August 3, 2023 •
Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance Hawaii: “Ban On Fundraisers? Hawaii Legislators Continued to Rake in Campaign Cash During Session” by Chad Blair and Patti Epler for Honolulu Civil Beat New Mexico: “Ethics Agency Reaches Settlement with PAC Active in 2022 Legislative Race” by Dan McKay (Albuquerque Journal) […]
Campaign Finance
Hawaii: “Ban On Fundraisers? Hawaii Legislators Continued to Rake in Campaign Cash During Session” by Chad Blair and Patti Epler for Honolulu Civil Beat
New Mexico: “Ethics Agency Reaches Settlement with PAC Active in 2022 Legislative Race” by Dan McKay (Albuquerque Journal) for Yahoo News
Elections
Michigan: “Michigan Republicans Charged in Connection with 2020 Voting Machine Tampering” by Patrick Marley and Aaron Schaffer (Washington Post) for MSN
Ohio: “Ohio Voters Are Deciding If It’s Too Easy to Pass Ballot Measures. Other States Are Watching.” by Zachary Roth and Morgan Trau for Missouri Independent
Ethics
California: “By Several Measures, the FPPC Is Outnumbered” by Brian Joseph for Capitol Weekly
National: “Trump Is Charged Under Civil Rights Law Used to Prosecute KKK Violence” by Isaac Stanley-Becker and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) for MSN
Texas: “Texas Environmental Regulators Are Using an Unwritten Rule to Squash Pollution Challenges” by Dylan Baddour (Inside Climate News) for MSN
Lobbying
California: “California Lawmakers Would Have to Disclose Lobbyist Meetings Under Sweeping Ballot Proposal” by Christopher Cadelago and Melanie Mason (Politico) for MSN
August 2, 2023 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance New Jersey: “Brindle Will Retire from Top ELEC Post” by David Wildstein for New Jersey Globe North Carolina: “‘Sophisticated Scam’ Nabs $50k from Stein’s Gubernatorial Campaign” by Travis Fain for WRAL Elections Pennsylvania: “Judge Rules Trump False Election Claims While in Office Covered […]
Campaign Finance
New Jersey: “Brindle Will Retire from Top ELEC Post” by David Wildstein for New Jersey Globe
North Carolina: “‘Sophisticated Scam’ Nabs $50k from Stein’s Gubernatorial Campaign” by Travis Fain for WRAL
Elections
Pennsylvania: “Judge Rules Trump False Election Claims While in Office Covered by Presidential Immunity” by Zach Schonfeld (The Hill) for Yahoo News
Ethics
California: “Anaheim Corruption Report Alleges a Criminal Conspiracy, Secret Lobbying and Influence Peddling” by Nathan Fenno and Gabriel San Román (Los Angeles Times) for MSN
National: “A Senator’s New Wife and Her Old Friends Draw Prosecutors’ Attention” by Tracey Tully (New York Times) for Yahoo News
Florida: “Florida’s New Black History Standards Have Drawn Backlash. Who Wrote Them?” by Sarah Mervosh (New York Times) for Seattle Times
National: “Do You Avoid the News? You’re in Growing Company.” by Paul Farhi (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Trump Charged in Probe of Jan. 6, Efforts to Overturn 2020 Election” by Devlin Barrett, Spencer Hsu, Perry Stein, and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN
August 1, 2023 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance National: “Trump PAC Has Spent More Than $40 Million on Legal Costs This Year for Himself, Others” by Josh Dawsey, Devlin Barrett, and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) for MSN Maryland: “Treasurer for Baltimore County Campaign Committees Sentenced for Stealing Funds” by Madeleine […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Trump PAC Has Spent More Than $40 Million on Legal Costs This Year for Himself, Others” by Josh Dawsey, Devlin Barrett, and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) for MSN
Maryland: “Treasurer for Baltimore County Campaign Committees Sentenced for Stealing Funds” by Madeleine O’Neill for Maryland Daily Record
Elections
Georgia: “Judge Rejects Trump’s Effort to Short-Circuit Georgia Election Case” by Richard Fausset and Danny Hakim (New York Times) for DNyuz
Ethics
Florida: “Fort Lauderdale Commissioners Will Pay After All, After Attending Lionel Messi’s Unveiling” by Anthony Man (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) for Broward.US
Nevada: “Indy Explains: How does the Nevada Commission on Ethics work?” by Carly Sauvageau for Nevada Independent
Washington: “State Ethics Board Cites Rep. Simmons for Speaking Engagement Compensation” by Kai Uyehara (Kitsap Sun) for MSN
Legislative Issues
North Carolina: “Inside the Party Switch that Blew Up North Carolina Politics” by Kate Kelly and David Perlmutt (New York Times) for Seattle Times
Procurement
Kansas: “Kansas $180K Megaproject Consulting Job Went to Deputy Secretary’s LLC” by Jason Alatidd (Topeka Capital-Journal) for Yahoo News
July 31, 2023 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance National: “The Mystery of How Tim Scott’s Campaign Is Spending Its Millions” by Rebecca Davis O’Brien, and Alexandra Berzon (New York Times) for DNyuz Elections Florida: “New Law Shields DeSantis’ Use of State Vehicles to Campaign” by Jeffrey Schweers (Orlando Sentinel) for […]
Campaign Finance
National: “The Mystery of How Tim Scott’s Campaign Is Spending Its Millions” by Rebecca Davis O’Brien, and Alexandra Berzon (New York Times) for DNyuz Elections Florida: “New Law Shields DeSantis’ Use of State Vehicles to Campaign” by Jeffrey Schweers (Orlando Sentinel) for Yahoo News Ethics California: “Planned Cuts to City Ethics Board Reversed by Legislators” by Adam Shanks for San Francisco Examiner National: “Trump Aide Carlos De Oliveira’s Journey from Failed Witness to Defendant” by Devlin Barrett, Spencer Hsu, and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN Kansas: “Kansas Ethics Regulators Can Waive Fines – but Some Think They Aren’t Consistent” by Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) for Yahoo News Nebraska: “Hunter Hired as New Director of Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission” by Paul Hammel for Nebraska Examiner Lobbying National: “The Secret History of Gun Rights: How lawmakers armed the N.R.A.” by Mike McIntire (New York Times) for DNyuz North Carolina: “Idea Exchange or Corporate Lobbying Front? A Look into ALEC’s Influence in NC” by Jazper Lu (Raleigh News and Observer) for Yahoo News |
July 28, 2023 •
News You Can Use Digest – July 28, 2023
National/Federal Senate GOP Leader McConnell Briefly Leaves News Conference After Freezing Up Midsentence Associated Press News – Mary Clare Jalonick | Published: 7/26/2023 Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell briefly left his own press conference after stopping his remarks midsentence and staring off […]
National/Federal
Senate GOP Leader McConnell Briefly Leaves News Conference After Freezing Up Midsentence
Associated Press News – Mary Clare Jalonick | Published: 7/26/2023
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell briefly left his own press conference after stopping his remarks midsentence and staring off into space for several seconds. McConnell was out of the Senate for almost six weeks earlier this year after falling and hitting his head. He was hospitalized for several days, and suffered a concussion and fractured a rib. His speech has sounded more halting in recent weeks, prompting questions among some of his colleagues about his health.
