campaign, or the change he brought was not enduring. The debate also reveals a broader disagreement among watchdogs about how effective his administration has been at filling the government with knowledgeable public servants who deserve the voters’ trust.

The Psychiatric Question: Is it fair to analyze Donald Trump from afar?
New York Times – Benedict Carey | Published: 8/15/2016

The American Psychiatric Association in 1973 declared it unethical for any psychiatrist to diagnose a public figure’s condition “unless he or she has conducted an examination and has been granted proper authorization for such a statement.” Now, Donald Trump’s incendiary, stream-of-consciousness pronouncements have strained that rule to the breaking point, exposing divisions in the field over whether such restraint is appropriate today. Supporters of the guideline have cited three main rationales for adhering to it: most diagnoses made from a distance turn out to be wrong; the labels themselves can cause real harm to the person and family members; and the practice undermines the field’s credibility. But the psychoanalyzing of public figures by commentators, columnists, and pop psychologists has a bipartisan history.

Trump Chair Routed Ukrainian Money to D.C. Lobbyists
Politico; Associated Press – | Published: 8/17/2016

Donald Trump’s campaign chairperson, Paul Manafort, helped a pro-Russian political party in Ukraine secretly funnel more than $2 million to two lobbying organizations in Washington, D.C., the Associated Press reported. Citing unidentified sources with knowledge of the effort, the AP reported the payments were concealed in order to mask the party’s efforts to influence U.S. lawmakers. Lobbyists in the U.S. are required by law to register as foreign agents if they receive funding from other nations’ leaders. The New York Times has reported that Manafort’s name was found in a secret ledger in Ukraine, which listed more than $12 million in cash payments to the political operative, which he has since denied receiving.

Trump Shakes Up Campaign, Demotes Top Adviser
Washington Post – Robert Costa and Jose DelReal | Published: 8/17/2016

Donald Trump has shaken up his presidential campaign for the second time in two months, hiring a top executive from the conservative website Breitbart News and promoting a senior adviser in an effort to right his faltering campaign. Paul Manafort, the campaign chairperson, will retain his title. But the staffing change was seen by some as a demotion for Manafort. People briefed on the move said it reflected Trump’s realization that his campaign was at a crisis point. But it indicates that Trump, who has chafed at making the types of changes his current aides have asked for, even though he had acknowledged they would need to occur, has decided to embrace his aggressive style for the duration of the race.

From the States and Municipalities:

Alabama – Ethics Commission Schedules Special Meeting to Address Backlog
AL.com – Mike Cason | Published: 8/15/2016

Alabama Ethics Commission Executive Director Tom Albritton said the agency has a backlog of requests for advisory opinions and will hold a special meeting on September 1 to address them. Albritton said the meeting was not specifically about requests related to former House Speaker Mike Hubbard’s trial. But he said the commission received a large number of opinion requests in July. Hubbard was convicted of 12 felony ethics violations in June. The commission normally meets every 60 days, and its next regular meeting will be in October. Albritton said he did not want those requesting opinions to have to wait until then.

District of Columbia – ‘Shadow Campaign’ Donor and Mastermind Sentenced to Three Months Behind Bars
Washington Post – Ann Marimow, Mike DeBonis, and Rachel Weiner | Published: 8/15/2016

A District of Columbia businessperson who poured millions of illegal dollars into city, state, and federal elections was sentenced to three months in jail. Jeffrey Thompson acknowledged setting up a slush fund to help Vincent Gray get elected mayor of Washington in 2010. He also gave more than $600,000 in illegal funds to help Hillary Clinton’s 2008 presidential bid. Prosecutors had asked for six months of home confinement, in part because of Thompson’s cooperation in the case. But U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly said home confinement was “not sufficient” punishment. The judge also ordered Thompson serve 36 months’ probation and pay a $10,000 fine.

Missouri – Faith Leaders Go on Trial for Protesting Missouri Senate for Medicaid Expansion
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Celeste Bott | Published: 8/15/2016

Prosecutors are moving forward with a case against 23 clergy members arrested after participating in a Missouri Senate protest. Authorities charged the clergy with obstructing government operations and first-degree trespassing after they and a few hundred others in 2014 protested lawmakers’ refusal to accept federal dollars to expand the state’s Medicaid program. Protesters filled the Senate’s public galleries, and chanted and sang before police arrested the clergy members. Typically, charges for these kind of political demonstrations are dropped or not pursued by prosecutors, making this trial unusual.

