Lobbying

New York: “Education Groups Were Top Lobbyists of 2014” by Casey Seiler for Albany Times Union

Campaign Finance

“FEC Decision May Allow More Foreign Money in U.S. Votes, Critics Say” by Michelle Conlin and Lucas Iberico Lozada for Reuters

“Scott Walker’s Strength in Donors” by Derek Willis for New York Times

Missouri: “A Mega Donor’s Influence in Missouri Politics” by Steven Anthony for KBIA

New Jersey: “N.J. Supreme Court Won’t Hear Sharpe James’s Bridgegate Argument, Campaign Cash Appeal” by Bill Wichert for Newark Star-Ledger

Ethics

“FDA Could Approve Drugs for New Uses on Less Data: Draft law” by Toni Clarke for Reuters

New York: “JCOPE Watchdog Denies Conflict as Attorney” by Chris Bragg for Albany Times Union

Washington: “WaLeg: Rep. Fagan faces ethics charges, will resign” by Jim Camden for Spokane Spokesman-Review

Elections

“Bernie Sanders Brings Liberal Zeal in Challenge to Hillary Clinton” by Jonathan Topaz for Politico

Procurement

New Mexico: “Review: Former Albuquerque police chief may have violated ethics rules with no-bid Taser deal” by Ryan Foley and Vik Jolly (Associated Press) for Minneapolis Star Tribune

Federal:

Collapse of Comcast-Time Warner Cable Merger Shows Limits of Lobbying
Politico – Tony Romm and Alex Byers | Published: 4/24/2015

Comcast spends more than any other company lobbying Washington, D.C. Its chief executive officer has golfed with President Barack Obama, and its executives raise cash for Democrats. But the strategy did not work as the largest U.S. cable company dropped its merger with Time Warner Cable over continued opposition from Congress and federal regulators. Two agencies had balked at the $45.2 billion proposed merger in a twist of the narrative that says deep connections guarantee big results in Washington. “It’s nice to see that even an effective, very well-funded, pervasive lobbying campaign cannot win when it was wrong,” said Ed Black, president of the Computer and Communications Industry Association.

Never Before Have So Many People with So Much Money Run for President
Washington Post – Matea Gold and Ed O’Keefe | Published: 4/27/2015

Some political operatives say 2016 could be the first presidential race in the modern era in which a candidate does not need to win Iowa or New Hampshire to prevail. Strong showings in those early states historically translated into much-needed financial momentum. But this time, wealthy patrons might keep their favorite picks aloft through independent spending. The political money boom is being driven largely by super PACs, which can collect unlimited donations from individuals and corporations. The groups are supposed to operate independently from the candidates they support, but in this race, they are functioning as de facto arms of the campaigns.

States Can Ban Elected Judges from Asking for Campaign Money, Supreme Court Says
Los Angeles Times – David Savage | Published: 4/29/2015

A divided U.S. Supreme Court ruled states can limit judicial candidates’ ability to personally appeal for donations, a rare victory for supporters of campaign finance limits. Chief Justice John Roberts joined the court’s four liberal justices in the decision to uphold a Florida prohibition on such personal solicitations, saying states have a compelling interest in “preserving the public confidence in the integrity of its judiciary.” The ruling was an outlier for the high court and for Roberts himself, who supported decisions over the past six years that have opened the floodgates on political spending and given rise to super PACs.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – For Statewide Change, Advocates Are Making Their Battles Local
Los Angeles Times – Melanie Mason | Published: 4/24/2015

Whether the subject is plastic grocery bags or soda taxes, some of California’s most compelling policy battles are occurring not in the Capitol but in City Halls and county seats. Local governments are increasingly a staging ground for issues such as the regulation of electronic cigarettes, limits on payday lenders, and fracking moratoriums. The local efforts can prod the state Legislature to act. Political operatives who bypass Sacramento are waging their local campaigns with data-driven sophistication.

Florida – Florida House Abruptly Adjourns Session Early, Saying Impasse Is Insurmountable
Tampa Bay Times – Mary Ellen Klas and Steve Bousquet | Published: 4/28/2015

The Florida House abruptly and unilaterally adjourned on April 28, ending the legislative session before the scheduled date and leaving dozens of major bills dead and escalating tensions between the House and Senate over their health care stalemate. It marked the first time in Florida’s modern history that one chamber shut down and went home on a different day than the other in a regular session. The presiding officers of each chamber must now agree to come back in special session in order to complete the state budget, the only bill they are required to pass each year by the June 30 deadline, or Gov. Rick Scott could order them back together.

