January 23, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – January 23, 2015

National: ‘Competitive Disadvantage’?: Pay-to-pay rules and the 2016 stakes NBC News – Carrie Dunn | Published: 1/15/2015 Governors may face a unique challenge when it comes to raising the big money it takes to be president from some of the most […]

National:

‘Competitive Disadvantage’?: Pay-to-pay rules and the 2016 stakes
NBC News – Carrie Dunn | Published: 1/15/2015

Governors may face a unique challenge when it comes to raising the big money it takes to be president from some of the most generous donors out there: denizens of Wall Street. That is because of federal “pay-to-play” rules put into place by the Securities and Exchange Commission that effectively bar many state officials from receiving substantial political contributions from financial advisers interested in the often-lucrative business of state contracts, particularly the management of huge state pension funds. The rules can be fuzzy and even experts say it is not always entirely clear which donations trigger a violation. It all means that big-dollar Wall Street donors are playing it safe.

The Wealthiest Are Getting Wealthier, and Lobbying Has a Lot to Do with It
PBS – Simone Pathe | Published: 1/19/2015

Oxfam predicts a widening wealth gap and points a finger at lobbying for much the of wealth accumulation at the top. The world’s richest one percent is likely to control over 50 percent of global wealth by next year, according to a report from Oxfam. The report zeroes in on the political influence affordable to the wealthy: lobbying, specifically in the financial and pharmaceutical and health care industries.

Federal:

How Citizens United Has Changed Politics in 5 Years
U.S. News & World Report – Gabrielle Levy | Published: 1/21/2015

In its Citizens United decision, the U.S. Supreme Court said political spending is protected under the First Amendment, meaning corporations and unions could spend unlimited amounts of money on political activities, as long as it was done independently of a party or candidate. The legal protections for corporations mean much of this spending, known as “dark money,” never has to be publicly disclosed. Most observers say the justices made a good-faith effort to promote transparency and prevent coordination in the ruling. But the contradiction between the court’s stated desire for transparency and its definition of corporations as people protected by the First Amendment created a loophole that campaigns and PACs can use to their advantage.

IRS Rarely Audits Nonprofits for Politicking
Center for Public Integrity – Julie Patel | Published: 1/22/2015

More than 100 nonprofit groups have directly involved themselves in elections during recent years, some spending tens of millions of dollars. The rest, largely charities that are generally prohibited from campaigning for politicians, are seldom monitored by the IRS to ensure they follow federal law. The situation leaves the groups largely free to operate like political committees without fear of reprisal. The IRS told the Center for Public Integrity that it has only begun auditing 26 organizations specifically for political activity since 2010. That represents a tiny fraction of the more than 1 million nonprofits regulated by the agency.

Supreme Court Considers Whether Judges Can Directly Ask for Campaign Donations
Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 1/20/2015

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared divided as it weighed a free speech challenge to a Florida law that bars candidates running for elected judge positions from soliciting campaign contributions. Lanell Williams-Yulee, who ran for county court judge in Tampa, objected when Florida’s Supreme Court publicly reprimanded her for violating a rule preventing candidates from seeking donations. She argued the rule violated her free speech rights. Conservatives on the Supreme Court appeared to favor her free speech argument. The court’s liberals voiced support for the state’s right to ensure the judiciary’s impartiality.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Phoenix Stalls on Overhaul of Ethics Rules
Arizona Republic – Dennis Gardiner | Published: 1/20/2015

Phoenix City Council members have spent months debating a list of ethics reforms recommended by a task force. The council initially warmed to major changes, but several members reversed course on a proposal to create a commission to enforce any new rules and voted it down. Although the subcommittee scuttled plans for an ethics commission, they have advanced new gift-reporting requirements for elected officials and board members. By requiring leaders to report gifts exceeding $50, supporters say, the new rules promote transparency. But council members added a few exemptions to the requirement, including a provision that would allow elected officials not to report gifts they receive related to travel for city business.

