June 4, 2014 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “Lobbying World” in The Hill. “A lifetime ban on lobbying for lawmakers?” by Cristina Marcos in The Hill. Campaign Finance “FEC Summarizes Campaign Activity of the First 12 Months of the 2013-2014 Election Cycle” news release on the Federal […]
Lobbying
“Lobbying World” in The Hill.
“A lifetime ban on lobbying for lawmakers?” by Cristina Marcos in The Hill.
Campaign Finance
“FEC Summarizes Campaign Activity of the First 12 Months of the 2013-2014 Election Cycle” news release on the Federal Election Commission website.
“Reformers: It’ll take scandal to stop PACs” by Joe Battenfeld and Hillary Chabot in the Boston Herald.
Mississippi: “Mississippi Senate: Another race with record money” by The Associated Press on WZVN ABC 7 News.
Ethics
Alabama: “Alabama Ethics Commission director Jim Sumner to retire” by Brian Lyman in the Montgomery Advertiser.
Louisiana: “Senate rejects Jindal ethics board appointee” by The Associated Press on WAFB News.
South Carolina: “SC lawmakers try to find ethics compromise” by Jeffrey Collins (Associated Press) in the Charlotte Observer.
Elections
“Top takeaways from Tuesday’s primaries” by Paul Steinhauser, Ashley Killough and Dana Davidsen on CNN.
Government Tech and Social Media
“How Twitter Could Be Replaced As The Primary Political App” by David Jones in Social News Daily.
June 3, 2014 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Lobbying “Exodus grows at Patton Boggs” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill. “Wyden-World Comes to GPhA Government Affairs | Downtown Moves” by Bridget Bowman in Roll Call. Campaign Finance “Campaign Finance and Free Speech: Panelists talked about Supreme Court […]
Lobbying
“Exodus grows at Patton Boggs” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“Wyden-World Comes to GPhA Government Affairs | Downtown Moves” by Bridget Bowman in Roll Call.
Campaign Finance
“McConnell, Reid Spar Over Campaign Financing” by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.
“Harry Reid, Mitch McConnell and Ted Cruz spar over campaign finance amendment” by Byron Tau in Politico.
“McConnell skewers Dem plan as ‘shockingly bad’” by Alexander Bolton in The Hill.
“Cruz: Abolish limits on political cash” by Benjamin Goad in The Hill.
“Ultra-Rich Hijacking American Politics” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
“Crowd packs San Luis Obispo campaign finance forum” by Nick Wilson in The Tribune.
District of Columbia: “Former D.C. council candidate Kelvin Robinson pleads guilty in campaign finance scheme” by Ann E. Merrimow in The Washington Post.
Ohio: “People close to case: Ohio politicians subpoenaed” by The Associated Press in The Washington Times.
South Carolina: “S.C. Ethics Commission won’t punish 2010 candidates for quirk” by Seanna Adcox (Associated Press) in The Post and Courier.
Texas: “Legal battle to reinstate DeLay conviction grows” by Mike Ward in the Houston Chronicle.
Wisconsin: “Candidates could operate secret committees under John Doe ruling, elections head warns” by Mary Spicuzza in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Ethics
Kentucky: “Northern Kentucky University law professor named to state ethics commission” by Kevin Wheatley in The State Journal.
Louisiana: “Senate rejects Ethics appointee” in The Advocate.
Elections
Alabama: “If challenge succeeds: New map, maybe not new elections” by Brian Lyman in the Montgomery Advertiser.
June 2, 2014 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying “The new landscape of lobbying” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post. “Lobbyists group backs disclosure reforms” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill. Campaign Finance “Reid, McConnell to Testify at Campaign Finance First Amendment Hearing” by Niels Lesniewski […]
Lobbying
“The new landscape of lobbying” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post.
“Lobbyists group backs disclosure reforms” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
Campaign Finance
“Reid, McConnell to Testify at Campaign Finance First Amendment Hearing” by Niels Lesniewski in Roll Call.
“‘Colbert Report’ Taught Viewers More About Super PACs Than Cable News” by Tierney Sneed in U.S. News & World Report.
“Ethics Commission hits anti-gay marriage group with record fine, orders disclosure of donors from ’09 campaign” by Mario Moretto in Bangor Daily News.
Alabama: “Ads don’t violate campaign finance law, Foundation says” by Brian Lyman in the Montgomery Advertiser.
Massachusetts: “Shadowy Super PACs are skirting laws and tilting Massachusetts gubernatorial contest” by Hillary Chabot and Joe Battenfeld in the Boston Herald.
New York: “Without public campaign finance, Senate coalition a ʹfailure,ʹ Cuomo says” by Jon Campbell in The Journal News.
New York: “Cuomo gives campaign financing ultimatum to Senate” by David Klepper (Associated Press) in Newsday.
Ethics
“Former Member of Congress Cashes In on Connections” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
Hawaii: “Hawaii Monitor: Legislative Silence Shouldn’t Trump Ethics Oversight” by Ian Lind in the Honolulu Civil Beat.
New Jersey: “Christie staffers get hefty pay increases as other areas face cuts” by Melissa Hayes in The Record.
Rhode Island: “Senate panel to vote on new ethics measure” by The Associated Press in the Washington Times.
Rhode Island: “Mattiello ‘receptive’ to new Senate ethics bill” by The Associated Press in the San Francisco Chronicle.
Elections
“Red, Blue States Find Some Common Ground on Elections Reform” by Jake Grovum in Stateline.
Government Tech and Social Media
“Can software replace Congress?” in Government Technology.
Oregon: “Portland hackers tackle campaign finance, garbage data to make civic apps” by Malia Spencer in the Portland Business Journal.
May 30, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – May 30, 2014
Federal: Harry Reid’s Attacks on Koch Brothers Send GOP Donors into the Shadows Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 5/29/2014 Several prominent pro-Republican advocacy groups say they are benefiting from a burst of cash as some donors, fearful of […]
Federal:
Harry Reid’s Attacks on Koch Brothers Send GOP Donors into the Shadows
Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 5/29/2014
Several prominent pro-Republican advocacy groups say they are benefiting from a burst of cash as some donors, fearful of harsh public attacks such as those aimed at the billionaire Koch brothers by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, turn away from political committees required under federal law to reveal their contributors. Reid has escalated his criticisms of the Kochs and their influence within the GOP in recent months, lodging sharply personal attacks against the brothers, often from the Senate floor. “We’ve heard from donors that they don’t want to get ‘Koched,'” said one Republican operative who works with outside groups.