Georgia – Ethics Commission Picks Veteran State Attorney as Chief Exec
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer – Kathleen Foody (Associated Press) | Published: 4/28/2015

Stefan Ritter was chosen as the new head of the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission. He is currently a senior assistant attorney general and for several years has served as the ethics commission’s legal counsel. The agency’s previous executive secretary was fired after a judge fined her for allegedly withholding documents in a lawsuit against the state. The agency enforces Georgia’s campaign finance and ethics laws but has been troubled by employee lawsuits and a backlog of cases.

Indiana – Gov. Pence to Sign Ethics Reform Bill
Indianapolis Star – Tony Cook | Published: 4/27/2015

The Indiana General Assembly approved an ethics overhaul that requires greater financial disclosure by lawmakers and expressly prohibits elected officials from using state resources for political purposes. The bill follows an investigation into former state schools Superintendent Tony Bennett’s use of state staff and resources during his 2012 re-election campaign. In another case, a privately lobbied last year to defeat legislation that could have cost his family’s business millions of dollars. The bill now goes to Gov. Mike Pence for consideration.

Kentucky – Gov. Gets 360 Derby Tickets, Who Uses Them?
Louisville Courier-Journal – Tom Loftus | Published: 4/29/2015

Churchill Downs sets aside 360 tickets to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks every year for sale to the governor’s entourage. Many of those seats are prime – 160 of them are coveted spots on Millionaires Row. Gov. Steve Beshear says the purpose for the large number of tickets, and all of his official Derby activities, is to show off Kentucky to official economic-development and tourism guests who might bring jobs to the state. But records of previous years’ ticket assignments from the governor’s allotment show only about 60 of the 360 tickets are used by the official guests of the state Economic Development Cabinet or Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinets. Ticket holders also include family of the governor, top administration officials, Democratic Party activists, and some big contributors to the governor’s political causes.

Massachusetts – Baker Inaugural Committee Returning Donations That Exceeded Limit
Boston Globe – Sara Morrison | Published: 4/28/2015

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker’s inauguration committee will return donations from two lobbying firms that exceeded a limit he imposed for lobbyist contributions. Baker said lobbyists could only give a maximum of $250. But at least five firms registered as lobbyists with the state gave well over that limit. The inaugural committee pledged to return $2,500 to Beacon Strategies Group and $10,000 to Bay State Strategies Group.

Montana – Senate Confirms Motl as Political Practices Commissioner
Helena Independent Record – Charles Johnson | Published: 4/24/2015

Montana senators confirmed Jonathan Motl as the state’s commissioner of political practices. Motl has come under fire during his tenure for what opponents call a bias against Republican candidates. Senators supporting Motl called attention to the work he did on a major campaign finance bill that was signed into law this session. Senate Bill 289 will require more disclosure for “dark money” in campaigns.

New Jersey – The Dinner Proposal That Led United into Corruption Probe
Bloomberg Business – David Kocieniewski and David Voreacos | Published: 4/28/2015

Federal prosecutors are investigating whether United Airlines made improper attempts to influence David Samson at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, according to sources. The authority oversees Newark Liberty International Airport. United was seeking hundreds of millions of dollars in public investment for the airport when its chief executive dined with New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s top Port Authority official in September 2011. Investigators are looking into whether Samson abused his public position for private gain. According to people close to the case, prosecutors want to know if Samson gave United preferential treatment on Port Authority business in return for the airline reviving a route that he and his wife had used but had been cancelled.