California – Billboard Firm to Put Up Signs Backing Six L.A. Council Candidates
Los Angeles Times – David Zahniser | Published: 1/20/2015

A billboard company challenging Los Angeles’ restrictions on digital signs will donate tens of thousands of dollars in advertising to help city Councilperson Jose Huizar, who heads the committee drafting new sign regulations, and five other candidates in the March 3 election. City law bars campaign contributors from giving council candidates more than $700 during an election cycle. But there are no limits on expenditures such as those being made by Lamar Advertising, as long as they are made independently from a candidate’s campaign.

Connecticut – Can Connecticut’s Campaign Finance Reforms Be Saved?
CT Mirror – Mark Pazniokas | Published: 1/19/2015

Prescriptions for fixing Connecticut’s system of publicly financing campaigns vary wildly. Its tight limits on contributions and spending turned porous in 2014, tarnishing what had been a shiny instrument of campaign finance reform. One basic challenge is how the Citizens’ Election Program can remain relevant in an era of unlimited independent expenditures. Another is how it can survive some of the changes made in 2013 in response to the fear of outside money.

Florida – Jeb Bush Kept Key Roles in Florida Firm amid Signs of Trouble
Washington Post – Tom Hamburger and Matea Gold | Published: 1/19/2015

One of the first business ventures that Jeb Bush got involved with after leaving the Florida governor’s mansion in 2007 was InnoVida, a company that ended up bankrupt, with two top executives in federal prison. Previously unreported court documents suggest Bush was more involved with the company than has been publicly known, and he deepened his role even as others grew concerned about its financial practices. Bush’s aides say he broke from the company and voluntarily repaid consulting fees as soon as questions arose. Nevertheless, Bush’s involvement with InnoVida provides insight into his approach as a businessperson and illustrates how his corporate ties could affect his presidential aspirations.

Missouri – At $37 Million and Counting, Mega-Donor Sinquefield Says He’s Not Going Anywhere
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Kevin McDermott and Virginia Young | Published: 1/18/2015

To hear U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill tell it, multimillionaire Rex Sinquefield pulls Missouri’s political strings like a high-priced puppet master. “He is, methodically, through a number of front groups, trying to buy government, buy judges, buy journalists … buy the Legislature,” warns McCaskill. It is a view widely echoed by fellow Democrats and even some Republicans. Since 2005, Sinquefield has donated more than $37 million to state-level candidates and causes. He is by far the most prolific political patron in the history of the state, and one of the biggest in the country.

New York – Sheldon Silver, New York Assembly Speaker, Is Accused of Taking Millions in Graft
New York Times – William Rashbaum, Thomas Kaplan, and Susanne Craig | Published: 1/22/2015

New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver was arrested on public corruption charges, accused of using his position as one of the most powerful men in Albany to obtain millions of dollars in bribes and kickbacks masked as legitimate income. He is charged with mail fraud, wire fraud, and extortion. The complaint maintains that for more than a decade, Silver devised a scheme “to induce real estate developers with business before the state” to use a real estate law firm controlled by a lawyer who had once worked as Silver’s counsel who orchestrated payments to the speaker for referrals to the firm.

Pennsylvania – Wolf Bans Gifts for Executive Branch First Day as PA Governor
Watchdog.org – Andrew Staub (PA Independent) | Published: 1/21/2015

On his first day in office, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf signed executive orders banning gifts for members of the executive branch and prohibiting no-bid contracts for private law firms. The ban makes exceptions for gifts from family and friends, bank loans, and free participation in gatherings in which officials are acting in their official duties and have been invited. There also are at least six proposals addressing gifts in the state House and Senate.

Texas – Prosecutor: Perry veto forced an end to several cases
Texas Tribune – Ross Ramsey and Reece Hamilton | Published: 1/17/2015

Texas Governor Rick Perry was indicted last summer for a veto threat of the Travis County public investigation unit’s funding. The vetoed funding killed an investigation into the state Department of Public Safety’s no-bid contracts. The Public Integrity Unit had been investigating the agency for awarding up to $20 million in no-bid contracts to a Virginia defense contractor for Perry’s expanding border security measures. Perry’s nixing of $7.5 million of the unit’s funding depleted its resources, reportedly shuttering the investigation.

