Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“Americans Are O.K. With Big Business. It’s Business Lobbying Power They Hate.” by Neil Irwin in The New York Times.

“TechAmerica Axes Top Government Representative” in Government Technology.

Campaign Finance

“Study: Major companies are increasingly disclosing their political spending” by Tom Hamburger in The Washington Post.

“Why the Billionaires Got Bupkus” by Michael Lind in Politico Magazine.

“D’Souza Avoids Prison in Campaign Finance Case” by Jonathan Mahler in The New York Times.

Maine: “Groups’ spending on Maine elections hits record $4.6 million” by Steve Mistler in the Portland Press Herald.

San Diego, California: “Leaders OK campaign crackdown” by David Garrick in The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Ethics

“Lawmakers push for new limits to political intelligence brokers” by Peter Schroeder in The Hill.

“QUIZ: Do You Know How to Be an Ethical Political Appointee?” by Eric Katz in Government Executive.

Georgia: “AG’s office pays $10,000 fine in ethics commission case” by Aaron Gould Sheinin in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Georgia: “DeKalb Commission releases money for ethics investigations” by Mark Niesse in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Political Advertising

“When NOT to Air Political Ads on TV” by Abby Livingston in Roll Call.

Minnesota: “Minnesota campaign regulators give social media advice, suggest online posts carry disclaimers” by The Associated Press in the Star Tribune.

Missouri: “Few 2014 campaign TV ads in Missouri” by The Associated Press in the Springfield News-Leader.

Elections

Florida: “Hillary Clinton to campaign for Charlie Crist” by Maggie Haberman in Politico.

North Carolina: “N.C. sees rise in unaffliated voters” by Benjamin Brown in the Charlotte Observer.

Legislative Sessions

Montana: “Legislative Update September 2014” by Sen. Matt Rosendale in The Roundup.

Utah: “2015 Legislature Could See Record Number of Bills” by Bob Bernick in Utah Policy.

Tech and Social Media

“Procurement: What if We’re Doing it Wrong?” by Mark Headd in Government Technology.

Lobbying

“Bottom Line” in The Hill.

Oklahoma: “State Capitol lobbyist Bart McSpadden dead at 46” by Mark Friedel in the Claremore Daily Progress.

Campaign Finance

“Democrats relying on big donors to win” by Kenneth P. Vogel and Tarini Parti in Politico.

“FEC Chairman Talks ‘Dark Money’ and the Fine Line Between Free Speech and Censorship” by Elizabeth Nolan Brown in Reason.com.

“Is there a right to contribute to out-of-state elections?” by William Baude in The Washington Post.

Massachusetts: “Massachusetts governor’s race has range of cash sources” by Steve Leblanc in the Portland Press Herald.

Massachusetts: “Pro-casino group ramping up campaign spending” by The Associated Press in the Boston Herald.

New Jersey: “N.J. assemblyman wants to end restrictions on campaign donations, lobbying: The Auditor” in NJ.com.

Winnipeg, Canada: “The money behind the politics: Winnipeg’s most generous political donors” by Joanne Levasseur and Sean Kavanagh in CBC News.

Ethics

Tallahassee, Florida: “City approves 2015 budget, more ethics standards” by TaMaryn Waters in the Tallahassee Democrat.

Elections

California: “A show of disunity at California GOP convention” by Michael Finnegan and Seema Mehta in the Los Angeles Times.

California: “AM Alert: Democrats’ legislative supermajority hinges on several key races” by Alexei Koseff in the Fresno Bee.

Michigan: “Michigan GOP Gov. Rick Snyder Has Created an Opening for His Opponent” by Alan Greenblatt in Governing.

Minnesota: “Unions will play key role in Dayton re-election bid” by Ricardo Lopez in the Star Tribune.

Legislative Sessions

Alaska: “Alaska legislative committee reviews progress on crime-reduction bill” by Jerzy Shedlock in the Alaska Dispatch News.

National:

Wealthy Citizens Have More Clout in State Government, but Stricter Lobbying Rules Can Help Close the Gap, Baylor Study Finds

Baylor University – Terry Goodrich | Published: 9/16/2014

Baylor University political science professor Patrick Flavin found state lawmakers are more attentive to the political opinions of the wealthy than those of poor people when making policy decisions, but stricter regulations on professional lobbyists can help curb this trend and promote more equal representation. “… Disadvantaged citizens do not enjoy the same level of representation among professional lobbyists [as the wealthy], and correspondingly exert less influence over the policy decisions made by elected officials,” said Flavin.

Federal:

Judge Mulls SEC Limits on Political Donations

Politico – Josh Gerstein | Published: 9/12/2014

A federal judge questioned whether two state Republican parties have legal standing to challenge a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rule that puts some restrictions on asset managers when they make campaign contributions. The New York and Tennessee Republican parties filed a lawsuit against the SEC in August over the 2010 rule, arguing it impedes free speech. They are seeking a preliminary injunction against the rule. Howell also said the SEC’s rule, aimed at reining in donations intended to help investment advisers win business from state-controlled endowments or pension funds, was vague, especially when it comes to preventing indirect contributions.