North Carolina – Not Just Photo-Ops: Businesses gain from political visits
Asheville Times-Citizen – Caitlin Byrd | Published: 4/27/2015

Chris Champlin, vice president of Thermo Fisher Scientific, estimates at least six politicians have accepted invitations to visit the Asheville, North Carolina plant in the last 12 months. For politicians, visiting and speaking at businesses gives them a chance to learn more about an employer in the region. But these events are not one-sided affairs; sometimes the businesses have the most to gain. When it comes time to call on legislators for some help, a special visit to the business can help cement a company and its interests in the mind of a politician. “… Once they walk in the door, put on the steel-toe boot covers and the safety glasses, it’s just a much more meaningful interaction than I could ever hope to accomplish in Washington, D.C. in a business suit,” said Tim Fenton, senior director of global government relations for Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Pennsylvania – Council Moves to Illuminate Super PAC Money
Philadelphia Inquirer – Tricia Nadolny | Published: 4/23/2015

Independent groups would face additional reporting requirements under a bill introduced in the Philadelphia City Council. Those groups, which are not permitted to coordinate with candidates they support, are not required to file finance reports until days before an election. The bill would change that by requiring super PACs to disclose their donors six weeks before an election or primary and every two weeks thereafter. It would apply to donations of $5,000 or more spent on communications, including television, print, and radio ads, that make reference a candidate in any way.

Rhode Island – Raimondo Signs into Law New Campaign Finance Measures
Providence Journal – Jennifer Bogdan | Published: 4/23/2015

Gov. Gina Raimondo signed four bills aimed at strengthening Rhode Island’s campaign finance reporting laws. One bill requires candidates and PACs to file bank statements from their campaign finance accounts following their final quarterly report to the Board of Elections. Another measure requires that candidates and PACs maintain a campaign finance account separate from personal bank account. Lawmakers reviewed the system after ex-House Speaker Gordon Fox acknowledged taking a $52,500 bribe and making dozens of interbank transfers totaling $108,000, using money from his campaign account for personal expenses.

Texas – Senate Strengthens and Passes Ethics Bill
Texas Tribune – Jay Root | Published: 4/28/2015

The Texas Senate strengthened and approved an ethics reform bill with provisions that call for drug testing of elected officials, convicted felons to leave office, tougher financial disclosures, and more transparent dealings with lobbyists. Sen. Kirk Watson got his amendment added on that requires disclosure of lobbyists paying for lawmakers meals if over $50 even when splitting the checks between multiple lobbyists, a loophole many use now. Senate Bill 19 now goes to the House.

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.

Lobbying

“Kevin Spacey’s Brilliant and Weirdly Effective Campaign to Win over DC” by Noam Scheiber for Washingtonian Magazine

“Collapse of Comcast-Time Warner Cable Merger Shows Limits of Lobbying” by Tony Romm and Alex Byers for Politico

California: “New Technology Makes Sacramento Politics More Transparent” by Joe Garofoli for San Francisco Chronicle

North Carolina: “Not Just Photo-Ops: Businesses gain from political visits” by Caitlin Byrd for Asheville Times-Citizen

Campaign Finance

“Never Before Have So Many People with So Much Money Run for President” by Matea Gold and Ed O’Keefe for Washington Post

Maine: “Effort to Place Repeal of Maine’s Clean Election Law on the Ballot Faces Opposition” by Alanna Durkin (Associated Press) for Greenfield Daily Reporter

Ethics

“Clinton Foundation Acknowledges ‘Mistakes,’ Emphasizes Transparency” by Rosalind Helderman for Washington Post

Indiana: “For Indiana Lawmakers, a $500,000 Ethics Question” by Tony Cook for Indianapolis Star

Montana: “Senate Confirms Motl as Political Practices Commissioner” by Charles Johnson for Helena Independent Record

Texas: “Ethics Watchdogs Question Fraser’s Energy Holdings” by Jay Root and Jim Malewitz for Texas Tribune

The state Ethics Commission is discussing how to administer new lobbying and campaign laws signed by Gov. Asa Hutchinson. Senate Bill 967 (now Act 1280) limits lobbyists to one “planned activity” per week and provides a 30-day grace period for officials to return improper gifts. Political contribution limits from individuals and PACs to a candidate have been raised from $2,000 to $2,700 per election.

Act 1280 also authorizes the commission to oversee new ethics laws contained in a constitutional amendment passed by voters in 2014. The amendment prohibited lobbyist gifts and corporate contributions, but did not provide the commission authority to administer the constitutional changes.

Earlier this year lawmakers passed House Bill 1002 (now Act 47), but that law only authorized the commission to issue advisory opinions concerning the amendment.