Virginia – Judicial Appointment for Puckett’s Daughter Clears Va. Legislature
Washington Post – Laura Vozzella and Jenna Portnoy | Published: 1/20/2015

The Virginia Legislature voted to give Martha Puckett Ketron a juvenile court judgeship. In previous sessions, the Senate had always refused to appoint her to a full, six-year term while her father, Phillip Puckett, served in the chamber, citing an anti-nepotism policy. Phillip Puckett stepped down in June, in part, he said, to clear the way for her appointment. But the timing of his exit, which threw control of the evenly divided Senate to Republicans, infuriated fellow Democrats and triggered a six-month federal investigation that concluded without charges. Puckett also left as he was discussing a job for himself with the state tobacco commission. Democrats accused him of trading his Senate seat for jobs for himself and his daughter.

Washington – House Follows Senate, Bans Open Gun Display in Visitor Galleries
Seattle Post-Intelligencer – Joel Connelly | Published: 1/19/2015

The Washington Legislature adopted rules prohibiting display of weapons in the visitor galleries after an incident in which about 15 armed “open carry” advocates marched from a demonstration on the Capitol steps into the House gallery. Such arms-packing gun rights advocates in the future will be asked to leave or subject to arrest for criminal trespassing.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

January 22, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday News Roundup

Lobbying “K Street’s Small Shops Are Winning Big” by Megan Wilson for The Hill Arizona: “Lawmaker Wants Lobbyists’ Compensation to Be Public Information” by Kristena Hansen for KJZZ Illinois: “Fioretti Wants to Rein in Lobbyists for Ethics Reform” by Fran […]

January 21, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Two Executive Orders Promoting Ethics Reform

As promised, Gov. Tom Wolf has signed two executive orders to bring about ethics reform. The first order bans all employees, appointees, and officials of the executive branch from soliciting or accepting gifts from individuals attempting to influence decisions. The […]

January 21, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday Government Relations News

Lobbying “The Wealthiest Are Getting Wealthier, and Lobbying Has a Lot to Do with It” by Simone Pathe for PBS “Poll Shows Wide Public Support for Lobbyist Disclosure” by Steve Terrell for Santa Fe New Mexican Campaign Finance “Supreme Court […]

January 20, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Some K Street Donors Slow to Commit to another Romney Bid” by Fredreka Schouten for USA Today “Gifts to Va. Lawmakers down Last Year Following McDonnell Scandal” by Jenna Portnoy for Washington Post Campaign Finance “RNC Date Change Gives […]

January 19, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Indiana Ethics Bill Introduced with Bipartisan Support

Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma and House Minority Leader Scott Pelath have co-sponsored an ethics bill aimed at improving transparency and reducing conflicts of interest. The proposal would tighten the rules on waivers for the one-year “cooling off” period for […]

January 19, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Campaign Finance “Two PACs Fined over Disclosure Failures” by Anita Wadhwani for The Tennessean Ethics California: “Alfred Villalobos, Fixture in CalPERS Corruption Scandal, Apparently Commits Suicide” by Dale Kasler for Sacramento Bee Florida: “Court Hears Case Challenging Constitutionality of Florida’s […]

January 19, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

San Francisco, California Ethics Commission Drafts Campaign Finance Amendments

The Ethics Commission has released a memorandum summarizing legislative amendments proposed by staff to update, simplify, and improve the city’s Campaign Finance Reform Ordinance. The proposed amendments will repeal aggregate contribution limits, simplify reporting requirements for corporations and committees, and […]

January 16, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – January 16, 2015

National: How Campaigns Are Courting 16-Year-Olds Politico – Darren Samuelsohn | Published: 1/11/2015 Presidential campaigns are looking to target teenagers who are not yet 18 but will be by Election Day 2016. More than eight million people will become legal adults […]

National:

How Campaigns Are Courting 16-Year-Olds
Politico – Darren Samuelsohn | Published: 1/11/2015

Presidential campaigns are looking to target teenagers who are not yet 18 but will be by Election Day 2016. More than eight million people will become legal adults eligible to vote for the first time by the next general election. Campaigns are eager to find ways to get through to these 16- and 17-year-olds who are still minors and, in most cases, more likely to be concerned with making it to class on time than who should be elected president. Indeed, both Democrats and Republicans are desperate for any edge at the polls, and they say they will be employing data mining techniques in search of supporters from this ripe demographic that has little or no track record in politics.