Prosecutors Drop Campaign Finance Charge Against Sam Bankman-Fried
DNyuz – David Yaffe-Bellany and Matthew Goldstein (New York Times) | Published: 7/27/2023
Federal prosecutors pursuing the criminal case against the cryptocurrency mogul Sam Bankman-Fried said they were dropping a charge that he violated campaign finance rules. Bankman-Fried was charged with fraud and campaign finance violations after the collapse of his company, FTX. He was extradited to the U.S. from the Bahamas, where FTX was based. But prosecutors said they had been informed by officials in the Bahamas the nation’s government had not intended to extradite Bankman-Fried on the campaign finance charge.
More Income for the Supreme Court: Million-dollar book deals
DNyuz – Steve Eder, Abbie Van Sickle, and Elizabeth Harris (New York Times) | Published: 7/27/2023
In recent months, media reports have highlighted a lack of transparency at the U.S. Supreme Court, as well as the absence of a binding ethics code for the justices. The reports included Justice Clarence Thomas’s travels and relationships with wealthy benefactors. The justices’ book deals are not prohibited under the law, and income from the advances and royalties are reported on annual financial disclosure forms. But the deals have become lucrative for the justices, including for those who have used court staff members to help research and promote their books.
How George Santos Used Political Connections to Fuel Get-Rich Schemes
DNyuz – Grace Ashford (New York Times) | Published: 7/26/2023
In the years since U.S. Rep. George Santos first ran for the House in 2020, he has become adept at finding ways to extract money from politics. He founded a political consulting group that he marketed to other Republicans. He sought to profit from the Covid crisis, using campaign connections. He also solicited investments for and from political donors, raising ethical questions. A review of his political career found several previously unreported examples of how he sought to use the connections he made as a candidate for public office to enrich himself.
How Right-Wing News Powers the ‘Gold IRA’ Industry
MSN – Jeremy Merrill and Hanna Kozlowska (Washington Post) | Published: 7/25/2023
While the legitimacy of the gold retirement investment industry is the subject of numerous lawsuits, including allegations of fraud by regulators, its advertising has become a mainstay of right-wing media. The industry spends millions of dollars a year to reach viewers of Fox, Newsmax, and other conservative outlets. For years, gold IRA industry advertising has echoed accusations against Democratic politicians commonly found in news segments on conservative outlets. The ads tout the coins as a safe haven from economic uncertainty and social upheaval.
Many Redistricting Redos Pending, but ’24 Election Outlook Unclear
MSN – Michael Macagnone and Mary Ellen McIntire (Roll Call) | Published: 7/25/2023
There is a series of courtroom redistricting battles playing out in about a dozen states. Some new maps could be drawn in time to change the electoral landscape in 2024, when Democrats need a net gain of five seats to take control of the House. But others may still be facing challenges as that election goes forward. One attorney said drawing new districts just once a decade after the census comes out is almost passé, and ongoing litigation is the new normal.
Supreme Court Ethics Measure Advances on Party-Line Vote
MSN – Michael Macagnone (Roll Call) | Published: 7/20/2023
The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced a bill that would place new transparency rules on U.S. Supreme Court filings, place new recusal standards on the justices, and require the court to adopt a code of ethics. The party-line vote came as Democrats said Congress must act because reports about undisclosed gifts and travel received by justices had stained the institution. Republicans called the measure an attack on the legitimacy of a conservative-controlled court that has ruled in ways Democrats do not like.
Risky Business: Top lobbying firms navigate uncertainty in tumultuous second quarter
MSN – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 7/21/2023
K Street’s top lobbying firms reported strong earnings in a quarter marked by uncertainty. Lobbyists said they have been hard at work on some of the must-pass bills in the 118th Congress, including the National Defense Authorization Act, the Federal Aviation Authorization, and the Farm Bill reauthorization. Against the backdrop of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the narrowly avoided debt ceiling crisis, the Biden administration has pushed for new regulations. Lobbyists say Biden’s regulators push is driving a significant amount of their work.
Trial Date in Trump Documents Case Set for May 2024
MSN – Melissa Quinn (CBS News) | Published: 7/21/2023
The federal judge in Florida overseeing the Justice Department’s case against former President Trump over his alleged mishandling of sensitive government documents has set a date for his trial to begin in May 2024. The Justice Department had requested the trial start by mid-December of this year, but Trump’s legal team pushed back, arguing instead for the proceedings to begin after the 2024 presidential election. The May 20 date means the trial will take place toward the end of the Republican presidential primaries.
Smithsonian Literary Fest Flagged ‘Sensitive’ Topics Before Cancellation
MSN – Sophia Nguyen (Washington Post) | Published: 7/22/2023
Less than a month before the Smithsonian’s Asian American Literature Festival was to begin, staffers prepared what they considered to be a routine memo discussing programs involving “potentially sensitive issues” they knew the host institution would want to be aware of in advance. Among the matters cited in the mem: a panel about book bans, and two events featuring queer, trans, and nonbinary writers. Hours later, the acting director of the Smithsonian Institution’s Asian Pacific American Center, Yao-Fen You, informed organizers she decided to cancel the entire festival because of “unforeseen circumstances.”
Vaccine Politics May Be to Blame for GOP Excess Deaths, Study Finds
MSN – David Ovalle (Washington Post) | Published: 7/24/2023
The political maelstrom swirling around coronavirus vaccines may be to blame for a higher rate of excess deaths among registered Republicans in Ohio and Florida during the coronavirus pandemic. The new study underscores the partisan divide over coronavirus vaccines that have saved lives but continued to roil American politics even as the pandemic has waned. Yale University researchers found registered Republicans had a higher rate of excess deaths than Democrats in the months following when vaccines became available for all adults in April 2021.
‘This Is a Really Big Deal’: How college towns are decimating the GOP
Yahoo News – Charlie Mahtesian and Madi Alexander (Politico) | Published: 7/21/2023
In state after state, fast-growing, traditionally liberal counties with colleges are flexing their electoral muscles, generating higher turnout and ever greater Democratic margins. They have already played a pivotal role in turning several red states blue and they could play an equally decisive role in key swing states next year. Name the flagship university and the story tends to be the same. If the surrounding county was a reliable source of Democratic votes in the past, it is a landslide county now.
Fearing Trump’s Wrath, GOP Lobbyists Stay on the ’24 Primary Sidelines
Yahoo News – Hailey Fuchs (Politico) | Published: 7/25/2023
Republican lobbyists on K Street are not rushing to back Donald Trump in his third run for the White House. But they are not rallying in full force behind an alternative either. While some lobbyists are doling out cash, others are fearful any type of public opposition to the former president could make them persona non grata in Washington should he get back to the White House.
From the States and Municipalities
Canada – Google, Meta Fight with Canada Over Law Forcing Them to Pay for News
MSN – Amanda Coletta (Washington Post) | Published: 7/22/2023
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government is in a high-stakes showdown with Google and Meta, accusing them of unfairly profiting at the expense of Canadian news outlets and of using “bullying tactics” to intimidate officials. At issue Canada’s Online News Act, which aims to shore up a struggling media industry by requiring tech firms to compensate domestic news publishers for the content shared on their platforms.
Alabama – Alabama Lawmakers Refuse to Create a 2nd Majority-Black Congressional District
National Public Radio – Jeff Amy and Kim Chandler (Associated Press) | Published: 7/21/2023
Alabama refused to create a second majority-Black congressional district, a move that could defy a recent order from the U.S. Supreme Court to give minority voters a greater voice and trigger a renewed battle over the state’s political map. State lawmakers faced a deadline to adopt new district lines after the Supreme Court in June upheld a three-judge panel’s finding that the current state map, with one majority-Black district out of seven in a state that is 27 percent Black, likely violates the Voting Rights Act.
