National/Federal

DEA Chief Faces Probe into ‘Swampy’ Hires, No-Bid Contracts

Associated Press News – Joshua Goodman and Jim Mustian | Published: 4/20/2023

A federal watchdog is investigating whether the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration under Anne Milgram improperly awarded millions of dollars in no-bid contracts to hire her past associates, people familiar with the probe said. Among the spending under scrutiny by the Justice Department’s Office of Inspector General is $4.7 million for “strategic planning and communication” and other contracts that were used to hire people Milgram knew from her days as New Jersey’s attorney general and as a New York University law professor at costs far exceeding pay for government officials.

Clarence Thomas Has for Years Claimed Income from a Defunct Real Estate Firm

MSN – Shawn Boberg and Emma Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 4/16/2023

Over the last two decades, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has reported on required financial disclosure forms that his family received rental income totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars from a firm called Ginger, Ltd., Partnership. But that company has not existed since 2006. That year, the real estate company was shut down and a separate firm was created, records show. Since that time, however, Thomas has continued to report income from the defunct company – between $50,000 and $100,000 annually in recent years – and there is no mention of the newer firm, Ginger Holdings, LLC, on the forms.

Russians Boasted That Just 1% of Fake Social Profiles Are Caught, Leak Shows

MSN – Joseph Menn (Washington Post) | Published: 4/16/2023

The Russian government has become far more successful at manipulating social media and search engine rankings than previously known, according to documents recently leaked on the chat app Discord. The Russian operators boast they are detected by social networks only about one percent of the time, one document says. A board set up to coordinate U.S. government policy on disinformation was disbanded last year after questions were raised about its purpose and a campaign was aimed at the person who had been selected to lead it.

Washington Used to Abhor Talking About Mental Health. No More.

MSN – Myah Ward (Politico) | Published: 4/17/2023

For six weeks, while U.S. Sen. John Fetterman received treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed Medical Center, handwritten cards poured into office. His staff fielded phone calls from constituents passing along well wishes. Others called simply to thank him for being upfront about his condition. The reaction has been, overall, a pleasant surprise to Fetterman’s team, which worried about their boss and felt anxious about how the public would respond to revelations he has depression. What they and others have discovered is the country is increasingly open about it. And the politics are changing around it.

Democrats Still Face Feinstein Dilemma as Replacement Bid Fails

MSN – Liz Goodwin, Maeve Reston, and Cleve Wooten Jr. (Washington Post) | Published: 4/18/2023

Democrats’ plan to replace ailing U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee fell apart amid Republican opposition, leaving the party still grappling with a dilemma over stalled judicial nominees that has inflamed some in the Democratic base and complicated the race to succeed her in California. The powerful committee, which is probing allegations of financial conflicts-of-interest against Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, also lacks the votes to issue subpoenas in her absence.

DeSantis Group Plans Field Program, Showing the Expanding Role of Super PACs

MSN – Michael Scherer, Isaac Stanley-Becker, and Ashley Parker (Washington Post) | Published: 4/19/2023

Never Back Down, a technically independent super PAC that unlike federal candidates can accept donations of any value from wealthy individuals and corporations, is organizing and funding efforts to assist Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in his yet unannounced campaign for president. The arrangement marks a new frontier in the rapidly shifting campaign finance landscape that governs presidential bids, as outside groups allied with candidates behave more and more like traditional campaigns.

Becerra Violated Hatch Act by Advocating for Senator’s Election, Report Finds

MSN – John Wagner (Washington Post) | Published: 4/18/2023

The Office of Special Counsel determined Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra violated a law that restricts political activities of federal employees when he advocated for the election of U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute event. In a letter relaying the finding to President Biden, Special Counsel Henry Kerner said Becerra violated the Hatch Act when he spoke “in his official capacity” at the institute’s annual awards gala in September.

A New Smithsonian Boss Settled Multiple Employee Retaliation Lawsuits

MSN – Manuel Roig-Franzia and Thomas Floyd (Washington Post) | Published: 4/20/2023

When the Smithsonian Institution announced the selection of Nancy Yao to be the founding director of the new American Women’s History Museum planned for the National Mall or alongside the Tidal Basin, the timing seemed apt – it was national Women’s History Month. But in some corners of the museum world, the choice of Yao has evoked uncomfortable echoes of a recent and traumatic period in the history of American women: the national reckoning over sexual harassment brought on by the #MeToo movement.

Fox Was Resigned to a Tough Trial. Then, a Secret Mediator Stepped In.

MSN – Sarah Ellison, Josh Dawsey, and Rosalind Helderman (Washington Post) | Published: 4/19/2023

For months, as the pretrial proceedings wore on and the embarrassing internal messages kept spilling into public view, executives at Fox News resigned themselves to a slog of a trial followed by a possible loss before a jury in the $1.6 billion lawsuit by Dominion Voting Systems. But at a pre-trial hearing, Judge Eric Davis asked the lawyers for both companies to try to work out their differences. After the jury was seated and before opening arguments could begin, Davis announced, “The parties have resolved the case.”