Federal:

Rating 2016 Candidates by Donors Busts Conventional Wisdom
CNN – Chris Moody | Published: 1/14/2015

Crowdpac uses public campaign finance records, along with other data, to plot where potential White House contenders fall on the political spectrum. Crowdpac’s algorithm displays the contenders on a liberal–conservative spectrum, and rates each person on 15 issues. The third piece of the algorithm, which includes the ideology of donors and examines how the politicians spend their own money, makes Crowdpac’s analysis unusual, and helps provide a clearer picture of how those seeking the White House compare to their peers. The results can confound commonly held perceptions.

Who Needs Lobbyists? See What Big Business Spends to Win American Minds
The Center for Public Integrity – Erin Quinn | Published: 1/15/2015

When Washington, D.C.’s biggest trade associations want to wield influence, they often put more of their money into advertising and public relations. The Center for Public Integrity attempted to review spending by the nation’s most “politically active” trade groups, ones that spent more than $1 million on lobbying in 2012. The IRS requires the groups to report their top five contractors. Of $3.4 billion in contracts reported by trade groups from 2008 through 2012, more than $1.2 billion, or 37 percent, went toward advertising, public relations, and marketing services, more than any other category.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – L.A. Alliance for a New Economy Confirms Failure to Report Lobbying
Los Angeles Times – Emily Alpert Reyes | Published: 1/9/2015

The Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE), an influential group that successfully advocated for hiking the minimum wage for hotel workers, confirmed it left off information on reports filed with the city about how much it had paid to employees who act as lobbyists. Between 2009 and 2014, LAANE did not report any payments to its registered in-house lobbyists or any related expenses, despite the fact that emails and calendars for city officials show those lobbyists met regularly with lawmakers and their aides and helped suggest wording to city lawyers for the hotel wage ordinance. The group also did not list any matters its representatives lobbied on.

Florida – Ethics Deadbeats: Debt collectors seek $500K in outstanding fines from Florida public servants
Miami Herald – Christina Veiga | Published: 1/12/2015

The Florida Commission on Ethics has hired debt collectors to chase $487,549.96 in late fees from public officials and employees that have accumulated, in some cases, for more than a decade. Financial disclosure forms, which list net worth, sources of income, real estate holdings, and debts have been the repeated source of trouble or controversy for politicians over the years. Scofflaws are fined $25 a day until they file or they hit the cap of $1,500 per year. After 60 days, unpaid debts get sent to collections. If the person is still in public office, and receives a salary, then the commission can garnish paychecks, a new power that was given to the agency last year.

Illinois – Illinois Inauguration Raises Questions of Corporate Influence
Reuters – Mark Guarino | Published: 1/11/2015

Watchdog groups say activities surrounding Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner’s inauguration are among the priciest of any incoming governor and take advantage of a loophole in campaign finance that allows wealthy special interests to gain access to those who hold political power. These groups say Rauner’s inauguration festival, with a total tab estimated to reach $10 million, is emblematic of a trend in other states. Critics say the costly celebrations, funded by private donors, skirt ethics laws and open conflicts-of-interest for elected officials.

Illinois – Rauner Spends 1st Full Day as Governor on Ethics, Reversal of Quinn Actions
Chicago Tribune – Monique Garcia, Rick Pearson, and Ray Long | Published: 1/13/2015

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner issued an executive order banning some state employees from negotiating for a lobbying job while working for the state. The order also prohibits employees in state agencies and the executive branch from taking lobbying positions for one year after they leave their public sector job. The new rules prevent state employees from receiving any free meals, beverages, or gifts from lobbyists and government business interests, or have travel expenses covered to discuss state business. State workers could still receive food and beverages served at business meetings or receptions in the course of their official duties, subject to approval from the governor’s office or agency.