Tommy Boggs Helped Create Modern World of D.C. Lobbying

Politico – Byron Tau and Anna Palmer | Published: 9/15/2014

Thomas H. Boggs, Jr., who was a pioneer in melding the practice of law and lobbying and led the prominent lobbying shop Patton Boggs for many years, has died at age 73. Few people were as acquainted with power and influence as Boggs, whose father was Democratic majority leader in the U.S. House and whose mother served nine terms in Congress. Starting in the 1960s, when lobbying was often a one-man operation or done by a trade association, Boggs helped transform the profession into a multibillion-dollar enterprise that seeks a vast array of public policy goals.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – State Supreme Court to Rule on Campaign Finance Disclosure Requirements

East Valley Tribune – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 9/15/2014

The Committee for Justice and Fairness is asking the Arizona Supreme Court to decide when groups running attack ads against candidates have to disclose who is financing the effort. The committee wants the justices to rule that only groups which run commercials specifically asking viewers to vote for or against someone must spell out the source of the money. What the court ultimately decides will govern what voters know about who is behind the attack ads they will see for years to come.

Arkansas – Why Some Say Arkansas’ Ethics Reform Is a Trojan Horse

Governing Magazine – J.B. Wogan | Published: 9/11/2014

Issue 3 on the November ballot in Arkansas would ban lobbyist gifts to state officials, prohibit direct corporate contributions to candidates, and lengthen the time period before former lawmakers can become lobbyists. But those lobbying and campaign finance reforms have received little attention in the campaign, mostly because another provision would extend term limits for state lawmakers. Because the measure would make several changes at once, it has a long, complicated ballot title and the bill itself is 22 pages, with the term-limits portion tucked away on the 16th page. The length and complexity of the measure has invited speculation that its authors intended to obfuscate its impact on term limits.

Colorado – Ted Olson Argues Citizens United Case in Denver Court

Denver Post – John Frank | Published: 9/16/2014

The conservative organization credited – or blamed – with bringing a flood of money into politics argued in federal court it should be allowed to produce and advertise a film that criticizes Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper without disclosing who paid for it. Attorneys for Citizens United argued “Rocky Mountain Heist” is a news product and the organization itself should be considered a media outlet with the same protections as members of the press. The urgency of the ruling is heightened with the election seven weeks away.

Connecticut – Panel Condemns NU Exec’s Pro-Malloy Solicitation as ‘Offensive’ – But Finds No Violation

Hartford Courant – Jon Lender | Published: 9/16/2014

The State Elections Enforcement Commission dismissed a complaint against Northeast Utilities Chief Executive Officer Thomas May, but not before offering some harsh criticism of the solicitation the state contractor sent to his employees. Connecticut law prohibits state contractors from contributing to state party accounts or the campaigns of statewide candidates. Even though the email solicitation mentioned Malloy’s accomplishments at length, the commission was unable to find May violated the law because the money went to the party’s federal account.

New York – Former Assemblyman Turned Informer Avoids Prison

New York Times – Benjamin Weiser | Published: 9/11/2014

Former New York Assemblyperson Nelson Castro will not serve any time in prison for making false statements because he “helped clean house” in state politics by cooperating in a lengthy corruption probe that resulted in the conviction of another state Assembly member and five others, said a federal judge. Castro began cooperating in 2009 while still a candidate almost immediately after he was told he was facing a perjury charge in a corruption investigation. For two terms in the Assembly, he wore a wire at times as part of his undercover work. He resigned office after his cooperation was revealed last year.

North Carolina – NC’s Political Watchdogs: The State Ethics Commission’s strengths and weaknesses

Carolina Public Press – John Ellston | Published: 9/17/2014

The Carolina Public Press said its review of the North Carolina Ethics Commission’s first seven years of operation found a bipartisan and vigorous effort to enforce ethics laws that is constrained by a lack of resources, strict confidentiality rules, and limited enforcement powers, and burdened by an ever-expanding mandate. The Public Press profiled the commission’s members, detailed the agency’s duties, and assessed what outside observers say are its strengths and weaknesses.

Ohio – Judge: Ohio politicians allowed to lie

USA Today – Chrissie Thompson (Cincinnati Enquirer) | Published: 9/11/2014

A federal judge struck down as unconstitutional an Ohio election law that banned candidates or independent organizations from lying in campaigns. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy Black ruled the law and its enforcement by the state Elections Commission are “inherently flawed” because the statute requires a government agency to decide whether a candidate or organization had lied in a commercial or billboard. “The answer to false statements in politics is not to force silence, but to encourage truthful speech in response, and to let the voters, not the government, decide what the political truth is,” wrote Black.

Texas – Campaigns, Consultants Disregard Ethics Commission Resolution

Houston Chronicle – David Saleh Rauf | Published: 9/11/2014

The Texas Ethics Commission adopted a resolution last year saying that campaigns should not use the agency’s sworn complaint process as a tool to smear an opposing candidate. But the resolution is a nonbinding decree that carries no enforcement muscle. So it appears that strategists from both parties have decided to disregard the sentiment of the commission in favor of trying to drum up headlines against their political rivals.