Billionaire Harlan Crow Bought Property from Clarence Thomas. The Justice Didn’t Disclose the Deal.

ProPublica – Justin Elliott, Joshua Kaplan, and Alex Mierjeski | Published: 4/13/2023

Businessperson Harlan Crow purchased three properties belonging to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and his family, in a transaction worth more than $100,000 that Thomas never reported. The 2014 real estate deal shines a new light on Thomas’s decades old relationship with Crow, a real estate magnate and longtime financier for conservative causes. That relationship and the material benefits received by Thomas have fueled calls for an official ethics investigation. A disclosure law requires justices and other officials to disclose the details of most real estate sales over $1,000.

If Tennessee’s Legislature Looks Broken, It’s Not Alone

Yahoo News – Michael Wines (New York Times) | Published: 4/13/2023

Nationwide, candidates for roughly four of every 10 state legislative seats run unopposed in general elections. And across the country, one-party control of state Legislatures, compounded by hyper-partisan politics, widespread gerrymandering, an urban-rural divide, and uncompetitive races, has made dysfunction more the rule than the exception. The lack of competition means incumbent lawmakers face few consequences for their conduct. Their legislative actions are driven in large part by the fraction of partisans who determine their fates in primary elections, the only contests where they face serious opposition.

From the States and Municipalities

Europe – EU Parliament Tightens Lobbying Rules for Ex-MEPs

Macau Business – Agence France Presse | Published: 4/17/2023

The European Parliament will prohibit former members from lobbying legislators for six months after leaving office. The reform comes as the Parliament grapples with the fallout from the scandal involving the alleged bribery of members said to have been paid to push the interests of Qatar and Morocco.

Canada – Ontario NDP Set to Try to Tighten Family Gift Rules after Ford Stag and Doe

Global News – Isaac Callan and Colin D’Mello | Published: 4/17/2023

The Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP) will introduce legislation aimed at closing a loophole that allows family members of politicians to receive gifts from people attempting to influence government policy, bringing the province’s conflict-of-interest rules in line with its federal counterparts. NDP Leader Marit Stiles said she was calling for the new rules after it was reported that several developers, considered to be “personal friends,” attended a fundraising event for Premier Doug Ford’s daughter.

Arizona – Fight to Ban State Benefits for Lobby Group Dies – Again

Arizona Capitol Times – Camryn Sanchez | Published: 4/18/2023

State Sen. Steve Kaiser revived a long-running fight at the Legislature to block employees of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns from getting state retirement benefits. The league and a few other non-government groups were not allowed to get State Retirement System benefits until 2004, when the law was changed to accommodate another group, but Kaiser argues that is not an appropriate use of state funds. He also insisted he is not out for revenge although the League opposed some of his bills this session, although the League thinks differently.

Arizona – Effort to Return Ousted Arizona Lawmaker to House Seat

Arizona Daily Star – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 4/18/2023

Local Republican Party officials want former Arizona Rep. Liz Harris restored to the legislative seat from which she was just ousted. But whether that is legally or politically possible remains unclear. As required by law, precinct committee members submitted three names to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, which is scheduled to choose a replacement. In addition to Harris, the committee members chose Julie Willoughby, who lost to Harris in last year’s GOP primary by 270 votes, and Steve Steele.

California – SFMTA Commissioner Admits She Illegally Lobbied City Staff

Mission Local – Joe Rivano Barros | Published: 4/18/2023

Gwyneth Borden, the vice chair of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors, and a member of two different city commissions over the course of 15 years, was censured by the city Ethics Commission.  A proposed settlement lays out the case that she spent six months illegally lobbying city staff, planning commissioners, and a city supervisor on behalf of a restaurant that paid her $12,500.

California – Santa Clara Official Indicted on Felony Perjury Charge Related to 49ers Probe

MSN – Ron Kroichick and Lance Williams (San Francisco Chronicle) | Published: 4/14/2023

A Santa Clara City Council member and former mayoral candidate who received campaign contributions from the San Francisco 49ers was indicted for allegedly lying about leaking information to a team employee. Anthony Becker was indicted for perjury in connection with allegedly leaking a secret civil grand jury report to the 49ers’ chief lobbyist. He also was charged with failing to perform his official duty. That charge alleged Becker breached confidentiality of a grand jury’s watchdog report, which criticized the 49ers’ heavy involvement in local politics.

California – Judge Declares Mistrial in Bribery Case of Former L.A. Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan

Yahoo News – Michael Finnegan (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 4/13/2023

A judge declared a mistrial in the federal bribery prosecution of former Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan after doctors confirmed his attorney needs months to recover from a recent hospitalization. Chan is the last defendant to face trial in a corruption scandal that exposed pervasive graft in the city’s byzantine process for approving real estate projects in downtown Los Angeles.