Act 1280 further provides the commission with statutory authority to administer the changes by issuing rules and investigating complaints. Act 1280 became effective upon Hutchinson’s signature.

Lobbying

“Bill Shuster Admits ‘Private and Personal Relationship’ with Airline Lobbyist” by John Bresnahan, Anna Palmer, and Jake Sherman for Politico

Campaign Finance

“Clinton Campaign Will Accept Donations from Lobbyists and PACs” by Sam Stein and Paul Blumenthal for Huffington Post

New York: “New York State Elections Board Retains a Corporate Donation Loophole” by Jesse McKinley for New York Times

Rhode Island: “Campaign Finance Measures Sent to Governor” by Jennifer Bogdon for Providence Journal

Ethics

“Clinton Foundation to Restrict Foreign Donations” by Tom Hamburger and Rosalind Helderman for Washington Post

Alabama: “Hubbard Defense Claims Prosecutorial Misconduct in Ethics Case” by Kim Chandler (Associated Press) for Greenfield Daily Reporter

Georgia: “Ga. Ethics Commission Search for Leader Down to 4 Finalists” by Kathleen Foody (Associated Press) for Columbus Ledger-Enquirer

Indiana: “Ethics Legislation Gets Closer to Becoming Law” by Alec Gray for Indianapolis Business Journal

Virginia: “Legislature Approves Ethics Bill with $100 Aggregate Gift Cap” by Jim Nolan and Markus Schmidt for Richmond Times-Dispatch

Washington: “Washington Auditor Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Indictment” by Gene Johnson and Derrick Nunnally (Associated Press) for The Sun Herald

National:

Europe at Risk of Corruption from Lobbying – Report
BBC – Damian Grammaticas | Published: 4/14/2015

Lack of control over lobbyists threatens to undermine European democracies, said Transparency International, which is calling for new regulations. In a report assessing legal and other safeguards against opaque lobbying practices in 19 of the 28 European Union (EU) states and three EU institutions, it found only two countries – Slovenia and Lithuania – had even half the level of protection that the organization thought was necessary to protect against “undue influence” by vested interests. Among Transparency International’s concerns were lack of public documentation of who is lobbying whom, with what resources, and for what purpose. Others included failure to control the “revolving door” of staff moving between government institutions and private enterprises.

Federal:

Florida Mailman Lands a Gyrocopter on Capitol Lawn, Hoping to Send a Message
Washington Post – Mike DeBonis and Marc Fisher | Published: 4/15/2015

A postal worker from Florida delivering a protest message to Congress landed a lightweight gyrocopter on the West Lawn of the Capitol. Doug Hughes was taken into custody, with possible charges pending. He guided his aircraft at low speed through protected airspace and landed it on Congress’s front lawn to raise awareness about the amount of money spent on elections. “I have no intention of hurting anyone,” Hughes wrote on his website. The U.S. Secret Service denied anyone had tipped off its Tampa field office to Hughes’s intentions. Air defense systems did not detect the copter as it entered restricted airspace above Washington, D.C. No one tried to stop the gyrocopter.

Hillary Clinton’s Goal: Keep Bill Clinton happy, involved
Politico – Annie Karni | Published: 4/13/2015

When Hillary Clinton ran for president in 2008, her campaign staff was intimidated by her husband’s star power, concerned that she would be seen only in relation to him. Bill Clinton’s role during that campaign was an ongoing frustration for him and his team. The feeling within his inner circle, sources said, was that if he had been allowed to have a bigger say in strategy from the beginning, the campaign would not have ended up where it did. Now, after four years as secretary of state, Hillary Clinton is more firmly established as independent figure. Her new team has more confidence that she will be seen by voters as her own woman, with an identity separate from her husband. Thus they will not be afraid to place him in the spotlight when the time is right, while taking full advantage of his skills as a strategist behind the scenes.