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.

Lobbying

“Under Contract” in The Hill.

“Anthony Weiner and the Revolving Door” by U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren in The Huffington Post.

“Eric Cantor’s out, Wall Street’s still in” by Anna Palmer and Jake Sherman in Politico.

“Lyft hires Gephardt’s K Street firm” by Julian Hattem in The Hill.

Ontario, Canada: “McGuinty’s gig as a lobbyist problematic” by Andrew Coyne in the Leader-Post.

Campaign Finance

“Dems Getting Stingier With Campaign Cash to Colleagues” by Lalita Clozel on Open Secrets Blog.

Colorado: “Citizens United wants press exemption from CO campaign finance disclosure” by Tess Cheek in The Colorado Independent.

Georgia: “Atlanta City Council weighs in on campaign finance issue” by Dave Williams in the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

Rhode Island: “Law professors debate campaign finance reform” by Aliza Reisner in the Brown Daily Herald.

Ethics

Florida: “Florida Ethics Commission dismisses complaints against Mayor Brown and Clay County School Board officials, not so Rep. Fullwood case” by David Bauerlein in The Florida Times-Union.

Elections

“Bigger and Better Things: Staffers Who Run for Office” by Rebecca Gale in Roll Call.

“Dems, GOP hone messages for final campaign push” by Alexander Bolton in The Hill.

“5 States Put Voting Reform to the Voters” by J.B. Wogan in Governing.

Ohio: “John Kasich, Ed FitzGerald won’t debate, a first in Ohio gubernatorial contests since the late ’70s” by Robert Higgs in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

State Legislatures

California: “Governor signs much-debated ridesharing bill” by Allen Young in the Sacramento Business Journal.

Nevada: “Education called top priority for Nevada Legislature” by Laura Myers in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Nevada: “Tesla triumphs: Sandoval signs off on$1.3 billion untax package” by Dennis Myers in the Reno News & Review.

North Dakota: “Western ND lawmakers want $800 million for development” by Jessica Holdman in the Bismarck Tribune.

Virginia: “Va. House of Delegates plans to vote on Medicaid expansion” by Laura Vozella in The Washington Post.

Tech and Social Media

“Tweets made easy for bankers lobbying lawmakers” by Greg Edwards in the St. Louis Business Journal.

“Twitter’s new guide for campaigners” by Darren Samuelsohn in Politico.

Tennessee: “Chattanooga Launches Website to Track City Goals” by Joy Lukachick Smith in Government Technology.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“Lobbyist Thomas H. Boggs Jr. Dies at Age 73” by Bridget Bowman in Roll Call.

“Tommy Boggs helped create modern world of D.C. lobbying” by Byron Tau and Anna Palmer in Politico.

“Franchise owners flock to DC in defense of McDonald’s” by Ben Goad in The Hill.

“Lobbyist Pawlenty Rankles Banks in Consumer Bureau Battle” by Carter Dougherty in Bloomberg.

“Health tracker Fitbit hires lobbying muscle” by Julian Hattem in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

“Senate candidates differ on overturning Citizens United ruling” by Peter Hancock in the Lawrence Journal-World.

Louisiana: “Ethics complaint filed against Sen. David Vitter, alleging improper campaign fund transfer” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

New York: “Hollywood moguls boosting Cuomo campaign coffers” by Martin Z. Braun (Bloomberg News) in the Chicago Tribune.

Ethics

“Ethics committee investigating Rep. Broun” by Scott Wong in The Hill.

California: “Convicted California Senator Resigns” by Patrick McGreevy and Jean Merl in Governing.

Elections

“Good election year for bad boys of Congress” by Alex Isenstadt in Politico.

“Rocking the vote, again” by Kevin Cirilli in The Hill.

Kentucky: “Battles for eight open seats could determine control of Kentucky House this fall” by Jack Brammer in the Lexington Herald-Leader.

Lobbying

“Lobbying on the ‘Internet of Things’” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post.

Rhode Island: “R.I. Still Awaiting Decision on Alleged 38 Studios Lobbying Violations” by Adam Vaccaro in the Boston Globe.

Campaign Finance

“Judge mulls SEC limits on political donations” by Josh Gerstein in Politico.

“Begich votes for campaign finance measure” by The Associated Press in the Juneau Empire.

“The Future of Campaign Finance Reform May Rest With Silicon Valley” by Jamie Lovegrove in National Journal.

“Campaign-finance amendment not a voter passion” by James R. Carroll in The Courier-Journal.

Maryland: “Md. campaign finance complaints stack up as Election Day nears” by Lejla Sarcevic in The Star Democrat.

Maryland: “Political Donors Spend Big In Loophole’s Last Days” by Christopher Connelly in WYPR.

Massachusetts: “Casino cash floods campaign spending” by Gerry Tuoti on WCVB.

Ethics

“Landrieu pays back nearly $34K for charter flights” by Deborah Barfield Berry in USA Today.