I.R.S. Delays New Rules on Taxation for Activists
New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 5/22/2014
The IRS is rewriting new rules intended to clarify how the agency defines political activity and how much nonprofit groups are allowed to spend on it and still keep their tax exempt status. The IRS will delay a public hearing it planned to hold this summer until the controversial regulations are revised. The agency said it made the decision after receiving 150,000 comments about the changes, the biggest public response to any proposed rule in its history. The delay means new rules will not be in place before Election Day.
Patton Boggs Agrees to Merger with Squire Sanders
Washington Post – Catherine Ho and Holly Yeager | Published: 5/23/2014
Patton Boggs, a Washington, D.C. lobbying and legal powerhouse for decades, is merging with a larger firm, Squire Sanders, in a move that saves Patton Boggs from drift or dissolution. The new firm will be named Squire Patton Boggs. The merger is expected to take effect by June 1. The end of Patton Boggs as a standalone firm is a tale of a changing industry, where a firm’s ability to influence a few key powerbrokers is giving way to the need to sway larger groups of lawmakers and the public as a whole.
RNC Files Suit to Raise Unlimited Cash for Elections
San Gabriel Valley News; Associated Press – | Published: 5/22/2014
The Republican National Committee sued for the right to raise unlimited funds for independent expenditures that advocate for a candidate’s election. The suit seeks to eliminate an annual $32,400 per person limit on contributions to the party, making its independent spending similar that of a super PAC. The committee did not challenge limits on contributions made directly to campaigns.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arkansas – Arkansas Ethics Panel Issues Opinion on Electronic Campaign Contributions
The Times Record; Arkansas News Bureau – | Published: 5/23/2014
The Arkansas Ethics Commission said a national organization that accepts campaign contributions electronically does not have to require Arkansas donors to submit personal information each time they make a donation if the information is already recorded. The commission issued an advisory opinion at the request of ActBlue, a PAC that raises money for Democratic candidates across the country.
California – Chiu Lobbying Legislation Heads to Full Board of Supervisors Next Month
San Francisco Chronicle – Marisa Logos | Published: 5/27/2014
Proposed changes to San Francisco’s lobbying ordinance seek to close loopholes that critics say have allowed some of the city’s most prolific lobbyists to avoid registering. Current law exempts licensed attorneys from registering as lobbyists, even if they are not actually acting as a lawyer. The legislation also changes the definition of a lobbyist, basing it on the number of times a person contacts city officials instead of how much he or she is paid for lobbying activities.
California – Guiding Voters to Candidates with the Right Wallets
Los Angeles Times – Evan Halper | Published: 5/27/2014
Like so many other Silicon Valley startups, a project from two Stanford University professors, www.crowdpac.com, is rooted in an algorithm. This one is fueled by campaign money. The academics view campaign disclosure reports as a treasure trove of data that can be used to connect neophyte politicos with like-minded candidates. Crowdpac’s motto: “It turns out the best guide to what a politician will do is not what comes out of their mouth, but what goes into their wallet.”
Maine – Maine Ethics Panel Imposes Record Fine on National Organization for Marriage
Portland Press Herald – Steve Mistler | Published: 5/28/2014
The Maine Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices fined the National Organization for Marriage (NOM) more than $50,000 and ordered it to file a report that would reveal the donors behind the group’s 2009 effort to repeal the state’s gay marriage law, a decision that could affect how nonprofit organizations attempt to influence elections. The commission ruled NOM failed to properly register as a ballot question committee and file campaign finance reports in the referendum that struck down same-sex marriage before it was legalized by voters in 2012.
Minnesota – Ritchie Cuts out Immunity Cards for Legislators
Minneapolis Star Tribune – Abby Simons | Published: 5/22/2014
Secretary of State Mark Ritchie will no longer distribute “Get Out of Jail Free” cards to Minnesota lawmakers. The decision brings an end to the wallet-sized cards that say lawmakers “in all cases except treason, felony and breach of the peace, shall be privileged from arrest” while the Legislature is in session. Historically, the cards were issued to keep adverse interests from arresting lawmakers to prevent them from voting, but have raised concerns among some who fear they literally put legislators above the law, including getting them out of drunken driving or other arrests.
Mississippi – For Tea Party, Senate Race in Mississippi Is the Last Chance to Oust an Incumbent
New York Times – Jonathan Weisman | Published: 5/28/2014
Mississippi politics has always had a rough edge under the veneer of Southern gentility, but the race for the U.S. Senate between incumbent Thad Cochran and state Sen. Chris McDaniel has reached another level. The race represents the last chance for tea party activists to topple an incumbent senator, and it appears that little is off limits in the campaign.
New Jersey – A Limit to Pension Investing Oversight as Political Donations from Executives Can Go Unchecked
Bergen Record – Melissa Hayes and John Reitmeyer | Published: 5/27/2014
New Jersey’s “pay-to-play” law makes it clear that executives and their employees working on the state’s pension fund investments cannot donate to candidates and political committees. But those venture capital firms and hedge funds often take the state pension dollars and invest them in other companies whose executives do not have to disclose their campaign contributions. The complex nature of those investments, the inability of the law to cover all their financial relationships, and the lack of any public database like the one for state contractors make tracking political connections difficult.
New York – New York Elections Board: $150,000 campaign donation limit on individuals won’t be enforced
The Tribune – Michael Virtanen (Associated Press) | Published: 5/27/2014
The New York Board of Elections ruled the state’s $150,000 annual limit on aggregate campaign donations by individuals will no longer be enforced. The contributions would be restricted only by how much a politician, party, or group can receive under various limits set in election law. For example, a statewide candidate can accept no more than $41,100 from a single donor. The board agreed the $150,000 limit is unenforceable following recent court rulings.
Pennsylvania – How Philly’s Most Powerful Ed Reform Group Broke the Law
Philadelphia City Paper – Daniel Denvir | Published: 5/23/2014
The city ethics board levied a fine of $1,500 against the Philadelphia School Partnership for failing to register as a lobbying principal and not filing required disclosure reports. The partnership, a local nonprofit raising millions of dollars in a bid to improve public, private, and charter schools, said it was initially unaware that the city’s definition of lobbying was broader than those used by the state and federal governments.