Arizona Capitol Times – Howard Fischer (Arizona Capitol Services) | Published: 7/25/2023
Rebuffed in their bid to totally quash a voter-approved ban on “dark money,” two organizations involved in trying to influence Arizona politics are now trying to at least get themselves and their donors exempted from its provisions. In new legal filings, attorney Scott Freeman again argues Proposition 211 and its requirement for disclosure of the true source of campaign money violates state constitutional provisions guaranteeing free speech and privacy. Those claims, first filed last year, were rejected by Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Scott McCoy.
California – A Politician’s Downfall Reveals a Disney Exec and a Secret ‘Cabal’s’ Power Over Anaheim
MSN – Adam Elmahrek, Gabriel San Román, and Nathan Fenno (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 7/25/2023
The role of powerful business interests in Anaheim – home to Disneyland Resort and Angel Stadium – has come under renewed scrutiny amid an ongoing federal corruption investigation that became public last year. FBI affidavits detail strong alliances between city leaders and several unelected power brokers. Jordan Brandman provided an insider’s look at how Anaheim was run from when he became a city council member in 2012 to when he stepped down in disgrace two years ago. His account and records describe relationships that went deeper than the typical transactional ties that often bind lobbyists and government officials.
California – Real Estate Developer in Huizar Bribery Case Sentenced to Six Years in Prison
MSN – David Zahniser (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 7/21/2023
A federal judge sentenced a Los Angeles real estate developer to six years in prison for providing cash bribes to former city council member Jose Huizar, then attempting to hide the transaction from investigators. Dae Yong Lee was found guilty of giving $500,000 in bribes in exchange for the approval of a 20-story residential tower. He was also convicted of wire fraud and obstruction of justice.
California – Oakland’s Democracy Dollars Delayed, But Not Dead
Oaklandside – Eli Wolfe | Published: 7/26/2023
Oakland residents will not receive Democracy Dollars to spend in the 2024 general election due to the budget. But the program’s supporters are determined to see a successful launch in 2026. Democracy Dollar, an initiative to level the campaign finance playing field, was overwhelmingly approved by voters last November. The measure called for giving every registered voter $100 in vouchers they could use to support candidates for city council, mayor, and other city offices.
California – Marilyn Flynn, Ex-USC Dean in Corruption Case with Ridley-Thomas, Sentenced to 3 Years Probation
Yahoo News – Matt Hamilton (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 7/24/2023
Marilyn Flynn, the former dean of the University of Southern California’s (USC) social work program who admitted to bribing Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas in exchange for his help securing the renewal of a county contract, was sentenced to 18 months of home confinement. Flynn admitted she agreed to send $100,000 from USC to the United Ways of California, which was sponsoring a new nonprofit led by Ridley-Thomas’ son. The money from USC coincided with the donation of $100,000 to USC’s social work program from a political campaign associated with Mark Ridley-Thomas.
Colorado – 7-Year Saga: Millions in legal fees in fight between ethics commission and Glendale mayor
Colorado Politics – Marianne Goodland | Published: 7/22/2023
In 2016, the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission decided a complaint against Glendale Mayor Mike Dunafon warranted an investigation. Seven years later, Dunafon said he still does not know what he is being charged with. In the meantime, the Colorado Court of Appeals decided the commission’s efforts to assert jurisdiction over the city government in the Dunafon case had no basis in law. While it is unclear when the case might be resolved, the battle between the commission and the city and its mayor has so far cost Glendale taxpayers more than $2 million.
Florida – DeSantis Doubles Down on Claim That Some Blacks Benefited from Slavery
MSN – Kevin Sullivan and Lori Rozsa (Washington Post) | Published: 7/22/2023
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is intensifying his efforts to de-emphasize racism in his state’s public school curriculum by arguing some Black people benefited from being enslaved and defending the new African American history standards that civil rights leaders and scholars say misrepresents centuries of reality. “They’re probably going to show that some of the folks that eventually parlayed … being a blacksmith into doing things later in life,” DeSantis said while standing in front of a nearly all-White crowd of supporters.
MSN – Anthony Man (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) | Published: 7/18/2023
Among the thousands of fans who packed Fort Lauderdale’s professional soccer stadium recently were prominent elected officials, who were hosted in a secure VIP area, where some were able to talk with and get pictures with Inter Miami’s new superstar player, Lionel Messi, and team co-owner David Beckham. The presence of the elected officials raised questions about what they were doing at the event. One Fort Lauderdale commissioner said it was improper for his colleagues to attend.
Florida – Failed Miami-Dade Commission Candidate Faces Long List of Campaign-Finance Charges
Yahoo News – Grethel Aguila (Miami Herald) | Published: 7/26/2023
Sophia Lacayo, a failed Miami-Dade Commission candidate, spent more than a million dollars challenging one of the county’s longest-serving politicians last year. Now, prosecutors allege some of that money was mishandled. State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle said the violations were “deliberate steps” to sidestep campaign finance laws.
Georgia – Giuliani Not Contesting Making False Statements About Georgia Election Workers
MSN – John Wagner and Amy Wang (Washington Post) | Published: 7/26/2023
Rudy Giuliani, who served as a lawyer for former President Trump, is no longer contesting as a legal matter that he made false and defamatory statements about two former Georgia election workers – but argues in a new court filing what amounted to false claims about vote-rigging in the 2020 presidential election was constitutionally protected speech and did not damage the workers. The filing is the latest twist in a lawsuit brought by Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Shaye Moss, who counted ballots in Fulton County during the November 2020 election.
Illinois – Chicago Watchdog Vows to Ramp Up Enforcement of Ethics Laws, Address ‘Deficit of Legitimacy’
WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 7/25/2023
Inspector General Deborah Witzburg said her office’s decision to declare two high-profile Chicago politicians violated the city’s ethics laws should put elected officials on notice that she plans to step up efforts to hold rule breakers accountable. Witzburg vowed to pursue enforcement of Chicago’s ethics rules with “greater frequency and rigor than ever before – paying down the deficit of legitimacy at which the city operates by ensuring that people who break the rules are held accountable, regardless of their positions.”
Louisiana – Bid-Rigging, Ethics Violations Found in Unreleased New Orleans ‘Smart Cities’ Investigation
Louisiana Illuminator – Michael Isaac Stein (Verite) | Published: 7/23/2023
Investigators hired by the New Orleans City Council last year to look into the now-abandoned “smart cities” project found evidence of potential contract-rigging, ethics violations, and perjury by city officials. The final product concluded that the consortium of businesses that was selected for the proposed contract, Smart+Connected NOLA, had an unfair advantage in the public bidding process, and undisclosed financial relationships compromised the integrity of the process.
Massachusetts – Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson Admits to Ethics Violation, Pays Penalty in Connection to Hiring Relatives
MSN – Sean Cotter (Boston Globe) | Published: 7/25/2023
Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson admitted to an ethics violation and agreed to pay a $5,000 fine for hiring and then giving raises to her sister and son. Fernandes Anderson said both of her family members were “amazing” employees who she would happily hire again if it were allowed.
Michigan – ‘Cover-Up’ Alleged as Michigan Redistricting Member Cleared of Ethics Violation
MLive – Ben Orner | Published: 7/20/2023
The Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission cleared Commissioner Anthony Eid of any ethics violations after he left a position as deputy director of Michigan Voices, a nonprofit that had lobbied the commission. With questions of a conflict-of-interest dogging Eid, Commissioner Rebecca Szetela asked for a ruling regarding his employment. But at a recent meeting, Szetela’s item was pulled from the agenda after commission Chairperson Doug Clark announced Eid and Michigan Voices had mutually parted ways and the matter should be deleted from the agenda because it “has been taken care of.”