New Jersey – ELEC Unable to Meet Because of Vacancies
NJTV News – Briana Vannozzi | Published: 8/17/2016

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has been unable to meet for the past five months. Three out of the four seats are vacant, and because ELEC needs at least two members to hold a quorum, the sole member has been left waiting on the sidelines. It is up to the governor’s office, with the advice and consent of the state Senate, to make the appointments. Historically speaking, the makeup of the commission has been non-partisan with two Democrats and two Republicans. But with political gridlock in Trenton becoming the new norm, the process has stalled.

New York – For Cuomo, Passing Ethics Bill Was Urgent, Signing It Was Not
Gotham Gazette – David Howard King | Published: 8/12/2016

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has yet to request the Legislature send him an ethics reform package he personally designed and pushed lawmakers to pass. Announced by Cuomo late in the legislative session, the actual bill was then a mystery for days before being introduced in the wee hours of the morning on the final day of the session. Thanks to the governor’s message, legislators were able to pass it within hours despite mostly not being familiar with the bill. While the governor has not even called the bill to his desk, the Joint Commission on Public Ethics approved a series of emergency regulations prompted by the bill that will go into effect 30 days after Cuomo does sign it.

Pennsylvania – Gifts to Seth Williams Create Conflicts
Philadelphia Inquirer – Tricia Nadolny, Aubrey Whelan, and Chris Brennan | Published: 8/18/2016

Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams amended his annual financial disclosure reports to include $160,050 in gifts from 2010 to 2015 that he had failed to list. Among them are four family vacations at the Key West beach house of Philadelphia lawyer Richard Hoy. During the same period, Hoy represented scores of defendants facing charges brought by Williams’ office. Observers see it as one of several red flags scattered among the newly disclosed gifts. Williams received $800 in cash for Christmas from members of his security detail; $6,000 in tickets, trips, and gift cards from a defense attorney who later was elected judge with Williams’ backing; and sideline passes from the Philadelphia Eagles, a team that has seen former and current players investigated by Williams’ office.

Pennsylvania – Jury: A.G. Kane guilty of perjury, obstruction, all other charges
Philadelphia Inquirer – Craig McCoy, Angela Couloumbis, and Laura McCrystal | Published: 8/15/2016

A jury found Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane guilty on perjury and obstruction charges, leaving the state’s top prosecutor facing a potential prison term for what was called a case of political retribution at her trial. One day after the verdict, Kane announced her resignation. Prosecutors painted a picture of Kane trying to “go on the offensive” after a newspaper article criticized her for shutting down an undercover investigation into possible corruption by state representatives. Prosecutors say she believed former Chief Deputy Attorney General Frank Fina was behind the story. Kane was accused of leaking secret grand jury documents to the news media in an effort to discredit Fina, and then lying to cover it up.

South Dakota – Charles Koch’s Network Launches New Fight to Keep Donors Secret
USA Today – Fredreka Schouten | Published: 8/16/2016

Americans for Prosperity, the largest activist group in the policy and political empire founded by Charles and David Koch, launched a coalition this year to fight South Dakota’s Initiated Measure 22, which calls for public disclosure of donors who fund advocacy efforts, the creation of a state ethics commission, and public financing of campaigns. It also limits lobbyists’ gifts to elected officials and lowers the amount of campaign contributions to candidates, parties, and political action committees. The South Dakota campaign marks the latest in a string of battles the Koch network has waged around the country to block efforts to disclose contributors’ identities.

Texas – Pool Offers Changes to Lobby Ordinance
Austin Monitor – Jo Clifton | Published: 8/17/2016

City Councilperson Leslie Pool revised her legislation that would reform Austin’s lobbying ordinance after her initial proposal met with resistance. The new ordinance requires registration only for lobbyists who earn at least $2,000 in compensation during a quarter and work at least 26 hours on lobbying during that quarter. The current ordinance requires a person to register if he or she earns just $200 a quarter, with no hourly requirements. The revised measure also would eliminate the term “incidental lobbying,” a phrase included in current city regulations. If the ordinance passes as Pool is proposing, lobbyists will also have to report their compensation within ranges, which is not required under current law. Pool is also seeking to do away with Austin’s antiquated reporting system.