Colorado – House Passes Caps for Candidate Contributions in Colorado’s Local Elections

Colorado Springs Gazette – Hannah Metzger (Colorado Politics) | Published: 4/18/2023

The Colorado House approved a bill to establish a statewide limit on contributions made to candidates in local elections, sending the proposal to the Senate for consideration. House Bill 1245 would cap donations from individuals and political parties at $400 and contributions from small-donor committees at $4,000 in municipal elections, among other records and reporting requirements. Proponents said it is intended to decrease the role of money and wealthy individual donors in local elections, while critics said it would put more administrative burden on local governments and violate local control.

Colorado – New Bill Aims to Stop Colorado Utilities from Spending Ratepayer Money on Politics

Energy and Policy Institute – Joe Smyth | Published: 4/20/2023

A new bill in Colorado would stop investor-owned utility companies from using ratepayer money to fund lobbying, trade associations, promotional advertising, and other political influence efforts. The bill and hearings followed months of pressure from ratepayers on utilities, regulators, and policymakers in response to high gas and electricity bills this winter driven by high methane gas prices, and increased public scrutiny of how utilities fund their political influence efforts in Colorado.

Florida – Corruption Trial Begins for Man Who Almost Beat DeSantis

MSN – Brendan Farrington (Associated Press) | Published: 4/18/2023

Former Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum pocketed illegal campaign contributions because he was having a hard time paying for his lifestyle after quitting his job to run for governor in 2018, a prosecutor said as a corruption trial began. Gillum had a large mortgage, was making payments on two expensive cars, and was paying private school tuition for his children when he quit his $120,000-a-year job at People for the American Way to run for the Democratic nomination for governor, Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Milligan said in opening statements.

Florida – Ex-Venezuelan Treasurer, Husband Sentenced to 15 Years in Miami Bribery Case

Yahoo News – Jay Weaver (Miami Herald) | Published: 4/19/2023

A federal judge sent a former Venezuelan national treasurer and her husband to prison for 15 years after they were convicted of accepting tens of millions of dollars in bribes in exchange for lucrative government contracts and then moving some of their illicit money to Miami in an unprecedented foreign corruption case. In addition to prison time, the judge imposed a financial forfeiture penalty of $136 million for Claudia Díaz Guillen and her husband, Adrian Velásquez, and an additional fine of $75,000 each to be paid to the U.S. government.

Georgia – Former Executive Pleads Guilty to Bribing Atlanta Officials

Yahoo News – Associated Press | Published: 4/19/2023

A former executive for a longtime city of Atlanta vendor pleaded guilty to paying bribes in exchange for millions of dollars in city contracts and to bribing an official in a neighboring county to get business there. Lohrasb “Jeff” Jafari also pleaded guilty to failing to pay more than $1.5 million in taxes. He is the latest in a string of people, including numerous former Atlanta officials, to plead guilty or be convicted by a jury as part of a federal investigation into corruption during former Mayor Kasim Reed’s administration. Reed himself was never charged with wrongdoing.

Indiana – Donor Privacy or Secrecy? Nonprofit Disclosure Bill Nears Law

Indiana Capital Chronicle – Leslie Bonilla Muñiz | Published: 4/17/2023

State and local governments in Indiana could not require nonprofits to disclose information about their donors under a bill in the state Legislature. House Bill 1212 would block all levels of government from forcing nonprofits to hand over “personal information” – defined as any compilation of data identifying nonprofit members, supporters, volunteers, or donors. It would additionally ban the public release of that information. The bill treads a narrow path between broad protections for donors and nonprofits and a detailed list of exceptions.

Iowa – Gov. Kim Reynolds Must Comply with Public Records Law, Iowa Supreme Court Rules

MSN – William Morris (Des Moines Register) | Published: 4/14/2023

A lawsuit accusing Gov. Kim Reynolds of failing to follow Iowa’s public records law can continue, the state Supreme Court ruled, saying the governor’s office can be sued just like any other public entity for not producing requested documents in a timely way. The decision came in a suit  by three plaintiffs represented by the American Civil Liberties Union, who accused Reynolds’ office of “stonewalling” public records requests, in some cases for more than a year.

Kansas – Gov. Laura Kelly Signs Compromise Bill to Change Ethics Commission Subpoenas, Procedures

Yahoo News – Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) | Published: 4/14/2023

Gov. Laura Kelly signed a compromise effort to change the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission’s subpoena powers, as well as certain procedures in the agency charged with overseeing campaign finance and ethics matters. The move is a less aggressive version of a bill that received pushback from commission Executive Director Mark Skoglund, who criticized it for potentially allowing behavior under investigation in a major probe into legislative Republicans, county party officials, and interest groups.