Kansas – Grand Jury Investigates Loans to the Re-Election Campaign of Gov. Sam Brownback
Kansas City Star – Roxana Hegeman (Associated Press) | Published: 1/8/2015

Federal grand jurors are scheduled to hear testimony about loans made to the re-election campaign of Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback. Lt. Gov. Jeff Colyer made three $500,000 loans to the campaign in 2013 and 2014 and was repaid for two of them in days. Such large loans by candidates to campaigns are uncommon in Kansas, and the pattern of repaying one within days is a highly unusual move that has generated unanswered questions about where Colyer obtained such a large amount of cash. Brownback and his wife also lent the campaign $200,000 last year. No other loans are listed in public reports.

Kentucky – Draft of Report on Kentucky Legislature Remains Untouched, Unreleased after Nine Months
Lexington Herald-Leader – John Cheves | Published: 1/14/2015

In October 2013, the Kentucky Legislature faced a scandal: a lawmaker who resigned over accusations he sexually harassed women at the Legislative Research Commission (LRC); allegations that sexual misconduct and favoritism made the LRC a hostile workplace; and the abrupt departure of longtime Director Bobby Sherman, whom police investigated for shredding documents days after he quit. The Legislature gave a $42,410 contract to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) to perform a performance audit of the LRC, the bureaucracy that runs the legislative branch of state government. NCSL submitted a draft report in April to Senate President Robert Stivers and House Speaker Greg Stumbo. But the leaders never responded, and rank-and-file lawmakers said they have not seen the report.

Minnesota – Minnesota Sen. Tomassoni Takes Job with Group That Lobbies Legislature
Minneapolis Star Tribune – J. Patrick Coolican | Published: 1/12/2015

Minnesota Sen. David Tomassoni was hired as executive director of the Range Association of Municipalities and Schools, an organization funded in part by public money that lobbies for those interests at the Capitol. His hiring immediately raised questions about whether the two roles would clash. Tomassoni said his role will be administrative, so he will not be lobbying his fellow lawmakers; the group will hire an independent lobbyist if it feels it needs to. He also promised to recuse himself from any votes where the association stands to benefit. Tomassoni’s work will not start until after the 2015 legislative session ends in late May, and he will take an unpaid leave of absence during every session.

North Carolina – Lobbyists, Not Just Lawmakers, Descend on Raleigh as New Session Begins
Raleigh News & Observer – Lynn Bonner | Published: 1/14/2015

North Carolina lawmakers filled the chambers of the Legislative Building for the start of a new session. But the day also launched the intense work of lobbyists. With 443 registered so far, lobbyists outnumber lawmakers by a ratio of more than two-to-one. While the state’s part-time legislators get much of the attention and cast the deciding votes, many ideas for new laws come from the lobbyists and their employers, which cover all sorts of interests. With permission from lawmakers, lobbyists can submit suggested bill language to legislative staffers.

Texas – House Panel Recommends Texas Legislature Take Action on Dark Money
Houston Chronicle – David Saleh Rauf | Published: 1/8/2015

Labeling “dark money” spending a corrupting force in the democratic process, the House Committee on State Affairs released a series of recommendations in a report that suggests the Texas Legislature take action to require disclosure of contributors to 501(c)(4) nonprofits. 501(c)(4)s are allowed to make independent expenditures to influence elections without having to disclose donors and have become a hot topic for state lawmakers after Gov. Rick Perry vetoed a dark money disclosure measure last session. The state Ethics Commission passed new rules intended to define when a 501(c)(4)’s political activity crosses the line and should have to disclose donors like a traditional PAC. The regulation is currently being challenged in court.

Texas – Judge Blocks City Campaign Fundraising Rule
Houston Chronicle – Theodore Schleifer | Published: 1/9/2015

A federal judge temporarily blocked a law limiting when candidates in Houston municipal elections can raise money. An ordinance prevented city candidates from raising money prior to February 1. The lawsuit against the city, filed by candidate Trebor Gordon, argued his First Amendment right to political expression authorized him to raise money for his campaigns whenever his contributors wished to donate.