Georgia: “Help wanted: Ethics commission needs a new chief” by Chris Joyner in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Georgia: “Monday ethics hearing canceled; Court of Appeals next step” by Aaron Gould Sheinin in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

New York: “Money in New York Politics: Despite Federal Indictments, State Senators Win Primaries” by Eric Petry in the Brennan Center for Justice Blog.

South Carolina: “Mayor’s Florida trip could add fuel to SC ethics reform” by Clif LeBlanc in The State.

Texas: “Campaigns, consultants disregard Ethics Commission resolution” by David Saleh Rauf in the San Antonio Express-News.

Elections

“50 days left until midterms, and Republicans keeping troops in line” by Scott Wong in The Hill.

Mississippi: “After close Senate race, Mississippi considers elections changes” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.

“North Dakota is the Best State in America” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.

Ohio: “Federal judge strikes down Ohio’s campaign statements law” by Kurtis Lee in the Los Angeles Times.

Legislative Sessions

Missouri: “The Missouri legislature’s veto session hands the state’s governor an historic defeat” in South County Mail.

Pennsylvania: “12 days left in session, and legislators are checking their lists” by Karen Shuey in Lancaster Online.

Federal:

FEC Strikes Deal to Revise Campaign Finance Regulations

The Hill – Benjamin Goad | Published: 9/11/2014

The FEC agreed to amend its campaign spending regulations in response to a pair of U.S. Supreme Court rulings. Commissioners plan to formally approve the new guidelines during an October 9 meeting. One rule would further clarify the parameters of the court’s Citizens United decision and codify them into law. A second rule is meant to reconcile the agency’s regulations with the ruling in McCutcheon v. FEC, which scrapped aggregate contribution limits for individual donors in an election cycle. The FEC will also solicit public comment on various implications of the McCutcheon ruling.

State of Political Consulting: Rapid growth, long hours, new approaches

Politico – Tarini Parti | Published: 9/10/2014

Whether it is polling, media relations, fundraising, direct mail, or digital outreach, political consultants said the permanent nature of campaigns, the growing number of outside groups involved in races, and the different ways voters are now consuming information have transformed the industry, making it not just more profitable than ever but also more challenging. There is a survival-of-the-fittest mind-set within the industry, where consultants are quickly adapting to the evolving political landscape – expanding their staff and capabilities at a rapid pace to stay competitive.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Clean Elections Commission Determines Horne Used $300,000 Worth of State Employee Time for Campaign

East Valley Tribune – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 9/9/2014

Citizens Clean Elections Commission Executive Officer Thomas Collins recommended the commission officially rule that Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne violated campaign finance laws by failing to report more than $300,000 worth of state employee time and office space he used for his re-election as contributions to his campaign. If the commission adopts the recommendation, Horne has the chance to explain why Collins was wrong, repay the money, or negotiate a settlement. The commission may initiate enforcement action if the case is not settled. That could include civil penalties and, at worst, the removal of Horne from office.

Connecticut – Case Dismissed, Even Though It’s Likely You’re Guilty – Ethics Agency Played It Both Ways

Hartford Courant – Jon Lender | Published: 9/7/2014

The Connecticut Office of State Ethics has at times sent a letter to some suspected of violating the ethics law saying the case is being dismissed even though the official likely violated the code, a practice known as a “loud dismissal.” Though the process at this level is confidential, the letter goes into the individual’s personnel file and could reappear in a background check. But now, that action has been curtailed. A lawyer representing an unnamed state employee who received a ‘loud dismissal” sent a letter earlier this year to the Citizen’s Ethics Advisory Board, which advises the ethics office, questioning whether the agency had the statutory authority to issue such a penalty.

Florida – Was Miami-Dade Lobbyist a ‘Patriot’ or ‘Snitch’ in FBI Sting of Local Politicians?

Miami Herald – Jay Weaver | Published: 9/6/2014

When the FBI mounted a sting operation targeting corruption in South Florida – dubbed “Miami Hustle” – it recruited lobbyist Michael Kesti as a key player. Kesti was willing to break ranks with his lobbying brethren, unheard of in Miami-Dade County, which has a long history of insider deals and graft. Kesti said he agreed to play the part as his “patriotic duty” to root out what he sees as systemic corruption in local government. Others, including one of the mayors he helped get indicted last year, describe him in less flattering terms, starting with “paid snitch.”

Georgia – Georgia Ethics Commission Fires Director

Rome News-Tribune – Kate Brumback (Associated Press) | Published: 9/8/2014

Holly LaBerge, the head of the Georgia ethics commission, has been fired. A Superior Court judge had fined LaBerge and the state attorney general’s office $10,000 each for not disclosing documents as part of a lawsuit filed by former commission Executive Secretary Stacey Kalberman, who said she was forced out of her job for investigating complaints against Gov. Nathan Deal. Commission Chairperson Hillary Stringfellow said the judge’s order shows LaBerge’s conduct “fundamentally conflicts with the specific mission and purpose of this commission and therefore with her own duties and responsibilities as executive secretary.”

