March 25, 2024 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance National: “Trump’s Legal Fees Are Sky High. An Elaborate PAC Scheme Is Helping Pay Them – for Now” by Erin Mansfield and Zac Anderson (USA Today) for MSN Oregon: “Oregon Secretary of State Says It Needs More Money, Employees to Overhaul […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Trump’s Legal Fees Are Sky High. An Elaborate PAC Scheme Is Helping Pay Them – for Now” by Erin Mansfield and Zac Anderson (USA Today) for MSN
Oregon: “Oregon Secretary of State Says It Needs More Money, Employees to Overhaul Outdated Campaign Finance Filing System” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN
Pennsylvania: “Philly Ethics Board Looks to Tighten Rules After Jeff Brown Super PAC Scuffle” by Meir Rinde for Billy Penn
Elections
Louisiana: “How to Elect a Louisiana Sheriff: Runoff, recount, reversal, repeat” by Molly Hennessy-Fiske (Washington Post) for MSN
Wisconsin: “Former Milwaukee Election Official Convicted of Absentee Ballot Fraud” by Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
Florida: “In Public, Suarez Says He’s Not Ken Griffin’s Attorney. Under Oath, He Said Differently” by Sarah Blaskey and Alexandra Glorioso (Miami Herald) for MSN
National: “Former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel Faces Sharp Criticism After NBC Hiring” by Drew Harwell (Washington Post) for MSN
Lobbying
Wisconsin: “Robin Vos Slams Shadow Lobbying Effort on Electric Grid Construction Bill” by Jessie Opien (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) for MSN
March 22, 2024 •
News You Can Use Digest – March 22, 2024
![News You Can Use Digest – March 22, 2024](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/NYCU-Logo-e1662491950752-1000x563.png)
National/Federal Supreme Court Rules Public Officials Can Sometimes Be Sued for Blocking Critics on Social Media Associated Press News – Mark Sherman | Published: 3/14/2024 A unanimous Supreme Court ruled public officials can sometimes be sued for blocking their critics on social […]
National/Federal
Supreme Court Rules Public Officials Can Sometimes Be Sued for Blocking Critics on Social Media
Associated Press News – Mark Sherman | Published: 3/14/2024
A unanimous Supreme Court ruled public officials can sometimes be sued for blocking their critics on social media. The court ruled in two cases involving lawsuits filed by individuals who were blocked after leaving critical comments on social media accounts belonging to school board members in Southern California and a city manager in Michigan. They are similar to a case involving Donald Trump and his decision to block critics from his personal account on Twitter. The justices dismissed the case after Trump left office.
Peter Navarro Begins 4-Month Jail Sentence for Contempt of Congress
DNyuz – Zach Montague and David Adams (New York Times) | Published: 3/19/2024
Peter Navarro, a trade adviser to Donald Trump, reported to federal prison, becoming the first senior Trump administration official to serve time over his role in the effort to subvert the results of the 2020 election. Navarro, who helped engineer Trump’s plans to stay in power after his electoral defeat in November 2020, was sentenced to four months in prison for contempt of Congress after defying a subpoena from the House select committee investigating the Capitol riot.
US Supreme Court Justices, Judges Face New Rules for Disclosing Free Trips
MSN – Nate Raymond (Reuters) | Published: 3/18/2024
U.S. Supreme Court justices and federal judges can no longer avoid disclosing the value of travel-related gifts they receive by classifying such free trips as “reimbursements” on their financial disclosure forms under new regulations now in effect. The rules follow revelations that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas had not disclosed luxury trips paid for by a wealthy benefactor.
Trump-Backed Candidate Bernie Moreno Wins Ohio Senate Primary
MSN – Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 3/19/2024
Bernie Moreno, a Republican endorsed by Donald Trump, advanced to a general-election matchup against U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown in a contest that could determine control of the Senate. Democratic groups have spent money on ads on Moreno in recent weeks because some strategists view him as an easier opponent for Brown, who faced no challengers in the primary, to defeat in a general election.
Chinese Billionaire Pleads Guilty to Straw Donor
MSN – Jake Offenhartz (Associated Press) | Published: 3/18/2024
A Chinese billionaire pleaded guilty to violating U.S. election laws by funneling illegal straw donations to a New York City official, a member of the U.S. House, and a congressional candidate. Hui Qin admitted to using his fortune to recruit and reimburse people who made political donations on his behalf, beginning with a New York City race in 2021. Court papers filed do not identify the candidates backed by Qin. But there were only a handful of citywide races in New York that year, including the election of Mayor Eric Adams.
MSN – Molly Bohannon (Forbes) | Published: 3/20/2024
A super PAC affiliated with Sen. Ted Cruz reported receiving $215,000 in “digital revenue” from iHeartMedia, despite a spokesperson for the senator previously denying there was an ethical issue with the company producing his podcast. In 2022, shortly after Cruz and iHeartMedia entered a partnership in which the company markets and produces his podcast, the Campaign Legal Center asked the Senate Ethics Committee to investigate whether the deal violated a federal law barring senators from receiving gifts from registered lobbyists.
‘Very, Very Troubling’: Judges, lawyers flummoxed by Judge Cannon
MSN – Devlin Barrett and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 3/20/2024
Lawyers and former judges said they are baffled by an order issued by the federal judge overseeing Donald Trump’s pending trial on charges he mishandled classified documents, and believe her instructions suggest the case will not go to trial anytime soon. U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon ordered defense lawyers and prosecutors in the case to file submissions outlining proposed jury instructions based on two scenarios, each of which badly misstates the law and facts of the case, according to legal experts.
House Republican Divisions Over Governing Spill onto Campaign Trail
MSN – Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 3/20/2024
The ideologically fractured House Republican conference has spent the past year debating what it takes to govern. Now that fight is spilling onto the campaign trail. Members from the far right and more traditional wings of the conference are campaigning against their colleagues in hopes of persuading primary voters to kick out incumbents and replace them with Republicans each group believes will better serve their political interests. The unusual interventions are a result of an ongoing intraparty dispute over what, or who, can bring about a “governing majority.”
Supreme Court Opens New Frontier for Insurrection Claims That Could Target State and Local Officials
MSN – Morgan Lee and Nicholas Riccardi (Associated Press) | Published: 3/19/2024
The U.S. Supreme Court rejected an appeal from a former New Mexico county commissioner who was kicked out of office after he was convicted of trespassing during the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The state judge who barred him from office did so on the grounds his actions violated Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. The move came on the heels of an expected high court ruling that Section 3 cannot be used against federal officials or candidates until Congress writes a law outlining procedures to do so. The actions herald a new legal landscape as groups that pushed for Trump’s disqualification reboot efforts to target state and local officials linked to January 6.
Emails Show How a Right-Wing Group Steers GOP Leaders on Major Policy Issues
MSN – Daniel Medina and Bob Ortega (CNN) | Published: 3/18/2024
Tax laws allow donors to channel millions of dollars anonymously, through nonprofit foundations, to activist organizations that lobby for and work behind the scenes to enact legislation that reflects partisan goals. The Foundation for Government Accountability enjoys tax-exempt status as a charitable organization. It received more than $44 million from six conservative foundations tied to billionaire donors from 2013 through 2022. Those foundations have financed much of the push to tighten voting laws and spread election disinformation across the country since the 2020 election.
Election Laws Not Ready for Deepfakes, Experts Warn: ‘It’s the Wild West right now’
MSN – Jim Saska (Roll Call) | Published: 3/17/2024
Election law experts say there is little in the existing statutes to prevent artificial intelligence (AI)-powered bad actors, including meddling foreign powers, from unleashing campaign disinformation on an already saturated political landscape. While most commercial advertisers are prohibited from telling lies, there is nothing akin to truth-in-advertising laws for campaign ads because of the First Amendment’s heightened protection for political speech. Federal election laws do not currently regulate AI explicitly.
Supreme Court Likely to Reject Limits on White House Social Media Contacts
MSN – Ann Marimow and Cat Zakrzewski (Washington Post) | Published: 3/18/2024
The U.S. Supreme Court seemed prepared to reject a Republican-led effort to sharply limit the federal government from pressuring social media companies to remove harmful posts and misinformation from their platforms. A majority of justices from across the ideological spectrum expressed concern about hamstringing White House officials and other federal employees from communicating with technology companies about posts related to public health, national security, and elections the government deems problematic.
Kushner Developing Deals Overseas Even as His Father-in-Law Runs for President
Seattle Times – Eric Lipton, Jonathan Swain, and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 3/15/2024
Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of Donald Trump, confirmed he was closing in on major real estate deals in Albania and Serbia, the latest example of the former president’s family doing business abroad even as Trump seeks to return to the White House. Kushner’s plans in the Balkans appear to have come about in part through relationships built while Trump was in office. Kushner, who was a senior White House official, said he had been working on the deals with Richard Grenell, who served briefly as acting director of national intelligence under Trump.
Jan. 6 Defendant Got 2 Congressional Internships After She Allegedly Breached the Building
Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 3/18/2024
In the three years since the attack on the Capitol, Isabella DeLuca gained a right-wing following and burnished her résumé with two internships in the offices of GOP members of Congress. Now, the social media influencer has been criminally charged for storming the Capitol and helping to force the evacuation of the chamber. DeLuca stands apart from the other 1,300 people charged in the riot because she is the first known member of the mob who would take a position in Congress after her role in the insurrection.
From the States and Municipalities
Alaska – Ninth Circuit Denies Injunction to Block Disclosure Rules for Alaska Elections
Courthouse News Service – Alanna Mayham | Published: 3/15/2024
A voter-backed measure to enforce campaign finance disclosures in Alaska prevailed after a ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit affirmed a judge’s denial of a preliminary injunction that would have blocked the law. A lawsuit by political donors claimed a 2020 voter initiative enforced burdensome disclosure rules that could lead to retaliation for their open support.
Alaska – Alaska Judge to Expedite Ruling on Campaign Ethics Violations by Ranked Choice Voting Opponents
Yahoo News – Iris Samuels (Anchorage Daily News) | Published: 3/17/2024
A judge will rule months before the November election on the legality of a decision by state campaign regulators to punish opponents of Alaska’s voting system. The Alaska Public Offices Commission (APOC) ruled that leaders of an effort to repeal Alaska’s open primary and ranked choice voting system violated state law when they funneled their campaign money through an organization registered as a church in Washington state. APOC fined the leaders of the ballot effort more than $94,000.
California – Outgoing City Atty. Mara Elliott Says Ethics Commission Needs Greater Independence
Times of San Diego – JW August | Published: 3/14/2024
Outgoing City Attorney Mara Elliott said it is time to increase the San Diego Ethics Commission’s independence to conduct investigations and issue larger fines when warranted. She plans to ask the city council to consider a series of upgrades to the commission. Some would be a ballot measure; others would require council action that would change how the commission is constituted and funded.
California – Fresno County Loses Again; Must Pay Legal Fees for Lawsuit Against City Council Members
Yahoo News – Tim Sheehan (Fresno Bee) | Published: 3/15/2024
Fresno County was ordered to pay more than $72,000 in legal fees to two Fresno City Council members for their defense against the county’s unsuccessful lawsuit over campaign finance issues. The county sued Councilpersons Garry Bredefeld and Luis Chavez last year, both candidates for the county’s board of supervisors, after the pair announced their intentions to transfer money from their city council campaign committees to their campaigns for supervisor.
Florida – Is Miami City Manager’s Furniture Saga Under Ethics Review? Here’s What We Know
MSN – Ana Claudia Chacin (Miami Herald) | Published: 3/21/2024
Miami City Manager Art Noriega told colleagues in an email that he had “engaged” with the county ethics commission about matters pertaining to the potential conflict-of-interest involving the city’s business with Pradere Manufacturing, a furniture vendor owned by his in-laws that employs his wife. He said the matter was “under review.” Jose Arrojo, director of the Miami-Dade County Commission on Ethics and Public Trust, said he does not recall ever meeting with or speaking to Noriega about the matter.
Florida – Ethics Complaint Against Moms for Liberty Founder Is Tossed
MSN – Josh Fiallo (Daily Beast) | Published: 3/16/2024
A complaint that kept Mom for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich from being confirmed to the Florida Commission on Ethics was rejected by the state ethics panel. The man behind the complaint, political consultant and blogger Robert Burns III, said it was rejected because the commission cannot investigate one of its own members.