Virginia – Ethics Law Addresses Virginia Officials’ Financial Dealings, But Database Is a Tall Order
Washington Post – Jenna Portnoy | Published: 5/26/2014
Under a new law, the public should be able to scrutinize a wide variety of Virginia officeholders’ financial data and gifts they receive with a quick check online. But unanswered questions about how the electronic clearinghouse will be set up could make it harder, not easier, to see the information. Officials are struggling with the difficult and potentially expensive reality of carrying out the law. As a result, they are considering a simpler, less searchable system that would make it more difficult to scrutinize the records.
Virginia – McAuliffe Vetoes Ethics Bill after Amendments Rejected
Richmond Times Dispatch – Olympia Meoli | Published: 5/23/2014
Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe vetoed identical ethics reform bills limiting certain gifts to him after the General Assembly rejected amendments he proposed to place that limit on lawmakers. The bills aimed to ban the governor from soliciting or accepting gifts worth more than $50 from those seeking grants or no-interest loans from a state economic development fund.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
May 28, 2014 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “Bottom Line” in The Hill. “Big Business’ Summer Agenda | K Street Files” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call. “States and Localities Are Losing Their Influence in Washington” by J. B. Wogan in Governing. Campaign Finance “Campaigns Ignore State […]
Lobbying
“Bottom Line” in The Hill.
“Big Business’ Summer Agenda | K Street Files” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call.
“States and Localities Are Losing Their Influence in Washington” by J. B. Wogan in Governing.
Campaign Finance
“Campaigns Ignore State Law at Their Peril | A Question of Ethics” by C. Simon Davidson in Roll Call.
California: “L.A. County requires electronic filings of campaign finance reports” by Abby Sewell in the Los Angeles Times.
Massachusetts: “Campaign finance bill is now law” by Douglas Moser in the Eagle-Tribune.
Wisconsin: “Judge who stopped Wisconsin campaign finance probe tied to Koch-funded junkets” by Chris Young in The Center for Public Integrity.
Ethics
North Carolina: “North Carolina elections board hiring longtime FBI agent to work on investigation team” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
South Carolina: “SC Senate votes against House ethics plan” by The Associated Press in The State.
Elections
“Oldest lawmaker kicked out” by Cameron Joseph in The Hill.
“An Update on the 2014 State Legislators to Watch” by Louis Jacobson in Governing.
“A Guide to the 36 Governors’ Races” by Louis Jacobson in Governing.
Texas: “Tea Party Conservatives Win Top GOP Runoff Contests” by Brandi Grissom in The Texas Tribune.
May 27, 2014 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Lobbying “Patton Boggs, Squire Sanders to merge” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill. “Bitcoin gets a lobbyist” by Julian Hattem in The Hill. Illinois: “Retired congressman cashes in as transit lobbyist, consultant” by Chuck Neubauer and Sandy Bergo in […]
Lobbying
“Patton Boggs, Squire Sanders to merge” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“Bitcoin gets a lobbyist” by Julian Hattem in The Hill.
Illinois: “Retired congressman cashes in as transit lobbyist, consultant” by Chuck Neubauer and Sandy Bergo in the Chicago Sun-Times.
Campaign Finance
“GOP Sues to End Fundraising Limits on Political Parties” by Brody Mullins in The Wall Street Journal.
“Shrinking Line Separates Campaign Donations From Bribes” by Albert R. Hunt in Bloomberg.
Arkansas: “Arkansas Ethics Panel Issues Opinion On Electronic Campaign Contributions” in the Times Record.
New Jersey: “Special interest money in Newark election fuels debate over campaign finance reform” by Ted Sherman in The Star-Ledger.
New York: “NY won’t enforce $150G contribution limit on individual donors” by Michael Gormley in Newsday.
New York: “Poll finds New Yorkers support campaign finance” by The Associated Press in The Wall Street Journal.
Virginia: “McAuliffe vetoes bill that would ban donations from companies seeking economic grants” by Jenna Portnoy in The Washington Post.
Wisconsin: “Will Wisconsin follow FEC’s lead on bitcoin approval?” by Steven Elbow in The Capital Times.
Ethics
New York: “NY lawmaker’s campaign manager quits” by Cameron Joseph in The Hill.
Pennsylvania: “Pennsylvania has one of nation’s most lax ethics laws for politicians” by Karen Shuey in Lancaster Online.
Rhode Island: “Candidates for governor discuss R.I.’s reputation for secrecy, cronyism / Video” by C. Eugene Emery, Jr. in the Providence Journal.
South Carolina: “SC ethics reform likely will not include independent oversight of legislators” by Andrew Shain in The State.
May 23, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – May 23, 2014
National: Glass Ceilings in Statehouses in the Northeast New York Times – Jonathan Martin | Published: 5/18/2014 The Democratic Party has yet to elect a female governor in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, or Massachusetts. Even this year, […]
National:
Glass Ceilings in Statehouses in the Northeast
New York Times – Jonathan Martin | Published: 5/18/2014
The Democratic Party has yet to elect a female governor in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, or Massachusetts. Even this year, with women running for governor in three of those states, it is uncertain that any of them will break the pattern. It is no quirk of history, according to a few dozen politicians, scholars, and strategists who have examined or experienced firsthand the difficulties women have had in seeking to become chief executives in some of the flagship states of blue America.
From the States and Municipalities:
Connecticut – Judge Orders Settlement Try in DGA Campaign Case
Connecticut Mirror – Mark Pazniokas | Published: 5/21/2014
U.S. District Court Judge Janet Hall ordered settlement talks to begin in a case in which the Democratic Governors Association (DGA) claims the State Elections Enforcement Commission and Connecticut campaign laws restrict its First Amendment right to spend money on behalf of Gov. Dannel Malloy in the coming election. Hall sharply questioned lawyers for both sides in open court, probing the DGA’s legal standing to challenge a statute it is yet to be accused of violating, and testing whether the state law comports with recent court rulings minimizing restrictions on campaign contributions.