Georgia – Rule Changes Proposed From State Ethics Commission

Peach Pundit; Staff –   | Published: 9/9/2014

The Georgia ethics commission proposed new rules that would affect the state’s campaign finance and lobbying laws. Commissioners will discuss those possible changes at a September 30 meeting. The rules would, among other provisions, clarify that contributions to political parties and PACs do not count towards the $25,000 annual threshold that triggers registration and reporting. They also would allow one or more lobbyists to split an expenditure provided a single lobbyist does not exceed the limit of $75.

Montana – Nonprofit Wants Montana Campaign Finance Laws Ruled Unconstitutional

Greenfield Daily Reporter – Matt Volz (Associated Press) | Published: 9/5/2014

Montanans for Community Development filed a lawsuit asked a federal judge to strike down as unconstitutional major provisions of the state’s campaign finance law. The nonprofit group also wants to prevent the state from enforcing those laws before this year’s elections. The lawsuit argues the definitions of campaign contributions and expenditures are too vague, and the definition of a political committee is overly broad.

Nebraska – Lt. Gov. Lavon L. Heidemann of Nebraska Steps Down

New York Times – Mitch Smith | Published: 9/9/2014

Nebraska Lt. Gov. Lavon Heidemann resigned from office and ended his candidacy, one day after a judge granted a protection order to keep him away from his sister, who accused him of assault. But because the deadline for being dropped from the ballot has passed, his name might still be listed on the November ballot. Heidemann’s sister, Lois Bohling, said in a sworn statement her brother grabbed her wrists and pushed her out of their mother’s bedroom during a dispute involving farmland and their 84-year-old mother’s care.

New Jersey – ELEC Analysis: Top 25 NJ special interest groups spent $311 million on campaign contributions, lobbying and independent spending over 15 years

PolitickerNJ; Staff –   | Published: 9/10/2014

Labor unions, trade associations, political committees, and other special-interest groups have spent a combined $311 million over the last 15 years in New Jersey trying to influence elections and lawmaking, according to a report released by the state Election Law Enforcement Commission. Labor unions, with $171 million in expenditures, were responsible for much of the overall spending since 1999, the year the state started maintaining the records online. The New Jersey Education Association, the state’s largest teachers union, spent a combined $57 million.

New York – Just Don’t Call These Consultants Lobbyists

Crain’s New York Business – Chris Bragg | Published: 9/7/2014

There is a growing industry of strategic consultants who do not register as lobbyists yet nonetheless have close ties with New York politicians and represent clients with interests before government. These non-lobbyists get many of the lucrative paychecks accorded their registered peers without the scrutiny that comes with mandatory disclosure reports, and it is legal. “It’s a very fine line to walk; you end up having to trust that person, and you put your trust in how they are representing themselves,” said Viveca Novak of the Center for Responsive Politics.

North Carolina – Ethics Disclosure Statements Offline after Privacy Complaints

WRAL – Mark Binker | Published: 9/9/2014

A North Carolina law requires both elected officials and certain appointed policymakers to file forms with the state disclosing their financial interest as a way of avoiding, or at least exposing, potential conflicts between private and public actions. Paper and electronic copies of those forms have long been available upon request, but the state ethics commission’s staff began making them available online July 1. But now, the commission has temporarily shut down the Internet portal due largely to complaints from some of those who have to file the disclosures.

South Carolina – House Speaker Bobby Harrell Indicted on Nine Counts in Corruption Probe

Charleston Post & Courier – Jeremy Borden and Schuyler Kropf | Published: 9/10/2014

South Carolina House Speaker Bobby Harrell was indicted on a slate of campaign finance violations, including allegedly claiming reimbursement for private flights he did not take and using campaign donations to hire an employee for his private insurance business. Harrell faces nine counts, including misconduct in office, false reporting on campaign disclosures, and using campaign funds for personal expenses. The charges endanger Harrell’s reign as speaker, which is among the most powerful roles in a state like South Carolina, where the legislative branch has more power to spend money and set the agenda than the executive branch.

Wisconsin – Judge Orders State Not to Enforce PAC Limits Law

Wisconsin Law Journal – Scott Bauer (Associated Press) | Published: 9/8/2014

U.S. District Court Judge Rudolph Randa ordered the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board not enforce the law limiting how much money candidates can collect from PACs. The ruling came in a lawsuit brought by the CRG Network, a PAC that works to elect conservative candidates. The group argued the limits were a violation of its free speech rights. Randa, in issuing the preliminary injunction, said the group was likely to succeed on that claim.

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.

Lobbying

“Under Contract” in The Hill.

Illinois: “Lobbyists banned from doing business at county board meetings” by Brian Slodysko in the Chicago Sun-Times.

Campaign Finance

“Campaign-Finance Amendment Drives Wedge Between ACLU, Public Citizen” by Daniel Fisher in Forbes.

“Campaign Money Debate Won’t Help Hill’s Reputation” by David Hawkins in Roll Call.

“Too strong for McConnell to resist” by Robert Weissman in The Hill.

“State of political consulting: Rapid growth, long hours, new approaches” by Tarini Parti in Politico.

“How campaigns are losing the mobile war” by Daniel Lippman and Darren Samuelsohn in Politico.