Virginia – Jailed Lawmaker’s Return Brings Virginia Capitol More Unwanted Attention
Washington Post – Jenna Portnoy and Laura Vozzella | Published: 1/14/2015

A newly re-elected Virginia lawmaker hitched a ride from the jailhouse to the statehouse to be sworn in, even as legislative leaders discussed how to throw him out. Del. Joseph Morrissey, who spends his nights in jail because of a conviction for contributing to the delinquency of a minor, resigned his seat when he was convicted but won it back in a January 13 special election. He was back in his familiar legislative arena as the session convened, but with a whole new set of circumstances: colleagues ignored him, he was stripped of committee assignments, he had to give up his old office, and his desk on the House floor was put in a far corner.

West Virginia – In Unusual Arrangement, W.Va. Party Chairmen Double as Lobbyists
Charleston Gazette – David Gutman | Published: 1/11/2015

Larry Puccio left then-West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin’s staff in early 2010 and became a lobbyist a week later. He was elected as state Democratic Party chairperson five months after that. Now, he is not alone in serving in the dual roles. West Virginia GOP Chairperson Conrad Lucas registered as a lobbyist with the state Ethics Commission in early December. While this might not be unusual in West Virginia – former Democratic Party Chairpersons Nick Casey, Chuck Smith, and Steve White all lobbied while they were leading the party – it is very unusual nationwide. Other than Puccio and Lucas, there are only two other party chairs anywhere in the country who are active registered lobbyists.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

January 15, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday News Roundup

Campaign Finance Federal: “In 2014, Outside Groups Spent More Than the Candidates in Most Top Races” by Jamie Fuller for Washington Post Federal: “Rating 2016 Candidates by Donors Busts Conventional Wisdom” by Chris Moody for CNN Wisconsin: “Wisconsin Elections Board […]

January 14, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday Government Relations News

Lobbying “New Rules Target House Witnesses” by Megan Wilson for The Hill “Minnesota Sen. Tomassoni Takes Job with Group That Lobbies Legislature” by J. Patrick Coolican for Minneapolis Star Tribune “W.Va. Ethics Commission to Hold Lobbyist Training Course” by The […]

January 13, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “L.A. Alliance for a New Economy Confirms Failure to Report Lobbying” by Emily Alpert Reyes for Los Angeles Times “In Unusual Arrangement, W.Va. Party Chairmen Double as Lobbyists” by David Gutman for Charleston Gazette Campaign Finance “Brian Foley Gets […]

January 12, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Campaign Finance “GOP 2016 Hopefuls Race to Cash In on Small Online Donors” by Scott Bland for National Journal “Grand Jury Investigates Loans to the Re-Election Campaign of Gov. Sam Brownback” by Roxana Hegeman (Associated Press) for Kansas City Star […]

January 9, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – January 9, 2015

National: Governors’ Inaugurals Fueled by Political Donors Raleigh News & Observer – Paul Weber (Associated Press) | Published: 1/3/2015 Eleven new governors are taking office in January, and nearly two dozen others are renewing their oaths for second, third, or – […]

National:

Governors’ Inaugurals Fueled by Political Donors
Raleigh News & Observer – Paul Weber (Associated Press) | Published: 1/3/2015

Eleven new governors are taking office in January, and nearly two dozen others are renewing their oaths for second, third, or – in the case of Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad – sixth terms. Many will celebrate with bands and blowout balls, with much of the bill footed by the same supporters who bankrolled their victorious campaigns. In many states, corporate money that was banned before Election Day is allowed to cover the tab for inaugural parties. Critics see the events as another means for corporations and wealthy individuals to curry political favor with the state’s highest office, and in many cases without the transparency required by usual campaign finance laws.

Jeb Bush Education Foundation Played Leading Role in Mixing Politics, Policy
Washington Post – Lindsey Layton | Published: 1/6/2015

Jeb Bush’s Foundation for Excellence in Education has played a leading role in many states since its creation in 2008, following his two terms as governor of Florida. It has forged an unusual role mixing politics and policy – drafting legislation and paying travel expenses for state officials, lobbying lawmakers, and connecting public officials with industry executives seeking government contracts. The foundation, from which Bush resigned as chairperson as part of his preparations for a possible White House bid, has been criticized as a backdoor vehicle for major corporations to urge state officials to adopt policies that would enrich the companies.