In Accepting Bitcoin, Rand Paul Raises Money and Questions
New York Times – Eric Lichtblau | Published: 4/9/2015

In announcing his candidacy for president, U.S. Sen. Rand Paul waded into new waters when he said he would accept campaign contributions in Bitcoins, a largely untraceable virtual currency, in amounts up to $100. While some state and federal candidates in California, Colorado, New Hampshire, and elsewhere have started accepting Bitcoins, Paul is the first presidential candidate to do so. The novelty of the payment method is likely to help Paul highlight his edgy appeal to other libertarians, tech-savvy voters, young people, and others who favor Bitcoin. But it also raises questions about whether illegal contributions could make their way into campaigns more easily.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Gov. Doug Ducey Signs Elections-Related Measures
Arizona Capitol Times – Bob Christie (Associated Press) | Published: 4/14/2015

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey signed a series of bills into law that address campaign finance, voter initiatives, third parties, and political committees. House Bill 2415 allows candidates to take up to $6,250 from an individual donor per election cycle, up from $5,000. House Bill 2649 modifies the definition of “political committee.” State Elections Director Eric Spencer said he crafted the legislation to specify that groups only need register as a political committee if they are organized for the purpose of affecting elections.

Missouri – Though Petition Seeks His Ouster, Ferguson Mayor Says He Is Best Leader for City
New York Times – John Eligon | Published: 4/12/2015

Ever since a white Ferguson police officer fatally shot an unarmed black teenager eight months ago, the city’s mayor, James Knowles, has been thrust into the spotlight in a national debate over race, class, and law enforcement. Among some activists who have taken to the streets, Knowles is viewed as a tone-deaf public official who allowed a racist and corrupt government to operate under his nose. Knowles has defended himself by saying that concerns about racial bias had not been raised on his watch as a public servant, and now that big problems had been laid bare, he was the person best qualified to help the city usher in vital reforms. But that is not enough for a handful of residents who, with support from outside groups, are trying to have Knowles recalled.

Montana – Legislature Clears Campaign Finance Bill; Headed to Governor
The Missoulian; Associated Press –   | Published: 4/15/2015

Montana lawmakers gave final approval to a bill requiring more disclosure for so-called dark money spending. Under Senate Bill 289, certain groups would be required to publicize reports on political donations and expenditures if they spend money supporting or opposing candidates or ballot issues. The measure aims to shed light on anonymous money that began flowing into elections after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United ruling.

Nevada – Bill to Toughen Nevada Campaign Finance Rules Clears Senate
Las Vegas Review-Journal – Sandra Chereb | Published: 4/9/2015

The Nevada Senate passed legislation that would bar lawmakers from accepting gifts from lobbyists and would require candidates file more frequent campaign finance reports. Senate Bill 307, which now goes to the Assembly, also would require lobbyists to report any expenditures made to lawmakers for educational trips, informational meetings, or events, though they would not constitute a gift or political contribution. The bill would require candidates to file campaign finance reports more than twice as often as they do now.

New York – Dean Skelos, New York Senate Leader, and His Son Are Said to Be Focus of Corruption Inquiry
New York Times – William Rashbaum, Susanne Craig, and Thomas Kaplan | Published: 4/15/2015

The New York Times reported a federal grand jury is considering evidence in a possible case against New York Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and his son. The focus is on the business dealings of Adam Skelos, including his hiring by an Arizona company that won a local government contract in New York although it was not the low bidder, and a $20,000 signing bonus he received from a title insurance company that never employed him. Investigators are trying to determine whether the elder Skelos used his political influence to help the company, AbTech Industries, which won a $12 million storm-water treatment contract from Nassau County, the senator’s home district.

Rhode Island – Lawmaker McKiernan Allowed to Work with Lobbyists under R.I. Ethics Code, Commission Says
Providence Journal – Katherine Gregg | Published: 4/14/2015

The Rhode Island Ethics Commission said ethics rules do not prohibit state Rep. Daniel McKiernan from forming a law partnership with two other attorneys who are registered lobbyists. The commission noted the code generally allows public officials to enter into most private business associations. It then limits their ability to use their office to benefit themselves or their partners by requiring them to not participate in matters that would financially affect the business. The ethics panel lost its jurisdiction over the General Assembly following a 2009 state Supreme Court decision.