“Former Connecticut governor secretly paid to advise congressional campaign, staff testify” by Richard Weizel in Reuters.

New Jersey: “NJEA Spent Nearly $60M on Campaigns and Lobbying in Past 15 Years” in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

South Carolina: “S.C. House Speaker Indicted on Campaign Finance Violations” by Valerie Bauerlein in The Wall Street Journal.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Why Some Say Arkansas’ Ethics Reform Is a Trojan Horse” by J.B. Wogan in Governing.

Elections

Massachusetts: “Baker, Coakley to square off for control of Corner Office” by Matt Stout in the Boston Herald.

New Hampshire: “Tech-Funded Mayday PAC’s Candidate Loses Big in New Hampshire” by Amy Schatz in Re/code.

New York: “Cuomo survives revolt” by Matthew Hamilton in the Times Union.

Ohio: “Early voting hours should be set by counties, Democrats say” by Jackie Borchardt in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

State Legislatures

Nevada: “Tesla-related bills argued in Nevada Legislature” by Charles Fleming in the Los Angeles Times.

House Speaker Bobby Harrell has been suspended following an indictment on criminal charges of misconduct in office, using campaign funds for personal use, and falsifying candidate campaign disclosures. The nine-count indictment claims Harrell used hundreds of thousands of dollars in campaign funds for personal expenses and falsified his private plane’s logbook to seek payment for travel that did not occur.

The complaint was filed by the director of the nonpartisan South Carolina Policy Council and follows a fight between Harrell and Attorney General Alan Wilson, who ordered an investigation of the speaker’s conduct last year.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“Inside NFL’s lobbyist draft drama” by Anna Palmer and John Bresnahan in Politico.

“Jim Nussle lands credit union job” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“These 2 Billionaires Spend More on Lobbying for Their Pet Issues Than Most Industries” by Tess VandenDolder in InTheCapital.

“Former Sen. John Breaux says he and Trent Lott are not lobbying for Russian bank” by Bruce Alpert in the Times-Picayune.

“Lobbyists ‘who know what’s good for them’ lose ball game to lawmakers” by Crystal Hill in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “Clean Elections chief: Horne broke campaign law” by Bob Christie (Associated Press) in the Arizona Daily Sun.

Maryland: “Maryland Democratic Party targets use of campaign bus by GOP’s Hogan” by John Wagner in The Washington Post.

Wisconsin: “Wisconsin prosecutors seek ruling to restart campaign finance probe” by Brendan O’Brien and Mary Wisniewski in Reuters.

Ethics

Ohio: “Senate ethics allegations stir prosecutor’s interest” by Jeremy Pelzer in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Virginia: “Va. voters agree with McDonnells’ guilty verdict, want stronger ethics laws, poll finds” by Jenna Portnoy in The Washington Post.

Virginia: “Top Virginia lawmakers back stiffer ethics law after ex-governor’s conviction” by Gary Robertson in Reuters.

Elections

“2014 Election Primary Results” in Politico.

“2014 Governors Races: The Tossups” by Louis Jacobson in Governing.

“2014 Governors Races: Where Republicans Are Likely to Win” by Louis Jacobson in Governing.

“2014 Governors Races: Where Democrats Are Likely to Win” by Louis Jacobson in Governing.

“Scott Brown cruises in NH Senate primary” by Alexandra Jaffe in The Hill.

Legislative Sessions

Missouri: “Missouri Veto Session starts today in Jefferson City” by Korey Johnson in the Daily Journal.

Nevada: “Sandoval issues proclamation, calls special session for Tesla deal” by Laura Myers in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Tech and Social Media

“Breaking Government’s Cloud Procurement Gridlock” by Brian Heaton in Government Technology.

Lobbying

“Bottom Line” in The Hill.

“The billionaires who bailed out K Street” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“K Street’s Russian bonanza” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“Wall Street floods feds with proposals to cut red tape” by Ben Goad in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

“Campaign finance debate a partisan flashpoint as it moves to Senate floor” by Matea Gold in The Washington Post.

“Senate advances constitutional amendment” by Burgess Everett in Politico.

“Constitutional Amendment Debate Roils ACLU | Rules of the Game” by Elizabeth Newlin Carney in Roll Call.

Wisconsin: “Judge orders state not to enforce PAC limits law” by Scott Bauer (Associated Press) in Bloomberg Businessweek.

Wisconsin: “Mega-donors rush in after campaign-giving cap removed” by Patrick Marley and Kevin Crowe in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Ethics

“Spurned Staffer Sends Email Accusing Top Republican of Ethics Violations” by Matt Fuller in Roll Call.

Congress

“September Congressional Agenda: Must-Pass Bills and Messaging Gambits” by Emma Dumain in Roll Call.

“Lameness of Post-Election Session Could Hinge on Results” by Niels Lesniewski and Bridget Bowman in Roll Call.

State Legislatures

Missouri: “Battle over money anticipated during Missouri veto session” by Alex Stuckey in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Nebraska: “Women will remain minority in Nebraska Legislature” by The Associated Press in the Omaha World-Herald.

