Lobbying

“Lobbyists’ lobbying group wants a new name — one that doesn’t mention lobbying” by Holly Yeager in The Washington Post.

Campaign Finance

“No, overturning campaign contribution limits really would be a problem” opinion piece by Bob Biersack in The Washington Post.

“The next, next Citizens United” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.

“McCutcheon v. FEC: Why it matters” by Jerad Najvar and Dan Backer in The Daily Caller.

Missouri: “Candidates to file campaign finance reports with Missouri Ethics Commission” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

New Mexico: “Candidates face campaign finance report deadline” by The Associated Press in KFDA News.

Ethics

Missouri: “St. Louis Firefighters PAC fined for campaign violations in St. Louis mayoral race” by Nick Pistor in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

New York: “Lawsuit: Silver breached ‘contract’” by James M. Odato in the Times Union.

Open Government

“Mass. lawmakers weighing public records bills” by The Associated Press in the Boston Herald.

Lobbying

“Abramoff Talks Lobbying” by Sam Abrams in The Hoya.

“Lobbyist Who Doesn’t Lobby Still Gets Paid” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine Blog.

Nevada: “State lawmaker hired as lobbyist for medical marijuana bill he helped pass” by Andrew Doughman in the Las Vegas Sun.

Campaign Finance

Michigan: “Andy Dillon’s campaign investigated over handling of $130,000 loan” by Paul Egan in the Detroit Free Press.

Ohio: “Federal trial of North Canton businessman on campaign finance charges scheduled for June 2014” by James F. McCarty in The Plain Dealer.

Ethics

California: “San Diego mayoral PAC fined for ethics violations” by The Associated Press in The Sacramento Bee.

Illinois: “IDOT official out over Sandoval fund-raising flap” by Chris Fusco in the Chicago Sun-Times.

Rhode Island: “Political Scene: Ethics panel clears 6 of ‘revolving door’ conflict” by Philip Marcelo, Katherine Gregg and Randal Edgar in the Providence Journal.

South Carolina: “Gov. Nikki Haley describes ethics fine as ‘business expense’ in campaign report” by Corey Hutchins in the Charleston City Paper.

Federal:

A Federal Budget Crisis Months in the Planning

New York Times – Sheryl Gay Stolberg and Mike McIntire | Published: 10/5/2013

A New York Times article detailed a plan among conservative activists to derail the Affordable Care Act. The outside groups believed the GOP could stop the health care overhaul if conservative lawmakers were willing to push fellow Republicans into cutting off financing for the entire federal government. The report said the billionaire Koch brothers, Charles and David, have been deeply involved with financing the overall effort.

Supreme Court Skeptical of Limits on Federal Campaign Contributions

Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 10/8/2013

The U.S. Supreme Court seemed prepared to strike down a part of federal campaign finance law left intact by its decision in Citizens United in 2010: overall limits on direct contributions from individuals to candidates. The justices seemed to divide along familiar ideological lines, and they expressed different understandings of the role of money and free speech in American politics.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Portion of Campaign Finance Law Overturned

Arizona Republic – Edward Gately | Published: 10/4/2013

U.S. District Court Judge James Teilborg ruled the part of Arizona’s campaign finance law that defines political committees is unconstitutional. But the law will remain in effect pending an injunction or until lawmakers can address the problems. “We will likely file an injunction to basically put everything on hold until the Legislature can convene in January,” said Stephanie Grisham, a spokesperson for the state attorney general’s office.

California – Assemblyman Offers to Suit up Campaign Donors

Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 10/8/2013

California Assemblyperson Henry Perea is raising campaign money by offering donors a custom suit in exchange for a $2,000 contribution. A number of lobbyists said the fundraiser puts participants in an ethical quandary, leaving them with a valuable gift, while some women said it is excluding them by only offering suits for men.

California – California Strategies Walks Line between Lobbying and Public Affairs

Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 10/6/2013

California Strategies is not the only public affairs firm in Sacramento that offers clients a variety of services requiring a careful dance along the line that separates lobbying from less regulated forms of advocacy. But it has been a target of competitors who say the firm’s approach creates an uneven playing field – it has a long list of partners who have deep connections inside government but do not register as lobbyists.

Colorado – Complaint: Free weed
at rally not reported

Grand Junction Daily Sentinel – Charles Ashby | Published: 10/8/2013

No Over Taxation has given out free marijuana at rallies in Denver and Boulder to convince voters to oppose Proposition AA, a ballot measure that would impose taxes on recreational pot when it becomes available for sale in Colorado next year. Colorado Ethics Watch filed a complaint contending the donors that contributed the marijuana should have been identified in No Over Taxation’s campaign finance reports as providing in-kind donations, but were not.

Florida – Hays and Ring: Forget auditing lobbyists; repeal the law

Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 10/7/2013

After media attention to lobbyists’ pay, Florida legislative leaders agreed to kick-start legally required audits of those paid to influence lawmakers and state officials. The Legislature’s joint auditing committee was told the random audits of some two-dozen firms could cost in excess of $1 million, sparking criticism from some on the panel.