Delaware – Markell Ties Benefit from Collections Contracts
Delmarva Daily Times – Jonathan Starkey (Wilmington News Journal) | Published: 5/19/2014
Gov. Jack Markell’s administration has paid millions of dollars to law firms tied to supporters and former staff members that were hired to help collect money from out-of-state businesses incorporated in Delaware. Nothing about the relationships and contracts is illegal. But the contracts raise questions about how Markell, who came into the governor’s office critical of backroom deals that benefit insiders, runs the program that collects so much state revenue. James Browning of Common Cause said the state should require better lobbying disclosures for those seeking public business.
Georgia – Ethics Commission Whistleblower Talks About Trial
WXIA – Catherine Beck | Published: 5/21/2014
In an interview, former state ethics commission Executive Secretary Stacey Kalberman recounted the turbulent last three years she has faced. In dealing with an ethics case against Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal, Kalberman lost her job, her professional reputation, and the Atlanta community she had lived in for more than 25 years. But she won from a jury what she needed the most: vindication.
Illinois – Watchdog Wants Stricter Cook County Lobbying Rules
Chicago Tribune – Hal Dardick | Published: 5/19/2014
Cook County Inspector General Patrick Blanchard issued a report that calls for stricter rules after finding “rogue lobbyists” are ignoring requirements to register or report their activities. He said people selling products to the government escape from all lobbying requirements under a loophole in the county ordinance. County Clerk David Orr, who introduced the county’s lobbyist reporting requirements, said he was open to the reforms that Blanchard proposed.
Indiana – State Giving $345K to Eric Turner Company Project
Belleville News Democrat – Tom LoBianco (Associated Press) | Published: 5/20/2014
The Indiana Economic Development Corp. awarded Mainstreet Property Group $345,000 for the construction of a nursing home that is expected to net House Speaker Pro Tem Eric Turner $1.8 million. It was one of many Mainstreet projects that Turner helped save when he defeated legislation that would have banned the construction of new nursing homes. Turner owns 50 percent of a company which owns 76 percent of Mainstreet.
Louisiana – Federal Judge: Ethics gag rule is unconstitutional
New Orleans Advocate – Sara Pagones and Faimon Roberts III | Published: 5/16/2014
A federal judge granted Terry and Laura King’s request to strike down a state law under which the couple was charged with a crime for allegedly making public statements about an ethics complaint they filed against St. Tammany Parish Coroner Peter Galvan. The Kings filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the law, saying it violates citizens’ rights to freedom of speech. U.S. District Court Judge Martin Feldman agreed that the section of the law used to prosecute the Kings is too broad.
Maine – National Anti-Same-Sex Marriage Group Could Be Fined for Role in 2009 Campaign
Portland Press Herald – Eric Russell | Published: 5/19/2014
A national group that helped defeat a same-sex marriage law in Maine could face more than $50,000 in fines for violating the state’s campaign finance laws. The state ethics commission said its investigators found the National Organization for Marriage (NOM) should be fined for failing to register as a ballot question committee and not filing reports. NOM was the primary donor when it gave nearly $2 million to Stand for Marriage Maine, a PAC, to help defeat the law in a 2009 referendum. State law requires groups to register if they raise or spend more than $5,000 to influence a state ballot question.
Massachusetts – Mayor Walsh Received $1.4M in Gifts for Gala, Transition
Boston Globe – Andrew Ryan | Published: 5/19/2014
Boston Mayor Martin Walsh received $1.4 million in private donations for his inauguration and transition, with most of the contributions coming from corporations, developers, lobbyists, and others who do business with the city. Walsh used no tax dollars for the January inauguration, and he barred money from PACS and organized labor, although unions hosted a private reception for the new mayor. The administration suggested a cap of $25,000 for donors and voluntarily disclosed all contributions and expenditures. Walsh said it did not pose a conflict to accept money from companies with interests before the city.
Minnesota – Federal Court: Minnesota must lift limit on political donations
Minneapolis Star Tribune – Rachel Stassen-Berger | Published: 5/20/2014
Minnesota’s law limiting the amount of money candidates can take from lobbyists, PACs, and big donors is on hold after a ruling by a federal judge. U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank suspended the law while a court challenge plays out. The statute in question says candidates can only accept 20 percent of their contributions from certain types of donors and then must abide by lower limits after that.
New Jersey – National Group Gives NJ Contractors a New Way to Influence Elections
Newark Star Ledger – Matt Friedman | Published: 5/18/2014
Contributions to GOPAC, a Washington-based nonprofit political advocacy group, reveal how such organizations allow contractors to get around state and local laws designed to keep them from making big campaign donations in New Jersey. Some of the candidates and committees were restricted from taking major donations directly from the contractors because of New Jersey’s web of “pay-to-play” laws aimed at keeping political money from influencing the awarding of contracts. But the contractors are free to donate to GOPAC, which is allowed to give money to any candidate.
North Carolina – NC Legislature Adopts New Rules on Protests
Raleigh News & Observer – Craig Jarvis | Published: 5/15/2014
North Carolina lawmakers adopted new rules governing protests at the Legislative Building. The move was prompted by legal concerns over the guidelines cited by judges hearing the cases of some of the more than 900 people who were arrested in last year’s “Moral Mondays” demonstrations at the General Assembly. But the process, rushed through on the second day of session in advance of the anticipated first round of protests this year, drew criticism from Democratic legislators.
Oklahoma – Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin Signs Bill to Change Local Campaign Finance Reporting Law
The Oklahoman – Rick Green | Published: 5/20/2014
A bill signed into law by Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin imposes a new disclosure requirement for groups that make independent expenditures to local campaigns. These groups will be required to identify donors who contribute more than $50. The law also designates the state Ethics Commission as the body to enforce local campaign finance statutes.
Vermont – Donor Rules Same for All VT Candidates
Burlington Free Press – Nancy Remsen | Published: 5/19/2014
Vermont Attorney General William Sorrell issued guidance saying the state would not enforce different contribution limits for candidates who run in both a primary and general election and candidates running for the same office who have only one election. All candidates will now be allowed to accept $2,000 per donor, even if they do not have a primary. This policy applies through December 31, 2014, after which new donations limits take effect for the next election cycle.