Georgia – Fani Willis Can Stay on Trump Georgia Case, but Only If Wade Steps Aside, Judge Says
MSN – Holly Bailey and Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 3/15/2024
The judge overseeing the Georgia election interference case against Donald Trump and his allies ruled Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis could continue with the prosecution but only if Nathan Wade, the lead prosecutor she appointed and had a romantic relationship with, exits the case. Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee said the defendants “failed to meet their burden” in proving Willis’s relationship with Wade was enough of a “conflict-of-interest” to merit her removal from the case. But the judge also found an “appearance of impropriety that infects the current structure of the prosecution team.”
Hawaii – House Panel Spikes Bill to Publicly Fund Hawaii Elections
Honolulu Civil Beat – Chad Blair | Published: 3/14/2024
The House Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee rejected Senate Bill 2381, which would have set up a comprehensive system of public financing for all candidates seeking election to state and county offices beginning with the 2028 election year. But the bill did not include the $30 million estimated to be needed to fund the program, nor $200,000 to add staff to the state Campaign Spending Commission, which would be responsible for implementing the system.
Kentucky – Piagentini Keeps Council Seat Amid Ethics Controversy
MSN – Eleanor McCrary (Louisville Courier Journal) | Published: 3/18/2024
The Louisville Metro Council Court voted to keep embattled member Anthony Piagentini on the council after a lengthy misconduct trial. Piagentini was accused of using his position to land a $40 million grant for the nonprofit Louisville Healthcare CEO Council to receive federal American Rescue Plan money. He removed himself as a sponsor of the ordinance and did not vote on it, citing a conflict-of-interest. The day after the vote, he accepted a one-year consulting position with the organization.
Maryland – Mosby Legal-Defense Fund Donor List to Remain Secret Following Circuit Court Ruling
MSN – Emily Opilo (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 3/18/2024
Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Lawrence Fletcher-Hill overturned a Public Information Act Compliance Board ruling that ordered the release of the names of donors to a legal-defense fund set up to benefit City Council President Nick Mosby and his wife. The board argued the donations were akin to campaign contributions, which are disclosable under Maryland law. Fletcher-Hill relied on a 2016 ruling that permitted the state comptroller to withhold specific financial information related to unclaimed funds.
Michigan – Prominent Lansing Fundraiser Arraigned on Campaign Finance Charges
Detroit News – Craig Mauger | Published: 3/21/2024
Heather Lombardini, one of the top Republican fundraisers in Michigan politics, was arraigned on charges that she violated campaign finance law and created a false document after officials began investigating. The state attorney general’s office has been scrutinizing the movement of about $2.7 million from two nonprofit organizations tied to state Senate Republicans to the Unlock Michigan ballot proposal campaign, which gathered signatures to diminish Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s emergency powers.
Michigan – Michigan Lawyer Who Claimed Election Fraud Arrested after Dominion Hearing
MSN – Rachel Weiner and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 3/18/2024
An attorney for former Overstock Chief Executive Officer Patrick Byrne was detained at the federal courthouse in Washington, D.C., after defending her decision to disseminate internal documents from Dominion Voting Systems to revive debunked claims about the 2020 election. Stefanie Lambert was facing a bench warrant from a state court in Michigan, where she is accused of taking part in a conspiracy to tamper with voting machines in hopes of finding proof of fraud. She is simultaneously representing Byrne, who is being sued for defamation by Dominion over related falsehoods claiming the firm’s machines enabled vote tampering.
Michigan – ‘New Day in Lansing’ as Lawmakers Advance FOIA Bills, Introduce Transparency Measures
MSN – Arpan Lobo and Clara Hendrickson (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 3/14/2024
Legislation to expand Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act to include the governor’s office and state Legislature is advancing after members of the Senate Oversight Committee voted to report bills to the full Senate floor. There were concerns over some exemptions to open records requests that are currently in the legislation, like shielding the communications in the governor’s office for issuing pardons and criminal reprieves, and exemptions for communications between constituents and employees of the governor’s office or Legislature.
Nebraska – Lawmaker Apologizes After Inserting Colleague’s Name into Book Rape Scene
MSN – Annie Gowan and Kelsey Ables (Washington Post) | Published: 3/19/2024
Nebraska Sen. Steve Halloran apologized for reading a sexually graphic passage during debate over an obscenity bill and inserting Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh’s name into the text, a moment that sparked widespread outrage and calls for his resignation from across the political spectrum. Kevin Smith, a professor at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, said lingering tensions over Cavanaugh’s strong stance against a bill banning gender-affirming care may have had “some emotional spillover” in the debate over the obscenity measure.
New Hampshire – Group Sues After Novel Biden Deepfake Urged Voters to Skip N.H. Primary
MSN – Tobi Raji (Washington Post) | Published: 3/17/2024
A voting advocacy group is suing a political consultant and companies behind an AI-generated robocall o President Biden that in January urged New Hampshire voters not to participate in the state’s presidential primary. The League of Women Voters of New Hampshire accuses campaign consultant Steve Kramer, Life Corp., and Lingo Telecom of voter intimidation and deception in violation of federal and state laws.
New Jersey – Primary Ballot in N.J. Is ‘Unconstitutional,’ State Attorney General Says
MSN – Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) | Published: 3/18/2024
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin’s office said the state’s unique way of displaying county-backed candidates for U.S. Senate and governor on primary ballots is “unconstitutional” and will not defend it in court, following a lawsuit filed by U.S. Rep. Andy Kim. The move is the latest twist in an already tumultuous Democratic nominating contest for a Senate seat in the reliably blue state. Kim and the state’s first lady, Tammy Murphy, are running in the June 4 primary for the seat held by embattled U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez.
New Mexico – How NM Will Enforce the New Deepfake Disclosure Law
Source New Mexico – Austin Fisher | Published: 3/20/2024
About one week after early voting in New Mexico’s primary elections begins, a new law will go into effect requiring campaigns and candidates to tell the public whenever they use false information generated by artificial intelligence in a campaign ad. The secretary of state’s office and the New Mexico Ethics Commission will investigate alleged violations. New Mexico is among eight states that have enacted similar legislation since 2019. Thirty-one more states are considering related bills.
New Mexico – Senator Sues Secretary of State in Dispute Over Campaign Donation to Student
Yahoo News – Daniel Chacón (Santa Fe New Mexican) | Published: 3/15/2024
Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino is taking New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver to federal court over what he contends is an unconstitutional provision in the state’s campaign finance law. The complaint alleges Toulouse Oliver “ambushed” the “good senator” over a $200 donation from his campaign to a high school student in Albuquerque. The secretary of state’s office says the contribution violated state law and it has been working to get Ortiz y Pino to comply by replacing the campaign funds with his own money.
New York – Trump’s Lawyers Say It Is Impossible for Him to Post Bond Covering $454 Million Civil Fraud Judgment
Associated Press News – Michael Sisak | Published: 3/18/2924
Donald Trump’s lawyers told a New York appellate court it is impossible for him to post a bond covering a $454 million civil fraud judgment in state Attorney General Letitia James’ lawsuit. while he appeals. Senior Assistant Solicitor General Dennis Fan wrote a full bond was necessary, in part, because Trump’s lawyers “have never demonstrated that Mr. Trump’s liquid assets, which may fluctuate over time, will be enough to satisfy the full amount of this judgment following appeal.”
New York – Judge Orders Delay in Trump Hush Money Trial Until at Least Mid-April
MSN – Shayna Jacobs and Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) | Published: 3/15/2024
The judge overseeing the expected first criminal trial of Donald Trump, which was due to begin in March, has pushed it back until at least mid-April, saying lawyers need more time to review a fresh set of potential evidence and he wants to hear arguments about whether the material was handled properly. The scheduling twist is an outgrowth of the strange legal path that led to Trump being indicted last year on state charges of business records fraud for hush money paid to an adult-film actress.
New York – Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie Has Been Dating a Legislative Lobbyist
New York Focus – Chris Bragg | Published: 3/14/2024
Rebecca Lamorte is the legislative and communications director for the Greater New York Laborers-Employers Cooperation and Education Trust. She lobbies the Legislature on behalf of building trades and construction unions and their contractors, which the cooperative represents. She has been romantically involved with House Speaker Carl Heastie, apparently since at least last November. Heastie’s office has declined to acknowledge the relationship publicly, or to describe what steps the speaker has taken to avoid conflicts-of-interest.
Ohio – No Easter Vacation for Indicted FirstEnergy Lobbyist, Judge Rules
MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/18/2024
A judge said Mike Dowling, a FirstEnergy lobbyist charged with a sweep of bribery related crimes, cannot take a two-week trip to South Carolina to celebrate Easter. Dowling had asked Common Pleas Judge Susan Baker Ross for leave from terms of his pre-trial bond, which require him to stay in Ohio, to travel by car to his second home from March 23 to April 4.
Pennsylvania – Lawmakers Want to Ban Public Agencies from Hiring Lobbyists
The Center Square – Anthony Hennen | Published: 3/13/2024
The Pennsylvania Game Commission was criticized for hiring a lobbyist, something no state agency had done for two decades. Now, though the commission announced it will no longer use a lobbyist, legislators want to ban the practice statewide. Such a ban would preclude public entities, from boroughs and townships to counties and state agencies, from using a lobbying firm to plead their case for more funding.
Pennsylvania – Pa. Lawmakers Weigh Measures Exposing ‘Dark Money,’ Banning Ballot Drop Boxes
Yahoo News – Eric Scicchitano (The Daily Item) | Published: 3/20/2024
A bill in the Pennsylvania House seeking to shine light on “dark money” advanced out of committee and toward a floor vote, A dissenter to the proposal warned it could run afoul of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling. The bill was among four election-related proposals addressing either money or election security to move through committees in the House and Senate, getting closer to floor votes in the respective chambers.
Texas – U.S. Supreme Court Hears Texas Case on Politically Motivated Arrests
Yahoo News – William Melhado (Texas Tribune) | Published: 3/20/2024
The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a Texas case in which a former council member sued the city of Castle Hills, arguing she was arrested in retaliation for criticizing the city manager. The question at the center of the case is whether people who criticize the government can sue local officials over retaliatory arrests. Several justices asked whether a lower court had too narrowly interpreted previous case law concerning the question.
Wisconsin – Trial Opens for Kimberly Zapata, Ex-Milwaukee Election Official Accused of Ordering Fake Military Ballots
MSN – Alison Dirr (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) | Published: 3/18/2024
As the trial of former Milwaukee Election Commission Deputy Director Kimberly Zapata opened, the jury heard significantly different narratives about her actions in the fall of 2022 from her defense attorney and the prosecutor. Zapata is accused of ordering three military absentee ballots under fake names and sending them to a Republican lawmaker who embraces conspiracy theories about the 2020 election. She is facing charges of misconduct in public office and three counts of making a false statement to obtain an absentee ballot.