Minnesota – Minnesota Legalizes Crypto Contributions for State Campaigns
MSN – Torey Van Oot (Axios) | Published: 7/27/2023
Cryptocurrency contributions to state campaign committees are now explicitly allowed under a law that took effect recently in Minnesota. Under the new rules, campaigns must convert donations made via virtual currency to U.S. dollars within five days. The Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board asked legislators to address crypto to get ahead of any potential issues as digital currencies grow in popularity, Executive Director Jeff Sigurdson said.
Nevada – Lombardo Fined $20K for Ethical Lapses in Nevada Governor Campaign
Las Vegas Sun – Casey Harrison | Published: 7/25/2023
The Nevada Commission on Ethics voted to censure and fine Gov. Joe Lombardo $20,000 for using his Clark County Sheriff uniform and badge while running for governor in 2022 but declined to levy the proposed fine. Commission Executive Director Ross Armstrong said each of the 34 social media posts in question violated two provisions of state law, or 68 violations in total, which left Armstrong to recommend the commission order Lombardo to pay a record $1.67 million civil fine, be censured by the body, and be compelled to establish an ethics officer within the governor’s office.
New Jersey – New Jersey’s Election Watchdog Dumps 107 Cases After Controversial Law Cuts Investigative Time
New Jersey Monitor – Dana DiFilippo | Published: 7/26/2023
The state’s election watchdog dismissed almost half its active investigations into reported campaign finance violations after legislators passed a controversial new law critics warned would weaken enforcement. The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) held its first meeting since its former commissioners resigned in protest over the new law, which Gov. Murphy signed in April. With four new commissioners appointed by Murphy recently, ELEC tossed 107 cases.
New Jersey – Former Top Aide to NJ Senate Leader Avoids Prison Time in Tax Evasion, Wire Fraud Case
Yahoo News – Ashley Balcerzak (Bergen Record) | Published: 7/24/2023
Tony Teixeira, former chief of staff to the New Jersey Senate president, was sentenced to eight months of house arrest and three years of probation after pleading guilty to tax evasion and wire fraud. Teixeira admitted he conspired with political operative Sean Caddle to overcharge campaigns, PACs, and nonprofits for work done by Caddle’s consulting firms and split the proceeds. Kickbacks to Teixeira were concealed through cash and checks made out to Teixeira’s relatives.
New Mexico – Calls for a More Independent Harassment Review Process in NM Legislature Remain Unmet
Source New Mexico – Megan Gleason | Published: 7/24/2023
Lawmakers are gathering all over New Mexico to discuss priorities for the next legislative session. Much like the 2023 Legislature, some lobbyists still feel unsafe at these meetings around the state’s public servants. Very little has changed since the last session, despite calls for more safety and accountability measures for lawmakers. After a senator who has had allegations against him in the past for sexual misconduct presented all day long at an interim committee meeting, lobbyists are raising their voices again for change in the Legislature.
New York – Restaurateur Who Paid Off New York Politicians Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison
DNyuz – Karen Zraick (New York Times) | Published: 7/26/2023
A restaurateur who was a key witness in a public corruption investigation was sentenced to four years in prison, ending an episode that churned up allegations of endemic wrongdoing that stretched across New York City and one of its most populous suburban areas. Harendra Singh pleaded guilty to charges he bribed a former Nassau County executive, Edward Mangano. Singh also admitted trying to bribe former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, to get favorable treatment for a restaurant in Queens.
North Carolina – Are NC Legislators Allowed to Date Staff Members? Here’s What Their Rules Say.
MSN – Jazper Lu (Raleigh News and Observer) | Published: 7/24/2023
In a recent interview, North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore defended his years-long relationship with a state official, noting the employee in question does not report to him. Moore also pointed out that rules allow legislators to date members of their own staff. This does not mean such conduct does not come under scrutiny, however.
Oregon – For One Democrat, the Price of Bucking Her Party Is a Flood of Bad Reviews
Seattle Times – Annie Karni (New York Times) | Published: 7/22/2023
Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Pérez was elected to Congress last year as a Democrat and became one of only a small number of lawmakers in her party who periodically crosses over to vote with Republicans. Now, Gluesenkamp Pérez is one of the most vulnerable Democrats in Congress, and Dean’s Car Care – the family business named for her husband – has become the target of vicious online trolling from the left. Negative online reviews of the business excoriate her for siding with Republicans on a bill to repeal President Biden’s student loan relief initiative.
Rhode Island – RI Ethics Panel to Investigate Gov. McKee’s Free Lunch with Lobbyist
WPRI – Eli Sherman | Published: 7/25/2023
The Rhode Island Ethics Commission opened an investigation into whether Gov. Dan McKee violated state law when a lobbyist treated him to lunch at a high-end restaurant. The state Republican Party called into question a meal where statehouse lobbyist Jeff Britt and his clients – executives of Scout Ltd. – met with McKee and his fundraising chairperson, Jerry Sahagian. Britt said the meal cost $228, and he picked up the tab after Sahagian told him he “did not have the campaign credit card.”
Tennessee – Tennessee Now Requires Court Order or Proof of Pardon to Restore Felon Voting Rights
Associated Press News – Jonathan Matisse and Travis Loller | Published: 7/21/2023
Tennessee has begun requiring felons who want their voting rights back to first get their full citizenship rights restored by a judge or show they were pardoned. Election officials say the step is required after a recent court ruling. But attorneys representing the state’s disenfranchised felons accuse officials of searching for ways to suppress Black voters.
Tennessee – What Happens When a Cash-Poor Billionaire Wants a New Sports Stadium? Lobbying.
Tennessee Lookout – Adam Friedman | Published: 7/26/2023
Amy Adams Strunk and her family own the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League. The family is wealthy by almost every standard except one – among sports owners. When they were almost two billion dollars shy of the cash needed for a new stadium in Nashville, the family turned to a strategy common for Tennessee businesses wanting help with a project. They hired a deep roster of lobbyists to convince lawmakers to raise taxes and fund their proposal with public dollars that those opposed to the stadium say could have been spent elsewhere.