Washington – Can State Lawmakers Use GoFundMe to Attend National Conventions – and Not Report Donors?
Tacoma News Tribune – Melissa Santos | Published: 8/16/2016

A few Washington lawmakers were chosen to attend the Democratic National Convention as delegates, and some solicited donations online to help cover their cost of attendance. Legislative attorneys issued informal advice that such donations do not violate state ethics rules and do not need to be reported. But members of the Legislative Ethics Board questioned that reasoning during a recent meeting, wondering whether contributions made through crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe provide a covert way for lobbyists to influence state lawmakers while evading normal reporting requirements. The board asked for a report on whether lawmakers must disclose who helps them attend national conventions.

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

August 18, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday News Roundup

Lobbying “Trump Chair Routed Ukrainian Money to D.C. Lobbyists” by The Associated Press for Politico Texas: “Pool Offers Changes to Lobby Ordinance” by Jo Clifton for Austin Monitor Campaign Finance “Pro-Trump Super PAC Hire Tests Federal Election Rules” by Andrew […]

August 16, 2016 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Alabama Ethics Commission Sets Special Meeting

Ethics Commission Executive Director Tom Albritton called a special meeting to be held on September 1, 2016. The meeting will address the backlog of requests for advisory opinions in the wake of former House Speaker Mike Hubbard’s ethics conviction. Hubbard […]

August 12, 2016 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – August 12, 2016

National: The Crusade of a Democratic Superlawyer with Multimillion-Dollar Backing Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 8/7/2016 Marc Elias, a go-to lawyer for Democrats in recount fights and redistricting battles, has now taken a prominent and somewhat controversial place among […]

National:

The Crusade of a Democratic Superlawyer with Multimillion-Dollar Backing
Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 8/7/2016

Marc Elias, a go-to lawyer for Democrats in recount fights and redistricting battles, has now taken a prominent and somewhat controversial place among the coalition of groups challenging a wave of state election laws that were rewritten in recent years. With a multimillion-dollar commitment from George Soros, Elias is challenging laws that, he argues, diminish the impact of important Democratic Party constituencies of African Americans, Latinos, and young people. The states say they are seeking to combat voter fraud and protect confidence in the electoral process. But in the past month, a long list of judges, appointed by both Democrats and Republicans, have found the threat either negligible or nonexistent. Instead, the judges said, there is evidence the laws hinder minority participation in the process.

Federal:

How Think Tanks Amplify Corporate America’s Influence
New York Times – Eric Lipton and Brooke Williams | Published: 8/7/2016

Think tanks have power in government policy debates because they are seen as researchers independent of moneyed interests. But in the chase for funds, think tanks are pushing agendas important to corporate donors, at times blurring the line between researchers and lobbyists. And they are doing so while reaping the benefits of their tax-exempt status, sometimes without disclosing their connections to corporate interests. On issues as varied as military sales to foreign countries, international trade, highway management systems, and real estate development, think tanks have frequently become vehicles for corporate influence and branding campaigns.

Think Tank Scholar or Corporate Consultant? It Depends on the Day
New York Times – Eric Lipton, Nicholas Confessore, and Brooke Williams | Published: 8/8/2016

The New York Times found an array of researchers at think tanks who had simultaneously worked as registered lobbyists, members of corporate boards, or outside consultants in litigation and regulatory disputes with only intermittent disclosure of their dual roles. With their expertise and authority, think tank scholars offer themselves as independent arbiters. But the analysis identified examples of scholars conducting research while corporations were paying them to help shape government policy. Many think tanks also confer “nonresident scholar” status on lobbyists, former government officials, and others who earn their primary living working for private clients. Largely free from disclosure requirements, the researchers’ work is often woven into elaborate corporate lobbying campaigns.

Trump’s Long Dalliance with Violent Rhetoric
Politico – Michael Crowley | Published: 8/10/2016

Even before Donald Trump’s remark that “Second Amendment people” might stop Hillary Clinton’s Supreme Court appointments, his associates and supporters had repeatedly called for violence against Clinton and Barack Obama, while right-wing leaders and militia groups that support Trump speak of an armed response to federal gun control efforts. Trump’s campaign said his remark was merely a call for gun owners to vote against Clinton this fall. But Democrats said Trump had, at a minimum, made a horribly ill-advised joke about mounting armed resistance. Some analysts said whatever Trump’s intended meaning, the comment was dangerous in a campaign already colored by violence, from assaults on protesters at Trump rallies to talk of rebellion and civil war among his far-right supporters.