Georgia – Ex-Ethics Commission Employee in Georgia Says Docs Altered

Chattanooga Times Free Press; Associated Press –   | Published: 10/9/2013

John Hair, a former Georgia ethics commission computer specialist, said he removed, changed, and condensed documents from the investigative file of complaints accusing Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal of misusing campaign funds in the 2010 election. Hair said he was fulfilling orders from commission Executive Secretary Holly LaBerge and her top aide, Lisa Dentler.

Massachusetts – Cardinal O’Malley Invites Lawmakers to a Get-Together

Boston Globe – Jim O’Sullivan and Lisa Wagsness | Published: 10/9/2013

Cardinal Sean O’Malley, the Roman Catholic archbishop of Boston, will meet with the Massachusetts lawmakers who represent cities and towns within the archdiocese in what one of his aides described as “relationship building.” The church does not command the presence on Beacon Hill that it did years ago, when it played a much more prominent role in society. Some lawmakers remain angry at what they viewed as overly aggressive lobbying techniques that church lobbyists and some priests used in opposing same-sex marriage

Michigan – Ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick Sentenced to 28 Years in Prison for Corruption

Washington Post; Associated Press –   | Published: 10/10/2013

Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick was sentenced to 28 years in prison on his conviction for public corruption charges including bribery and extortion that prosecutors said exacerbated the city’s financial crisis. Kilpatrick spent lavishly at the helm of a conspiracy that damaged Detroit’s reputation and cost taxpayers millions of dollars, U.S. District Court Judge Nancy Edmunds said, adding that the sentence was intended to send a message that corruption would not be tolerated.

New York – Cuomo’s Office Is Said to Rein in Ethics Board He Created

New York Times – Jesse McKinley and Thomas Kaplan | Published: 10/8/2013

According to people familiar with the work of the Commission to Investigate Public Corruption, its effort is burdened by resistance from the New York Legislature, which has refused requests for information about lawmakers’ outside income, and by unexpected involvement by the governor’s office, which has leaned on the commission to limit the scope of its probes.

North Carolina – Plain-Clothes Officer Attended Moral Monday Planning Meetings

WRAL – Michael Biesecker (Associated Press) | Published: 10/8/2013

About 940 people were arrested at weekly “Moral Monday” rallies opposing Republican-backed policies at the North Carolina Legislature that protesters said damaged public education, voting rights, and working people. The Raleigh Police Department conducted undercover surveillance at meetings of the North Carolina chapter of the NACCP held to organize the mass protests.

South Carolina – State House for Sale: SC ethics law a muddled mess

The State – Adam Beam | Published: 10/5/2013

While South Carolina has strict rules on who can donate to political campaigns, and how much they can give, state law has little to say about how legislators can spend that money. And what it does say is in dispute. Critics say South Carolina needs to follow the lead of 26 other states and have one independent ethics commission set the rules for all candidates. But most lawmakers say that would violate the state constitution.

Texas – Red River Rivalry Fundraising a Growing Trend

Texas Tribune – David Maly | Published: 10/9/2013

The annual football game between the University of Texas and Oklahoma University is increasingly becoming a fundraising hotspot for lawmakers in both parties. Deborah Ingersoll, a lobbyist who has worked in Texas politics for more than 20 years, organizes an annual guide of legislative fundraising surrounding the game and said this is the biggest year she has seen.

Virginia – Reforming Va. Laws a Priority for Politicians

Richmond Times Dispatch – Olympia Meola and Jim Nolan | Published: 10/6/2013

Recognizing the public reaction to the scandal involving Gov. Robert McDonnell, both major party candidates to succeed him have proposed reforms to Virginia’s gift and disclosure laws. Majority Leader M. Kirkland Cox is leading a working group of House Republicans studying various reforms ahead of the legislative session. Cox said the changes could include more frequent reporting than the current annual filing, and synchronizing the reporting dates for elected officials and lobbyists.

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

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

“K Street embraces ‘go small’ approach” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“Lobbying on the Slow Track During Shutdown” by Elliott Jager in Newsmax.

“Business groups see loss of sway over House GOP” on CNBC.

“Yelp hires Issa aide as first lobbyist” by Brendan Sasso in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

“Obama says lifting caps on campaign contributions would shut regular Americans out of politics” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

“An upside-down campaign finance system” by Jennifer Rubin in The Washington Post.

“Sandra Day O’Connor bemoans Citizens United decision” by The Associated Press in the Portland Press Herald.

Hawaii: “Panel hears finance law challenge” by Derrick DePledge in the Honolulu Star Advertiser.

Michigan: “State extends probe into fundraising by Duggan, super PAC” by Darren A. Nichols in the Detroit News.

New Hampshire: “State senator wants more transparency for political groups” by Garry Rayno in the New Hampshire Union Leader.

New York: “N.Y. Comptroller Supporters Get Prison for Donor Fraud” by Patricia Hurtado in Bloomberg.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Arkansas lawmaker floats ethics bills for session” by Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Tech and Social Media

“Quién Manda: A Pinterest For Politician and Lobbyist Relations?” by Rebecca Chao in TechPresident.

“Government shutdown: Why are only some federal websites shut down?” by Andrew Restuccia in Politico.