July 27, 2023 •
Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance California: “Oakland’s Democracy Dollars Delayed, But Not Dead” by Eli Wolfe for Oaklandside New Jersey: “New Jersey’s Election Watchdog Dumps 107 Cases After Controversial Law Cuts Investigative Time” by Dana DiFilippo for New Jersey Monitor Elections Georgia: “Giuliani Not Contesting Making False Statements […]
Campaign Finance
California: “Oakland’s Democracy Dollars Delayed, But Not Dead” by Eli Wolfe for Oaklandside
New Jersey: “New Jersey’s Election Watchdog Dumps 107 Cases After Controversial Law Cuts Investigative Time” by Dana DiFilippo for New Jersey Monitor
Elections
Georgia: “Giuliani Not Contesting Making False Statements About Georgia Election Workers” by John Wagner and Amy Wang (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
National: “How George Santos Used Political Connections to Fuel Get-Rich Schemes” by Grace Ashford (New York Times) for DNyuz
Florida: “Politicians Got Spots in a VIP Suite for Lionel Messi’s Big Unveiling. Was It Official Duty or a Perk?” by Anthony Man (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) for MSN
Illinois: “Chicago Watchdog Vows to Ramp Up Enforcement of Ethics Laws, Address ‘Deficit of Legitimacy'” by Heather Cherone for WTTW
Nevada: “Lombardo Fined $20K for Ethical Lapses in Nevada Governor Campaign” by Casey Harrison for Las Vegas Sun
Lobbying
National: “Fearing Trump’s Wrath, GOP Lobbyists Stay on the ’24 Primary Sidelines” by Hailey Fuchs (Politico) for Yahoo News
Tennessee: “What Happens When a Cash-Poor Billionaire Wants a New Sports Stadium? Lobbying.” by Adam Friedman for Tennessee Lookout
July 26, 2023 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance Arizona: “Two Organizations Trying to Influence State Politics Attempting to Get Exemptions for Prop 211 Disclosures” by Howard Fischer (Arizona Capitol Services) for Arizona Capitol Times New Jersey: “Former Top Aide to NJ Senate Leader Avoids Prison Time in Tax Evasion, […]
Campaign Finance
Arizona: “Two Organizations Trying to Influence State Politics Attempting to Get Exemptions for Prop 211 Disclosures” by Howard Fischer (Arizona Capitol Services) for Arizona Capitol Times
New Jersey: “Former Top Aide to NJ Senate Leader Avoids Prison Time in Tax Evasion, Wire Fraud Case” by Ashley Balcerzak (Bergen Record) for Yahoo News
Ethics
California: “Marilyn Flynn, Ex-USC Dean in Corruption Case with Ridley-Thomas, Sentenced to 3 Years Probation” by Matt Hamilton (Los Angeles Times) for Yahoo News
California: “A Politician’s Downfall Reveals a Disney Exec and a Secret ‘Cabal’s’ Power Over Anaheim” by Adam Elmahrek, Gabriel San Román, and Nathan Fenno (Los Angeles Times) for MSN
Massachusetts: “Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson Admits to Ethics Violation, Pays Penalty in Connection to Hiring Relatives” by Sean Cotter (Boston Globe) for MSN
National: “How Right-Wing News Powers the ‘Gold IRA’ Industry” by Jeremy Merrill and Hanna Kozlowska (Washington Post) for MSN
Lobbying
Rhode Island: “RI Ethics Panel to Investigate Gov. McKee’s Free Lunch with Lobbyist” by Eli Sherman for WPRI
Redistricting
National: “Many Redistricting Redos Pending, but ’24 Election Outlook Unclear” by Michael Macagnone and Mary Ellen McIntire (Roll Call) for MSN
July 25, 2023 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Elections National: “‘This Is a Really Big Deal’: How college towns are decimating the GOP” by Charlie Mahtesian and Madi Alexander (Politico) for Yahoo News Ethics California: “Real Estate Developer in Huizar Bribery Case Sentenced to Six Years in Prison” by David Zahniser (Los […]
July 24, 2023 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Elections Tennessee: “Tennessee Now Requires Court Order or Proof of Pardon to Restore Felon Voting Rights” by Jonathan Matisse and Travis Loller for Associated Press News Ethics Colorado: “7-Year Saga: Millions in legal fees in fight between ethics commission and Glendale mayor” by Marianne […]
July 21, 2023 •
News You Can Use Digest – July 21, 2023
National/Federal Supreme Court Justices and Donors Mingle at Campus Visits. These Documents Show the Ethical Dilemmas Associated Press News – Brian Slodysko and Eric Tucker | Published: 7/11/2023 Documents reveal the extent to which public colleges and universities have seen visits by […]
National/Federal
Supreme Court Justices and Donors Mingle at Campus Visits. These Documents Show the Ethical Dilemmas
Associated Press News – Brian Slodysko and Eric Tucker | Published: 7/11/2023
Documents reveal the extent to which public colleges and universities have seen visits by U.S. Supreme Court justices as opportunities to generate donations – regularly putting justices in the room with influential donors, including some whose industries have had interests before the court. The documents also reveal that justices have lent the prestige of their positions to partisan activity, headlining speaking events with prominent politicians, or advanced their own personal interests, such as sales of their books, through college visits. The conduct would likely be prohibited if done by lower court federal judges.
The Biden Administration Is Without a Confirmed Ethics Czar
Government Executive – Eric Katz | Published: 7/18/2023
The federal agency responsible for enforcing ethics rules across government is without a confirmed leader for the first time in five years and President Biden has yet to appoint anyone to fill the role. The lack of a confirmed director should not hinder the Office of Government Ethics’ daily operations, but Biden would be smart to pick a new permanent leader soon to signal he is serious about ethics, former agency officials said. Shelley Finlayson, chief of staff and program counsel at the ethics agency, will fill in as director on an acting basis.
Social Media Restrictions on Biden Officials Are Paused in Appeal
Las Vegas Sun – David McCabe and Steve Lohr (New York Times) | Published: 7/13/2023
A federal appeals court paused a judge’s order that had blocked much of the Biden administration from talking to social media sites about content. The case could have significant First Amendment implications and affect the conduct of social media companies and their cooperation with government agencies. The appeals court also called for expedited oral arguments in the case.
Door-Knocker Complaints Show Risks of DeSantis Super PAC Strategy
MSN – Michael Scherer and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 7/13/2023
With his foot on the front porch of a home in Charleston, South Carolina, a canvasser for a $100 million field effort supporting Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis vented on July 7 about a homeowner who he said had told him to get off his lawn. The outburst seen on a Ring doorbell video recording highlighted a potential risk of the unprecedented effort by DeSantis donors to flood early primary states with thousands of paid door knockers armed with high-tech tools to win support one conversation at a time.
GOP Lawmaker Says He ‘Misspoke’ in Referring to ‘Colored People’ on House Floor
MSN – Amy Wang (Washington Post) | Published: 7/14/2023
Rep. Eli Crane said he “misspoke” when he referred to Black Americans as “colored people” on the U.S. House floor while arguing the military should not focus on diversity, a comment that sparked an immediate outcry in the chamber and was condemned by Democrats. Crane, who served in the Navy, suggested any focus on diversity would lead to a lowering of military standards.
Trump Says He Received a Target Letter in Federal Jan. 6 Investigation
MSN – Perry Stein, Josh Dawsey, and Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 7/18/2023
Former President Trump received a letter from the Justice Department informing him that he is a target of the long-running investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. The target letter and potential indictment further ensnare Trump in unprecedented legal peril while he is campaigning as the front-runner to be the 2024 Republican nominee for president. The letter also comes as state and federal prosecutors around the country appear to be preparing to lodge criminal charges related to efforts to overturn a presidential election.
Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Explicit Visuals at Hunter Biden Hearing Draw Rebuke
MSN – Mariana Alfaro (Washington Post) | Published: 7/19/2023
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene showed what appeared to be sexually explicit images of Hunter Biden, President Biden’s son, during a hearing of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, drawing immediate rebukes from Democratic members of the panel. The committee was hearing testimony from two IRS whistleblowers involved in an investigation into Hunter Biden’s taxes when Greene, during her questioning, produced the graphic poster boards. While the faces of other people in the photographs were blocked with black boxes, what appeared to be Hunter Biden’s face was not censored.
Influential Activist Leonard Leo Helped Fund Media Campaign Lionizing Clarence Thomas
MSN – Shawn Boberg, Emma Brown, and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 7/20/2023
The 25th anniversary of Clarence Thomas’s confirmation to the Supreme Court was approaching, in a moment that would draw attention to his accomplishments but also to the misconduct claims that had nearly derailed his rise. A coordinated and sophisticated public relations campaign to defend and celebrate Thomas began. The campaign would stretch on for years and include the creation and promotion of a laudatory film about Thomas. It was financed with at least $1.8 million from conservative nonprofit groups steered by the judicial activist Leonard Leo.