Federal:

All Cooled Off: As Congress convenes, former colleagues will soon be calling from K Street
Center for Responsive Politics – Staff | Published: 1/5/2015

A key provision of the Honest Leadership and Open Government Act reined in lobbying by members of Congress, their top staffers, and other key government officials who move from their federal posts directly into the influence industry. The idea was to limit their ability to benefit immediately on their insider knowledge by lobbying their former colleagues. The restrictions, which vary depending on an individual’s government position, are lifted after a set period of time. But of the 104 former members and staff whose waiting period ends during the first session of the 114th Congress, 29 are already in government relations, “public affairs,” or serve as counsel at a firm that lobbies. And 13 of those are even registered as lobbyists, working to shape policy in Congress or the executive branch on behalf of paying clients.

Judge Candidates’ Free-Speech Rights at Issue before the Supreme Court
Washington Post – Rober Barnes | Published: 1/4/2015

Voters failed to find Lanell Williams-Yulee’s candidacy for Hillsborough County judge compelling, but the U.S. Supreme Court has a greater interest. The justices will consider whether the action that resulted in a rebuke by the Florida Bar Association and a fine of more than $1,800 – violating Florida’s restriction against directly soliciting contributions to judge campaigns – is instead an unreasonable constraint on Williams-Yulee’s right to free speech. Thirty states prohibit judicial candidates from directly asking for campaign contributions, in most cases leaving that work to a committee the candidate establishes. The Florida Supreme Court, found the restriction is constitutional.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Glendale Officials Take Free Tickets to Concerts, Sports
Arizona Republic – Pete Corbett | Published: 1/7/2015

City administrators, Glendale City Council members, and their guests received 90 free tickets for seats in a suite at 13 concerts at the city-owned Gila River Arena the past two years, including shows by Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, and the Who. Some watchdogs said the practice raises ethical, and possibly legal, issues for city officials. “We’re all cognizant at how the public looks at this, how this looks for us to get free tickets in a taxpayer-funded facility,” said former Vice Mayor Yvonne Knaack.

Maine – LD 1750: A study in how special interests get their way in the Maine Legislature
St. John Valley Times – Naomi Schalit (Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting) | Published: 1/6/2015

During the summer of 2013, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection made things harder for wind developers by putting more requirements into permit applications. The wind lobby saw the new requirements as illegal and obstructionist, and they believed the red tape would slow down or even halt the expansion plans of their multi-million-dollar industry. They needed help and by the summer of 2014, they knew where to go: to their friend and supporter Justin Alfond, the president of the state Senate. Critics say the story of how the wind industry’s problem was taken up by Alfond and his staff demonstrates a deep level of coordination between special interests and legislative leaders that often leaves citizens on the sidelines of the democratic process.

Maryland – Official Says He Was Wrong to Ask That His Name Not Be Used
New York Times – Associated Press | Published: 1/7/2015

Frederick County Council member Kirby Delauter apologized for threatening to sue a local newspaper if it used his name without permission, an ultimatum that earned him a two-day skewering in the blogosphere. Delauter said he had acted abruptly and out of frustration. Delauter supporter Tom Caulfield, owner of Chubby’s BBQ, said Delauter is a selfless public servant under constant attack by liberals and The Frederick News-Post. He likened him to Howard Beale, the angry television anchorman in the 1976 film, “Network,” who shouted, “I’m as mad as hell and I’m not going to take this anymore!” Former county board member Kai Hagen said the scorn heaped on Delauter online was well-deserved. “His behavior is crude. He is completely, it seems, incapable of empathy and sympathy and understanding,” said Hagen.

Massachusetts – Inaugural’s Top Donors Mingle with Key Officials
Boston Globe – Stephanie Ebbert | Published: 1/8/2015

The night before he was to be sworn in as governor of Massachusetts, Charlie Baker invited the top private sponsors of his inaugural celebration to a dinner at Alden Castle, where they could meet his incoming Cabinet members. About 100 people were invited to join the governor-elect at the “candlelight dinner.” State employees and Cabinet secretaries are not allowed to be named in fundraising material or featured at fundraising events. Baker senior adviser Jim Conroy distinguished the inaugural-eve gathering from campaign events, saying the presence of incoming Cabinet members was not advertised to donors. He said those who gave $25,000 received two tickets.