Tennessee – Tennessee House Votes Bible as Official State Book
The Tennessean – Dave Boucher | Published: 4/15/2015

The state House passed a bill to make the Bible the official book of Tennessee, despite opposition from Republican leaders and an attorney general’s opinion that the measure would violate the state and federal constitutions. Rep. Jerry Sexton, a former pastor, argued his proposal reflects the Bible’s historical, cultural, and economic impact in Tennessee. But several opponents raised concerns about putting the Bible on par with other more innocuous state symbols like the official salamander, tree, and beverage. The measure would need to be approved by the Senate before heading to the desk of Gov. Bill Haslam, who opposes it.

Texas – Lawmakers in No Rush to Disclose Wining and Dining
Texas Tribune – Jay Root | Published: 4/15/2015

Two bills aimed at requiring disclosure of lobbyist spending on Texas lawmakers and officials are on the verge of expiring in the Senate State Affairs Committee, according to the sponsor of the measures. Sen. Kirk Watson said he has been told not to expect even a public hearing on the bills, let alone a committee vote. Technically, under current law, a lobbyist who spends more than $114 on any one state official has to report the name of the person who is being entertained with food and drink. But that almost never happens. Watson wants to reduce the reporting threshold to $50, and he would require a detailed disclosure even if multiple lobbyists banded together to get around that lower limit.

Utah – Gay Rights, Religious Rights and a Compromise in an Unlikely Place: Utah
Washington Post – Niraj Chokshi | Published: 4/12/2015

A federal judge in 2013 struck down Utah’s ban on same-sex marriage, giving a lift to activists who had been pushing the state to adopt legislation protecting gay men and lesbians against discrimination in areas such as housing and employment. And as the question of same-sex marriage worked its way through the courts, ultimately winning a date before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints grew eager to reach an amicable compromise on gay and religious rights. It was determined to avoid what church officials saw as a polarized debate in several other states. Eight days after a compromise bill on the issue was introduced, it was signed into law with support from the gay rights group Equality Utah, the American Civil Liberties Union of Utah, and the church, uniquely influential in a state where about three in five residents are Mormon.

Virginia – Virginia General Assembly Vote on Gifts Must Wait until Friday
Roanoke Times – Markus Schmidt and Jim Nolan (Richmond Times-Dispatch) | Published: 4/15/2015

Virginia lawmakers delayed a vote on ethics reform legislation over concerns the measure could be interpreted as putting a $100 lifetime limit on gifts to public officials from lobbyists and others who have financial interests with the state. The General Assembly instead decided to reconvene on April 17 to clarify that the $100 gift limit was per year. Legislators were expected to go along with that change as well as one intended to make it clear they cannot accept trips to widely attended events.

West Virginia – Ethics Commission Grapples with Trinkets Ban
Charleston Gazette – Eric Eyre | Published: 4/9/2015

The West Virginia Ethics Commission will refine its guidance for a soon-to-be enacted law that prohibits elected officials from using public funds to feature their name or likeness on specific items.  House Bill 2457 prevents “public officials, their agents or anyone on public payroll” from using their name or likeness on any publicly owned vehicles, in advertising, or on trinkets – small items such as magnets and cups. Commissioners said there needs to be clarification on are what exactly a trinket is and what type of advertising is prohibited.

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.

Lobbying

“Europe at Risk of Corruption from Lobbying – Report” by Damian Grammaticas for BBC

“Lawmakers in No Rush to Disclose Wining and Dining” by Jay Root for Texas Tribune

Campaign Finance

“REBNY Members Gave a Tenth of all N.Y. Campaign Money” by Bill Mahoney for Capital New York

Ethics

“Postal Worker Lands Helicopter on U.S. Capitol Grounds to Make Special Mail Delivery” by Eric Katz for GovExec.com

“Kate Brown Takes Questions as Lawmakers Air Ethics Proposal” by Denis Theriault for Portland Oregonian

“Senate Urged to Restore Ethics Powers” by Jennifer Bogdon and Katherine Gregg for Providence Journal

“John Doe Reform Bill Stalls in Legislature” by M.D. Kittle for Watchdog.org

Elections

“In Perception Primary, It’s Folksy Hillary Clinton vs. Statesmen-Looking Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio” by Patrick Healy for New York Times

“Chelsea’s Invisible Hand” by Kenneth Vogel for Politico

Legislative Issues

“Tennessee House Votes Bible as Official State Book” by Dave Boucher for The Tennessean

“Lack of Virginia’s General Assembly Openness Is Criticized” by Dave Ress for The Daily Press

A federal judge in Illinois signed a consent decree Tuesday scheduling a special election to replace former U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock, who resigned last month amid ethics investigations.