“Government on Social Media: How Did Brimfield, Ohio (a Town of 10,000) Get 88,000 Facebook Likes?” by Heather Kerrigan in Governing.

Redistricting

“Could the government shutdown prompt congressional redistricting reform?” by Jason Noble in the Des Moines Register.

Lobbying

“ALL Response to Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI-1) Suggestion to Ban Lobbyists from the Capitol” on the American League of Lobbyists website.

“K Street sidelined in shutdown fight” by Ann Palmer in Politico.

California: “California Strategies walks line between lobbying and public affairs” by Laurel Rosenhall in the Sacramento Bee.

New Mexico: “Ex-official won’t lobby state, company says” by Thomas Cole in the Albuquerque Journal.

Tennessee: “Lobbyists spent more on entertainment in 2013” by The Associated Press in WRCB TV News.

Campaign Finance

“Three Things to Watch for in Tomorrow’s Campaign Finance Oral Argument at the Supreme Court” by Rick Hasen on the Election Law Blog.

“Supreme Court set to consider donor limits” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“After Citizens United, Campaign Finance Reformers Look For A Bold New Approach” by Paul Blumenthal in The Huffington Post.

“Get ready for ‘Son of Citizens United’” by Mary Sanchez in The Chicago Tribune.

Minnesota: “Attorney Christian Sande named to Minnesota Campaign Finance board” by Joe Kimball in MinnPost.

Ethics

Georgia: “Ethics lawyer says chairman pressured her to settle Deal cases” by Aaron Gould Sheinin in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

New York: “Ethics laws outdated, not used” by Alysia Santo in the Times Union.

South Carolina: “STATE HOUSE FOR SALE: SC ethics law a muddled mess” by Adam Beam in The State.

Virginia: “Gift scandal puts pressure on lawmakers to make changes” by Olympia Meola and Jim Nolan in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

West Virginia: “Statehouse Beat: Another bad mark for W.Va.” by Phil Kabler in the Gazette-Mail.

West Virginia: “Statehouse beat: A lot of road time on the state dime” by Phil Kabler in the Gazette-Mail.

On the State Ballots

“Pot, Gambling and GMOs on the Election Ballot” by Jake Grovum in Stateline.

Campaign Tech and Social Media

“Parnell campaign reports email error” by Becky Bohrer (Associated Press) in the Juneau Empire.

National:

State Watchdogs Band Together to Take on ‘Dark Money’

Washington Post – Reid Wilson | Published: 10/3/2013

The States’ Unified Network Center, a project from watchdog groups to share information on campaign finance legislation across the country, will begin as a Web presence to highlight proposed bills and standing law. It will also organize a database of nonprofit groups that spend money in state elections, in hopes of stitching together the state-by-state patchwork of campaign finance databases.

Federal:

Government Shutdown: Wall Street angry at tea party it has no influence over

Politico – MJ Lee | Published: 10/2/2013

Wall Street’s frustration over the current fiscal impasse is shared by the larger business community, which has tried to convince lawmakers the threat of shutting down the government or failing to raise the borrowing limit should not be used as negotiating ploys. But wealthy financial services executives and their lobbyists have little leverage against tea party lawmakers, who do not care for big banks and do not rely heavily on the industry for campaign money.

Not ‘Essential’: Shutdown would hit FEC hard

Center for Public Integrity – Dave Leventhal | Published: 9/30/2013

The FEC, unlike some agencies filled with employees deemed essential, will effectively shutter under a government shutdown. All but the agency’s active commissioners, who are furlough-proof political appointees, would ultimately stay home.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Ex-Lobbyist Joins Councilman’s Staff and Questions Follow

Los Angeles Times – Robert Zahniser | Published: 9/26/2013

Robert Katherman, a longtime Los Angeles lobbyist, said since joining city Councilperson Curren Price’s staff, he has avoided decisions affecting clients at the advocacy firm he founded and put his wife in charge of. As long as that continues, state conflict-of-interest laws permit Price to act on proposals that benefit Katherman’s wife and her firm.

Georgia – Ethics Commission to Ask for Special Investigator

San Francisco Chronicle – Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) | Published: 9/30/2013

The Georgia ethics commission voted to request that a special assistant attorney general be appointed for an independent investigation to look into the circumstances surrounding two lawsuits against the agency. Former commission Executive Secretary Stacey Kalberman and her onetime deputy, Sharon Streicker, allege they were forced out for pressing an investigation into Gov. Nathan Deal’s 2010 campaign.

Georgia – State Senator Balfour Indicted on Charges Related to Expenses

Athens Banner-Herald – Ray Henry (Associated Press) | Published: 9/27/2013

A grand jury charged state Sen. Don Balfour with illegally claiming legislative expense pay. The indictment comes after a Georgia Bureau of Investigation probe into expense vouchers from his work at the General Assembly, where Balfour sought reimbursement for mileage and per diem expenses at the Capitol when lobbyist disclosure reports show he was out of state.

Illinois – Appeals Court Denies Quinn Bid to Keep Pay Freeze

San Francisco Chronicle – Sarah Burnett (Associated Press) | Published: 9/27/2013

A judge overruled Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, who had suspended the salaries of state legislators, and ordered the lawmakers to receive back pay with interest. Quinn suspended the paychecks this summer, saying lawmakers had failed to resolve a financial crisis worsened by the ballooning cost of state pension plans. Leaders of the Legislature challenged his authority to suspend the pay.