Wisconsin – Lobbyists to Be Allowed to Make Campaign Donations during Legislative Session
Wisconsin State Journal – Mary Spicuzza | Published: 5/22/2014
The Wisconsin Government Accountability Board said lobbyists can pass along campaign contributions made by others, such as PACs, at any time of the year. A new campaign finance law raised questions about what the rules for lobbyists were. The board decided that timing limitations for lobbyist donations to candidates apply only to personal contributions, and not those they are delivering on behalf of others.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
May 20, 2014 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Lobbying “Lobbying World” in The Hill. “Lobbyists scoff at Wyden’s tax threat” by Bernie Becker in The Hill. Illinois: “Watchdog wants stricter Cook County lobbying rules” by Hal Dardick in the Chicago Tribune. EU: “Brussels defends track record on lobbying […]
Lobbying
“Lobbying World” in The Hill.
“Lobbyists scoff at Wyden’s tax threat” by Bernie Becker in The Hill.
Illinois: “Watchdog wants stricter Cook County lobbying rules” by Hal Dardick in the Chicago Tribune.
EU: “Brussels defends track record on lobbying transparency” in EurActiv.
Tennessee: “Lobbyists spend record amount in TN” by The Associated Press in the Southern Standard.
Campaign Finance
“Report: Campaign cash increased before tax reform draft” by Bernie Becker in The Hill.
California: “Bill would require payments to state from candidates, lawmakers who misuse campaign donations” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
New York: “D’Souza Pleads Guilty to Campaign Finance Violation” by Benjamin Weiser in The New York Times.
Ohio: “Ben Suarez orchestrated illegal campaign scheme, per company CFO Michael Giorgio’s plea agreement” by James F. McCarty in The Plain Dealer.
Oklahoma: “Fallin signs bills into law targeting Oklahoma’s campaign finance laws” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
Ethics
“Indicted Rep. Michael Grimm Appears in New York Court” by Emma Dumain in Roll Call.
California: “California Senate approves ban on many gifts to officials” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.
May 20, 2014 •
San Francisco Ethics Commission Website Attacked
The Ethics Commission’s website is currently inaccessible due to repeated DDOS (distributed denial-of-service) attacks on the commission’s website hosting vendor. The Commission’s electronic filing systems remain accessible here. Status updates regarding the commission’s website are available here.
The Ethics Commission’s website is currently inaccessible due to repeated DDOS (distributed denial-of-service) attacks on the commission’s website hosting vendor.
The Commission’s electronic filing systems remain accessible here.
Status updates regarding the commission’s website are available here.
May 19, 2014 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying “Report: Health lobbying down in first quarter” by Elise Viebeck in The Hill. “President Obama golfed with Bain Capital lobbyist” by Byron Tau in Politico. “Patton Boggs future up for a vote” by Tucker Echols in the Washington Business […]
Lobbying
“Report: Health lobbying down in first quarter” by Elise Viebeck in The Hill.
“President Obama golfed with Bain Capital lobbyist” by Byron Tau in Politico.
“Patton Boggs future up for a vote” by Tucker Echols in the Washington Business Journal.
Hawaii: “Will Lawmakers Ever Do Anything About Lobbyists?” by Patti Epler in the Honolulu Civil Beat.
Illinois: “Ex-Quinn chief of staff turns to lobbying” by The Associated Press in the Chicago Sun-Times.
New Hampshire: “Secretary of state candidate de Ramel proposes changes for lobbyists” by Randal Edgar in the Providence Journal.
Oregon: “Oregon’s House clerk out after PERS lobbying flap” in the Portland Business Journal.
Oregon: “Portland Business Alliance violates city lobbying rules by not reporting meeting, correspondence” by Brad Schmidt in The Oregonian.
Tennessee: “Lobbyists spent record amount of $650K last year, could spend more this year” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
Campaign Finance
“Here’s how to put everyday citizens in charge of financing campaigns” by U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes in The Washington Post.
“Rethinking Campaign Finance” op-ed by Joe Nocera in The New York Times.
“There’s a Better Way to Measure Who Has Raised the Most Money” by Derek Willis in The New York Times.
“Campaign-Finance Measure May Come to Vote in U.S. Senate” by Kathleen Hunter in Bloomberg.
“Hearing set for proposed campaign finance change” in the Burlington Free Press.
“Newest Member of Congress Joins Washington Money Circuit, Starts PAC” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
Oklahoma: “Lawyers dominate judicial campaign funding” by Curtis Killman in Tulsa World.
Wisconsin: “Confusion Reigns on Campaign-Finance Law” by Steven Walters in Urban Milwaukee.
Ethics
“Senate Enters Electronic Age With Personal Wealth Disclosures” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
Illinois: “5th anniversary of anti-corruption campaign no celebration” by Andy Shaw in the Chicago Sun-Times.
Louisiana: “State law forbidding disclosure of ethics complaints ruled invalid” by Robert Rhoden in The Times-Picayune.
West Virginia: “W.Va. Ethics Commission sets training session” by The Associated Press on WOWK TV News.
Redistricting
Florida: “Courtroom clash pits Democrats, Republicans in epic redistricting battle” by Mary Ellen Klas in the Miami Herald.
Government Tech and Social Media
“Social government makes inroads with citizens” by Jake Williams in Fedscoop.
“Agencies Often Don’t Answer Questions They Get Via Social Media, Survey Finds” by Rebecca Carroll in Nextgov.
May 16, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – May 16, 2014
National: GOP Civil War Rages in Senate Primary Battles The Center for Public Integrity – Dave Levinthal | Published: 5/8/2014 Hard-line conservative groups have together spent nearly three dollars attacking Republican candidates for every one dollar spent criticizing Democrats, according […]
National:
GOP Civil War Rages in Senate Primary Battles
The Center for Public Integrity – Dave Levinthal | Published: 5/8/2014
Hard-line conservative groups have together spent nearly three dollars attacking Republican candidates for every one dollar spent criticizing Democrats, according to a Center for Public Integrity analysis. The dichotomy illustrates the family feud between mainstream Republicans and their tea party-affiliated cousins, many of whom have forced GOP incumbents into expensive primary fights because they believe the candidates are not conservative enough.