Judicial approval was necessary to set the election date because Illinois election law conflicts with federal voting law.

A primary election will be held July 7 and the general election will follow on Sept. 10.

Lobbying

“Pillow Talk Tests Ethics When K Street Marries Capitol Hill” by Eliza Newlin Carney for Roll Call

“Ex-Lawmakers Swing through the Revolving Door” by Fredreka Schouten for USA Today

Rhode Island: “Lawmaker McKiernan Allowed to Work with Lobbyists under R.I. Ethics Code, Commission Says” by Katherine Gregg for Providence Journal

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “Gov. Doug Ducey Signs Elections-Related Measures” by Bob Christie (Associated Press) for Arizona Capitol Times

District of Columbia:”Treasurer of Former D.C. Council Campaign Is Sentenced to Prison” by Julie Zauzmer for Washington Post

Maine: “Bill Seeks to Tax PAC-to-PAC Transfers in Maine” by Scott Thistle for Maine Sun Journal

Maryland: “Senate Passes Disclosure Bill for Inauguration Donors” by The Associated Press for WMDT

Ethics

New York: “Fervent Preet Bharara Gets a Judicial Scolding” by Peter Henning for New York Times

Elections

“Hillary Clinton’s Goal: Keep Bill Clinton happy, involved” by Annie Karni for Politico

Legislative Issues

Utah: “Gay Rights, Religious Rights and a Compromise in an Unlikely Place: Utah” by Niraj Chokshi for Washington Post

Lobbying

“Suddenly, ‘Schumerland’ Is the Place to Be” by Megan Wilson for The Hill

Hawaii: “Tobacco-Free Coalition Cleared on Lobbying Charges” by Nancy Cook Lauer for West Hawaii Today

Texas: “Local Government, School Lobbying in Ethics Crosshairs” by Jay Root for Texas Tribune

Campaign Finance

“Wealthy Donors on Left Launch New Plan to Wrest Back Control in the States” by Matea Gold for Washington Post

Kentucky: “Former Kentucky Lawmaker Pleads Guilty to Campaign Finance Violations” by John Cheves for Lexington Herald-Leader

Ethics

Georgia: “Common Cause Takes Advocacy Efforts to Georgia Voters” by Carlton Fletcher for Albany Herald

Missouri: “Though Petition Seeks His Ouster, Ferguson Mayor Says He Is Best Leader for City” by John Eligon for New York Times

Washington: “Residents Fight to Save Bothell Golf Course from Developers, Mayor” by Lynn Thompson for Seattle Times

Elections

“Marco Rubio Announces 2016 Presidential Bid” by Ashley Parker and Alan Rappeport for New York Times

“Hillary Clinton Starts to Detail Rationale for Run as Campaign Begins” by Amy Chozick for New York Times

Lobbying

Nevada: “Bill to Toughen Nevada Campaign Finance Rules Clears Senate” by Sandra Chereb for Las Vegas Review-Journal

New York: “Avella Proposes Lobbying Ban for Political Consultants” by Josefa Velasquez for Capital New York

Campaign Finance

“In Accepting Bitcoin, Rand Paul Raises Money and Questions” by Eric Lichtblau for New York Times

Ethics

New Mexico: “Equity Firm to Pay $3 Million to SIC to Avert Legal Fight” by Dan Boyd for Albuquerque Journal

Texas: “Senate Votes to Let Home-County Prosecutors, Not Austin, Handle Elected-Official Ethics Cases” by Will Weissert (Associated Press) for Greenfield Daily Reporter

Washington: “State Public Disclosure Commission Director Resigns” by Jim Brunner for Seattle Times

West Virginia: “Ethics Commission Grapples with Trinkets Ban” by Eric Eyre for Charleston Gazette

Elections

“The G.O.P. Presidential Field Looks Chaotic. It’s Not.” by Nate Cohn for New York Times

Lobbying

“K St. Firms on Edge about Hacking Threat” by Elise Viebeck for The Hill

“Lobbyist Spending Is Concentrated at the Top” by Ian Lind for Honolulu Civil Beat