Iowa – Iowa Lawmaker Resigns over Bachmann Payments

USA Today – Jason Noble and Jennifer Jacobs (Des Moines Register) | Published: 10/2/2013

Iowa Sen. Kent Sorenson resigned after a special investigator found it likely he violated ethics rules by taking money from PACs connected to former presidential candidate Michele Bachmann and then denying he had done so. The report contains the most detailed findings yet in a scandal that has swirled around Sorensen since he defected from the Bachmann campaign days before the 2012 Iowa caucuses to support Ron Paul.

Michigan – Corruption Alleged after Detroit Pension Deal

Detroit Free Press – Robert Snell | Published: 9/30/2013

Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick backed an investment deal that bankrolled a three-year spree of alleged corruption and helped push the city into bankruptcy. The deal cheated city retirees out of more than $84 million, led to criminal charges against six people, and compounded the impact of the money-losing Wall Street scheme, which could eventually cost Detroit more than $2.7 billion.

Minnesota – Emmer’s Internet Ad Could Prove Troublesome

Minneapolis Star Tribune – Jim Ragsdale and Jennifer Brooks | Published: 9/30/2013

A television ad featuring congressional candidate Tom Emmer vouching for a construction company may violate a federal law banning corporate contributions to candidates. Emmer appeared in an ad for Integrity Exteriors & Remodelers while noting his candidacy and standing by a banner spelling out his congressional ambitions. A YouTube posting for the ad said it had aired on a Twin Cities television station.

Mississippi – Hood Could Appeal Judge’s Ruling That Part of Miss. Campaign Finance Law Is Unconstitutional

Columbus Republic – Emily Wagster Pettus (Associated Press) | Published: 10/1/2013

U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock ruled that part of Mississippi’s campaign finance law creates an unconstitutional burden for individuals or organizations that spend at least $200 to support or oppose a ballot initiative. State Attorney Jim Hood an appeal could be difficult because federal courts have not been amenable to states’ defense of their own campaign finance laws.

New York – Elections Officials Narrow Scope of Collection Effort

Albany Times Union – Casey Seiler | Published: 9/26/2013

The New York State Board of Elections had planned to send letters in September to numerous campaign treasurers with judgments against them and the banks that held their funds, informing them the committees’ assets were frozen until their fines had been settled. But only two such letters have been sent.

North Carolina – Voter ID Targeted in North Carolina

Wall Street Journal – Devlin Barrett | Published: 9/30/2013

The U.S. Justice Department filed a lawsuit challenging voting restrictions adopted by North Carolina, alleging they discriminate against minority voters. The suit challenges the state’s voter-identification requirement and limits on early voting. It also asks the court to require federal pre-approval for voting-law changes in the state.

West Virginia – Fishing Trip Underscores Close Ties between Suder, United Sportsmen

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – Patrick Marley and Jason Stein | Published: 9/30/2013

Records show then-Wisconsin Assembly Majority Leader Scott Suder accepted an invitation for a fishing trip offered by the lobbyist for a self-described sportsmen group just days before an affiliate of the organization won a $500,000 state grant. Gov. Scott Walker rescinded the grant after reports the group misrepresented its nonprofit status and its president had been cited for shooting a black bear without the proper license.

West Virginia – W.Va. Judge Resigns, Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy

San Francisco Chronicle – John Raby (Associated Press) | Published: 10/2/2013

A West Virginia judge pleaded guilty to participating in a scheme to conceal alleged illegal drug use and election-law violations by a sheriff who was murdered earlier this year. As part of his plea agreement, prosecutors agreed to drop an earlier charge that Mingo County Circuit Court Judge Thornsbury misused his office on several occasions over five years to try to illegally imprison the husband of his former secretary after she ended an affair with him.

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

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

“No shutdown for K Street as advocates blitz Capitol” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“Senate health aide joins top lobby firm” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“Numismatists Have Lobbyists Too” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Kentucky: “Ethics Reporter: $4.18M spent in four months as lobbying spending continues upward trend” by the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission in KYForward.com.

North Carolina: “Former Rep. and lobbyist Paul Pulley dies” in the News & Observer.

Campaign Finance

“State watchdogs band together to take on ‘dark money’” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.

“Zombie Federal Election Commission still wants your quarterly reports” by Al Kamen in The Washington Post.

Ethics

Florida: “Florida ethics commission investigating Rep. Jamie Grant’s business venture” by Michael Van Sickler in the Tampa Bay Times.

Iowa: “Iowa pol resigns amid ethics probe” by Katie Glueck in Politico.

New Jersey: “State agency: DiVincenzo misused, obscured campaign funds” by Matt Friedman in The Star-Ledger.

Tennessee: “Ethics watchdog files more Deal complaints” by The Associated Press in WRCB TV News.

State Legislatures

Colorado: “Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper will not call special legislative session on flooding issues” by The Associated Press on KMGH-TV News.