March 21, 2024 •
Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance National: “Chinese Billionaire Pleads Guilty to Straw Donor Scheme in New York and Rhode Island” by Jake Offenhartz (Associated Press) for MSN New Mexico: “How NM Will Enforce the New Deepfake Disclosure Law” by Austin Fisher for Source New Mexico Pennsylvania: “Pa. Lawmakers […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Chinese Billionaire Pleads Guilty to Straw Donor Scheme in New York and Rhode Island” by Jake Offenhartz (Associated Press) for MSN
New Mexico: “How NM Will Enforce the New Deepfake Disclosure Law” by Austin Fisher for Source New Mexico
Pennsylvania: “Pa. Lawmakers Weigh Measures Exposing ‘Dark Money,’ Banning Ballot Drop Boxes” by Eric Scicchitano (The Daily Item) for Yahoo News
Elections
New Hampshire: “Group Sues After Novel Biden Deepfake Urged Voters to Skip N.H. Primary” by Tobi Raji (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
National: “Cannon Tells Lawyers to Weigh If Trump Conduct Can’t Be Reviewed by Courts” by Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Jan. 6 Defendant Got 2 Congressional Internships After She Allegedly Breached the Building” by Kyle Cheney (Politico) for Yahoo News
Michigan: “‘New Day in Lansing’ as Lawmakers Advance FOIA Bills, Introduce Transparency Measures” by Arpan Lobo and Clara Hendrickson (Detroit Free Press) for MSN
New York: “Judge Orders Delay in Trump Hush Money Trial Until at Least Mid-April” by Shayna Jacobs and Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) for MSN
Lobbying
National: “Super PAC Backing Ted Cruz Received $215,000 From iHeartMedia – Fueling Ethics Concerns After Podcast Deal” by Molly Bohannon (Forbes) for MSN
March 18, 2024 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance Hawaii: “House Panel Spikes Bill to Publicly Fund Hawaii Elections” by Chad Blair for Honolulu Civil Beat Oklahoma: “Late Campaign Reports Cost State Schools Superintendent Ryan Walters” by Nolan Clay (Oklahoman) for Yahoo News Elections Georgia: “Fani Willis Can Stay on Trump Georgia […]
Campaign Finance
Hawaii: “House Panel Spikes Bill to Publicly Fund Hawaii Elections” by Chad Blair for Honolulu Civil Beat
Oklahoma: “Late Campaign Reports Cost State Schools Superintendent Ryan Walters” by Nolan Clay (Oklahoman) for Yahoo News
Elections
Georgia: “Fani Willis Can Stay on Trump Georgia Case, but Only If Wade Steps Aside, Judge Says” by Holly Bailey and Amy Gardner (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
California: “Outgoing City Atty. Mara Elliott Says Ethics Commission Needs Greater Independence” by JW August for Times of San Diego
National: “Judge Cannon Rejects Trump’s Attack on the Espionage Act” by Perry Stein and Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Supreme Court Rules Public Officials Can Sometimes Be Sued for Blocking Critics on Social Media” by Mark Sherman for Associated Press News
Lobbying
New York: “Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie Has Been Dating a Legislative Lobbyist” by Chris Bragg for New York Focus
Pennsylvania: “Lawmakers Want to Ban Public Agencies from Hiring Lobbyists” by Anthony Hennen for The Center Square
March 15, 2024 •
News You Can Use Digest – March 15, 2024
![News You Can Use Digest – March 15, 2024](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/NYCU-Logo-e1662491950752-1000x563.png)
National/Federal Congressional Hearing on the Biden Classified Documents Probe Turns into a Proxy Campaign Battle Associated Press News – Zeke Miller, Colleen Long, and Farnoush Amiri | Published: 3/12/2024 Lawmakers turned a hearing on President Biden’s handling of classified documents into […]
National/Federal
Congressional Hearing on the Biden Classified Documents Probe Turns into a Proxy Campaign Battle
Associated Press News – Zeke Miller, Colleen Long, and Farnoush Amiri | Published: 3/12/2024
Lawmakers turned a hearing on President Biden’s handling of classified documents into a proxy battle between the Democratic president and Donald Trump, as a newly released transcript of Biden’s last fall showed he repeatedly insisted he never meant to retain classified information after he left the vice presidency. Special counsel Robert Hur stood by the assessments in his report that questioned Biden’s age and mental competence but recommended no criminal charges, finding insufficient evidence to make a case stand up in court.
U.S. Courts Require Random Judge Assignments to Avoid ‘Judge Shopping’
MSN – Tobi Raji and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 3/12/2024
Federal judiciary leaders announced a policy that requires assigning judges at random in civil cases that have statewide or national implications, an effort to address widespread concerns about “judge shopping” in single-judge divisions. The Judicial Conference of the United States said district courts may continue to assign cases to a single-judge division if those cases do not seek to bar or mandate state or federal actions through declaratory judgment or injunctive relief. When random assignments are required, the case will be assigned to a judge within the same judicial district.
Biden and Trump Secure Their Parties’ Presidential Nominations
MSN – Hannah Knowles and Toluse Olorunnipa (Washington Post) | Published: 3/12/2024
President Biden and Donald Trump both secured their parties’ nominations for the presidency, formalizing a general-election rematch that appeared virtually inevitable for months. General elections typically draw much broader turnout than primaries, complicating efforts to draw lessons from the recent results for November. But the vote in Georgia, a key swing state, offered some clues to Trump’s and Biden’s political strengths and weaknesses.
Trump Takes Control of the RNC with Mass Layoffs, Restructuring
MSN – Michael Scherer, Josh Dawsey, and Marianne LeVine (Washington Post) | Published: 3/12/2024
Donald Trump took charge of the Republican National Committee with the political equivalent of shock and awe, leaving dozens out of work, revamping strategic priorities, and raising fears among some former officials about the party’s future support for down-ballot candidates. The senior leadership has been almost entirely replaced or reassigned, while dozens of lower-ranking officials including state directors were either fired or told to reapply for their jobs.
Rep. Ken Buck Says He Will Not Serve Out Rest of Term, Narrowing GOP Majority
MSN – Amy Wang and Patrick Svitek (Washington Post) | Published: 3/11/2024
Rep. Ken Buck said he will not serve out the rest of his term and will vacate his seat in Congress at the end of next week, further narrowing an already razor-thin House Republican majority. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said he plans to call a June 25 special election to fill Buck’s seat. Buck has clashed with the majority of the Republican conference in recent months. When asked about the work environment in Congress, Buck called it “dysfunctional” and declared it had been the worst year of his nearly 10 years in office.
Nationwide Review Finds Patchwork, ‘Broken’ Systems for Resolving Open Records Disputes
MSN – Josh Kelety (Associated Press), Eric Scicchitano, and Carson Gerber (CNHI News) | Published: 3/10/2024
A nationwide review found fewer than a third of states have offices that can resolve residents’ complaints by forcing agencies to turn over documents or comply with open meetings requirements. In most states, residents have just one meaningful option when they believe an agency is illegally withholding public information: to wage a legal battle. This system has a chilling effect, discouraging private citizens from finding out about everything from police investigations to how elected officials make decisions and spend taxpayer money.
Former U.S. Official’s Work for Chinese Client Stirs Concern Over Disclosure Loopholes
MSN – Michael Martina (Reuters) | Published: 3/11/2024
Former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch, now a partner at the Paul Weiss law firm, wrote a letter to a Defense Department official on behalf of SZ DJI Technology, asking that her client be removed from a list of Chinese military companies. Advocating for foreign clients is legal and there is a public disclosure exemption for lawyers. But the letter is an example of what transparency advocates say are gaps in the law that allow lawyers and lobbyists, including former officials, to avoid disclosing their advocacy for companies possibly subject to sanctions.
America’s Election Chiefs Are Worried AI Is Coming for Them
Yahoo News – Zach Montellaro (Politico) | Published: 3/11/2024
A false call from a secretary of state telling poll workers they are not needed on Election Day. A fake video of a state election director shredding ballots before they are counted. An email sent to a county election official trying to phish logins to its voter database. Election officials worry the rise of generative artificial intelligence makes these kinds of attacks on the democratic process even easier ahead of the November election. Election workers are uniquely vulnerable targets.
From the States and Municipalities
Alabama – As Another Alabama Lawmaker Pleads Guilty, Party Leaders Trade Barbs About Corruption
MSN – Hannah Denham (AL.com) | Published: 3/13/2024
Alabama Rep. John Rogers pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and conspiracy to obstruct justice. Federal prosecutors recommended that the judge reduce his charges and sentence him to 14 months of house arrest, followed by supervised release, per the plea agreement. Rogers is the second elected official to plead guilty in the kickback scheme. State Rep. Fred Plump resigned after pleading guilty to corruption charges.
California – Ex-LA Deputy Mayor on Trial Again Over City Hall Racketeering Charges
Courthouse News Service – Edward Pettersson | Published: 3/12/2024
Former Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan went on trial for the second time to fight charges he was part of the widespread racketeering scheme run by convicted former city Councilperson José Huizar. Chan is the last remaining defendant in the “pay-to-play” ploy whereby real-estate developers were forced to pay bribes in exchange for Huizar guiding their projects through the city’s approval process. Federal prosecutors with the claim Chan acted as a middleman between Huizar and Chinese developers and went on to pocket bribes himself.
California – S.F. Corruption Scandal: Mohammed Nuru’s partner in bribery scheme sentenced to prison
MSN – St. John Barned-Smith (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 3/8/2024
Executives at Recology, one of San Francisco’s largest contractors, needed a favor in 2018 from then-Public Works Director Mohammed Nuru, so they paid him a bribe to help fund his extravagant annual department holiday party. The man who handled the transaction was restaurateur Nick Bovis, who was sentenced to nine months in prison on fraud charges in a federal probe into city corruption.
San Jose Mercury News – Jakob Rodgers (Bay Area News Group) | Published: 3/7/2024
The campaign to recall Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price paid thousands of dollars to a security company created by one of the group’s key leaders, even though it lacks proper state licenses to operate as a security firm. State business filings show Efficient Private Protection and Security LLC is owned by Brenda Grisham, who also serves as one of two principal officers for the recall campaign, Save Alameda For Everybody.
California – Confidentiality Pact Deepens Mystery of How Bakery Clause Got into California Minimum Wage Law
Yahoo News – Adam Beam (Associated Press) | Published: 3/11/2024
As California prepares to enforce a new $20-per-hour minimum wage for fast food workers, an unusual exemption for eateries that bake their own bread has come under scrutiny due to allegations it was initially intended to benefit a wealthy donor to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s campaign. But details have been hard to come by because of a tactic rarely associated with public policymaking: a signed confidentiality agreement that prevents some private groups from talking about their negotiations.
Florida – Moms for Liberty Executive’s Job Gets in the Way of Confirmation to Florida Ethics Post
MSN – Ana Ceballos (Miami Herald) | Published: 3/7/2024
Republican leaders in the Florida Senate did not confirm Moms for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich to serve on the state ethics commission, a rare repudiation to Gov. Ron DeSantis that underscores concerns about what the appointment would mean for the oversight of elected officials. The decision to not consider her confirmation was made after an unnamed senator raised concerns that Descovich’s employment with the conservative group “could constitute lobbying the Legislature,” Senate spokesperson Katie Betta said.
Florida – Newly Dismissed Ethics Complaint on Mayor’s F1 Weekend Details Repayment to Billionaire
MSN – Sarah Blaskey and Alexandra Glorioso (Miami Herald) | Published: 3/14/2024
The Florida Commission on Ethics dismissed a complaint against Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, finding “no probable cause” to believe he accepted pricey tickets to high-profile events in exchange for governmental influence. The complaint alleged Suarez improperly received tickets to last year’s Formula 1 race in Miami from billionaire Ken Griffin. But the commission concluded the mayor repaid the cost of the VIP passes to the race for him and his wife. The probe did not address other key questions raised in the complaint, namely who provided his other VIP passes throughout the weekend.
Florida – Riviera Beach City Council Member Says She Was Told a Colleague Offered to Barter His Vote
MSN – Wayne Washington (Palm Beach Post) | Published: 3/14/2024
Riviera Beach City Councilperson Julia Botel said representatives of marina owner Safe Harbor told her one of her colleagues, Douglas Lawson, tried to barter his vote on a development project. Botel filed a complaint with the Florida Commission on Ethics. Lawson was among three council members who voted down Safe Harbor’s request for zoning changes to facilitate expanded operations at the city waterfront. News of the ethics complaint is the latest drama connected to the council, rife with acrimony and subterranean grievances.
Florida – Miami Beach Commissioners Increase Their Compensation by $20,000, Side-Stepping Voters
MSN – Aaron Leibowitz (Miami Herald) | Published: 3/14/2024
The Miami Beach City Commission voted to increase its members’ overall compensation packages by nearly $20,000 annually by boosting monthly car and phone allowances and adjusting monthly stipends in a way that accounts for inflation and taxes. The move allows the city’s elected officials to raise their compensation without changing their relatively meager base salaries of $10,000 for the mayor and $6,000 for commissioners annually, which have gone unchanged for nearly 60 years and require a citywide voter referendum to address.
Florida – New Limits on Florida Ethics Complaints May Shield Corruption, Critics Warn
Tallahassee Democrat – John Kennedy (USA Today) | Published: 3/8/2024
A bill to revamp state ethics laws, allowing that complaints be filed against officials only by those with personal knowledge of the wrongdoing, was passed by the Legislature and sent to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Senate Bill 7014 had been roundly criticized by ethics officials, who say the change, coupled with another limiting the power of city and county ethics panels, will likely tilt the table in favor of corruption.
Georgia – Ga. Judge Dismisses Six Charges in Trump Election Interference Case
MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 3/13/2024
A Georgia judge dismissed three of the 13 charges against Donald Trump and some of the charges against his allies in the election inference case but declined to dismiss the entire indictment. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee dismissed six of the 41 counts in the indictment against Trump and his allies, who are accused of conspiring to try to overturn the 2020 presidential election in Georgia. All the dismissed charges are related to pressure that Trump or five of his co-defendants allegedly put on state officials to change the results.