Kentucky – Craft Claims Ignorance of Husband’s $1.5M Campaign Donation. Election Agency to Review

MSN – Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 4/19/2023

The biggest source of funding for Commonwealth PAC, a group supporting Kelly Craft’s campaign for governor, is her husband Joe Craft, who gave the group $1.5 million. Kentucky Registry of Election Finance Executive Director John Steffen said it “certainly raises concerns about potential coordination” between Craft’s campaign and the PAC, which would be a violation of state law. When asked if she knew about her husband dropping such a large amount of money into the PAC, Craft said she did not know who funded the group.

Michigan – Vendor Admits Bribing Madison Heights School Leader to Win Millions in Contracts

Yahoo News – Tresa Baldas (Detroit Free Press) | Published: 4/14/2023

Contractor John David pleaded guilty to funneling thousands of dollars in bribes to a Madison Heights school board president who used the money on Florida trips and a boat slip, perks Albert Morrison got for helping his friend secure $3.1 million worth of school contracts. Prosecutors allege David paid $561,000 in bribes to Morrison, though the vendor did not admit to that amount in his plea agreement or in court.

Missouri – Missouri Lawmakers Target Revolving Door at State Lottery

St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Kurt Erickson | Published: 4/19/2023

The former head of the Missouri Lottery left her post last year, but Republican lawmakers are not done battling over her tenure. After stripping funding for advertising from the Lottery in recent years, members of the House Budget Committee heard testimony on a proposal that would bar Lottery officials from working or lobbying for companies that do business with the state agency. The measure is a response to former Director May Scheve Reardon, who left the top job at the Lottery to take a job with a company that sells materials related to the Lottery’s scratch off ticket business.

Montana – Lawmakers Vote Down Proposed Changes to ’24 Senate Election

Helena Independent Record – Sam Wilson | Published: 4/19/2023

A proposal to rewrite the rules for the 2024 election for U.S. Sen. Jon Tester’s seat went down on a nearly unanimous committee vote after a Republican lawmaker said had been heavily lobbied by voters to oppose it. The legislation would have created an election in which candidates run together in the same primary, and then the top-two vote-getters advance to the general election. the proposal was written to only apply to Montana’s 2024 U.S. Senate race, earning accusations of partisan chicanery by the GOP.

Montana – Lawmakers Move to Slash Timeline for Prosecuting Campaign Finance Violations

Helena Independent Record – Sam Wilson | Published: 4/14/2023

House Bill 947 would cut the time allowed to pursue campaign finance violations in Montana to two years, instead of the current four-year period allowed for those cases to take shape. The bill’s sponsor, Rep. George Nikolokakos, told a Senate committee the legislation would bring the timeline closer to that of some other types of cases, like property damage. Former Commissioner of Political Practices Jonathan Motl said that timeline would have prevented him from pursuing a high-profile case against Art Wittich, who was found guilty in 2016 of illegally accepting corporate campaign contributions and illegally coordinating with a political group.

Nebraska – Nebraska Legislature Slow to Adopt Ethics Changes in the Year After Groene’s Resignation

Omaha World Herald – Erin Bamer | Published: 4/17/2023

It has been over a year since former state Sen. Mike Groene resigned amid allegations of workplace misconduct, and the Nebraska Legislature has not adopted many changes aimed at heading off future scandals. Some changes may be on the way, as the state’s Executive Board prepares to vote on a list of recommendations made by an interim ethics committee. But lawmakers are split in their views on whether these suggestions are sufficient. Groene resigned after news broke that he took photos of a former female staff member without her knowledge.

New Mexico – Ethics Allegations Move Forward Against State Treasurer Laura Montoya

Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 4/17/2023

The general counsel for the State Ethics Commission found probable cause to support allegations that Treasurer Laura Montoya violated New Mexico’s campaign finance and financial disclosure laws while running for office. The case will go before a hearing officer. The allegations center on whether Montoya failed to properly disclose the source of $10,000 in contributions and incorrectly filled out paperwork disclosing her personal finances.

New York – N.Y. Budget Chief’s Exit Prompts Inquiry into Covid Contract Deals

DNyuz – Jay Root (New York Times) | Published: 4/15/2023

The departure of two state officials in New York is now part of an inspector general review. As the deadline drew near for the state’s $220-billion-plus budget, it was announced that Sandra Beattie, the acting budget director who assembled the proposal, was being replaced. Beattie’s exit triggered a state investigation into tens of millions of dollars in taxpayer money used for no-bid contract expansions that went to private consultants under pandemic emergency decrees. Upon leaving, Beattie turned in a cellphone that had been wiped clean, making it difficult for investigators to discover if she had used it to hide potentially damaging communications.

North Dakota – Bill for Changes Sought by North Dakota Ethics Panel Goes to Burgum

Bismarck Tribune – Jack Dura | Published: 4/13/2023

Proposed changes to the North Dakota Ethics Commission’s procedures were sent to Gov. Doug Burgum. Senate Bill 2408 includes extending the time frame to notify an accused person of an ethics complaint, and adding criteria for who can make complaints. The ethics panel originally sought to add about 8,960 executive branch employees to its jurisdiction over “public officials,” but a Senate committee cut that proposed expansion from the bill.