New Hampshire: “N.H. Panel Delays Vote On Medicaid” by Ben Leubsdorf in the Valley News.

Oregon: “Lawmakers celebrate end of special session on PERS, taxes, GMO (2013 special session)” by Yuxing Zheng in The Oregonian.

Lobbying

“Shutdown can’t stop lobbyists from their appointed rounds” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“What’s a Hill Résumé Worth on K Street? Maybe Not $500K” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call.

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

Nevada: “Former Nev. lobbyist sentenced to 2 years in prison” by Martha Bellisle in USA Today.

Campaign Finance

“Wealthy Donors’ Influence May Rise After Next Supreme Court Campaign Finance Case” by Paul Blumenthal in the Huffington Post.

“Donation limits help keep politics honest” opinion piece by Meredith McGehee on CNN News.

Mississippi: “Judge blocks part of Miss. campaign finance law, calls it unconstitutional” by Emily Wagster Pettus (Associated Press) in the Clarion Ledger.

Ethics

“Ethical limits on federal employees would continue in shutdown” by Eric Yoder in The Washington Post.

“As shutdown commences, federal open government databases go dark or dormant” by Stephen Stirling in The Star-Ledger.

“Government shutdown shrinks FEC to just four employees” by Dave Levinthal in The Center for Public Integrity.

Elections

“Election Laws Challenged in Only State to Act Since Supreme Court Ruling on Voting Rights Act” by Wendy Underhill in NCSL’s The Thicket.

Alabama: “Special election scheduled to fill Rep. Barry Mask’s legislative seat” by The Associated Press on Al.com.

Nevada: “More Nevadans register nonpartisan in September than other two parties combined” by The Associated Press in the Reno Gazette-Journal.

Government Shutdown

“GOV Unplugged: Your Guide to What’s Shut Down During a Shutdown” by Joseph Marks in Nextgov.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Feds Warm Up To LinkedIn” by Mark Amtower in Information Week.

State Legislatures

Oregon: “Oregon Legislature: Vote count still tight in special session” by Hannah Hoffman and Anna Staver in the Statesman Journal.

Lobbying

“Lobbyists prepare for government shutdown” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“Lobbyists swoop in to defend investor visas” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Hamilton, Ontario: “Lobbyist registry delayed again” by Matthew Van Dongen in The Spec.

Campaign Finance

“Lobbying, Campaign Finance, and IRS Reports Keep Moving During Shutdown” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine Blog.

“House Members Shut Down Gov’t. Money Going Out, But Not Contributions Coming In” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine Blog.

“The Next Citizens United?” by Richard Hasen in Slate.

“The case for eliminating contribution limits” by Ann W. Herberger in Campaigns & Elections.

“Top U.S. political donors in 2012 among country’s richest men” by Gabriel Debenedetti in Reuters.

Alaska: “APOC: No immediate action on complaint against Stiver” by Sam Friedman in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.

Maryland: “Maryland’s new laws at a glance” by John Wagner in The Washington Post.

Ethics

FEC: “Not ‘essential’: Shutdown would hit FEC hard” by Dave Levinthal in The Center for Public Integrity.

Georgia: “Ethics commission to ask for special investigator” by The Associated Press in the Athens Banner-Herald.

Ohio: “Son of indicted donor’s lawyer works for Mandel” by Joe Vardon in The Columbus Dispatch.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Government Social Media Feeds Will Go Dark During a Shutdown” by Joseph Marks in Nextgov.

Elections

Ohio: “Ohio lawmaker’s election reform bills include voter ID requirement, reduced early-voting times” by Jeremy Pelzer in The Plain Dealer.

Pennsylvania: “Challenge to Pennsylvania’s voter ID law not affected by Justice Dept. lawsuit against N.C.’s law” by Jan Murphy in The Patriot-News.

Lobbying

California: “Ex-lobbyist joins councilman’s staff and questions follow” by David Zahniser in the Los Angeles Times.

Kentucky: “Chandler moves into role as lobbyist in Ky.” by The Associated Press in WTVQ ABC News.

West Virginia: “Lobbyists spend $39k wining, dining WV officials” by The Associated Press in the Herald-Dispatch.

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “GOP: More campaign contributions should be allowed” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Sun.

New Hampshire: “How one state representative raised $1,600 for his campaign — in bitcoins” by Brian Fung in The Washington Post.

Ohio: “Common Cause Ohio questions state’s lobbying disclosures” by Marc Kovac in the Daily Jeffersonian.

Vermont: “Vt. Supreme Court says Democratic-leaning organization didn’t register as political group” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Ethics

“Harvey Whittemore to be sentenced Monday for campaign finance scheme” by Jeff German in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Arkansas: “Some lawmakers suggest including ethics reform in special session” by Rob Moritz in Arkansas News.

Florida: “Inspector General: West Palm Beach should not have repaid Mitchell in ethics probe” by Eliot Kleinberg in the Palm Beach Post.

North Carolina: “Former NC auditor says he will leave State Ethics Commission after questions over DHHS role” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

State Legislatures

Illinois: “In blow to Gov. Quinn, judge rules state lawmakers must be paid” by Dave McKinney, Jon Seidel And Mitch Dudek in the Chicago Sun Times.