Elections

“The Final Primary Elections: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Delaware, Rhode Island and New York Vote” by Shushannah Walshe on ABC News.

“7 questions for final primary night” by Kyle Cheney, James Hohmann, Elizabeth Titus and Steven Shepard in Politico.

“4 Things to Watch in the Final Primaries of 2014” by Emily Cahn in Politico.

Tech and Social Media

“Livestream: Nextgov Prime 2014” on Nextgov.

“Why Can’t Government Websites Be More Like Amazon?” by Rebecca Carroll in Nextgov.

Lobbying

“Nonprofit puts Federal Lobbying Database on the Internet for everybody” by Mark Tapscott in the Washington Examiner.

“David Plouffe joins Uber as lobbyist” by Thomas Lifson in American Thinker.

“Saab registers lobbyist to work on drone policy” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

Delaware: “Lawmakers must wait to lobby under new law” by Jonathan Starkey in The News Journal.

Florida: “Was Miami-Dade lobbyist a ‘patriot’ or ‘snitch’ in FBI sting of local politicians?” by Jay Weaver in the Miami Herald.

New York: “Just don’t call these consultants lobbyists” by Chris Bragg in Crain’s New York.

Pennsylvania: “Lawyer wants to stop convicted Pa. lawmakers from lobbying” by Brad Bumsted in the Tribune-Review.

Campaign Finance

“GOP mulls campaign finance debate” by Burgess Everett in Politico.

District of Columbia: “Former Gray Campaign Driver Pleads Guilty to Role in ‘Uncle Earl’ Conspiracy” by Hannah Hess in Roll Call.

Louisiana: “Campaign finance money starts rolling in” by Vickie Welborn in The Shreveport Times.

Michigan: “Money talks in the shadows: How lawmakers, lobbyists quietly bypass state’s murky political spending rules” by Chris Gautz in Crain’s Detroit.

Montana: “Nonprofit wants Montana campaign finance laws ruled unconstitutional” by Matt Volz (Associated Press) in The Missoulian.

Ethics

“Sunlight Foundation picks new chief” by Daniel Lippman in Politico.

Florida: “Commission vote on ethics sparked ballot initiative” by Jeff Burlew in the Tallahassee Democrat.

Georgia: “Ga. ethics agency chief placed on administrative leave with pay after being fined by judge” by Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) in The Republic.

New York: “For New York Legislators, Indictments Are No Obstacle to Seeking Re-election” by Matt Flegenheimer in The New York Times.

West Virginia: “Ethics commission searches for permanent leader” by Dave Boucher in the Logan Banner.

West Virginia: “West Virginia ethics panel requests more funding as complaints nearly quadruple over 3 years” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

National:

Voting Restrictions Are Key Variable in Midterm Elections

New York Times – John Harwood | Published: 9/3/2014

After decades of expansion in American voting methods, an estimated one-third of all ballots this year will be cast before the traditional Election Day on November 4. Yet this year, the trend collides with a Republican-led pushback in some states – for reasons of cost-cutting and election integrity or, as the Obama administration and civil rights groups suggest, crimping turnout by Democrats. Various new restrictions on voting, which range from more stringent identification requirements to fewer registration opportunities to curbs on early voting, have been put in place. A critical election variable is whether the new limits will tilt close races.

Federal:

Wealthy Political Donors Seize on New Latitude to Give to Unlimited Candidates

Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 9/2/2014

Wealthy political donors have more access than ever to candidates since the ruling in McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, which did away with the aggregate contribution limit for congressional candidates. More than 300 donors have seized the opportunity, writing checks at such a furious pace that they have exceeded the old limit of $123,200 for this election cycle, according to data from the Center for Responsive Politics. Together, 310 donors gave a combined $11.6 million more by this summer than would have been allowed before the ruling.

From the States and Municipalities:

Alabama – John Carroll Appointed Acting Ethics Commission Director

Montgomery Advertiser – Brian Lyman | Published: 9/2/2014

John Carroll, a retired federal judge and former law school dean, will serve as acting director of the Alabama Ethics Commission beginning October 1, succeeding Jim Sumner. The commission is still seeking a permanent director for the position, and plans to accept applications until September 30. Any individual selected for the position will have to be confirmed by the state Senate, which is not expected to reconvene until next March.

California – California Lawmakers Send Governor New Gift Rules after Scandals

Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy | Published: 8/29/2014

California lawmakers gave final approval to a bill that reduces to $200 from $440 the value of gifts officials can receive from a single source each year. Senate Bill 1443, which was sent to Gov. Jerry Brown, also bans all gifts from lobbyists. The legislation prohibits officials from accepting certain kinds of gifts from anyone, including tickets to concerts, sports events, and amusement parks; spa services and rounds of golf; and cash and gift cards.

California – Legislative Session Ends with Campaign-Finance Bills Growing out of Senate Corruption Cases

Columbus Republic – Fenit Nirappel (Associated Press) | Published: 8/30/2014

California lawmakers approved two bills aimed at addressing a string of recent scandals. Senate Bill 1442 would increase the frequency of detailed campaign spending reports from twice a year to quarterly. Senate Bill 831 would ban elected officials from requesting payments on their behalf to nonprofit organizations run by family members, a tactic sometimes used in place of campaign contributions. It would also require nonprofit groups that pay for politicians to go on trips to disclose the donors who fund the travel. Both bills now head to the governor’s desk.