Hawaii – Kaneshiro-Mitsunaga Bribery Case Puts ‘Pay to Play’ on Trial
Honolulu Civil Beat – Christina Jedra | Published: 3/12/2024
The prosecution of Laurel Mau in Honolulu was unusual from the start. There was no police investigation of her alleged theft from her former employer, the engineering firm Mitsunaga & Associates. At least two prosecutors determined no crime had occurred. Nevertheless, criminal charges were filed against Mau. What motivated prosecuting attorney Keith Kaneshiro to pursue the case, according to federal prosecutors, was money. Over several years, Dennis Mitsunaga and those connected to him sent Kaneshiro nearly $50,000 in campaign contributions.
Illinois – After Most Illinois Supreme Court Justices Recuse Themselves, Ed Burke Keeps His Law License
WBEZ – Jon Seidel (Chicago Sun-Times) and Dave McKinney | Published: 3/11/2024
An Illinois Supreme Court paralyzed by apparent conflicts-of-interest is letting former Chicago Ald. Edward Burke keep his law license despite his guilty verdict in an illegal shakedown scheme designed to enrich his law firm. A push for an interim suspension of Burke’s license was sidelined by the court because at least four of its seven justices recused themselves from the matter. It is not clear whether a mechanism exists that would allow the state to touch Burke’s law license.
Indiana – Hoosier Political Candidates Can Use Donations for Child Care, Election Officials Say
Indiana Capital Chronicle – Leslie Bonilla Muñiz | Published: 3/11/2024
Candidates in Indiana can use political contributions to pay for childcare expenses incurred while campaigning or in office. A recent advisory opinion from the state Elections Commission came in response to a request from two lawmakers. Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn said she made the request because finding after-school, evening, and weekend care for her then-nine-year-old son while campaigning in 2020 was challenging.
Iowa – Iowa Transgender Musician and Activist Acquitted on Protest Charges
MSN – Molly Hennessy-Fiske (Washington Post) | Published: 3/13/2024
Tara McGovern, a transgender musician who was arrested last fall after protesting a speaker on the University of Iowa campus, was acquitted of charges they contended went to the heart of the constitutional right to assemble. McGovern had been charged with two misdemeanors in connection with the event. So were six other protesters from a crowd of about 200 people. All of those arrested were transgender. All but two pleaded guilty. McGovern went to trial on principle.
Kansas – Biden Effigy Beaten, Kicked at Kansas County GOP Event, Drawing Outrage
MSN – Annie Gowan (Washington Post) | Published: 3/11/2024
A Republican fundraiser in Overland Park, Kansas, at which attendees beat and kicked an effigy of President Biden sparked bipartisan outrage and calls for the GOP leaders responsible for the event to resign. The “Grand Ol’ Party” fundraising event featured a booth where attendees kicked and swung a foam bat at a mannequin topped with a rubber Biden mask. The state GOP issued a statement that said, “it’s unfortunate the events took place.” But it blamed the incident on an outside exhibitor and a former state party member.
Kentucky – Opponents Say Kentucky ‘Ag Gag’ Bill Could Stifle Free Speech, Limit Whistleblowing
MSN – Rebecca Grapevine (Louisville Courier Journal) | Published: 3/12/2024
A bill advancing through the Kentucky Legislature pits the state’s meat processing industry against a diverse group of opponents that ranges from photojournalists to animal rights groups. Senate Bill 16 amends Kentucky’s criminal trespass law, which sought to protect “key infrastructure assets” like energy and drinking water facilities from trespass and from surveillance by unauthorized drones. The bill expands on that effort but goes much further, opening the door for stifling free speech, and removing a crucial way for news organizations and advocates to monitor corporate activities, opponents say.
Michigan – Michigan Democrats Eye New Ethics Disclosures, Crackdown on Gifts
Bridge Michigan – Lauren Gibbons | Published: 3/13/2024
Michigan lawmakers are once again making vows to revisit the state’s lax ethics laws, rolling out a wish list of proposals that would give the public more clarity on who is influencing the political process. Many of the provisions, including additional disclosures from nonprofits affiliated with lawmakers and candidates, a temporary ban on former lawmakers becoming lobbyists, and stricter rules about gifts and event tickets given to public officials, have seen bipartisan support from government transparency advocates in years past. But none so far have gained serious traction in the Legislature.
Missouri – Dean Plocher Draws New Scrutiny Over Series of Capitol Meetings with Out-of-State Vendor
Missouri Independent – Jason Hancock | Published: 3/11/2024
Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher arranged a series of meetings in the state Capitol between Republican legislators and an out-of-state technology vendor, inviting renewed criticism as he remains the focus of an ongoing ethics investigation. The unusual arrangement is drawing comparisons to Plocher unsuccessfully pushing last year for the House to spend $800,000 outside the normal bidding process to hire a private company to manage constituent data.
MSN – Andrew Seidman and Jeremy Roebuck (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 3/7/2024
Months into an investigation into New Jersey Democratic power broker, George Norcross, authorities have expanded their focus beyond his involvement in real estate deals in Camden. In recent weeks, investigators with the state attorney general’s office and FBI have begun scrutinizing whether the insurance executive played a role in a state agency’s decision to temporarily stop payments to a contractor after one of the company’s executives reportedly defied Norcross with an endorsement in a local election last year.
New York – As State Plans to Match Campaign Contributions, Elections Heat Up
Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 3/10/2024
New York is planning to spend millions of dollars for matching contributions in an election cycle that are under $250 and from donors who live in a candidate’s district. The intent of the program is to democratize the electoral process and even the playing field in a system that has long favored incumbents with massive campaign accounts. The change in how campaigns are financed appears to have become a boon for insurgent candidates. It has led to primary challengers against incumbents, often involving candidates with minor political parties.
New York – Mayor Adams Campaign Supporters Fined in Straw Donor Scheme
MSN – Molly Crane-Newman (New York Daily News) | Published: 3/12/2024
Two owners of a construction firm were sentenced for their roles in a straw donor scheme to boost New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ 2021 campaign account with cash from the city’s public matching funds program. Brothers Shahid Mushtaq and Yahya Mushtaq each paid $500 in fines and completed 35 hours of community service before appearing in court. They pleaded to conspiracy and are cooperating in an investigation by the Manhattan district attorney.
New York – Appeals Court Brings Back Brian Benjamin Bribery Charges
The City – Greg Smith | Published: 3/8/2024
A federal appeals court reinstated bribery charges against former New York Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin, reversing a lower court ruling that found his solicitation of campaign donations after steering state money to a donor was not an explicit case of “pay-to-play.” The three-judge panel found Benjamin’s alleged efforts to seek thousands of dollars in contributions in exchange for allocating state funds to a youth program run by one of his biggest donors cleared the bar for indictable corruption.
North Carolina – North Carolina Judges Block Elections Board Changes Pushed by Republicans That Weaken Governor
Yahoo News – Gary Robertson (Associated Press) | Published: 3/12/2024
North Carolina’s Republican-controlled Legislature unlawfully tried to seize from the governor the power to choose elections board members in the battleground state, trial judges ruled while saying portions of a new election law must be permanently blocked. The three-judge panel sided unanimously with Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper in his lawsuit filed days after the General Assembly overrode Cooper’s veto of the measure. The changes would have shifted board appointment powers away from the governor and to the Legislature.
Ohio – Democrats Meddle in Ohio G.O.P. Senate Primary, Pushing Trump’s Choice
DNyuz – Michael Bender (New York Times) | Published: 3/13/2024
A Democratic group is wading into the Republican Senate primary in Ohio with a new television spot aimed at promoting the conservative credentials of Bernie Moreno, businessperson who has been endorsed by Donald Trump. The group Duty and Country is spending roughly $879,000 on the ad. It is funded largely through the Senate Majority PAC, the principal super PAC supporting Democratic efforts to maintain control of the chamber.
Ohio – Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine Stands Behind Aide While She Stays Mum About Bribery Scandal
Ohio Capital Journal – Marty Schladen | Published: 3/11/2024
Gov. Mike DeWine continues to praise and support an aide who he said knew about a $4.3 million payoff by FirstEnergy to DeWine’s pick to lead the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, the entity that decides how much FirstEnergy can charge customers. Laurel Dawson knew about the payment but did not tell DeWine until the FBI searched the regulator’s home nearly two years later, the governor’s office says. In defending the conduct of Dawson and DeWine, the governor’s press secretary said law enforcement had not yet called the payment a bribe.
Oklahoma – New Ethics Commission Executive Director to ‘Renew Our Focus on Education’
NonDoc – Michael McNutt | Published: 3/11/2024
Lee Anne Bruce Boone began her new duties as executive director of the Oklahoma Ethics Commission on January 4. Now tasked with running the agency that tracks activities of lobbyists, candidates, and committees, Bruce Boone has a long history of working in the public sector. In an interview, she discusses her background, her goals for the commission, and the long-standing need for additional funding.
Oregon – Legislature Passes Historic Campaign Finance Bill
MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 3/8/2024
Oregon lawmakers passed a campaign finance reform bill that limits contributions from individuals, corporations, unions, and other groups. Oregon is currently one of only five states that does not limit how much money candidates can accept. The bill’s language came together after weeks of negotiations to get labor unions, business lobbyists, and good government groups on board. As part of the final pact between the groups, no campaign finance measures will be put on the November 2024 ballot.
Pennsylvania – Pa. Game Commission Won’t Renew Controversial Contract with Lobbying Firm Run by Former Top Lawmaker
Spotlight PA – Angela Couloumbis | Published: 3/7/2024
Facing scrutiny from state lawmakers, the Pennsylvania Game Commission said it will not renew a controversial contract with a politically connected lobbying firm. The agency signed a contract last year with Allegheny Strategy Partners, a lobbying firm run by former state Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati. Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans decided to end the contract after fielding concerns from lawmakers about the propriety of a state agency using public dollars on private lobbyists.
South Dakota – South Dakota Legislator Calls for Inquiry into Gov. Noem’s Texas Dental Trip and Promo Video
MSN – Jack Dura and Josh Funk (Associated Press) | Published: 3/13/2024
State Sen. Reynold Nesiba called for an inquiry into South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s trip to Texas for dental work and a promotional video in which she praises the doctors for giving her “a smile I can be proud of and confident in.” He said he initially found the nearly five-minute video to be simply odd. Now, Nesiba wonders whether Noem used a state airplane or public funds for the Texas trip and whether the governor paid for the dental procedure or if it was discounted because of her video.
Tennessee – Republican, Democrat File Bill to Move Sexual Harassment Inquiries Outside the Legislature
Yahoo News – Vivian Jones (Tennessean) | Published: 3/12/2024
In a rare bipartisan effort, state Reps. Aftyn Behn and Todd Warner together filed legislation aimed at moving investigation and resolution of harassment complaints outside the Legislature to the Tennessee attorney general’s office. The bill follows a long line of sexual harassment complaints, including one that led to the resignation of a high-ranking lawmaker last year. Through stringent confidentiality standards aimed at protecting victims, the Legislature’s harassment policy also in some ways shields lawmakers from consequences.
MSN – Robert Downen (Texas Tribune) | Published: 3/8/2024
The Texas Supreme Court declined to hear two lawsuits in which a conservative activist and his political advocacy group challenged the state ethics commission’s regulatory powers. The suits were filed by Michael Quinn Sullivan and Empower Texans, a powerful group that was led by Sullivan and pushed state lawmakers to adopt right-wing policies until it was disbanded in 2020. They asked the high court to review rulings in which two appeals courts refused to toss fines imposed on Sullivan by the commission for failing to register as a lobbyist.
March 13, 2024 •
Ask The Expert – Goodwill Lobbying Registration Requirements
![Ask The Expert – Goodwill Lobbying Registration Requirements](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Stock-images-for-blog-17-1000x563.png)
FatCamera - Getty Images Signature
Q: I am an in-house lobbyist and frequently like to meet with legislators to build relationships. If I am not lobbying on any issues, do I still need to worry about registration requirements? A: You should absolutely be thinking about […]
Q: I am an in-house lobbyist and frequently like to meet with legislators to build relationships. If I am not lobbying on any issues, do I still need to worry about registration requirements?
A: You should absolutely be thinking about registration requirements anytime you interact with public officials or employees. Many states require registration for goodwill lobbying.
Goodwill lobbying is covered under the definition of lobbying in several states. The following states require lobbyist registration for goodwill activities: Alaska, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Vermont.
Some states go as far as defining the specific conduct constituting goodwill lobbying. Registration in Connecticut is required for “door opening” when an influential individual interacts with a state agency on behalf of a client. The Tennessee Ethics Commission has said that “getting to know” or “building rapport” is considered lobbying in the state of Tennessee and is subject to all registration requirements.
Oregon defines, goodwill, as used in the definition of lobbying, as kindness, friendliness, benevolence, or generosity by a person or entity directed toward a legislative official that could cause the legislative official to have a favorable impression of, or thankfulness to, the person or entity.