Oregon: “Oregon legislators return for special session” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.

Oregon: “Anxiety high as special session looms” by Hannah Hoffman in the Statesman Journal.

Pennsylvania: “Legislators taking leave and missing the vote” by Angela Couloumbis in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Social Media

New York: “NYC Mayoral Race Shows ‘Shareable Graphics Are…The New Black’ in Digital Campaigning” by Miranda Neubauer in TechPresident.

National:

Manufacturing Arm to Advise on Lobbying Agencies, States

Politico – Byron Tau and Andrea Drusch | Published: 9/26/2013

The National Association of Manufacturers has established the Center for Legal Action to give its members a voice in legal debates at the federal, state, and local levels. The center is a response to gridlock in Washington, D.C. and reflects the fact that legal fights elsewhere play a major role in the development of rules and regulations.

Some Public Companies Are Divulging More Details about Their Political Contributions

Washington Post – Dina ElBoghdady | Published: 9/25/2013

Even as some groups fight efforts to make their donors public, a growing number of companies are coming forward on their own to disclose their contributions to trade associations and other nonprofit organizations that legally can keep their hidden, according to a study.

Federal:

Federal Election Commission Gets New Blood

The Center for Public Integrity – Dave Levinthal | Published: 9/23/2013

The U.S. Senate confirmed President Barack Obama’s two nominees to the FEC, giving the panel its first new members since the George W. Bush administration. Democrat Ann Ravel and Republican Lee Goodman were approved by unanimous consent in a brief voice vote. The appointments will restore the six-member commission to full strength.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Campaign Finance Law Throws Twist at Candidates

San Francisco Chronicle; Associated Press –   | Published: 9/23/2013

The Arizona secretary of state’s office said under a new law, candidates need to have separate campaign finance committees for the primary and general elections. Combined with a $2,000 limit on transfers between committees, the requirement means candidates may have to commit their funds to one election or the other without yet knowing what the political landscape will look like.

California – California Political Watchdog Sets Sights on Major Cases

Sacramento Bee – Christopher Cadelago | Published: 9/22/2013

The California Fair Political Practices Commission historically has pursued investigations based on formal complaints. But under the leadership of Chairperson Ann Ravel and her chief enforcer, Gary Winuk, the agency has become more proactive, significantly increasing the number of inquiries it initiates.

California – State’s New Rule: Campaigns must say when they pay for Web posts

Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy | Published: 9/19/2013

Bloggers and others who are paid to post political messages online are subject to new disclosure rules under regulations approved by the California Fair Political Practices Commission. The agency acted out of concern the public might be deceived into thinking paid content on blogs that praises or criticizes a candidate is objective political commentary.

Florida – Lobbying Association Weighs into Gaetz Push to Start Auditing Their Pay

Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 9/19/2013

As a legislative panel prepares to discuss auditing lobbyists’ compensation, the association that represents Florida’s lobbyists wants to make sure they have a say in the process. A letter signed by the Florida Professional Lobbyist Association’s board of directors asks to make recommendations to lawmakers on how to conduct the audits.

Georgia – Ethics Commission Head Received Pay Increases

Macon Telegraph; Associated Press –   | Published: 9/20/2013

The annual salary of the Georgia ethics commission’s executive secretary, Holly LaBerge, increased from $85,000 when she was hired in September 2011 to $100,000 by June 2013, despite the agency saying it had to cut costs. By comparison, LaBerge’s predecessor, Stacey Kalberman, quit after absorbing a 30 percent pay cut and later filed a lawsuit alleging she was punished for aggressively pursuing an investigation involving Gov. Nathan Deal.

New York – N.Y. Ethics Panel Toughens Rules to Shield Political Donors

The Journal News – Joseph Spector | Published: 9/24/2013

The New York Joint Commission on Public Ethics fine-tuned its process for granting exemptions from disclosing financing sources for nonprofit organizations and agreed to place exemption applications online for public view. The changes come as the commission says it is trying to balance public disclosure of groups’ major contributors with the need to protect donors’ privacy to keep them from harm.

Ohio – Federal Grand Jury Indictment Charges North Canton Businessman with Funneling Illegal Campaign Cash to Candidates

Cleveland Plain Dealer – James McCarty | Published: 9/25/2013

A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Benjamin Suarez, the owner of a North Canton direct-marketing firm, and company Chief Financial Officer Michael Giorgio with conspiring to funnel illegal campaign contributions to U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci and Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel. According to the FBI, Suarez and Giorgio recruited company employees and spouses to contribute to the campaigns, and then reimbursed them through payments disguised first as salary and later as profit sharing.

Ohio – Group Calls for Tougher Lobbyist Disclosures

Columbus Dispatch – Jim Siegel and Robert Higgs (Northeast Ohio Media Group) | Published: 9/19/2013

As Ohio’s natural gas industry has boomed, so have campaign contributions from the industry. That spending, coupled with a lack of reporting requirements for compensation paid to lobbyists should raise questions with voters about transparency and just who has access to government, said Ohio Common Cause.