No Labels Throws a Coming Out Party, Stoking Dem Fears of a Third-Party Bid
MSN – Lisa Kashinsky and Shia Kapos (Politico) | Published: 7/17/2023
The centrist group No Labels signaled it will present a candidate for a third-party presidential ticket by Super Tuesday if it is clear by then the choices will be Donald Trump and President Joe Biden and if the group sees public support for an alternative. The announcement underscored the group’s movement from a largely behind-the-scenes presence to a more visible force, one that has left Democrats increasingly alarmed about the prospect of a third-party candidate spoiling Biden’s reelection.
Judge Rebukes Tucker Carlson, QAnon Shaman for ‘Alarming’ Jan. 6 Show
MSN – Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 7/20/2023
A federal judge denied a bid from Jacob Chansley to withdraw his guilty plea to obstructing Congress and rebuked the so-called “QAnon Shaman” for going on a Tucker Carlson program that gave a distorted view of the Capitol riot. Chansley finished his sentence in March. But after leaving prison, he asked U.S. District Court Judge Royce Lamberth to undo his conviction, saying security camera footage from inside the Capitol aired by Fox News host Tucker Carlson showed police allowed him to wander around the building on January 6. Lamberth expressed his concern with Carlson’s misleading depiction of the riot.
Yahoo News – Joshua Zitser (Business Insider) | Published: 7/18/2023
In 2019, Israel sent some of its national treasures to an event at the White House on the condition they would be returned within weeks. But almost four years later, the ancient artifacts are still at former President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, and senior Israeli figures are scrambling to get them back. The artifacts include ancient ceramic candles that were sent to the U.S. from Israel for a Hanukkah event at the White House attended by Trump, Haaretz reported.
Gallagher Rolls Out ‘Retroactive Foreign Agents Registration Act’ with Bipartisan Support
Yahoo News – Brooke Singman (Fox News) | Published: 7/11/2023
Rep. Mike Gallagher, chairperson of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, is rolling out legislation with bipartisan support that would require individuals to retroactively register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act if they failed to do so while they were working for a foreign interest. The bill comes after a federal court issued a ruling last year that said if someone stops acting as a foreign agent, they have no continuing obligation to register for their work as a foreign agent.
From the States and Municipalities
Alabama – Alabama Legislature Passes Redistricting Maps That Democrats Say Defy Court Order
MSN – John Wagner and Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) | Published: 7/19/2023
The Republican-led House and Senate in Alabama approved dueling congressional maps that would increase the percentage of Black voters in the state’s Second District but not by enough, Democrats argued, to comply with a federal court order to create two districts in the state with at least close to a majority-Black population. The legislature is in special session following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that found lawmakers previously drew districts that unlawfully dilute the political power of its Black residents in violation of the Voting Rights Act.
Arizona – Arizona Allows Private Interests to Fund Politicians’ Legal Costs – and Keep It Secret
MSN – Stacey Barchenger (Arizona Republic) | Published: 7/19/2023
Arizona law allows private companies, nonprofits, and other groups to contribute money for candidates’ legal fees without any reporting about who is donating how much. In 2016, lawmakers amended the state’s campaign finance laws amid a bitter debate over “dark money.” The standing practice of candidates not disclosing donations to cover legal costs was written into law. An exemption for accounting costs was included. Candidates and officeholders can voluntarily disclose their spending and fundraising as it relates to legal fees, but none contacted by The Arizona Republic chose to do so.
Arizona – Arizona Escalates Probe into Alleged Efforts to Swing Election for Trump
MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 7/13/2023
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes is ramping up a criminal investigation into alleged attempts by Republicans to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in the state by signing and transmitting paperwork falsely declaring Donald Trump the winner. Mayes assigned a team of prosecutors to the case in May, and investigators have contacted many of the pro-Trump electors and their lawyers. Investigators have requested records and other information from local officials who administered the 2020 election, and a prosecutor has inquired about evidence collected by the Justice Department and an Atlanta-area prosecutor for similar probes.
California – Former San Francisco Building Inspector Gets One Year in Prison on Corruption Charges
Courthouse News Service – Michael Gennaro | Published: 7/14/2023
Bernie Curran, a former senior building inspector for San Francisco, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison for accepting gratuity payments in exchange for approving building permits. He pleaded guilty and had requested to serve his sentence at home. prosecutors said Curran used his position for his benefit and disregarded safety when issuing building permits.
California – S.F. City Hall Corruption: Top SFPUC official found guilty of fraud
MSN – St. John Barned-Smith (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 7/14/2023
Former San Francisco Public Utilities Commission General Manager Harlan Kelly was found guilty of federal fraud charges. Kelly was accused of misconduct related to two fraud schemes: trying to sway a city streetlight contract to a local contractor in exchange for gifts, and separately lying to a lender, Quicken Loans, to get a hefty loan to pay off construction debt and other financial obligations. The verdict concludes the prosecution of one of the most powerful city officials swept up in a yearslong corruption investigation.
California – S.F. Corruption Scandal: Chinese billionaire admits bribing former public works chief Mohammed Nuru
MSN – St. John Barned-Smith and J.K. Dineen (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 7/19/2023
Chinese billionaire Zhang Li admitted he bribed former San Francisco Public Works Director Mohammed Nuru with food, drinks, and other amenities during a trip to China in 2018. Prosecutors agreed to drop the conspiracy to commit wire services charge after three years, as long as Zhang acknowledged the misconduct and paid a $50,000 fine. Prosecutors allege Zhang wanted to influence Nuru to win favorable treatment on decisions and city approvals needed during the construction and development of a property in the city.
California – CA Attorney General, FBI to See Complete Corruption Probe into Anaheim City Hall
Voice of OC – Hosam Elattar | Published: 7/19/2023
California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the FBI are expected to see all 300 pages of an independent corruption probe into Anaheim City Hall. Federal agents alleged a shadowy group of resort interests and lobbyists controlled policy discussions in Anaheim in sworn affidavits that surfaced last year. In February, the city council was reluctant to increase the funding for the probe without limiting its scope, which the investigators successfully refused to do. In the end, elected officials doubled the budget for the probe to a total of $1.5 million.
WGCU – Rachel Heimann Mercader (Florida Center for Government Accountability) | Published: 7/17/2023
Collier County Deputy Manager Sean Callahan was fired in January 2022 after staff discovered he was secretly working as a lobbyist for a powerful Washington, D.C. lobbying firm, a moonlighting job that violated county policies, ethical guidelines, and anti-fraud measures. A new report by the county’s inspector general reveals one of Callahan’s undisclosed lobbyist clients, Jacobs Solutions, is a long-time vendor for Collier County.
Florida – Francis Suarez Is Fundraising with Drawing for Tickets to Messi’s Inter Miami Debut
Yahoo News – Joey Flechas (Miami Herald) | Published: 7/13/2023
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez’s presidential campaign is raffling off Inter Miami tickets as part of a blitz to secure enough donors to make the first Republican primary debate in August. Federal campaign laws generally permit raffles, but the campaign’s actions could raise questions about compliance with Florida’s gaming laws. A donation to Suarez for President, Inc. is not required to enter the drawing. The free-to-enter policy is required for nonprofits to legally hold raffles. But other public notices required by state law, including contest rules and the location and time of the drawing, were not shared in the tweet Suarez sent promoting the contest.