It is always a good idea to check the jurisdiction’s specific registration requirements on our website prior to communicating with officials.
You can find this information under the “Registration” section of the U.S. Lobbying Compliance Laws online publication.
March 13, 2024 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance Kansas: “Biden Effigy Beaten, Kicked at Kansas County GOP Event, Drawing Outrage” by Annie Gowan (Washington Post) for MSN New York: “Mayor Adams Campaign Supporters Fined in Straw Donor Scheme” by Molly Crane-Newman (New York Daily News) for MSN Ethics California: “Confidentiality Pact […]
Campaign Finance
Kansas: “Biden Effigy Beaten, Kicked at Kansas County GOP Event, Drawing Outrage” by Annie Gowan (Washington Post) for MSN
New York: “Mayor Adams Campaign Supporters Fined in Straw Donor Scheme” by Molly Crane-Newman (New York Daily News) for MSN
Ethics
California: “Confidentiality Pact Deepens Mystery of How Bakery Clause Got into California Minimum Wage Law” by Adam Beam (Associated Press) for Yahoo News
National: “Congressional Hearing on the Biden Classified Documents Probe Turns into a Proxy Campaign Battle” by Zeke Miller, Colleen Long, and Farnoush Amiri for Associated Press News
Iowa: “Transgender Activist Risks Jail to Challenge Law Targeting Protest” by Molly Hennessey-Fiske (Washington Post) for MSN
Missouri: “Dean Plocher Draws New Scrutiny Over Series of Capitol Meetings with Out-of-State Vendor” by Jason Hancock for Missouri Independent
Legislative Issues
Tennessee: “Republican, Democrat File Bill to Move Sexual Harassment Inquiries Outside the Legislature” by Vivian Jones (Tennessean) for Yahoo News
Lobbying
National: “Former U.S. Official’s Work for Chinese Client Stirs Concern Over Disclosure Loopholes” by Michael Martina (Reuters) for MSN
March 11, 2024 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance Oregon: “Legislature Passes Historic Campaign Finance Bill” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN Elections National: “RNC Installs Trump’s Chosen Leaders in Merger with His Campaign” by Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) for MSN Ethics California: “S.F. Corruption Scandal: Mohammed Nuru’s partner in bribery […]
Campaign Finance
Oregon: “Legislature Passes Historic Campaign Finance Bill” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN
Elections
National: “RNC Installs Trump’s Chosen Leaders in Merger with His Campaign” by Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
California: “S.F. Corruption Scandal: Mohammed Nuru’s partner in bribery scheme sentenced to prison” by St. John Barned-Smith (San Francisco Chronicle) for MSN
Florida: “Moms for Liberty Executive’s Job Gets in the Way of Confirmation to Florida Ethics Post” by Ana Ceballos (Miami Herald) for MSN
Florida: “New Limits on Florida Ethics Complaints May Shield Corruption, Critics Warn” by John Kennedy (USA Today) for Tallahassee Democrat
New York: “Appeals Court Brings Back Brian Benjamin Bribery Charges” by Greg Smith for The City
Lobbying
Pennsylvania: “Pa. Game Commission Won’t Renew Controversial Contract with Lobbying Firm Run by Former Top Lawmaker” by Angela Couloumbis for Spotlight PA
Texas: “Texas Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Ethics Lawsuits Brought by Conservative Activist Michael Quinn Sullivan” by Robert Downen (Texas Tribune) for MSN
March 8, 2024 •
Washington Legislature Adjourns Sine Die
![Washington Legislature Adjourns Sine Die](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Washington-Capitol-1000x563.jpg)
Washington State Capitol Building - Cacophony
The Legislature quietly adjourned sine die on March 7 after passing a procurement and campaign finance bill. House Bill 1471 modifies the state procurement procedures and revises definitions concerning competitive, sole source, convenience, and emergency goods and services contracts. Senate […]
The Legislature quietly adjourned sine die on March 7 after passing a procurement and campaign finance bill.
House Bill 1471 modifies the state procurement procedures and revises definitions concerning competitive, sole source, convenience, and emergency goods and services contracts.
Senate Bill 5857 reorganizes the campaign disclosure and contributions statutes through technical amendments involving campaign disclosure and contributions at the state and local levels.
These bills will now be sent to the governor for his signature.
March 8, 2024 •
News You Can Use Digest – March 8, 2024
![News You Can Use Digest – March 8, 2024](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/NYCU-Logo-e1662491950752-1000x563.png)
National/Federal Nikki Haley Suspends Her Campaign and Leaves Donald Trump as the Last Major Republican Candidate Associated Press News – Steve Peoples and Meg Kinnard | Published: 3/6/2024 Nikki Haley suspended her presidential campaign after being soundly defeated across the country on […]
National/Federal
Nikki Haley Suspends Her Campaign and Leaves Donald Trump as the Last Major Republican Candidate
Associated Press News – Steve Peoples and Meg Kinnard | Published: 3/6/2024
Nikki Haley suspended her presidential campaign after being soundly defeated across the country on Super Tuesday, leaving Donald Trump as the last remaining major candidate for the 2024 Republican nomination. Haley challenged Trump to win the support of the moderate Republicans and independent voters who supported her. Haley has made clear she does not want to serve as Trump’s vice president or run on a third-party ticket arranged by the group No Labels.
New Jersey Businessman Pleads Guilty and Agrees to Cooperate in Sen. Bob Menendez’s Corruption Case
MSN – Larry Neumeister (Associated Press) | Published: 3/1/2024
A New Jersey businessperson pleaded guilty to trying to bribe U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, agreeing to a deal with prosecutors that calls for him to testify in the corruption case against the senator and his wife. Jose Uribe was among three businesspeople charged in the corruption case against Menendez and his wife, Nadine Menendez. Authorities say the couple accepted bribes of cash, gold bars, and a luxury car in exchange for the senator’s influence over foreign affairs.
Appeals Court Ruling Means Over 100 Jan. 6 Rioters May Be Resentenced
MSN – Rachel Weiner and Spencer Hsu (Washington Post) | Published: 3/1/2024
A federal appeals court overturned a sentencing enhancement used against January 6 defendants charged with felony obstruction, a decision that means that over 100 convicted rioters may have to be resentenced. The ruling could have an impact in plea negotiations, eliminating one bargaining chip used by prosecutors when encouraging defendants to plead guilty without a trial.
FEC Allows Candidates to More Easily Pay Themselves from Campaign Funds
MSN – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 3/1/2024
A new rule allowing federal candidates to more easily draw salaries from their campaign funds went into effect on March 1. The new rule aims to remedy a commonly cited barrier to working Americans considering running for office, which is often an all-consuming and expensive endeavor. Incumbent federal officeholders cannot receive compensation from campaign funds under the updated rule.
Supreme Court Keeps Trump on Ballot, Rejects Colorado Voter Challenge
MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 3/4/2024
The Supreme Court restored Donald Trump to the Colorado primary ballot, ruling the state lacked authority to disqualify him after his actions during the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The justices warned of chaos if a candidate for nationwide office could be declared ineligible in some states, but not others, based on the same conduct. While the decision was unanimous, the court’s three liberal justices also wrote separately, saying the conservative majority went too far and decided an issue that was not before the court to “insulate all alleged insurrectionists from future challenges to their holding office.”
Trump Pulls Closer to GOP Nomination with Super Tuesday Wins
MSN – Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) | Published: 3/5/2024
Donald Trump won resounding primary victories in more than a dozen states, pulling closer to securing the Republican presidential nomination and catapulting more fully into a rematch with President Biden. More than a third of the delegates who eventually will vote on the GOP’s candidate were up for grabs on Super Tuesday, putting Trump on track to win a majority of delegates by March 19 at the latest, according to his team’s projections. Biden was quickly projected to notch decisive victories in almost every contest.
Sen. Menendez Faces New Charges in Bribery Case
MSN – Praveena Somasundaram and Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) | Published: 3/5/2024
Federal prosecutors charged U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez and his wife with extortion and obstruction of justice. Menendez; his wife, Nadine Menendez; and two associates, Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, were charged in an 18-count indictment that built upon the bribery charges they face in a case accusing them of conspiring to have the senator act as an illegal foreign agent on behalf of the Egyptian government.
The Fed Hates Politics. Now It’s Trying to Cut Rates in an Election Year.
MSN – Rachel Siegel (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2024
The Federal Reserve is eyeing multiple interest rate hikes starting sometime this year. As the months pass, the chances grow that those cuts end up juicing the economy in the run-up to Election Day, just as Republicans and Democrats fight to leverage the economy in their appeals to voters. Decisions about interest rates, Fed officials say, are based solely on how the economy evolves, and whether inflation keeps trending down.
Supreme Court Sets Trump Immunity Claim in D.C. Trial for April 25
MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2024
The U.S. Supreme Court scheduled argument for April 25 to review Donald Trump’s claim that he is immune from criminal prosecution on charges of trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election. The case will determine whether and how quickly Trump faces trial in the District of Columbia for allegedly trying to block Joe Biden’s election victory. The court’s decision to consider Trump’s claims, rather than letting stand a lower court decision that he can be prosecuted, drew criticism for further delaying the election obstruction trial.
Foreign Agent Law Faces Sweeping Changes
Yahoo News – Taylor Giorno (The Hill) | Published: 3/5/2024
The Department of Justice is expected to propose sweeping updates to the Foreign Agents Registration Act. It has been decades since there have been major legislative or regulatory updates to the law, which imposed registration and reporting requirements for individuals and entities seeking to sway U.S. policy or the public on matters of foreign interests. The law has not kept up with societal changes in recent years, including the rise of social media, even as the Justice Department has been more aggressive in its enforcement, practitioners say.
From the States and Municipalities
Arizona – Judge Dismisses Challenge to New Arizona Campaign Finance Law Exposing Dark Money Donors
MSN – Sasha Hupka (Arizona Republic) | Published: 3/1/2024
A Maricopa County judge rejected a lawsuit challenging a new law requiring so-called dark money groups to expose their political donors. Judge Scott McCoy ruled the Center for Arizona Policy and the Arizona Free Enterprise Club are not immune from Proposition 211, which was passed in 2022. The measure garnered wide support with its argument that the public has a right to know who is funding anonymous political messages from vaguely named committees.
Arizona – Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona Says She Won’t Seek Reelection, Avoiding 3-Way Race
MSN – Jonathan Cooper (Associated Press) | Published: 3/5/2024
Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona announced she will not run for a second term after her estrangement from the Democratic Party left her politically homeless and without a clear path to reelection. Sinema’s decision avoids a three-way contest in one of the most closely watched 2024 Senate races, a hard-to-forecast scenario that spawned debate among political operatives about whether one major party would benefit in the quest for the Senate majority. Most analysts agreed Sinema had faced significant, likely insurmountable hurdles if she had decided to run.
Arizona – Arizona’s Trump Electors Subpoenaed in Grand Jury Investigation
MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2024
A grand jury issued subpoenas to Republicans who took part in the attempt to overturn the 2020 presidential election by signing and transmitting paperwork that falsely purported to show Donald Trump had won Arizona’s 11 electoral votes. The subpoenas request each of the Republicans testify before the grand jury about their involvement in the elector plan. They are part of an investigation by Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, who has indicated her office would soon conclude the criminal probe.
California – Billionaire Flynn Says He Met Newsom Staff in Lobbying Effort Against Wage Bill
MSN – Eliyahu Kamisher, Daniela Sirtori-Cortina, and Josh Eidelson (Bloomberg) | Published: 3/1/2024
Billionaire Greg Flynn, who owns two dozen Panera Bread franchises in California, said he suggested excluding fast-casual restaurants from a bill raising minimum wages for fast-food workers in the state, but was surprised when chains that make and sell bread were specifically exempted from the final legislation. Flynn, a long-time Newsom campaign donor and one of the world’s largest restaurant-franchise operators, said he never met with the governor over the bill, though he “did meet with his staff in a group meeting with other restaurant owners.”
California – Ethics Overhaul Looks to Be Heading to Easy Victory
San Francisco Examiner – Troy Wolverton | Published: 3/5/2024
Voters approved Proposition D, a measure to overhaul San Francisco’s ethics laws, which was prompted by the corruption scandal involving former Department of Public Works Director Mohammed Nuru. It broadens the definition of people who are prohibited from giving gifts to city officials. The measure also greatly increases the number of city officials who would be required to undergo annual ethics training, among other provisions.