Virginia – Ethics Issue Rises to Prominence in Va. Legislative Races

Washington Post – Antonio Olivo | Published: 9/21/2013

In a state that has long considered itself a place of clean government, the shadow of a federal probe into gifts received by Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his family is hanging over dozens of state House of Delegate races. As the campaigns for the general elections ramp up, both major parties are seeking to leverage the ethics issue for political gain, or at least keep it from hampering their chances for victory.

Washington – New Lobbyist Meal Form to Distinguish Chowder from Steak

KUOW – Austin Jenkins | Published: 9/23/2013

The Washington Public Disclosure Commission will decide at its September 26 meeting whether to update the form lobbyists use to report spending on entertainment. Media reports have noted many lobbyists do not include a per-person amount for dinners with lawmakers.

Wisconsin – Madison Passes Ordinance Forcing Stricter Campaign Spending Disclosure

Capital Times – Jack Craver | Published: 9/23/2013

The Madison Common Council approved an ordinance that will require groups making independent campaign expenditures in city elections to disclose the spending and their donors. Although the Government Accountability Board put in place a rule in 2010 that addresses such ads, the agency has not enforced the rule since it was challenged.

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

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

Kentucky: “Ben Chandler moves into role as lobbyist in Ky.” by The Associated Press in WYMT TV News.

New Mexico: “Ex-New Mexico official takes job despite ban on lobbying” by The Associated Press in the Santa Fe New Mexican.

Campaign Finance

“If You Thought Citizens United Was Bad, Wait for This Supreme Court Case” by Norm Ornstein in The Atlantic.

“GOP lawyer launches political donation refund group” by Michael Beckel in The Center for Public Integrity.

Arizona: “Donor fatigue: Higher contribution limits don’t translate into avalanche of cash” by Jeremy Duda and Luige del Puerto in Arizona Capitol Times.

Missouri: “Missouri campaign contributions have topped $6.7M this quarter” by Elizabeth Crisp in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Ohio: “Federal grand jury indictment charges North Canton businessman with funneling illegal campaign cash to candidates” by James F. McCarty in the Plain Dealer.

Ethics

Florida: “Florida Ethics Commission Asks For Power To Place Liens On Violators’ Property” by Jessica Palombo in WFSU News.

Ohio: “Ethics Commission finds possible conflicts of interest with JobsOhio employees” by Darrel Rowland in the Columbus Dispatch.

State Legislatures

South Dakota: “Legislature research leader resigns” by David Montgomery in the Argus Leader.

Social Media

“Twitter increases political contributions, but not from constituents, says paper” by Molly Bernhart Walker in FierceGovernmentIT.

Lobbying

“K Street suffers from identity crisis” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

Nevada: “Feds call for prison time for ex-Nevada lobbyist Harvey Whittemore” by Martha Bellisle in the Reno Gazette-Journal.

New York: “JCOPE changes donor disclosure rules for lobbying groups” by Joseph Spector in the Star Gazette.

Canada: “Federal lobbyist watchdog launches review of industry code of conduct” by Kady O’Malley in CBC News.

Campaign Finance

“25 Regulations to Watch” by Ben Goad and Julian Hattem in The Hill.

“Washington Billionaires Staying Out Of State Politics This Year” by John Ryan in Northwest Public Radio.

New York: “Moreland panel hears testimony on enforcement, campaign funding” by Casey Seiler in the Times Union.

Ethics

“Dan Schwager to leave House Ethics panel” by John Bresnahan in Politico.

Florida: “Legislators look into questionable insurance deal” by Gary Fineout in the Daytona Beach News-Journal.

New York: “Taint of pork-barrel spending repels public corruption investigation panel” by Casey Seiler in the Times Union.

New York: “After Hints of Guilty Plea, Lawmaker Opts for Trial” by Mosi Secret.

Virginia: “Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell’s approval rating drops to new low, poll finds” by Laura Vozzella and Scott Clement in The Washington Post.

State Legislatures

Pennsylvania: “Record low approval ratings for lawmakers returning to Harrisburg” by Melissa Daniels in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Pennsylvania: “Bills to shrink size of Pa. Legislature advances in state House” by Jan Murphy in The Patriot-News.

Redistricting

Texas: “DOJ To Intervene In Texas Redistricting” by David Martin Davies in KBPS News.

National:

Tax Filings Hint at Extent of Koch Brothers’ Reach

New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 9/12/2013

Freedom Partners, a nonprofit with ties to Charles and David Koch, provided grants of $236 million to conservative organizations before the 2012 election. The group reflects a shift in the tax strategies the Koch operation deploys to avoid challenge from the IRS which limits how much nonprofit groups can spend to aid or defeat candidates.

Federal:

Former FEC Chairman Donald McGahn Resigns from Panel

Washington Post – Reid Wilson | Published: 9/17/2013

Donald McGahn reigned from the FEC to return to private law practice at Patton Boggs. McGahn, a Republican, clashed frequently with Democrats as he helped push a conservative interpretation of campaign finance laws and persistent skepticism about government oversight of campaigns. His term expired in 2009, but it was not until this year that a replacement was nominated amid a state of gridlock at the agency.