Koch Brothers’ Americans for Prosperity Plans $125 Million Spending Spree
Politico – Byron Tau | Published: 5/9/2014
Americans for Prosperity expects to spend more than $125 million this year in support of conservative candidates. The plans, combined with those of other groups in the political operation affiliated with the billionaire industrialists Charles and David Koch, more closely resemble the traditional functions of a national political party than a network of private nonprofit groups. The goal of the network is a long-term movement to expand the political playing field for conservatives, both into new states and into non-traditional demographics.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arizona – Tom Horne Campaign Finance Case to Move Forward
Arizona Capitol Times – Jeremy Duda | Published: 5/14/2014
Yavapai County Attorney Sheila Polk rejected an administrative judge’s conclusion that there is not enough evidence to show Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne and Kathleen Winn, who ran an independent expenditure committee during the 2010 election, illegally coordinated their activities. Polk’s office maintains that records show the two illegally collaborated on ads attacking Horne’s Democratic opponent. Polk has ordered Horne to return about $400,000 to donors and amend his campaign finance reports to properly reflect the contributions.
California – Capitol Alert: California Senate passes bill banning fundraisers at lobbyist homes
San Luis Obispo Tribune – Laurel Rosenhall (Sacramento Bee) | Published: 5/12/2014
The California Senate passed a bill that would ban lobbyists from holding campaign fundraisers at their homes for candidates and elected officials. Senate Bill 1441 now moves to the Assembly. A prominent Sacramento lobbyist and nearly 40 politicians got in trouble earlier this year with the Fair Political Practices Commission for home-based fundraising events that exceeded a $500 limit.
California – Gov. Brown Signs Bill to Shed Light on Political ‘Dark Money’
Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy | Published: 5/14/2014
Nonprofit organizations that make political contributions in California will have to disclose more information about the source of their money under a bill signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown. Senate Bill 27 requires nonprofits to disclose the names of donors who give them $1,000 or more to spend on political activity, if the group makes contributions of more than $50,000 in a year, or $100,000 over four years. The disclosure requirement takes effect for donations made after July 1 of this year.
Florida – Lobbyists at Water Districts Must Register and Disclose under New Ethics Bill
Miami Herald – Dan Christensen | Published: 5/10/2014
Lobbyists hired to influence spending and policy at Florida’s five water management districts must register and disclose their clients under ethics reforms passed by the state Legislature. If signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott, the bill would for the first time apply state lobbying regulations to some special-purpose governments that raise and spend hundreds of millions dollars every year.
Missouri – Flood Flowing, Ethics Bills Dying as Missouri Legislature Nears Adjournment
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 5/14/2014
Missouri lawmakers are feted with free food in the Rotunda, hearing rooms, and area restaurants. Big-ticket items outside the Capitol, such as expensive dinners, sporting event tickets, and out-of-state travel, helped push the total value of the gifts to nearly a million dollars’ worth in 2013, according to state Ethics Commission records. That Is unlikely to change as legislators have stymied bills that would ban or limit the gifts they receive.
New York – Inside Moreland: Documents reveal details of lawmakers’ spending
City & State – John Lentz, Matthew Hamilton, and Morgan Pehme | Published: 5/11/2014
To date, there has been considerable speculation about what exactly the recently disbanded Moreland Commission on Public Corruption investigated during the months it was in operation, but few specifics have been disclosed to the public. Now, commission documents show its investigators sought to determine if New York lawmakers were spending the contributions they received for legitimate campaign-oriented purposes, or whether any money was going to their personal use, in violation of state law.
Ohio – McGinty, DeWine Accuse Youngstown Mayor, Mahoning County Official of Racketeering
Cleveland Plain Dealer – John Caniglia | Published: 5/14/2014
Youngstown Mayor John McNally and Mahoning County Auditor Michael Sciortino were indicted on corruption charges including bribery, conspiracy, and tampering with records. The indictment outlines a series of illegal activities related to a plan to move the offices of the county Department of Job and Family Services. McNally and Sciortino were indicted four years ago on related charges, but the case was dismissed. A judge said then that the charges could be refiled. Prosecutors said at the time their inability to obtain tape recordings held by the FBI and provide them to defense lawyers made it impossible to proceed with the case.
Oklahoma – Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association to Pay $1,200 Fine
The Oklahoman – Nolan Clay | Published: 5/9/2014
The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association agreed to stop providing free football and basketball playoff tickets to state legislators, and will pay $1,200 in civil penalties for not disclosing the gifts to the state Ethics Commission for the last three years. The association was required to disclose the gifts once it started using lobbyists. It continues to blame two former lobbyists for the disclosure failure.
Pennsylvania – Candidates’ Parents’ Mutual Donations
Philadelphia Inquirer – Jonathan Tamari | Published: 5/13/2014
During Kevin Strouse’s bid for congressional seat from Pennsylvania, his parents, who had never before donated to federal candidates beyond the commonwealth, sent money to Democrats in tight congressional races in California, Colorado, Florida, and Illinois. Days before or after, those candidates’ parents sent nearly identical contributions, usually for the maximum allowed, to Strouse’s campaign. The donations appear legal, campaign finance experts say, though some said any agreement among the parents to trade donations could be viewed as an attempted end run around contribution limits.
South Carolina – Judge to AG Wilson: Stop SLED and grand jury probe of House Speaker Harrell
The State – John Monk | Published: 5/12/2014
A judge dismissed allegations of corruption against South Carolina House Speaker Bobby Harrell, ruling such a case must first be considered by a legislative panel before state prosecutors could touch it, and saying a grand jury was improperly empaneled. The grand jury had been considering whether Harrell should be indicted on allegations he used campaign funds for personal use. Critics and lawyers following the case said it was a rare, if unprecedented step for a judge to halt a grand jury investigation.
Vermont – AG Clarifies 2014 Campaign Contribution Limits
Burlington Free Press – Nancy Remsen | Published: 5/14/2014
Vermont Attorney General William Sorrell said the state’s campaign contribution limits will remain the same through the end of the year. The secretary of state’s office asked for the formal opinion after the Legislature passed an updated campaign finance law. The law had an error making it appear there was a gap between the date the old limits expire and January 1 when the new caps take effect.
Wisconsin – Federal Appeals Court Tells Wisconsin Regulators That Campaign Finance Laws Went Too Far
Minneapolis Star Tribune – M.L. Johnson (Associated Press) | Published: 5/14/2014
The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals struck down major provisions of Wisconsin’s campaign finance law as unconstitutional. The ruling said state elections officials had overstepped their bounds by prohibiting spending by corporations, setting limits on how much they could raise for affiliated political committees, and establishing burdensome rules for groups that merely mentioned candidates’ names in ads.