California – San Francisco Commissioner Resigns After City Says She OK’d Nonprofit’s Fake Invoices
San Francisco Standard – Jonah Owen Lamb | Published: 2/29/2024
The chairperson of the commission that oversaw a new community center in San Francisco resigned after facing allegations she approved false invoices for a nonprofit that bilked the city for at least $100,000. Susan Murphy resigned after the city attorney’s office announced the findings of an investigation that alleged Murphy approved the invoices for a nonprofit called J&J Community Resource Center, which provides services for low-income families and youth. Murphy used to be the nonprofit’s secretary, according to tax filings.
Connecticut – CT Election Regulators Want More Oversight of Local Town and City Political Campaign Finances
CT Insider – Ken Dixon | Published: 3/5/2024
Local political candidates including mayors, selectmen, and school boards would be required to file their campaign finance statements electronically with the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) under legislation supported by Connecticut’s top election regulator. Michael Brandi, executive director and general counsel of the SEEC, said the current system, in which candidates for local office file their reports in local city and town halls, is hard to monitor by the SEEC, the public, and the news media.
Florida Bulldog – Dan Christensen | Published: 3/5/2024
Tina Descovich, co-founder of the controversial political group Moms for Liberty, awaits a confirmation vote before the state Senate for a seat on the Florida Commission on Ethics, even as a newly filed complaint could well lead to her ouster. Descovich is not registered to lobby in Tallahassee, or apparently anywhere else. But she has been an outspoken advocate pushing a variety of conservative public policy positions with Gov. Ron DeSantis and legislators. “Members [of the commission] are prohibited from lobbying state and local governments,” according to the commission’s rules.
Florida – Deegan’s Chief of Staff Says Questions About Consultant Are ‘Political Shenanigans’
MSN – David Bauerlein (Florida Times-Union) | Published: 3/7/2024
Jacksonville City Council members questioned how a consultant working on a city grant-writing contract got a badge for entry to City Hall and a cubicle in the mayor staff’s office without going through a background check since he had a misdemeanor conviction in 1989. At issue is how the city handles background checks for contract employees and what the policy is for providing entry badges to them so they are able to enter City Hall and designated offices within the building.
Florida – Appeals Court Blocks Fla. ‘Stop Woke Act,’ Says It’s a ‘First Amendment Sin’
MSN – Anumita Kaur (Washington Post) | Published: 3/4/2024
A federal appeals court upheld a ruling that blocked Florida from enforcing a law, backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that restricts how private companies teach diversity and inclusion in the workplace. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit ruled the Stop Woke Act “exceeds the bounds” of the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment right to freedom of speech and expression in its attempts to regulate workplace trainings on race, color, sex, and national origin.
Illinois – Ex-Illinois State Sen. Terry Link Gets Probation for Campaign-Cash Tax Conviction
MSN – Jason Meisner and Ray Long (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/6/2024
Former Illinois Sen. Terry Link, who wore a secret FBI wire in a sting against a colleague in the Legislature, was sentenced to three years of probation on tax evasion charges stemming from the withdrawal of campaign funds for personal use. Link pleaded guilty to failing to report income on his tax returns to the IRS and spending more than $73,000 in campaign funds on personal expenses.
Kansas – Wichita City Council Lifts Ban on Corporate Political Donations, with One Requirement
MSN – Matthew Kelly (Wichita Eagle) | Published: 3/4/2024
The Wichita City Council voted to lift a short-lived ban on corporate campaign contributions to city candidates. The rollback of the campaign finance reform was approved as council members supported an amendment requiring candidates to report the name of the principal owner of the company that gave to their campaign. Another amendment that would have banned the practice of giving multiple donations through different companies failed.
Kentucky – Appeals Court Sides with GOP Constitutional Officers on Ethics Commission Power
Kentucky Lantern – McKenna Horsley | Published: 3/1/2024
A ruling from a three-judge panel of the Kentucky Court of Appeals upheld a law allowing the state’s constitutional officers to each appoint a member of the Executive Branch Ethics Commission. Gov. Andy Beshear, whose office has said it will ask the state Supreme Court to hear the case, filed a lawsuit block the law that reduced his authority over appointments to the commission. The governor had been responsible for appointing the five commission members.
Maine – Judge Suspends Enforcement of New Maine Law Barring Foreign Spending on Referendum Elections
Maine Public – Steve Mistler | Published: 3/1/2024
A federal judge delayed the implementation of a voter-approved law in Maine that aimed to close an election law loophole by stopping foreign government spending on state referendum races. U.S. District Court Judge Nancy Torresen issued a preliminary injunction on the day before the new law was to go into effect. Torresen suggested she viewed significant portions of the law could include domestically held corporations and, as a result, is unconstitutional.
Maine – Measure to Limit PAC Contributions in Maine Could Be Headed for November Ballot
Portland Press Herald – Eric Russell | Published: 2/22/2024
An effort to limit individual and business contributions to PACs in Maine is likely headed for the November ballot. Although the proposal only applies to Maine-based PACs, the measure is seen as a test case for national supporters of campaign finance reform whose broader goal is to regulate PACs that have operated unchecked, and often in secret, for years. The citizen initiative as written would limit annual contributions to PACs from individuals, business, and other PACs to $5,000 in a calendar year. Right now, there are no limits.
Mississippi – Campaign Finance Reform Bill Gets Cold Response; Lawmakers Axe Transparency Component
Mississippi Today – Geoff Pender | Published: 3/6/2024
Campaign finance reform legislation in Mississippi would add transparency, increase penalties and fines, and allow the secretary of state to sidestep the attorney general office’s office if it refuses to go after alleged violations of the law. But lawmakers on the Senate Elections Committee were skeptical of the bill. They removed its main transparency component, and added a “reverse repealer,” ensuring it cannot be passed into law as is. Only then did they send it along to the full Senate.
Nevada – New Ethics Standards Coming to Clark County Government
MSN – Taylor Avery (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 3/5/2024
Clark County commissioners and some county employees have some new ethics rules to follow. Commissioners unanimously approved a handful of changes to the ethics law, including revisions to how conflicts-of-interest are disclosed, clarifications to language about waiting periods, and changes to required training on ethics standards.
Nevada – As CSN Taps Ex-Rep. Ruben Kihuen for Lobbyist Job, Some Lawmakers Question the Move
Nevada Independent – Jacob Solis | Published: 3/1/2024
Soon after the College of Southern Nevada announced it would hire former U.S. Rep. Ruben Kihuen, who left Congress amid an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations, as its top lobbyist, some lawmakers signaled concerns about working with him. As the college’s new executive director of government affairs, Kihuen’s job would require frequent, sometime one-on-one meetings with lawmakers and lobbyists. “To put us in a position where we’re making women uncomfortable in the building, I think, is unacceptable,” said a female lawmaker.
New Jersey – N.J. Was Once Heralded for Its Tough Pay-to-Play Laws. Not Anymore.
MSN – Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 3/4/2024
The Elections Transparency Act reworked New Jersey’s campaign finance system. While the reforms injected more money into politics, raising overall contribution limits for the first time in two decades, it also required “dark money” groups to disclose their major donors. Supporters of the new law insist the old rules were confusing, difficult to enforce, and rife with workarounds that made them ineffective. But critics maintain the changes only made things worse, all but dismantling “pay-to-play” rules once heralded as the strongest in the nation.
New York – Former Trump CFO Allen Weisselberg Pleads Guilty to Perjury in Deal That Doesn’t Require Cooperation
MSN – Jake Offenhartz and Michael Sisak (Associated Press) | Published: 3/4/2024
Allen Weisselberg, the former chief financial officer of Donald Trump’s company, pleaded guilty to lying under oath during his testimony in the ex-president’s New York civil fraud case. His plea deal will send him back to jail but does not require that he testify at Trump’s hush-money criminal trial. In pleading guilty, Weisselberg found himself caught again between the law and his loyalty to Trump.
New York – Meet the New York City Hall Community Liaison Whose House Was Raided by the FBI
MSN – Joe Anuta and Jeff Coltin (Politico) | Published: 3/4/2024
The FBI searched the two homes of Winnie Greco, a longtime aide to Ner York City Mayor Eric Adams, making her the second community liaison in the administration caught up in a federal probe. Greco is the administration’s director of Asian Affairs. Neither she nor anyone in the Adams administration has been accused of a crime, though the New York Post reported federal officials suspect Greco of potentially orchestrating straw donors who gave to the mayor’s campaign.
Ohio – Ohio AG to PUCO: HB6 subpoenas could let Randazzo, FirstEnergy execs escape prosecution
MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/1/2024
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) significantly narrowed its investigations into the alleged bribery schemes of FirstEnergy, blocking subpoenas of its former chairperson and the two corporate executives accused of bribing him. The order from Attorney Examiner Megan Addison, came within 24 hours of a request from a top lawyer with the attorney general’s office to stop the subpoenas. She warned failure to do so could imperil the state’s criminal bribery cases against former FirstEnergy Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones, company lobbyist Mike Dowling, and PUCO Chairperson Sam Randazzo.
Ohio – Alicia Reece’s Convention Center Votes Raise Conflict of Interest Question
MSN – Sharon Coolidge and Scott Wartman (Cincinnati Enquirer) | Published: 3/6/2024
Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece has twice cast the lone “no” vote in matters related to the Duke Energy Convention Center’s renovation. In February, she abstained on a vote to spend $10 million in county money on the expansion. Her father, Steve Reece Sr., has been paid nearly $200,000 by the firm that runs the center, Oak View Group, to book events there. Any decisions the commissioners make about the convention center, including votes related to renovation, could impact her father’s contract.
Ohio – J.R. Majewski, Embattled Congressional Candidate, Exits Ohio House Race
Yahoo News – Ally Mutnick (Politico) | Published: 3/2/2024
J.R. Majewski announced he will bow out of the GOP primary for a key Ohio congressional seat after a week of waffling on his future in the race. His departure before the March 19 primary is welcome news for the House Republicans leaders who have maneuvered behind the scenes to nudge him out of the primary out of fear that he would lose the general election to U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, a Democrat.
Oregon – Ninth Circuit Rejects GOP Senators’ Appeal for Reelection After Walkouts
Courthouse News Service – Alanna Mayham | Published: 2/29/2024
Two Republican state senators who boycotted Oregon’s Legislature in 2023 lost an appeal after a three-judge panel ruled legislative walkouts are not a form of free speech. The lawsuit followed an order from Oregon Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade that upheld a voter-backed measure barring lawmakers from reelection if they accrued over 10 unapproved absences during a legislative session.
Oregon – Oregon House Passes Compromise Campaign Finance Reform Bill
Yahoo News – Dianne Lugo (Salem Statesman-Journal) | Published: 3/6/2034
The Oregon House passed a campaign finance bill that would establish new contributions limits. Oregon is one of five states without caps on campaign donations and one of 11 without limits on individual candidate contributions. Lawmakers adopted final amendments on House Bill 4024 after discussions during the session between labor unions, business groups and good-government advocates. If the bill is signed into law, backers of ballot initiative efforts said they would withdraw petitions that would bring reform to November’s ballot.
South Dakota – State House Bans Senator for Breach of Decorum
South Dakota Searchlight – Joshua Haiar and Makenzie Huber | Published: 3/4/2024
A state senator has been banned from the South Dakota House floor and lobby for the last week of the 2024 legislative session after placing a bottle of syrup on another lawmaker’s desk. Sen. Tom Pischke placed the bottle of syrup on Rep. Kristin Conzet’s desk days after Conzet motioned to defeat a commemoration celebrating the late Nancy Green, whose likeness was used to create the Aunt Jemima advertising character.
Tennessee – Another Tennessee Legal Battle Brews Over Bill Preventing Challenge of House Rules in State Court
Tennessee Lookout – Sam Stockard | Published: 2/29/2024
A Tennessee House committee passed legislation removing state courts from challenges of House rules despite the threat of another court battle. House Bill 1652 says circuit, chancery, and other lower state courts would no longer have jurisdiction over cases involving House and Senate rules. Rep. Gino Bulso contends the First Amendment does not apply to House rules and argues the Constitution allows the Legislature to hold floor sessions in secret without judicial review.
Virginia – Virginia Senator Who Does Legal Work for Skill Game Industry Will Help Write Skill Game Bill
Virginia Mercury – Graham Moomaw | Published: 2/29/2024
A state senator whose law firm has helped the skill game industry fight Virginia’s ban on the slots-like gambling machines is among the handful of senators picked to write legislation behind closed doors that could determine whether the industry remains profitable or ceases to exist in the state. Many members of the Virginia General Assembly are lawyers, and it is not uncommon for them to vote on legislation that could conceivably impact a client. Tangential associations are not usually enough to trigger the conflict-of-interest law.