Red Cape Drawing Bids during Jackson Jr. Auction

BusinessWeek – Michael Tarm (Associated Press) | Published: 9/18/2013

Memorabilia once owned by former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D-Ill.) is being auctioned off by the U.S. Marshals after his guilty plea in a corruption case. A dozen items including autographed Bruce Lee and Michael Jackson collectibles and furs formerly belonging to Jackson went up for auction, with the bidding ending September 26. Whatever money is generated will be subtracted from the $750,000 he owes the government.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Commission Challenges Campaign Spending Hikes

Arizona Daily Sun – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 9/19/2013

The Arizona Citizens Clean Election Commission believes Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Mark Brain erred in concluding state lawmakers are free to reset campaign contribution limits. The commission asked the Court of Appeals to overturn Brain’s ruling that allowed the higher caps to take effect on September 13. The appellate judges agreed to consider the request on October 9.

California – Campaign Finance Bills Fare Poorly in California Legislature

Los Angeles Times – Chris Megerian and Melanie Mason | Published: 9/17/2013

Bills that would have increased the power of the Fair Political Practices Commission, increased fines for violations, and forced greater disclosure of donors, among other measures, all stalled in the California Legislature. It remains to be seen whether new campaign finance rules could be put in place before next year’s June primary or even the November general election.

Florida – After Questions, Gov. Rick Scott Cancels $25,000 Alligator Hunt Fundraiser

Tampa Bay Times – Steve Bousquet | Published: 9/11/2013

Gov. Rick Scott has called off an alligator hunting trip to raise funds for his 2014 re-election campaign. Golfing weekends, concerts, and deep-sea fishing fundraisers are common in Florida politics, but a gator hunt was such an anomaly that it made major news among bloggers and political Web sites.

Georgia – Clock Running Out on Free Football Tickets for Politicians

Marietta Daily Journal – Ray Henry (Associated Press) | Published: 9/15/2013

A new law taking effect on January 1 bans lobbyists from giving Georgia officials free college football tickets. Disclosure reports show lobbyists have given politicians almost $1,400 in football tickets and related entertainment since the start of the season in late August. Last year, registered lobbyists shelled out more than $14,000 in tickets and perks at the games.

Indiana – Indiana Utility Regulators, under Pressure, Say They Won’t Take Industry Money to Fund Conference

Indianapolis Star – John Russell | Published: 9/12/2013

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission dropped a plan to seek money from utility trade groups to help pay for a conference of energy regulators from 14 states despite gaining clearance from the state Ethics Commission. Leaders of consumer and environmental groups had objected to the fundraising, saying it presented conflicts-of-interest for the state panel that approves electricity and natural gas rates to ask the utility industry for money.

Missouri – Rep. Penny Hubbard Provided Key Vote for Two Overrides; Son Got Lobbying Jobs

St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 9/13/2013

Missouri Rep. Penny Hubbard provided key votes to help override vetoes of bills on which her son had recently been hired as a lobbyist. In one instance, Hubbard had initially voted against a bill limiting lawsuits against the Doe Run Co. But she joined the Republican majority in overriding Gov. Jay Nixon’s veto. One day earlier, her son had gotten a lobbying job with Doe Run.

Montana – Federal Judge Says Montana’s Campaign Disclosure Requirement Is Constitutional

Washington Post – Matt Goras (Associated Press) | Published: 9/17/2013

U.S. District Court Judge Dana Christensen ruled Montana’s requirement that political committees disclose their campaign spending is constitutional. Christensen wrote the public’s right to know who is financing campaigns outweighs the minimal burden imposed on committees required to report the information.

Pennsylvania – Pa. Capitol Portraits Display Plenty of Conviction

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Kate Giammarise | Published: 9/16/2013

The portraits of past House and Senate leaders lining the Capitol’s hallways include several former Pennsylvania legislators now in prison on a variety of corruption-related charges. Despite the resemblance to a rogues’ gallery in some places, the paintings likely are not going anywhere.

Texas – DeLay Conviction Overturned

Houston Chronicle – Mike Snyder and Patricia Kilday Hart | Published: 9/19/2013

An appeals court threw out the criminal conviction of former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, saying there was insufficient evidence for a jury in 2010 to have found him guilty of money laundering and conspiracy for helping illegally funnel corporate money to Texas candidates in 2002. Delay was sentenced to three years in prison, but his sentence was on hold while his case made its way through the appellate process.

Virginia – Former Chef Pleads No Contest to Stealing Food from Va. Governor’s Mansion

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman and Laura Vozzella | Published: 9/19/2013

Todd Schneider, the former chef at the Virginia governor’s mansion, pleaded no contest to reduced charges that he stole food from the first family’s kitchen and was ordered to repay the state $2,300, resolving the dispute that sparked a political and legal crisis for Gov. Robert McDonnell, and entangled state Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, the Republican candidate for governor.

Washington – Public Disclosure Commission Hacked

Tacoma News Tribune – Rachel LaCorte (Associated Press) | Published: 9/18/2013

The Washington Public Disclosure Commission’s (PDC) network was breached earlier in September, though officials said no information was compromised. Michael Smith, the PDC’s chief technology officer, said passwords have been changed and the agency has been scanning its sites looking for potential points of vulnerability.

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

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.