Colorado – Federal Lawsuit Challenges McCain-Feingold Disclosure Law

Legal Newsline – David Yates | Published: 9/4/2014

The Center for Competitive Politics filed two lawsuits on behalf of a Colorado think tank, asserting that similar state and federal campaign finance disclosure laws are unconstitutional. The Independence Institute wants to run two ads, one asking U.S. Sens. Mark Udall and Michael Bennett to support a federal sentencing reform bill, and one asking citizens to urge Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper to initiate an audit of the state Health Benefit Exchange. But the institute claims the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, along with a similar Colorado law, effectively prevents the group from raising money for the ads.

Florida – Tallahassee Voters Will Decide Ethics Proposal

Tallahassee Democrat – Jeff Burlew | Published: 9/3/2014

Tallahassee voters will get to decide whether to add an ethics code to the city’s charter in November. The city commission approved the ballot measure after a judge ruled the amendment complied with state law. If approved by voters, the charter amendment would create an ethics and anti-corruption policy, require enactment of an ethics code, establish an ethics board, lower the cap on campaign donations, and allow for limited public financing of campaigns.

Georgia – Judge Issues $20,000 in Sanctions against AG, Ethics Commission Director over Trial Documents

Greenfield Daily Reporter – Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) | Published: 9/3/2014

A judge fined the Georgia attorney general’s office and the executive secretary of the state ethics commission for neglecting to hand over key documents in a whistleblower lawsuit against the commission. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Ural Glanville ordered Holly LaBerge and the attorney general’s office to each pay $10,000 to cover the litigation expenses of the plaintiff, former ethics commission Executive Secretary Stacy Kalberman. “The court is extremely troubled by the behavior of … LaBerge, who has been dishonest and non-transparent throughout these proceedings,” wrote Glanville.

Illinois – Emanuel Signing Order to Boost Contractors’ Minimum Wage Rate

Chicago Tribune – John Byrne | Published: 9/3/2014

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel signed an executive order that requires city contractors and subcontractors to pay employees a $13-an-hour minimum wage. It will apply to city contractors advertised after October 1 and will affect about 1,000 contracted employees, typically landscapers, maintenance workers, security officers, concessionaires, and custodians.

Mississippi – Appeal May Revive Campaign-Spending Law

Courthouse News Service – Sabrina Canfield | Published: 9/4/2014

The state of Mississippi is asking the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse a lower court ruling that found part of a campaign finance law unconstitutional. Under the state law, groups seeking to support or oppose statewide ballot measures must register as a political committee if they receive contributions of more than $200 or spend more than $200 during a calendar year. Opponents argue the $200 threshold is so low it would be impossible for a group of people to run a quarter-page ad in their local newspaper without having to become a political committee.

Rhode Island – Convicted R.I. Hospital Executive Urciuoli Seeks $3.6M in Severance, Trial Costs

Providence Journal – Katie Mulvaney | Published: 9/3/2014

Robert Urciuoli, a former executive at Roger Williams Medical Center who was convicted on corruption charges, is seeking nearly $3.6 million in severance pay and legal costs from the Providence hospital. Urciuoli says in federal court papers he could only be terminated for “cause” under his contract as the hospital’s chief executive. He also said evidence shows his lawyers told him a deal to promote the hospital and a nursing home with former state Sen. John Celona was legal. Urciuoli served a three-year prison sentence for buying Celona’s influence. Celona pleaded guilty and also served prison time.

Virginia – Ex-Governor McDonnell and Wife Convicted After Corruption Trial

New York Times – Trip Gabriel | Published: 9/4/2014

A federal jury found former Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, guilty of public corruption. Robert McDonnell was convicted of 11 corruption-related counts, though acquitted of lying on loan documents. The former first lady was convicted of eight corruption-related charges, along with obstruction of justice. Maureen McDonnell was acquitted of lying on a loan document. The jury found the McDonnells lent the prestige of the governor’s office to businessperson Jonnie Williams Sr. in exchange for $177,000 in gifts and loans. The five-week trial at times resembled a soap opera, as the McDonnells endured an embarrassing dissection of their relationship.

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.

The New York Times Editorial Board has declined to endorse Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the New York gubernatorial primary election. Citing Cuomo’s failure to eliminate political corruption in Albany and throughout the state, despite campaign promises to do so, the editorial board wrote, “The state government remains as subservient to big money as ever.”

The board further declined to endorse any candidate in the Democratic primary, because the other candidate, Fordham law professor Zephyr Teachout, “does not have the breadth of interests and experience needed to govern a big and diverse state.”

Cuomo is heavily favored in the primary as he is the incumbent and has amassed vastly greater resources than his opponent. The New York state primary election will take place on September 9, 2014.

Photo of Gov. Andrew Cuomo by Diana Robinson on Wikimedia Commons.