Wisconsin – Pro-Trump Lawyers Central to Alternate-Elector Plot Settle Wisconsin Lawsuit
MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 3/4/2024
Two attorneys who advanced a strategy to try to overturn the 2020 presidential election by organizing rosters of Republicans to falsely portray Donald Trump as the winner of several states, have reached a legal settlement in Wisconsin with the state’s two rightful electors and a Democratic voter, ending a lawsuit. As part of the settlement, James Troupis, a former Dane County judge who oversaw Trump’s legal efforts in Wisconsin, and Kenneth Chesbro, an architect of the plan to try to invalidate Joe Biden’s win by convening Republican electors in seven states, released a trove of their communications about their work after the 2020 election.
March 6, 2024 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance Kansas: “Wichita City Council Lifts Ban on Corporate Political Donations, with One Requirement” by Matthew Kelly (Wichita Eagle) for MSN Maine: “Measure to Limit PAC Contributions in Maine Could Be Headed for November Ballot” by Eric Russell for Portland Press Herald Elections […]
Campaign Finance
Kansas: “Wichita City Council Lifts Ban on Corporate Political Donations, with One Requirement” by Matthew Kelly (Wichita Eagle) for MSN
Maine: “Measure to Limit PAC Contributions in Maine Could Be Headed for November Ballot” by Eric Russell for Portland Press Herald
Elections
Arizona: “Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona Says She Won’t Seek Reelection, Avoiding 3-Way Race” by Jonathan Cooper (Associated Press) for MSN
National: “Trump Pulls Closer to GOP Nomination with Super Tuesday Wins” by Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) for MSN
Wisconsin: “Pro-Trump Lawyers Central to Alternate-Elector Plot Settle Wisconsin Lawsuit” by Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
Ohio: “Ohio AG to PUCO: HB6 subpoenas could let Randazzo, FirstEnergy execs escape prosecution” by Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN
Lobbying
National: “Foreign Agent Law Faces Sweeping Changes” by Taylor Giorno (The Hill) for Yahoo News
Florida: “Moms for Liberty’s Descovich Hit with Ethics Complaint as She Awaits Confirmation to Ethics Commission” by Dan Christensen for Florida Bulldog
March 5, 2024 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance National: “FEC Allows Candidates to More Easily Pay Themselves from Campaign Funds” by Taylor Giorno (The Hill) for MSN New Jersey: “N.J. Was Once Heralded for Its Tough Pay-to-Play Laws. Not Anymore.” by Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) for […]
Campaign Finance
National: “FEC Allows Candidates to More Easily Pay Themselves from Campaign Funds” by Taylor Giorno (The Hill) for MSN
New Jersey: “N.J. Was Once Heralded for Its Tough Pay-to-Play Laws. Not Anymore.” by Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) for MSN
Elections
National: “Supreme Court Keeps Trump on Ballot, Rejects Colorado Voter Challenge” by Ann Marimow (Washington Post) for MSN
Ohio: “J.R. Majewski, Embattled Congressional Candidate, Exits Ohio House Race” by Ally Mutnick (Politico) for Yahoo News
Ethics
California: “Billionaire Flynn Says He Met Newsom Staff in Lobbying Effort Against Wage Bill” by Eliyahu Kamisher, Daniela Sirtori-Cortina, and Josh Eidelson (Bloomberg) for MSN
New York: “Meet the New York City Hall Community Liaison Whose House Was Raided by the FBI” by Joe Anuta and Jeff Coltin (Politico) for MSN
Legislative Issues
Kentucky: “Appeals Court Sides with GOP Constitutional Officers on Ethics Commission Power” by McKenna Horsley for Kentucky Lantern
Lobbying
Nevada: “As CSN Taps Ex-Rep. Ruben Kihuen for Lobbyist Job, Some Lawmakers Question the Move” by Jacob Solis for Nevada Independent
March 1, 2024 •
News You Can Use Digest – March 1, 2024
![News You Can Use Digest – March 1, 2024](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/NYCU-Logo-e1662491950752-1000x563.png)
National/Federal Lawmakers Across the U.S. Seek to Curb Utility Spending on Politics, Ads and More Extras Arkansas Advocate – Robert Zullo | Published: 2/27/2024 After a string of scandals and amid rising bills, lawmakers in statehouses across the country have been pushing […]
National/Federal
Lawmakers Across the U.S. Seek to Curb Utility Spending on Politics, Ads and More Extras
Arkansas Advocate – Robert Zullo | Published: 2/27/2024
After a string of scandals and amid rising bills, lawmakers in statehouses across the country have been pushing legislation to curb utilities spending ratepayer money on lobbying, expert testimony in rate cases, goodwill advertising, charitable giving, trade association memberships, and other costs. At least a dozen states have considered bills to limit how gas, water, and electric utilities can spend customers’ money.
N.R.A. Stung by Corruption Verdict Tied to Millions of Misspent Dollars
DNyuz – Jesse McKinley, Liset Cruz, and Kate Christobek (New York Times) | Published: 2/23/2024
In a sweeping rebuke of the National Rifle Association (NRA), a jury ruled its leaders had engaged in a yearslong pattern of financial misconduct and corruption. The jury found the group’s former leader, Wayne LaPierre, had used NRA funds pay for personal expenses, including vacations, luxury flights for his relatives, and yacht rides, and that two other top executives had failed in their duties to the nonprofit organization.
Instagram’s Uneasy Rise as a News Site
DNyuz – Sapna Maheshwari and Mike Isaac (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2024
A crop of personalities figured out how to package information and deliver it on Instagram, increasingly turning the social platform into a force in news. Many millennials and Gen X-ers, in an echo of how older generations used Facebook, have grown more comfortable reading news on Instagram and reposting posts and videos for friends on Instagram Stories, which disappear after 24 hours. Traditional news organizations have large Instagram feeds where they share reporting, but these news accounts hold a different appeal and have become more visible in recent years.
RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel Will Leave Post on March 8 as Trump Moves to Install New Loyalists
MSN – Steve Peoples (Associated Press) | Published: 2/26/2024
Republican National Committee Chairperson Ronna McDaniel will leave her post on March 8, having been forced out of the GOP’s national leadership as Donald Trump moves toward another presidential nomination and asserts control over the party. McDaniel was a strong advocate for the former president and helped reshape the party in his image. But the MAGA movement increasingly blamed McDaniel for Trump’s 2020 loss and the party’s failures to meet expectations in races the last two years.
As Trump Continues to Trounce Haley, She Presses on as MAGA Antagonist
MSN – Hannah Knowles (Washington Post) | Published: 2/25/2024
Nikki Haley suffered another blow in the lopsided race for the Republican presidential nomination, losing to Donald Trump by about 20 points in her home state of South Carolina. Yet she promised to press on. As the last Republican candidate standing against Trump, she has drawn polarized reactions as she has become a vehicle for the deep discontent that some in the party feel about a Trump rematch with President Biden.
Court Battle Reveals Effort to Undermine No Labels Presidential Bid
MSN – Michael Scherer (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024
Political operatives opposed to No Labels’ potential 2024 presidential ticket took over the NoLabels.com domain last year and purchased Google search ads aimed at spreading the misleading claim that the group supported Donald Trump and other right-wing causes, according to testimony. The court case comes amid ongoing debate over the goals of the No Labels effort, which aims to potentially place a yet-to-be-identified bipartisan presidential ticket on as many ballots as possible.
Supreme Court to Weigh Trump’s Immunity Claim in D.C. 2020 Election Trial
MSN – Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2024
Donald Trump’s trial for seeking to subvert the 2020 election is likely to remain on hold for several more months while the U.S. Supreme Court takes up his argument that he is immune from prosecution for actions he took while president. The justices set arguments for the week of April 22 to consider a lower court ruling that rejected Trump’s sweeping assertion of immunity from prosecution. The move puts the Supreme Court in the politically fraught position of influencing the timing of an election obstruction trial for the leading Republican presidential candidate.
Justices Skeptical of Tex., Fla. Laws That Bar Platforms from Deleting Content
MSN – Ann Marimow and Cat Zakrzewski (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024
A majority of the U.S. Supreme Court seemed broadly skeptical that state governments have the power to set rules for how social media platforms curate content, with both liberal and conservative justices inclined to stop Texas and Florida from immediately implementing laws that ban the removal of certain controversial posts or political content. A majority of the court seemed to think the First Amendment prevents state governments from requiring platforms such as Facebook and YouTube to host certain content.
McConnell Will Step Down as the Senate Republican Leader in November After a Record Run in the Job
Yahoo News – Michael Tackett (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2024
Mitch McConnell, the longest serving Senate leader in history who maintained his power in the face of dramatic turmoil in the Republican Party or almost two decades, will step down from that position in November. McConnell said he plans to serve out his Senate term, which ends in January 2027. His decision punctuates an ideological transition underway in the Republican Party, from Ronald Reagan’s brand of traditional conservatism and strong international alliances, to the fiery, often isolationist populism of Donald Trump.
From the States and Municipalities
Alabama – Ethics Commission Pushes Back on Proposed Law Changes
Alabama Daily News – Mary Sell | Published: 2/29/2024
Alabama Rep. Matt Simpson said he is not giving up on efforts to add clarity to the state’s ethics law. During a public hearing, those speaking against Simpson’s reform bill included Alabama Ethics Commission Executive Director Tom Albritton, and commission member and former state Supreme Court Justice Lyn Stuart. “There are specific provisions which can be addressed and should be addressed, but an entire rewrite of the act would be overkill and would be bad for the people of Alabama.,” said Albritton.
California – California Lawmakers Can’t Take Lobbyist Donations – Unless They’re Running for Congress
MSN – Julia Wick, Anabel Sosa, and Gabrielle LaMarr LeMee (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 2/24/2024
State law forbids California lobbyists from donating to the campaigns of state lawmakers. But there are no such restrictions on lobbyists donating to campaigns for federal office, even when the candidate is a state lawmaker. So as state Sen. Susan Rubio runs for Congress this year, she can take donations for her federal campaign from lobbyists who may seek to influence her votes in Sacramento. Lobbyists are not required to publicly report which lawmakers they have attempted to influence on various bills, making it difficult to draw direct lines between their lobbying efforts and their donations.
California – Orange County’s Wild West of Campaign Finance: The Board of Education
Voice of OC – Noah Biesiada | Published: 2/28/2024
Almost every campaign for city, county and state government in Orange County has a limit on how much donors can give to their favorite candidates. But one big outlier is the county Board of Education, which has no limitations on political contributions. A review of the most recent election cycle found over $700,000 in contributions to the current board that would violate state campaign finance limits for cities and counties without their own campaign financing caps. But they are legal for school districts and boards of education.
Florida – The End of Public Campaign Finance? Senate Approves Referendum to Repeal Standing Law
Florida Politics – A.G. Gancarski | Published: 2/28/2024
Florida voters may soon decide whether to end a program providing matching state funds for candidates that agree to spending limits. The Senate approved a measure approving a ballot referendum asking voters to weigh in on repealing the Florida Election Campaign Financing Act. Accessing that money is one way that candidates who are not wealthy can get a leg up to make their cases to the voters.
Florida – DeSantis Staffers Blocked Public Records, Ex-Law Enforcement Officials Say
MSN – Beth Reinhard (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2024
Top aides to Gov. Ron DeSantis blocked the release of records detailing his taxpayer-funded travel and retaliated against those who favored making them public, according to sworn statements from two former Florida Department of Law Enforcement officials. The statements were filed as part of a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a new state law limiting release of the governor’s travel records. The officials describe DeSantis’s staff demanding a close review of many requests from media organizations, often hampering the release of public information.
Georgia – ‘Star Witness’ Testifies His Claims About Fani Willis Were Only ‘Speculation’
MSN – Holly Bailey and Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2024
A lawyer billed as the “star witness” in the case to disqualify Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis testified it was mere “speculation” when he told a defense attorney that Willis began a romantic relationship in 2019 with the outside lawyer that she appointed to lead the case against Donald Trump, years earlier than Willis has publicly acknowledged. Defense attorneys had claimed his testimony would “refute” claims by Willis and Wade that their romantic relationship began months after Wade was appointed to manage the Trump case.