Ohio – Former Columbus City Hall Lobbyist to Be Resentenced in Bribery Scheme

MSN – Daniel Griffin (WCMH) | Published: 4/15/2023

A federal appeals court ruled a former Columbus lobbyist must be resentenced. John Raphael faced up to 20 years in prison for accepting bribes, but U.S. District Court Judge Michael Watson sentenced him to just one day and then suspended that sentence.

Oklahoma – Okla. Governor Calls on Officials to Resign After ‘Horrid’ Audio Emerges

MSN – Jonathan Edwards (Washington Post) | Published: 4/18/2023

County officials dispatched with the agenda and ushered citizens out of a recent public meeting in southeastern Oklahoma, they spoke among themselves without realizing they were being secretly recorded. It was reported some officials hinted at assassinating a journalist who had reported on their alleged misconduct, and a county commissioner lamented about how they could no longer yank Black people out of the jail, “take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a … rope,” according to McCurtain Gazette-News.

Pennsylvania – Voters Are Still Getting Mailers from an Outside Group Boosting Jeff Brown for Mayor Despite a Judge’s Order

MSN – Anna Orso (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 4/19/2023

The nonprofit that was sued by the Philadelphia Board of Ethics over allegations it illegally coordinated with mayoral candidate Jeff Brown says it can continue circulating literature ahead of the primary election, under certain circumstances. But the Board of Ethics disagrees on what those ads can look like, and the matter will likely need to be settled in court. A judge told leaders of A Better Philadelphia and a PAC that it funds they must, at least temporarily, stop spending money to influence the May 16 primary election. But some residents have received mailed advertisements from the nonprofit recently.

South Carolina – SC GOP Consultant Richard Quinn’s Guilty Plea Brings Closure to Statehouse Probe

Charleston Post and Courier – Caitlin Ashworth | Published: 4/19/2023

Richard Quinn, once considered South Carolina’s most powerful Republican political consultant, pleaded guilty to perjury and obstruction of justice charges tied to the investigation into corruption at the statehouse. Quinn entered an Alford plea, where he did not admit guilt but agreed a jury would likely convict him. The charges came after Quinn testified before a grand jury as part of an agreement to drop previous charges in the corruption probe that examined conflicts among lawmakers and consultants, along with state agencies and large businesses, that lobby the General Assembly.

Vermont – Full Disclosure: Vermont’s legislative ethics forms are hard to find, out of date and limited in scope

VTDigger.org – Sarah Mearhoff | Published: 4/18/2023

In Vermont, lawmakers and candidates must file reports about their financial interests. But the information, while technically available to the public, is challenging both to unearth and decipher – in some cases coming in the form of barely legible handwritten documents. Some of those are available only by going to the statehouse in Montpelier and knowing who to ask. Of the 48 states that require candidates to file such disclosures, Vermont is the only one that has no statutory mechanisms to enforce its own rules, said Christina Sivret, executive director of the state’s Ethics Commission.

National/Federal

Appeals Court Upholds ‘Obstruction’ Charge Used Against Hundreds of Jan. 6 Rioters, for Now

ABC News – Ryan Reilly | Published: 4/7/2023

A federal appeals court panel affirmed the government’s use of an obstruction charge used against hundreds of defendants arrested in connection with the attack on the U.S. Capitol, though the complex opinion appears likely to result in additional litigation and leaves questions about the future of the use of the statute. A three-judge panel upheld the use of the obstruction of an official proceeding charge against defendants who assaulted law enforcement during the attack.

NPR Quits Elon Musk’s Twitter Over ‘Government-Funded’ Label

ABC News – Timothy O’Brien (Associated Press) | Published: 4/12/2023

National Public Radio (NPR) is quitting Twitter after the social media platform owned by Elon Musk stamped NPR’s account with labels the news organization says undermine its credibility. Twitter labeled NPR’s main account as “state-affiliated media,” a term also used to identify media outlets controlled or heavily influenced by authoritarian governments, such as Russia and China. Twitter later changed the label to “government-funded media.”

Judge Limits Fox’s Options for Defense in Dominion Trial

DNyuz – Jeremy Peters (New York Times) | Published: 4/11/2023

A judge ruled Fox News could not argue it broadcast false information about Dominion Voting Systems on the basis that the allegations were newsworthy, limiting a key line of defense for the network as it faces the beginning of a potentially costly defamation trial. The judge also ruled Dominion could not refer to the assault on the Capitol except in very narrow circumstances, saying he did not want jurors to be prejudiced by events that were not relevant to the central question in the case: did Fox air wild claims about Dominion’s purported involvement in a conspiracy to steal the 2020 presidential election from Donald Trump knowing they were lies?