Wisconsin – Mistake May Bar Lobbyists from Helping with Fundraising
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – Patrick Marley | Published: 5/8/2014
State election officials said Wisconsin lawmakers may have inadvertently toughened campaign finance rules by barring lobbyists from passing on campaign donations from their clients. Others disagree with that interpretation. The Government Accountability Board will take up the issue on May 21, but the matter may ultimately be decided by the courts.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
May 14, 2014 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “Which foreign countries spent the most to influence U.S. politics?” by Colby Itkowitz in The Washington Post. “Patton Boggs lobbyist jumps to Akin Gump” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill. “Drone lobby takes flight on K Street” […]
Lobbying
“Which foreign countries spent the most to influence U.S. politics?” by Colby Itkowitz in The Washington Post.
“Patton Boggs lobbyist jumps to Akin Gump” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“Drone lobby takes flight on K Street” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
Illinois: “U of I lobbying day at Capitol today” by The Associated Press in The State Journal-Register.
North Carolina: “NC lawmakers indulge in pre-session ritual: the fundraiser” by Jim Morrill in the Charlotte Observer.
Campaign Finance
“Federal court rulings prompt wave of states hiking campaign contribution limits” by Luke Wachob in the Washington Examiner.
“Five Joint Fundraising Committees Register at FEC” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
California: “Yaroslavsky proposes reforms in county campaign finance system” by Abby Sewell in the Los Angeles Times.
Connecticut: “Campaign Reforms At Stake In Legal Fight” by Edmund H. Mahoney in The Courant.
Delaware: “Illegal Campaign Contributions Could Go To Charity” by Don Rush (Associated Press) on Delmarva Public Radio.
Montana: “Campaign finance rulings split U.S. House candidates” in the Billings Gazette.
Oregon: “Super PACs spend big in Oregon GOP Senate primary” by Jonathan J. Cooper (Associated Press) on KATU.org.
Vermont: “Vermont Attorney General rules campaign limits remain the same for 2014 election cycle” by The Associated Press in the Daily Reporter.
Ethics
Arizona: “Ex-staffer accuses Horne of doing campaign work at the office” by Howard Fischer in the Verde Independent.
Pennsylvania: “PA lawmakers want independent corruption-fighting agency” by Andrew Staub in Watchdog.org.
Government Tech and Social Media
“How to Make Analytics Work for Your Government” by Jason Shueh in Government Technology.
May 9, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – May 9, 2014
Federal: Federal Election Commission Approves Bitcoin Donations to Political Committees Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 5/8/2014 The FEC unanimously ruled that political committees could legally accept bitcoin donations. The commission also affirmed that political committees could buy and […]
Federal:
Federal Election Commission Approves Bitcoin Donations to Political Committees
Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 5/8/2014
The FEC unanimously ruled that political committees could legally accept bitcoin donations. The commission also affirmed that political committees could buy and sell the digital currency as an investment, as long as they turned those proceeds into dollars before spending them. But after the vote, individual commissioners offered conflicting views on whether their decision limits bitcoin donations to small amounts.
Lobby Cash Goes Underground in PR Boom
The Hill – Megan Wilson | Published: 5/7/2014
While traditional lobbying revenue hit its lowest point in four years in the first months of 2014, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, industry insiders say those statistics miss the hundreds of millions of dollars that are flowing to firms that are not registered to lobby. Companies and industries are increasingly using public relations for a broad array of tasks. Unlike lobbyists, public affairs firms are not required to report their clients, specific activities, or revenue, so the amount of money they take in is hard to determine.
Lobbying 101: K Street goes back to school
Politico – Byron Tau | Published: 5/7/2014
Two brand-new programs will offer aspiring lobbyists and K Street veterans alike a chance to learn new skills and beef up their resumes. George Washington University has instituted a master’s degree with a focus on global advocacy and lobbying. The Public Affairs Council unveiled a certificate program aimed at giving mid-career professionals a chance to expand their expertise and improve their management skills. Other established programs include the Association of Government Relations Professionals’ Lobbying Certificate Program and the Public Affairs and Advocacy Institute at American University.
From the States and Municipalities:
Florida – Miami-Dade Lobbyist in Middle of FBI Sting against Mayors Pleads Guilty
Miami Herald – Jay Weaver | Published: 5/7/2014
Richard Candia, a lobbyist caught up in a FBI sting that also snared two South Florida mayors, pleaded guilty to honest services fraud. The undercover operation revolved around a bogus federal grant program that prosecutors say was designed to line the pockets of the mayors, Candia, and another lobbyist instead of benefiting their cities. Under his plea agreement, Candia is expected to be a key witness for the prosecution in the upcoming trial of former Miami Lakes Mayor Michael Pizzi.
Kansas – Brownback Dismisses Reports of FBI Investigation of Associates as Smear Campaign
Wichita Eagle – Bryan Lowry | Published: 5/5/2014
Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback dismissed reports of an FBI investigation into the activities of his former chief of staff, David Kensinger, as a smear campaign. Sources have said three lobbyists and a former state official were interviewed about whether Kensinger and others have been involved in “pay-to-play’ schemes. Two of the interviewees said they were pressured and intimidated by Kensinger to support and donate to certain candidates. But another said no quid pro quo took place.
Kentucky – In Reversal, Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission Finds Former Lawmaker John Arnold Guilty
WFPL – Jonathan Meador | Published: 5/7/2014
In the face of a public outcry, the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission revisited its sexual-harassment case against former state Rep. John Arnold, finding him guilty of three ethics violations and imposing a $3,000 fine. When the commission originally heard the complaints, the hearing ended in a vote of four-to-one that Arnold was guilty. That vote was insufficient for a finding of guilt because the panel has nine members and five votes are needed to take action. That decision led to much public criticism and prompted leaders from both parties to call on the commission to re-hear the case.
Louisiana – Federal Judge Throws Out Campaign Donor Limits for Super PAC Supporting US Sen. David Vitter
Columbus Republic – Melinda Deslatte (Associated Press) | Published: 5/2/2014
A federal judge barred Louisiana from enforcing its $100,000 cap on donations in a four-year election cycle to a super PAC formed by a lawyer who has said it will advocate for U.S. Sen. David Vitter’s 2015 gubernatorial campaign. U.S. District Court Judge Martin Feldman said the state’s contribution limit was unconstitutional for a group that does not coordinate with candidates and “engages only in independent expenditures,” a ruling that could have widespread implications across Louisiana elections.