Georgia – Georgia Supreme Court Rejects Trump Petition to Block Election Probe
MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 7/17/2023
The Georgia Supreme Court unanimously dismissed Donald Trump’s petition to block an Atlanta-area district attorney from investigating him over allegations of 2020 election interference and to throw out evidence gathered by a special purpose grand jury in the case. The court said the petition lacked proof Trump’s constitutional rights had been violated; that “the facts or the law necessary” to remove Willis from the case exist; or that other courts had rejected his claims.
MSN – Ray Long and Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 7/17/2023
Tim Mapes, former chief of staff to ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan, was captured on dozens of undercover FBI recordings talking about his family, political fundraising, and his ouster after a sexual harassment scandal. The conversations, described in a defense motion seeking to keep them out of Mapes’ perjury trial, shed new light on the behind-the-scenes maneuvering and relationships among key members of Madigan’s inner circle as a series of scandals began to threaten the speaker’s decades-long grip on power.
Illinois – Chicago Watchdog Says Ald. Jim Gardiner, Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot Violated City Ethics Code
MSN – Alice Yin and Gregory Royal Pratt (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 7/14/2023
Ald. Jim Gardiner violated the city’s ethics code when he allegedly retaliated against a constituent and vocal critic by directing staffers to issue bogus citations against him, Chicago’s top watchdog found. The city’s watchdog also found probable cause that former Mayor Lori Lightfoot solicited campaign contributions from city workers in this year’s mayoral race.
Indiana – Breaking a Nondisclosure Agreement from Todd Rokita’s Office Could Cost Employees $25,000
MSN – Johnny Magdaleno (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 7/19/2023
Nondisclosure agreements that employees in Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita’s office are expected to sign would impose a $25,000 penalty for sharing personal information about Rokita. The contract gives Rokita and his staff the power to decide what information counts as confidential. It covers “personal or private information” about the attorney general, his employees, and their families. The contract does not prevent employees from reporting unlawful behavior. Experts said it raises concerns about constraints on free speech and the public’s right to know what goes on in the offices of elected officials.
Michigan – Michigan Charges 16 Trump Electors Who Falsely Claimed He Won the State
MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 7/18/2023
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel charged 16 Republicans who falsely claimed to be the state’s 2020 presidential electors with forgery and other felonies, bringing the first criminal prosecution against Donald Trump electors as investigations over attempts to overturn election results intensify across the country. Those charged submitted official-looking paperwork to the federal government asserting they were casting the state’s electoral votes for Trump. Joe Biden won Michigan, and courts swiftly threw out lawsuits claiming Trump was the true winner of the state.
New York – Assembly Refuses to Release Records on ‘Drop-In’ Day Care Center
Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 7/19/2023
The New York Assembly will not release its records regarding a childcare center that Speaker Carl Heastie allowed to be set up in a conference room of the Legislative Office Building this year. The large room had been converted to what Heastie called a drop-in center that was used by a handful of Democratic lawmakers who did not pay to have their children care for by staff aides, at times for hours. The space has been used for official purposes through the years ranging from legislative ethics meetings to employee training sessions.
New York – During First Year, State Ethics Watchdog Launched Few Inquiries
Buffalo News – Chris Bragg | Published: 7/16/2023
The Commission on Ethics and Lobbying and Government began only three new investigations and did not bring any enforcement action during its first year. Watchdogs criticized the law creating the new commission, the result of a compromise with a Legislature reluctant to relinquish influence over the panel. While there were significant changes, reform groups argued that because commissioners would still be appointed by top state elected officials, the new body would continue to lack independence.
New York – NYC Campaign Finance Board Demands Transparency from Everyone – but Itself
Gothamist – Brigid Bergin | Published: 7/17/2023
Following a media investigation, the New York City Campaign Finance Board (CFB) acknowledged Executive Director Beth Rotman did not resign voluntarily as the agency publicly announced. Instead, she was asked to step aside following an inquiry by the CFB into concerns about her management. In the two months since announcing Rotman’s departure, internal documents and interviews show the agency, which prides itself on accountability and transparency, is facing an internal integrity issue of its own making related to Rotman’s exit.
New York – Appeals Court Orders New Congressional Lines in New York, a Potential Boon for Democrats
MSN – Michael Hill (Associated Press) | Published: 7/13/2023
A mid-level state appeals court ordered new congressional lines be drawn for New York, a ruling that could benefit Democrats in the 2024 fight for control of the U.S. House. The Appellate Division of the state Supreme Court reversed a lower court and directed a state redistricting commission to start work on new proposed state congressional lines. Democrats are supporting the lawsuit, which seeks to scrap the 2022 lines under which Republicans flipped four congressional seats. Republicans pledged to appeal the case to New York’s highest court.
New York – Judges Deliver Losses to Trump in Two New York Cases
MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 7/19/2023
Two federal judges handed legal losses to Donald Trump – one rejecting the former president’s bid to move from state to federal court his upcoming criminal trial on charges of falsifying business records, and the other denying a request for a retrial in a civil sexual assault case Trump lost in May. A judge said Trump did not sufficiently prove his alleged involvement in hush money payments to an adult film actress, which stretched into Trump’s presidency, was related to his official role. Another judge rejected Trump’s request for a new trial against E. Jean Carroll or an adjustment of damages a jury awarded in her case.
North Carolina – ‘A Political Force’: How NC prosecutors sway criminal justice bills in General Assembly
MSN – Ames Alexander and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi (Charlotte Observer) | Published: 7/17/2023
North Carolina’s elected district attorneys wield great influence with Republican leaders in the General Assembly. Working behind the scenes, prosecutors have lobbied to block criminal justice proposals that would eliminate life sentences for juveniles, take the death penalty off the table for those with severe mental illness, and more. A chief element of their success is the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys, a state-funded association that vigorously lobbies the Legislature. Many familiar with the group say it has grown more powerful since Chuck Spahos began doing its lobbying work.
Oklahoma – Oklahoma Watchdog Agency’s Executive Director to Leave by End of Year
MSN – Nolan Clay (Oklahoman) | Published: 7/15/2023
The executive director of the Oklahoma Ethics Commission is stepping down. Ashley Kemp plans to leave by the end of the year. In her resignation letter, Kemp repeated her longstanding complaint that the Legislature has refused to adequately fund the commission. Lawmakers only gave the agency $687,950 for the fiscal year that began July 1.
Oregon – Oregon Ethics Panel Dismisses Case Against Former Port Director Over Amazon Data Center Tax Breaks
MSN – Mike Rogoway (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 7/14/2023
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission overruled its staff and dismissed a complaint against Gary Neal, the former director of the Port of Morrow, regarding his role in awarding tax breaks to an Amazon data center. Neal is one of four Morrow County officials who purchased a local company called Windwave Communications. Windwave provides fiber-optic service to Amazon’s data centers in the county. Commissioners were considering whether Neal had failed to disclose a potential conflict-of interest at a meeting about Amazon tax incentives.
Oregon – State Ethics Watchdogs Launch Investigation into Former Secretary of State Shemia Fagan
Oregon Capital Chronicle – Julia Shumway | Published: 7/17/2023
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission launched a full investigation into former Secretary of State Shemia Fagan’s conduct while in office, including her $10,000-per-month consulting job for marijuana entrepreneurs and whether she accurately reported her income and expenses to the state. Fagan resigned following revelations she took a side job for the owners of a troubled cannabis company while her office audited the state agency that regulates the marijuana industry.