Missouri – Publisher’s Parties Highlight Reporting Issues in Missouri Ethics Laws
Columbia Daily Tribune – Rudi Keller | Published: 1/4/2015

The offices of the Missouri Times was the venue last year for legislators and their staffs to enjoy parties with lobbyist-paid liquor and snacks that went largely unreported to the state Ethics Commission. Publisher Scott Faughn called each party an “unveiling,” honoring a particular lawmaker. He text-messaged invitations with the names of sponsoring lobbyists or organizations. Faughn recalled that as many as six were held. A review of reports from individual lobbyists and the registered representatives of organizations named in text messages showed only one was reported. Faughn said he checked with the commission and believes lobbyists are not required to report the money spent for refreshments at the parties.

New Jersey – Christie’s Ties to Cowboys Owner Raise Ethics Questions
USA Today – Bob Jordan (Asbury Park Press) | Published: 1/6/2014

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has now attended three games at the invitation of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, who picked up the tab for the tickets and travel. Video of a clumsy hug between Christie and Jones in the owner’s luxury box during a key moment of a playoff game has gone viral. It also has focused fresh attention on the relationship between the potential Republican presidential hopeful and Jones. Christie in 2013 vouched for a Jones group in bidding for a Port Authority of New York and New Jersey contract worth millions of dollars.

South Carolina – McMaster Facing State Ethics Charges
The State – Andrew Shain | Published: 1/6/2015

South Carolina Lt. Gov.-Elect Henry McMaster faces 51 counts of campaign finance violations dating to his 2010 campaign for governor. A closed-door hearing in the case has been scheduled for March 18. McMaster, the state’s former attorney general, lost the Republican gubernatorial primary in 2010 to Gov. Nikki Haley. After the loss, McMaster continued to accept donations in excess of maximum contribution limits, alleges the complaint. “His campaign created a phantom general election in which he was not participating and solicited additional donations for that election in an effort to circumvent the law,” says the complaint.

Virginia – Bob McDonnell, Ex-Governor of Virginia, Sentenced to 2 Years for Corruption
New York Times – Jennifer Steinhauer | Published: 1/6/2015

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell was sentenced to two years in prison for public corruption. He was accused of selling the influence of his office to the chief executive of a dietary supplements company. A jury found McDonnell and his wife were guilty of accepting more than $165,000 in loans and gifts, including a Rolex watch, in exchange for promoting a nutritional supplement marketed by Star Scientific. McDonnell, who was once considered a possible contender for the White House, initially faced the prospect of up to 20 years in prison, but the judge lowered that range to six-and-a-half to eight years. McDonnell’s lawyers, citing what they described as years of good work and commitment to public service, had argued a sentence of community service should suffice.

Wisconsin – Republicans Eye Rewrite of Campaign Finance Laws, Other Election Changes
Chippewa Herald – Matthew DeFour | Published: 1/4/2015

Republicans are poised to make the most sweeping revisions to Wisconsin’s campaign finance law in decades. Many of those changes are already in effect after a series of federal court decisions made many current laws unenforceable. But a more comprehensive rewrite is in the works, and the overhaul is getting a thumbs up from the Government Accountability Board, a frequent target of GOP ire that is itself in line for a possible makeover. Among other things, lawmakers are considering increasing campaign contribution limits and clarifying the coordination restrictions at the heart of a recent investigation into Gov. Scott Walker’s recall campaign.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

News You Can Use Digest – January 23, 2015

Thursday News Roundup

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Two Executive Orders Promoting Ethics Reform

Wednesday Government Relations News

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Indiana Ethics Bill Introduced with Bipartisan Support

Monday News Roundup

San Francisco, California Ethics Commission Drafts Campaign Finance Amendments

News You Can Use Digest – January 16, 2015

Thursday News Roundup

Wednesday Government Relations News

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Monday News Roundup

News You Can Use Digest – January 9, 2015

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