Missouri – Familiar Impasse Threatens Ethics Measures
Columbia Daily Tribune; Associated Press – | Published: 5/4/2014
Opposition has once again emerged to suggest ethics reform is at an impasse at the Missouri General Assembly. During each of the past two sessions, bills to curb lobbying have been derailed in the Senate by Democratic attempts to reinstate campaign contribution limits. Both sides show no signs of backing down before lawmakers adjourn on May 16. A stalemate means Missouri would continue to be the only state that allows the trio of unlimited contributions to candidates, unlimited gifts from lobbyists, and no waiting period before elected officials can lobby.
Montana – GOP Candidate Benefiting from Super PAC He Founded Takes Heat from Fellow Republicans
Huffington Post – Amanda Terkel | Published: 5/7/2014
The decision by Special Operations for America to support Ryan Zinke, a U.S. House candidate in Montana, is not exactly surprising. Zinke founded the super PAC himself two years ago. The group has been running ads touting his candidacy and was even encouraging people to back him before he officially jumped into the race. The two were literally so close that at one point, the super PAC was renting office space from Zinke in a building across the street from his house.
New Jersey – Analysis: Ethics rules don’t keep ex-BPU officials from related industries
Bergen Record – Jean Rimbach | Published: 5/6/2014
Despite ethics rules on the books, top New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) officials routinely move quickly and easily into the industries that once had cases before them. Unlike some other states, New Jersey has no waiting period, during which departing commissioners face a prohibition on taking a job with a regulated utility, leaving open the opportunity for immediate employment with companies they oversaw. And decisions on what constitutes a banned activity in a post-BPU job are made case by case.
Rhode Island – GTECH Was a Corporate Sponsor for R.I. Senate President Pavia Weed’s Trip to Spain
Providence Journal – Katherine Gregg | Published: 5/2/2014
At least a dozen companies and trade associations that had lobbyists at the Capitol last year provided money to the Senate Presidents Forum, which paid for Rhode Island Senate President Teresa Paiva Weed’s trip to Spain. The state Ethics Commission has placed limits on gifts from “interested” parties, defined as any person or an entity that has a direct financial interest in a decision the public official is authorized to make. Paiva Weed believes such trips provide opportunities to confer with counterparts who face the same kinds of issues as Rhode Island. “I did not have one-on-one meetings with [any] lobbyist,” said Paiva Weed.
Rhode Island – Target 12 Investigation Triggers RI Probe of 38 Studios Lobbying
WPRI – Tim White and Ted Nessi | Published: 5/5/2014
Rhode Island Secretary of State Ralph Mollis will investigate whether 38 Studios, the video game company founded by former Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling that went bankrupt in 2012, violated state lobbying laws. According to WPRI, 38 Studios did not register any lobbyists with the state while the company was active in Rhode Island, as required by law. But a contract uncovered by the television station showed 38 Studios had agreed to pay $300,000 per year to an associate of the former House Speaker Gordon Fox to work with government agencies and officials.
Texas – Ken Paxton’s Business List Has Surged Since He Entered Legislature
Dallas Morning News – Gromer Jeffers, Jr. | Published: 5/4/2014
Since he joined the Legislature in 2003, Texas Sen. Ken Paxton, who is running for state attorney general, has started or become part of 28 business ventures. Paxton, like other lawmakers, has voted on measures that could affect his personal holdings. He has declined to say how much his net worth has grown since he joined the Legislature, and he has refused to release his federal tax returns. The state requires officeholders to list only broad ranges that their income and investments fall in, so it is difficult to say how extensive Paxton’s business holdings are.
Wisconsin – Conflicting Rulings Cloud Wisconsin Campaign Finance Inquiry
New York Times – Monica Davey | Published: 5/7/2014
A U.S. appeals court ruled Wisconsin investigators can continue a secret probe into possible campaign finance law violations by conservative groups in the state. The order stopped for now enforcement of a federal judge’s ruling that the 20-month inquiry must be halted, and records and property seized by investigators returned to the Wisconsin Club for Growth, the group that sued to halt the probe.
Wisconsin – Wisconsin to No Longer Have Aggregate Campaign Funding Limits after Federal Lawsuit Settled
Minneapolis Star Tribune – Scott Bauer (Associated Press) | Published: 5/8/2014
Wisconsin has reached a settlement in a federal lawsuit challenging the state’s limits on how much individuals can contribute to campaigns. The state law prohibits donors from giving more than $10,000 a year to all candidates. The settlement says in light of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Wisconsin’s law is unconstitutional so donors now will be able to spend as much as they want in aggregate to PACs and political parties.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
May 8, 2014 •
Thursday News Roundup
Lobbying “Lobbying 101: K Street goes back to school” by Byron Tau in Politico. “Patton Boggs settles with Chevron” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill. “Under Contract” in The Hill. Colorado: “House passes measure to increase lobbyist transparency” by […]
Lobbying
“Lobbying 101: K Street goes back to school” by Byron Tau in Politico.
“Patton Boggs settles with Chevron” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“Under Contract” in The Hill.
Colorado: “House passes measure to increase lobbyist transparency” by Blair Shiff on KUSA TV News.
EU: “30,000 lobbyists and counting: is Brussels under corporate sway?” by Ian Traynor in The Guardian.
Florida: “Miami-Dade lobbyist in middle of FBI sting against mayors pleads guilty” by Jay Weaver in the Miami Herald.
Campaign Finance
“Top Corporate PACs Give Over $2 Million in Contributions” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.
“Answers for Our ‘Byzantine’ Campaign Finance System | Commentary” by Lisa Gilbert in Roll Call.
New York: “Cuomo, lawmakers push campaign finance reform” by Josefa Velasquez (Associated Press) on WIVB News.
Wisconsin: “Wisconsin campaign finance probe can continue: appeals court” by Brenda O’Brien in Reuters.
Wisconsin: “Conflicting Rulings Cloud Wisconsin Campaign Finance Inquiry” by Monica Davey in The New York Times.
Wisconsin: “Political Speech Wins in Wisconsin” opinion piece in The Wall Street Journal.
Wyoming: “Groups seek to overturn Wyo. campaign finance law” by Trevor Brown in the Wyoming Tribune Eagle.
Ethics
Vermont: “Vermont House to form ethics panel, require employment disclosure” by Anne Galloway in the Brattleboro Reformer.
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