“CSKT Accused of Unethical Lobbying” by Tristan Scott for Flathead Beacon

“Governor Signs Measure on Lobbyist Records” by Dan Boyd for Albuquerque Journal

Campaign Finance

“California Teachers Unions Face New Legal Challenge over Dues” by Emma Brown for Washington Post

“Legislative Committees Approve Bills to Close Campaign Finance Loopholes” by Katherine Gregg for Providence Journal

Ethics

“Raucous Akron City Council Meeting Rallies behind Councilman Bob Hoch” by John Harper (Northeast Ohio Media Group) for Cleveland Plain Dealer

“Kate Brown’s Ethics Reforms Begin March through Oregon Legislature” by Dennis Theriault for Portland Oregonian

“Activists Push to Restore Oversight of Legislators” by Jennifer Bogdon for Providence Journal

Elections

“Chicago Waiting to See if Runoff Truly Has Humbled Rahm Emanuel” by Monica Davey for New York Times

Lobbying

“Last-minute lobbying threatens $200B Medicare package” by Sarah Ferris in The Hill.

Illinois: “Chicago Elections Chief Got Lobbying Contracts from Rahm Emanuel’s Administration” by Matthew Cunningham-Cook and David Sirota in International Business Times.

Campaign Finance

“Gary Hart: Billion-dollar Clinton campaign should ‘frighten’ Americans” by Johnathan Topaz in Politico.

“Rand Paul accepting bitcoins for 2016 bid” by Mario Trujillo in The Hill.

“To Get Ahead in Congress: Skip Governing, Raise Money” by Trevor Potter and Meredith McGehee in Politico.

Florida: “Florida’s fundraising explosion” by Anna Palmer and Marc Caputo in Politico.

Michigan: “Between PACs and standard contributions, state politicians reap loads of cash” by Brian Paynter in The Daily Telegram.

Ohio: “Some Cuyahoga County mayors accept campaign contributions from employees” by Bob Sandrick in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Rhode Island: “R.I. owed $2.2 million in fines for unfiled campaign finance reports” by Jennifer McDermott in the Providence Journal.

Ethics

Nevada: “Bill banning gifts from lobbyists moves forward” by Sandra Chereb in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Elections

Illinois: “Dates proposed for special elections to replace Aaron Schock” by The Associated Press in the Chicago Sun Times.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Booker, McCaskill Beg Higher-Ups for Updated Senate Tech” by Jack Moore in Nextgov.

Lobbying

“Trucking and Rail Industries Turn State Troopers into Unwitting Lobbyists” by Eric Lipton for New York Times

Florida: “In Sunshine State, Big Energy Blocks Solar Power” by Eric Barton for Florida Center for Investigative Reporting

Missouri: “Missouri House Passes Lobbyist Gift Cap, Cooling Off Period” by Jason Hancock for Kansas City Star

New York “Cuomo Expands Lobbying Oversight to Localities” by Jimmy Vielkind for Capital New York

Tennessee: “Ethics Body Undecided on NRA Giving Lawmakers Free Tickets” by Dave Boucher for The Tennessean

Texas: “Questions about Aide to Texas Ag Commissioner Miller” by Eric Dexheimer (Austin American-Statesman) for Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Campaign Finance

“Campaign Finance Complaints Filed Against 4 Presidential Hopefuls” by Eric Lichtblau for New York Times

“Menendez Indictment Marks First Big Corruption Case Involving a Super PAC” by Matea Gold for Washington Post

Maine: “Lawmakers Consider Clean Election Changes after PAC Drama” by Scott Thistle (The Sun Journal) for Bangor Daily News

Vermont: “Court Hands RGA $40,000 in Fines for 2010 Campaign Finance Violations” by Morgan True for VTDigger.org

Ethics

“Tribe’s Infighting Offers Glimpse into Redskins Foundation’s Tactics” by John Woodrow Cox for Washington Post

“Watchdog for Federal Secrecy Has Yet to Bite” by Julian Hattem and Megan Wilson for The Hill

Arkansas: “Panel Backs Window for Gift Return” by Michael Wickline for Arkansas Online

Elections

“The Mobile Election: How smartphones will change the 2016 presidential race” by Dylan Byers for Politico