Hawaii – City Ethics Commission Reviews Gift Prohibitions for Employees
Yahoo News – Ian Bauer (Honolulu Star-Advertiser) | Published: 2/22/2024
A proposal to prohibit city and county of Honolulu employees from accepting gifts related to their official duties is under scrutiny. But Bill 26 is on a tight two-year deadline, with a looming expiration date in April, to either pass or die while it awaits further council review. As drafted, it would prohibit gifts to the mayor, prosecuting attorney, council members, city administration officers, or any person employed by the city, to curb potential conflicts-of-interest or even prevent public corruption.
Illinois – Unlimited Funds Can Flow in State’s Attorney, Board of Review, Circuit Court Clerk Races
MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/27/2024
Retired Judge Eileen O’Neill Burke has opened the door for unlimited cash to flow into the Cook County state’s attorney primary, making that race the latest county contest without contribution limits. Candidates can also rake in as much cash as they want in the Circuit Court clerk and the county’s Board of Review races. The shattered contribution limits are thanks to the personal wealth of the candidates or in one case, their main benefactor.
Kentucky – ‘It’s the Metro Council That’s on Trial’: Opening arguments made on day one of Piagentini trial
MSN – Eleanor McCrary (Louisville Courier Journal) | Published: 2/27/2024
Louisville Metro Council Court began to weigh the removal of member Anthony Piagentini. He is accused of using his position to land a $40 million grant for the Louisville Healthcare CEO Council, a nonprofit, to receive federal American Rescue Plan money. He removed himself as a sponsor of the ordinance and did not vote on it, citing a conflict-of-interest. The day after the vote, he accepted a one-year consulting position with the organization.
Kentucky – $25 Million Was Spent in 2023 to Influence KY Legislators. Who Wrote the Biggest Lobbying Checks?
Yahoo News – Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 2/23/2024
How do you try to influence Kentucky’s Legislature and win their favor? Spending nearly $25 million to lobby lawmakers is one way, state records reveal. Despite the odd-numbered short session year, the spending topped the record set in 2022, which was about $22.4 million. Several lobbyists were paid well as a result.
Massachusetts – Suffolk DA Kevin Hayden Is Facing Two Ethics Probes from Separate State Entities
MSN – Danny McDonald (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/24/2024
Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden is facing two ethics investigations related to statements he made about his opponent during the 2022 race. The contest to serve a full term as district attorney was Boston city politics at its most bare-knuckled. One of the ethics probes is by the state’s Office of Bar Counsel, which investigates allegations of lawyer misconduct. Hayden is also being investigated by the state ethics commission for similar allegations.
Michigan – Indiana Man Andrew Nickels Indicted in Threats About 2020 Election Results Pleads Guilty
Detroit News – Robert Snell | Published: 2/27/2024
An Indiana man accused of threatening to kill former Rochester Hills Clerk Tina Barton for defending the integrity of the 2020 presidential election pleaded guilty, a development coinciding with Michigan’s 2024 presidential primary election. Andrew Nickels pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum five-year prison sentence.
Michigan – Biden Wins Michigan Primary but Faces Notable Showing by ‘Uncommitted’
MSN – Yasmeen Abutaleb and Marianne LeVine (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2024
President Biden won Michigan’s Democratic primary but faced a challenge from voted selecting “uncommitted” to protest his handling of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, a potential sign of vulnerability for Biden. Donald Trump continued his sweep of early primary contests, but former Nikki Haley appeared poised to garner a significant share of the vote, an indicator of Trump’s own potential vulnerabilities in November’s general election.
Missouri – ‘Dark Cloud’: Ethics investigation of Dean Plocher continues to hang over Missouri House
Missouri Independent – Jason Hancock | Published: 2/27/2024
Dean Plocher’s last year as Missouri House speaker was not supposed to go this way. He was riding high at the end of the 2023 legislative session, able to point to big wins while pinning any disappointments on continued dysfunction in the state Senate. Ploucher had amassed an impressive campaign fund he hoped would help carry him to the lieutenant governor’s office in the upcoming elections. But in the midst of the 2024 session, things could not get much worse.
Nevada – Judge Blocks 2024 Ballot Initiatives Seeking Independent Redistricting
MSN – Jessica Hill (Las Vegas Review-Journal) | Published: 2/20/2024
A judge ruled that two initiative petitions aiming to change how Nevada redraws state and federal legislative districts were legally deficient and cannot be placed on the 2024 November ballot. The judge sided with Clark County resident Eric Jeng, who argued the petitions violated the state constitution because they would require government funding.
New Hampshire – Democratic Operative Admits to Commissioning Biden AI Robocall in New Hampshire
MSN – Pranshu Verma and Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024
Steve Kramer, a longtime Democratic consultant working for presidential candidate Dean Phillips, admitted he commissioned the artificial intelligence-generated robocall of Joe Biden that was sent to New Hampshire voters in January and triggered a state criminal investigation. After the robocall, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a ruling that clarified generating a voice with AI for robocalls is illegal and issued a cease-and-desist letter to Kramer.
MSN – Andrew Seidman and Jeremy Roebuck (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 2/29/2024
South Jersey Democratic power broker George Norcross III has found himself under scrutiny from state and federal authorities repeatedly over the last two decades. They have tapped his phones, had an informant record his conversations, and reviewed scores of documents. But they have never filed criminal charges. Now, prosecutors appear to be trying again, this time with a wide-ranging probe by the state attorney general’s office and the FBI.
New York – Democrats Propose Slight Changes to N.Y. Congressional Districts
Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 2/27/2024
Democratic state lawmakers unveiled a slightly reconfigured map for New York’s 26 congressional districts they are proposing should be used for the remainder of the decade. The map was issued a day after they voted to reject a bipartisan commission’s map. Republican lawmakers, who had warned they would file new litigation if Democrats created new boundaries that would benefit their candidates, remained relatively quiet as the proposed maps would have only marginal impacts on either party.
New York – NYC’s Public Housing Agency Seeking ‘Restitution’ in Corruption Scheme
Gothamist – Dave Brand and Brittany Kriegstein | Published: 2/27/2024
New York City’s public housing agency will belatedly implement more than a dozen recommendations meant to stop low-level corruption within the next year while seeking “restitution” from employees implicated in a long-running kickback scheme, administrators said. Top officials from the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) made the commitments during a city council hearing, three weeks after 70 current and former NYCHA employees were charged with taking cash bribes from vendors in exchange for small repair contracts.
New York – Judge Won’t Delay Trump Financial Penalty but Lets Sons Remain atop Company for Now
MSN – Shayna Jacobs and Mark Berman (Washington Post) | Published: 2/28/2024
A judge rejected a request from Donald Trump to delay enforcement of a judgment totaling at least $4500 million while he appeals that order but allowed the former president’s adult sons to remain in leadership positions at the Trump Organization for the time being. New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron had determined Trump and others had given false data to financial institutions and insurance companies so they could borrow money at lower rates and save on costs.
New York – N.Y. Prosecutor Seeks Trump Gag Order, Jury Protections Ahead of 1st Criminal Trial
MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 2/26/2024
Prosecutors preparing for Donald Trump’s first criminal trial in March are seeking a partial gag order to prevent the former president and those speaking on his behalf from disparaging witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case, and have asked a judge to protect jurors by shielding their names and addresses from public view. The motions show the high stakes and tensions surrounding the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president, one of four prosecutions Trump faces as he closes in on the 2024 Republican nomination for president.
MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/25/2024
There is little sign that Ohio lawmakers will pass legislation addressing the largest corruption case in the state’s history, even following the recent indictments of former top state utilities regulator Sam Randazzo and two former FirstEnergy executives, and a 20-year prison sentence for former House Speaker Larry Householder. Randazzo and Householder were charged with accepting millions of dollars in bribe money to secure FirstEnergy’s policy priorities. Democratic lawmakers, who are behind a majority of the reform bills, say it is a reflection of how dominant of a hold Republicans have on the statehouse.
Oklahoma – How Libs of TikTok Became a Powerful Presence in Oklahoma Schools
MSN – Taylor Lorenz (Washington Post) | Published: 2/24/2024
Far-right activist Chaya Raichik splits her time between California, where she is registered to vote, and Florida, where she often travels. But the place where she arguably is having the biggest impact these days is Oklahoma, a state she has visited only once. Raichik, who operates the social media account Libs of TikTok, has amassed an audience of millions on X, largely by targeting LGBTQ+ people. In January, Raichik was appointed to the Oklahoma Library Media Advisory Committee.
Oregon – Lawmakers Push to Pass Oregon Campaign Finance Limits in Next 2 Weeks, Amid Concerns About Loopholes
MSN – Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/24/2024
Oregon lawmakers from both parties indicated that passing campaign finance limits has become a priority this legislative session. During a hearing in the House Rules Committee, lawmakers, union leaders, and lobbyists for business groups testified in support of House Bill 4024, a compromise to restrict campaign contributions and require additional disclosure of political spending.
MSN – Shane Dixon Kavanaugh (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/28/2024
Oregon lawmakers are considering a change to the state’s public records law as Portland officials and business groups attempt to block the release of information related to the city’s voter-approved climate fund. But journalists have raised alarms that the proposal could have broad unintended consequences that would lessen government accountability.
Pennsylvania – McClelland’s Pa. Treasurer Campaign Raised and Spent Money Months Before It Officially Existed
Pennsylvania Capital-Star – Peter Hall | Published: 2/28/2024
Erin McClelland, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for state treasurer, campaigned and accepted donations months before registering a fundraising committee with the Pennsylvania Department of State, as candidates for state office are required to do. While McClelland’s campaign chairperson said the donations and spending were properly reported to Allegheny County, election law experts say Pennsylvania’s campaign finance reporting rules are clear that statewide candidates must report their campaign donations and spending to the state.
Pennsylvania – Philly’s Ethics Board Is Changing the Rules at the Heart of Its Fight with the ‘Super PAC’ That Backed Jeff Brown’s Bid for Mayor
Philadelphia Inquirer – Sean Collins Walsh | Published: 2/21/2024
The Philadelphia Board of Ethics is moving to amend city campaign finance regulations in the wake of its botched lawsuit against the super PAC that supported Jeff Brown’s unsuccessful campaign in last year’s mayoral election. A notable change would clarify what constitutes illegal coordination between candidates and independent expenditure committees. That issue was at the center of the legal fight between the ethics board, Brown, and the super PAC supporting him.
Pennsylvania – Transparency and Accountability: Pennsylvania lawmakers target dark money in campaigns
WESA – Ben Wasserstein | Published: 2/26/2024
In 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court opened the floodgates for corporations and nonprofits to make unlimited hidden contributions to political causes. While Pennsylvania cannot override this federal decision, one state lawmaker believes it can make those entities more transparent with their spending. Rep. Joe Webster is proposing legislation that would require the disclosure of corporate expenditures on elections and limit donations, among other provisions.
Rhode Island – Providence NAACP President Found Guilty of Violating Campaign Finance Laws
MSN – Steph Machado (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/28/2024
The president of the Providence NAACP was found guilty of violating state campaign finance laws when he ran for city council in 2022. District Court Judge Anthony Capraro sentenced Gerard Catala to 20 hours of community service and a one-year filing, which means the case can be expunged if Catala stays out of trouble for a year. In handing down the sentence, Capraro noted Catala was given ample time and latitude to come into compliance with campaign finance laws, but it appeared “he just didn’t seem to want to.”
Virginia – Virginia’s Finance Reform Bill to Prevent Personal Use of Campaign Funds Defeated Again
MSN – Sarah Rankin (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2024
Virginia lawmakers defeated campaign finance reform legislation that would have prohibited elected officials from spending donations on personal expenses such as mortgages, vacations, or gym memberships. Virginia – which allows unlimited donations from individuals, corporations, and special interest groups – is a national outlier for lacking such a ban, and advocates at the General Assembly have been trying for more than a decade to put personal use restrictions on candidates’ spending.
Wisconsin – Wisconsin Ethics Commission Alleges Illegal Scheme by Trump Fundraising Committee and Rep. Janel Brandtjen
MSN – Molly Beck (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) | Published: 2/23/2024
The Wisconsin Ethics Commission recommended that state prosecutors file felony charges against a fundraising committee for Donald Trump and a state lawmaker related to an effort to unseat Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. The commission alleges Save America PAC and Rep. Janel Brandtjen conspired in a scheme to evade campaign donation limits to support the Republican primary challenger to Vos in 2022, steering at least $40,000 to the bid.
February 27, 2024 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance Oregon: “Lawmakers Push to Pass Oregon Campaign Finance Limits in Next 2 Weeks, Amid Concerns About Loopholes” by Carlos Fuentes (Portland Oregonian) for MSN Elections National: “Court Battle Reveals Effort to Undermine No Labels Presidential Bid” by Michael Scherer (Washington Post) for […]
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