From the States and Municipalities:

Alabama – How the University of Alabama System Funneled $1.4 Million Through a ‘Dark Money’ Web
AL.com – Connor Sheets | Published: 8/7/2016

Established and managed by current and former University of Alabama System officials, the Alabama Association For Higher Education operates outside public view as a “dark money” nonprofit. By funneling more than $1.4 million through the group, the UA System has been able to influence state government without illegally donating directly to candidates or having to report its spending on campaign finance disclosures. It is an approach that experts describe as either unique among the nation’s universities or the local representation of a growing but unnoticed national trend.

California – ‘It Became a Price War’: Signature gatherers rake in top dollar with crowded field of ballot initiatives
Los Angeles Times – Christine Mai-Duc | Published: 8/9/2016

Some individuals in California have benefited from what consultants and petition-gathering firms are calling an unprecedented year in the signature business. The number of initiatives circulated combined with the top dollar that many campaigns were willing – or, in some cases, forced – to pay to get them qualified for the November ballot has surprised veterans of the craft. Angelo Paparella, president of National Petition Management, one of the biggest firms managing the signature-gathering process for statewide campaigns, and his competitors, who often deal directly with campaign consultants, usually employ petition coordinator firms and contractors, who in turn recruit, train, and manage street teams of signature gatherers. Carl Towe, who owns one such coordinating firm, said he has never seen pay like this in the 30 years he has worked in the field.

California – Santa Monica Lobbyists Required to Register with City Hall
Santa Monica Daily Press – Matthew Hall | Published: 8/11/2016

The Santa Monica City Council passed new rules that will require lobbyists to register and report their activities. Registration opens September 19 and all lobbyists will have to register within 10 days of any lobbying activity or by October 31, whichever is first. The fees are $40 for initial registration and $25 for amendments and annual renewal.

California – The Coliseum Case is the Latest Embarrassment for D.A.’s Corruption Unit
Los Angeles Times – Paul Pringle and Rong-Gong Lin II | Published: 8/6/2016

A case that grew out of a Los Angeles Times investigation in 2011 has become the latest embarrassment for the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office, which had already racked up a number of missteps in other high-profile, government corruption prosecutions. Two concert promoters accused in a bribery-and-embezzlement scheme involving raves at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will avoid serving any jail time under a plea bargain with prosecutors who acknowledged they mishandled evidence in the high-profile corruption case. Boston College Law School professor George Brown said the district attorney’s office, like other county prosecution agencies, might be better off leaving public corruption cases to their federal counterparts.

Connecticut – Documents: Feds’ interest in Democrats’ Malloy fundraising predated 2014 election
Hartford Courant – Jon Lender | Published: 8/9/2016

The federal investigation into Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy’s re-election campaign began even before Election Day 2014, emails between the U.S. attorney’s office and the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) show. The emails indicate federal prosecutors contacted the SEEC at around the time that Republicans first filed a complaint alleging Malloy and state Democrats were trying to circumvent the Connecticut’s clean election law. A grand jury has been meeting to examine the Democrats’ fundraising since late April and has a subpoenaed contractors and state Democratic staffers.

Hawaii – How Ethics Commission Upheaval Is Playing Out in The Mayor’s Race
Honolulu Civil Beat – Nick Grube | Published: 8/8/2016

Mayoral candidates Charles Djou and Peter Carlisle have been sharpening their attacks in the weeks leading up to the August 13 primary, saying Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell does not care about ethics in government. Over the past several months, the city Ethics Commission has seen its longtime executive director, Chuck Totto, resign under pressure and its sole investigator quit while protesting the heavy-handed management practices of the political appointees who oversee the agency. Ethics investigations have lapsed, and the commission now finds itself fighting to maintain its credibility in an environment in which citizens across the country are becoming increasingly mistrustful of their government.

Illinois – Judge Denies Blagojevich’s Bid to Lighten 14-Year Sentence
ABC News – Michael Tarm (Associated Press) | Published: 8/9/2016

A federal judge resentenced former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to 14 years in prison for his corruption conviction, reaffirming the decision originally handed down more than four years ago. Blagojevich won a chance at resentencing after an appellate court vacated five of 18 charges related to a scheme in which he tried to use his power as governor to extract favors and campaign money from other politicians. The former governor had requested the judge to reduce his sentence to five years in prison. Prosecutors called on U.S. District Court Judge James Zagel to keep the 14-year prison term in place, arguing Blagojevich did not deserve leniency, noting his corruption eroded trust in public officials.