New Pressure to End Old Senate Practice After Mississippi Judicial Pick Is Blocked

DNyuz – Carl Hulse (New York Times) | Published: 4/11/2023

Democrats hoped they were on the verge of a judicial breakthrough when President Biden nominated a Baton Rouge lawyer for a U.S. District Court vacancy and the two Republican senators from Louisiana offered no objections. Getting Republican senators to sign off on Biden nominees in their home states has been a struggle, slowing the Democratic drive to fill as many judicial slots as possible. But U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, Republican of Mississippi, then said she would not allow the nomination of Scott Colom, a candidate for a court vacancy in the state, to move forward, citing his past political support from the left, among other reasons.

Witnesses Asked About Trump’s Handling of Map with Classified Information

DNyuz – Maggie Haberman, Adam Goldman, and Alan Feuer (New York Times) | Published: 4/12/2023

Investigators are asking witnesses whether former President Trump showed off to aides and visitors a map he took with him when he left office that contains sensitive intelligence information. The map has been just one focus of the Justice Department probe into Trump’s handling of classified documents after he departed the White House. One person briefed on the matter said investigators have asked about Trump showing the map while aboard a plane. Another said investigators appeared to believe Trump showed the map to at least one adviser after leaving office.

Special Counsel Focuses on Trump Fundraising Off False Election Claims

MSN – Josh Dawsey, Devlin Barrett, Rosalind Helderman, and Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 4/12/2023

Federal prosecutors probing the attack on the U.S. Capitol have in recent weeks sought a wide range of documents related to fundraising after the 2020 election, looking to determine if former President Trump or his advisers scammed donors by using false claims about voter fraud to raise money. The fundraising prong of the investigation is focused on money raised during the period between November 3, 2020, and the end of Trump’s time in office, and prosecutors are said to be interested in whether anyone associated with the operation violated wire fraud laws, which make it illegal to make false representations over email to swindle people out of money.

Meta Won’t Say If Politicians Can Post AI-Made Fakes Without Warnings

MSN – Isaac Stanley-Becker (Washington Post) | Published: 4/7/2023

Political campaign operatives wrote to Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, asking how the company planned to address AI-generated fake images on its platforms. The inquiry testified to growing concern about the technology’s impact on American democracy among some of the top strategists preparing for the 2024 election. A Meta employee replied to the operatives saying such images, rather than being treated as manipulated media and removed under certain conditions, were being reviewed by independent fact-checkers who work with the company to examine misinformation and apply warning labels to dubious content.

New Report Outlines the Deep Political Polarization’s Slow and Steady March

MSN – Paul Kane (Washington Post) | Published: 4/8/2023

New research by David Wasserman, senor editor at the Cook Political Report, examines all 435 U.S. House districts to explain the geographical roots of political polarization and how hollowed-out the political middle has become. Although legislative gerrymandering plays a key role in letting representatives choose their constituents, the nation’s “urban/rural polarization” has been a much bigger factor over the past 25 years, Wasserman wrote. “The electorate has simply become much more homogenous than it used to be,” he said.

Clarence Thomas and the Billionaire

ProPublica – Joshua Kaplan, Justin Elliott, and Alex Mierjeski | Published: 4/6/2023

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas accepted luxury trips around the globe for more than two decades, including travel on a superyacht and private jet, from a prominent Republican donor without disclosing them. ProPublica reported on an array of trips funded by Harlan Crow, a Dallas businessperson. There are few restrictions on what gifts justices can accept. But Thomas’s failure to report the flights appears to violate a law that requires justices, judges, members of Congress, and federal officials to disclose most gifts, ethics law experts said.

Pressured by Their Base on Abortion, Republicans Strain to Find a Way Forward

Yahoo News – Jonathan Weisman (New York Times) | Published: 4/11/2023

Republican leaders have followed an emboldened base of conservative activists into what increasingly looks like a political cul-de-sac on the issue of abortion – a tightly confined absolutist position that has limited their options ahead of the 2024 election season, even as some in the party push for moderation. Some Republicans are warning the uncompromising position of their party’s activist base could be leading them over an electoral cliff next year.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Republican Said She ‘Barely’ Met with Lobbyists, but Her Calendar Shows Otherwise

Arizona Mirror – Jerod MacDonald-Evoy | Published: 4/10/2023

Arizona Sen. Justine Wadsack recently said she “barely” meets with lobbyists after she faced criticism from gun control lobbyists who she refused to meet, but a copy of her legislative calendar shows the lawmaker meets regularly with lobbyists and special interest groups. Public records revealed the majority of Wadsacks’ meetings were with lobbyists, many of whom do not reside in her legislative district. Wadsack’s calendar listed four meetings with voters from her district, and more than 30 meetings with lobbyists and special interest groups.

Arizona – Arizona House Republicans Expel One of Their Own

DNyuz – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 4/12/2023

The Arizona House expelled a Republican lawmaker who organized a presentation by an insurance agent who made unsubstantiated accusations that a wide range of politicians, judges, and public officials of both parties took bribes from a Mexican drug cartel. Rep. Liz Harris’s ouster came a day after the House Ethics Committee determined Harris violated legislative rules by inviting a witness to present false testimony.