Pennsylvania – Allegheny County Council Votes to Limit Role of Outside Money in Local Races
WESA – Julia Zenkevich | Published: 7/12/2023
Allegheny County Council voted to limit coordinated campaign expenditures between PACs and candidates running for county office. The bill offers clearer definitions for coordinated expenditures, in-kind contributions, and other means outside groups use to support a candidate. It also outlines the kinds of communication campaigns can and cannot have with independent expenditure groups.
Rhode Island – R.I. to Terminate Development Contract with Company That Accused State Officials of Inappropriate Behavior
MSN – Alexa Gagosz (Boston Globe) | Published: 7/17/2023
Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee’s administration is terminating its contract with Scout Ltd., the Philadelphia-based developer that submitted plans to redevelop the Cranston Street Armory. The move comes after a consulting firm hired by the state determined the project would not be “in the financial interest of the state taxpayers” and just months after the developer accused two Rhode Island state officials of inappropriate conduct during a business trip to visit a Scout property in Philadelphia.
Texas – Top Texas Official Not Immune from Discipline in 2020 Election Subversion
Courthouse News Service – Stephen Paulsen | Published: 7/14/2023
In more bad news for the scandal-plagued Texas attorney general’s office, a state appeals court ruled a top official at the office is not immune from discipline over his alleged efforts to subvert the 2020 election. First Assistant Attorney General Brent Webster previously dodged discipline by arguing that as a public official, he was immune from consequences sought by the Commission for Lawyer Discipline, a watchdog committee of the Texas state bar.
Virginia – Coworking Space for Lobbyists Opening in James Center
Richmond BizSense – Charlotte Matherly | Published: 7/19/2023
Inspired by years of working in hotel rooms and hallways, Angie Bezik and Cindy DiFranco are starting Capitol Caucus in Richmond, a coworking space exclusive to lobbyists, advocates, nonprofits, and others who engage with Virginia’s government. Bezik owns Principle Advantage, a government relations firm that she runs with DiFranco, who serves as its government affairs director. They want lobbyists to have a place just for themselves, where they can have private conversations and spend time with others in the industry.
Wyoming – Wyoming Lawmakers Ready to Address Ethics Complaints Procedure in Interim
Wyoming Tribune-Eagle – Jasmine Hall | Published: 7/13/2023
Wyoming lawmakers dipped their toes in the waters of ethics complaints as they began reviewing a portion of the joint rules of the Senate and House. Joint Rule 22-1 has provided means for any person to file a complaint against a lawmaker for misconduct involving legislative duties, such as a violation of the Ethics and Disclosure Act in state statute or “violence or disorderly conduct during legislative meetings, sessions or during the performance of the legislative duties.”
July 20, 2023 •
Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance Arizona: “Arizona Allows Private Interests to Fund Politicians’ Legal Costs – and Keep It Secret” by Stacey Barchenger (Arizona Republic) for MSN National: “How an FEC Deadlock Is Deterring a Push to Regulate AI in Campaigns” by Rebecca Klar (The Hill) […]
Campaign Finance
Arizona: “Arizona Allows Private Interests to Fund Politicians’ Legal Costs – and Keep It Secret” by Stacey Barchenger (Arizona Republic) for MSN
National: “How an FEC Deadlock Is Deterring a Push to Regulate AI in Campaigns” by Rebecca Klar (The Hill) for MSN
Elections
Michigan: “Michigan Charges 16 Trump Electors Who Falsely Claimed He Won the State” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
National: “Ancient Israeli Artifacts Intended for an Exhibition in Washington in 2019 Are Stuck at Mar-a-Lago, with Israel Struggling to Get Them Back” by Joshua Zitser (Business Insider) for Yahoo News
Indiana: “Breaking a Nondisclosure Agreement from Todd Rokita’s Office Could Cost Employees $25,000” by Johnny Magdaleno (Indianapolis Star) for MSN
Texas: “Top Texas Official Not Immune from Discipline in 2020 Election Subversion” by Stephen Paulsen for Courthouse News Service
Legislative Issues
New York: “Assembly Refuses to Release Records on ‘Drop-In’ Day Care Center” by Brendan Lyons for Albany Times Union
Lobbying
Virginia: “Coworking Space for Lobbyists Opening in James Center” by Charlotte Matherly for Richmond BizSense
July 19, 2023 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Elections Georgia: “Georgia Supreme Court Rejects Trump Petition to Block Election Probe” by Holly Bailey (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics California: “Former San Francisco Building Inspector Gets One Year in Prison on Corruption Charges” by Michael Gennaro for Courthouse News Service National: “Supreme Court Justices […]
July 18, 2023 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Campaign Finance New York: “NYC Campaign Finance Board Demands Transparency from Everyone – but Itself” by Brigid Bergin for Gothamist Pennsylvania: “Allegheny County Council Votes to Limit Role of Outside Money in Local Races” by Julia Zenkevich for WESA Elections National: “Prosecutors Ask Witnesses Whether […]
Campaign Finance
New York: “NYC Campaign Finance Board Demands Transparency from Everyone – but Itself” by Brigid Bergin for Gothamist
Pennsylvania: “Allegheny County Council Votes to Limit Role of Outside Money in Local Races” by Julia Zenkevich for WESA
Elections
National: “Prosecutors Ask Witnesses Whether Trump Acknowledged He Lost 2020 Race” by Michael Schmidt and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) for Seattle Times
Ethics
California: “S.F. City Hall Corruption: Top SFPUC official found guilty of fraud” by St. John Barned-Smith (San Francisco Chronicle) for MSN
National: “Social Media Restrictions on Biden Officials Are Paused in Appeal” by David McCabe and Steve Lohr (New York Times) for Las Vegas Sun
Oregon: “Ethics Commission Says Fagan May Have Used Her Public Position for Private Gain, Launches Full Investigation” by Sophia Peel for Willamette Week
Lobbying
National: “Gallagher Rolls Out ‘Retroactive Foreign Agents Registration Act’ with Bipartisan Support” by Brooke Singman (Fox News) for Yahoo News
Florida: “Report: Moonlighting ex-Collier official lobbied for county vendor in ‘apparent’ conflict of interest” by Rachel Heimann Mercader (Florida Center for Government Accountability) for WGCU
July 17, 2023 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
Elections Arizona: “Arizona Escalates Probe into Alleged Efforts to Swing Election for Trump” by Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) for MSN National: “Door-Knocker Complaints Show Risks of DeSantis Super PAC Strategy” by Michael Scherer and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics Illinois: “Chicago […]
Elections
Arizona: “Arizona Escalates Probe into Alleged Efforts to Swing Election for Trump” by Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Door-Knocker Complaints Show Risks of DeSantis Super PAC Strategy” by Michael Scherer and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
Illinois: “Chicago Watchdog Says Ald. Jim Gardiner, Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot Violated City Ethics Code” by Alice Yin and Gregory Royal Pratt (Chicago Tribune) for MSN
New York: “During First Year, State Ethics Watchdog Launched Few Inquiries” by Chris Bragg for Buffalo News
Oklahoma: “Oklahoma Watchdog Agency’s Executive Director to Leave by End of Year” by Nolan Clay (Oklahoman) for MSN
Oregon: “Oregon Ethics Panel Dismisses Case Against Former Port Director Over Amazon Data Center Tax Breaks” by Mike Rogoway (Portland Oregonian) for MSN
Legislative Issues
National: “GOP Lawmaker Says He ‘Misspoke’ in Referring to ‘Colored People’ on House Floor” by Amy Wang (Washington Post) for MSN
Redistricting
New York: “Appeals Court Orders New Congressional Lines in New York, a Potential Boon for Democrats” by Michael Hill (Associated Press) for MSN
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