Missouri – Contribution Limits, Tobacco Tax Increase Gain Enough Signatures to Appear on Missouri Ballot
Kansas City Star – Jason Hancock | Published: 8/9/2016

Secretary of State Jason Kander certified four ballot initiatives to go before voters in November, including two a limit on campaign contributions. The effort to reinstall contribution limits would amend the state constitution to cap donations to statewide candidates at $2,600. It also seeks to ban political committees from obscuring the source of their money, a tactic that has become more prevalent in recent years.

New York – Cuomo Cabinet Boat Trip Highlights Campaign Finance Law Concerns
Gotham Gazette – David Howard King | Published: 8/11/2016

The highest ranking members of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s administration recently boarded a boat in Columbia County and embarked for New York City. It was formally called a cabinet retreat, and the stated purposes for the trip was government related, separate from any strategizing for Cuomo’s 2018 re-election bid. And yet the administration says the cost of the boat trip was paid from the governor’s campaign funds. The use of campaign money to pay for government staff to take a working field trip appears to be completely legal under the state’s campaign finance law, but critics of the system say the law is too loose. Those who want to see reform say the current system allows elected officials to take in significant donations, including from entities with government business, and enhance their lifestyles by paying for extravagant meals, cars, and trips.

New York – Sparks at JCOPE Over Retroactive Donor Disclosure
Albany Times Union – Chris Bragg | Published: 8/9/2016

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE) passed regulations that will govern the state’s lobbying disclosure rules should New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo sign an ethics reform package, as expected. Under current law, issue-oriented lobbying groups designated as 501(c)(4)s that spend more than $50,000 annually on lobbying must report donors of more than $5,000. The new law would lower those limits to capture groups that spend just $15,000 a year, and require their disclosure of donors of more than $2,500. Under the revised rules, the new, lower contribution limits would apply to donations and lobbying spending between July and December of this year, assuming Cuomo signs the bill.

Tennessee – Tennessee Lawmaker Convicted of Felony Tax Fraud
ABC News; Associated Press – | Published: 8/8/2016

A federal jury found Tennessee Rep. Joe Armstrong guilty on one count of filing a false tax return and an acquitted him on two other related felonies. Armstrong made roughly $321,000 when he used tobacco wholesaler Tru Wholesale to buy cigarette tax stamps for him at the 2006 rate of 20 cents per pack and then sell them after a 42-cent hike went into effect in 2007. Armstrong voted for the tax hike. It was not a crime for Armstrong to profit from a law on which he voted, nor was it a crime for Tru Wholesale owners Boyd Wyatt and Roger Cox to cut Armstrong in on the deal to hoard tax stamps until the hike went into effect. Hiding the money from the IRS, however, is criminal.

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

August 11, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday News Roundup

Lobbying “How Think Tanks Amplify Corporate America’s Influence” by Eric Lipton and Brooke Williams for New York Times Florida: “County Ballot Measure on Campaign Finance Delayed to 2018” by Douglas Hanks for Miami Herald Campaign Finance “Facebook May Soon Have […]

August 9, 2016 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Think Tank Scholar or Corporate Consultant? It Depends on the Day” by Eric Lipton, Nicholas Confessore, and Brooke Williams for New York Times Tennessee: “Texts Show Ex-Haslam Aide’s Chats During Cooling Off Period” by Dave Boucher and Nate Rau […]

August 5, 2016 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

NYCU Video Digest – August 5, 2016

Here is our latest edition of the News You Can Use Video Digest. Have a great weekend! NYCU Video Digest was produced by 2016 interns Brittany Anderson and Clémence Besnard for State and Federal Communications.

NYCU Video Digest – September 2, 2016

News You Can Use Digest – September 2, 2016

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Monday News Roundup

Wednesday Government Relations News

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Monday News Roundup

News You Can Use Digest – August 19, 2016

Thursday News Roundup

Alabama Ethics Commission Sets Special Meeting

News You Can Use Digest – August 12, 2016

Thursday News Roundup

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

NYCU Video Digest – August 5, 2016

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