Arizona – Printer Glitches in Ariz. Election Not Due to Malfeasance, Review Finds

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Isaac Stanley-Becker (Washington Post) | Published: 4/10/2023

The combination of heavier paper and longer ballots was responsible for problems tabulating votes at dozens of polling places in Maricopa County, Arizona, during last November’s midterm elections. The report’s public release marks the latest chapter in the board of supervisors’ quest to tamp down conspiracy theories about elections in the county, which is home to more than half the state’s voters. The printer problems caused confusion on Election Day as tabulators at the affected sites rejected faulty ballots.

California – What Happened on Ash Street? How a Criminal Probe into Suspected Conspiracy to ‘Defraud the City’ Was Settled with a Single Misdemeanor

MSN – Jeff McDonald (San Diego Union Tribune) | Published: 4/9/2023

When an investigator for District Attorney Summer Stephan was seeking warrants to search Jason Hughes’ home and office, he described a far-reaching conspiracy to swindle San Diego taxpayers out of millions of dollars through two separate real estate deals. Nearly two years later, Hughes pleaded guilty to a single misdemeanor charge, the only defendant in a criminal probe that had earlier implicated some of the most powerful elected officials and political donors in the city. Legal experts and pundits are debating what drove judges to push for settlements in the criminal and civil cases and why San Diego officials agreed to them.

California – Bredefeld, Chavez Slap Back at Fresno County Campaign Transfer Limit. It’s Heading to Court

Yahoo News – Tim Sheehan (Fresno Bee) | Published: 4/12/2023

Two Fresno City Council members filed a motion asking a judge to find unconstitutional a county ordinance limiting what they can transfer into their pending campaigns for county office. Fresno County adopted an ordinance in 2020 that put a $30,000 cap on transfers or contributions from a candidate’s campaign account for non-county elective offices into their campaign for county offices. In its lawsuit the county is asking a court for declaratory relief and decide whether that limit can be applied.

Colorado – Tina Peters, Trump Loyalist and Former Clerk, Is Sentenced in Obstruction Case

DNyuz – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 4/11/2023

Tina Peters, who was barred from overseeing elections in a Colorado county after her indictment on charges relating to tampering with voting equipment, was sentenced to home detention after she was convicted in a separate obstruction case. Peters, the former clerk in Mesa County, was given four months of house arrest and 120 hours of community service. A jury convicted her of stonewalling investigators from the district attorney’s office when they tried to seize an iPad from her that she had used to record a court proceeding.

District of Columbia – D.C. Housing Director’s $41,250 Bonus at Issue in Council Hearing

MSN – Steve Thompson (Washington Post) | Published: 4/12/2023

District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Director Brenda Donald recently received a $41,250 bonus on top of the $275,000 she makes annually to lead the embattled authority. She was questioned about the bonus by city council member Donald White. He also raised concerns that the DCHA is not sufficiently transparent about its affairs. At the routine oversight hearing, Donald told White that who approved the bonus and by what rationale was not his business as chair of the Housing Committee.

Hawaii – Ex-Hawaii Lawmaker Gets 2 Years in Prison for Taking Bribes

Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 4/6/2023

Former state Rep. Ty Cullen was sentenced to two years in prison for taking cash bribes of more than $25,000 as well as payments in the form of poker chips totaling $22,000 between 2015 and 2021 as part of a scheme to influence legislation involving wastewater and cesspools. He was also ordered to pay a $25,000 fine on top of a $23,000 forfeiture. Cullen assisted federal prosecutors as part of an ongoing investigation into public corruption in Hawaii.

Hawaii – Campaign Cash Flowed to Hawaii Senators Just Before an Energy Bill Vote. Reform Measures Won’t Stop It

Honolulu Civil Beat – Stewart Yerton | Published: 4/10/2023

Hawaii lawmakers are considering a bill that would prohibit registered lobbyists from donating to lawmakers during the legislative session. Individuals and entities who are not registered lobbyists, like the energy company executives, would still be allowed to donate during a session. A bill that would have prohibited all contributions was defeated. The bill is headed to a conference committee, where lawmakers will try to work out differences in House and Senate versions.

Illinois – Chicago Will Host 2024 Democratic Convention as Party Returns to Midwest

MSN – Katie Glueck and Shane Goldmacher (New York Times) | Published: 4/11/2023

Chicago will host the 2024 Democratic National Convention, elevating a large liberal city in the heart of the Midwest, a critical battleground region. In the final deliberations, Chicago beat out New York – another progressive city whose advocates had boasted of its infrastructure and fundraising resources – as well as Atlanta, in a presidential battleground state. Republicans plan to hold their national convention in Milwaukee, underscoring the fierce competition for the Midwest on the cusp of another presidential election.

Illinois – Federal Judge Sentences Longtime Political Operative to Probation in Corruption Probe

Yahoo News – Madeline Buckly and Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 4/12/2023

A federal judge lamented the pervasiveness of public corruption in Illinois as she ordered a one-year probation sentence for a longtime Chicago fire inspector and precinct captain who admitted to lying to the FBI in connection with a bribery probe into former state Sen. Martin Sandoval. Rudy Acosta pleaded guilty to misleading the FBI in a series of interviews about its investigation into Sandoval and other elected officials. The judge stressed the importance of sending a message to those in positions of power to deter official misconduct but took into account Acosta’s health issues and his “extensive” cooperation in FBI probes.

Kansas – Judge Won’t Toss Subpoenas Directed at Kansas Republican Officials Amid Ethics Probe

Yahoo News – Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) | Published: 4/11/2023

A judge declined to toss a sweeping series of subpoenas issued to local Republican Party leaders, clearing a potential path for the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission to be able to be enforce the documents in court.  The probe into the campaign finance activities of prominent legislators and state GOP officials has become increasingly open in recent months, with the ethics panel going to court to enforce the subpoenas and drawing pushback.

Kansas – Wichita Council OKs Airport Marketing Contract, Will Talk More About Conflicts of Interest

Yahoo News – Michael Kelly (Wichita Eage) | Published: 4/11/2023

The Wichita City Council approved a media buying contract for Eisenhower National Airport with Copp Media. The contract, approved a week after the council voted it down, includes new language prohibiting Copp from taking on mayoral or city council candidates as clients while doing business with the city. The council also voted to schedule a workshop where staff will present a policy for discussion about the ethics of double-dipping in city campaign work and city contract work.

Maryland – Chaos Erupts in House of Delegates as Tension Grips Final Moments of General Assembly Session

Maryland Matters – William Zorzi | Published: 4/11/2023

The Maryland General Assembly ended the 2023 session with high drama in both chambers as the final minutes in the House of Delegates devolved into a partisan shouting match, and the Senate president interrupted a motion for final adjournment with a last-seconds vote. The House descended into pandemonium in the final minutes amid a debate over a bill that would prohibit police from stopping or searching a person based solely on the odor of marijuana.

Michigan – Feds Unveil Corruption Charges in Mich. Marijuana Probe Involving Rick Johnson

Detroit News – Robert Snell and Craig Mauger | Published: 4/6/2023

Rick Johnson, the former chair of Michigan’s now-defunct Medical Marijuana Licensing Board, pleaded guilty alongside three others as part of a public corruption probe surrounding the state’s system for regulating medical marijuana. Johnson, who also served as House speaker, was charged with accepting bribes in exchange for licenses to launch marijuana facilities, federal prosecutors said. Also pleading guilty were two lobbyists who were charged with conspiracy to commit bribery – Brian Pierce and Vincent Brown.

New Jersey – Advocates See Few Upsides to Recent Pay-to-Play Overhaul

New Jersey Monitor – Nikita Biryukov | Published: 4/10/2023

Good government advocates warn changes to New Jersey’s “pay-to-play” laws under the Elections Transparency Act will enable corruption. Advocates warn the campaign finance bill Gov. Phil Murphy signed into law  will weaken safeguards meant to prevent local and state officials from steering public contracts to donors. The law ends local “pay-to-play” ordinances that are often stricter than state law, permits the executive branch to award contracts through a system that critics have decried as a loophole, and removes donations to political parties from the list of those that invoke the anti-corruption protections.

New Jersey – N.J. Town Approves Legal Weed Business Represented by State Democratic Chair’s Lobbying Firm

Newark Star Ledger – Jelani Gibson (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 4/13/2023

The East Orange City Council approved a cannabis dispensary applicant represented by a lobbying firm belonging to New Jersey Democratic Party Chairperson Leroy Jones Jr. while rejecting a local applicant who had pointed out that connection, a move that drew scorn from residents at a council meeting. Precious Osagie-Erese, co-founder of the local applicant for a dispensary, Roll-Up Life, had been critical of Nimbus Holdings being represented in the municipality’s selection process by Jones’ lobbying firm, 1868 Public Affairs.

New York – Key Campaign Player for NYC Mayor Adams Raised Reelection Funds While Taking Money to Lobby His Office, Sparking Ethics Concerns

MSN – Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) | Published: 4/9/2023

New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign fundraising manager solicited donations for the mayor’s reelection bid last year while simultaneously being paid to lobby his administration on behalf of a Manhattan property owner with business before the city, according to a review of public records. There is no indication the aide, Brianna Suggs, ran afoul of any laws in playing the dual roles.

New York – Manhattan D.A. Sues Congress Members for ‘Brazen’ Attack on Trump Prosecution

MSN – Shayna Jacobs and Amy Wang (Washington Post) | Published: 4/11/2023

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg filed a federal lawsuit against U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan and others for what the prosecutor says is a brazen and unconstitutional attack by members of Congress on the prosecution and investigation of former President Trump. The civil complaint in seeks to interrupt an investigation launched by Jordan, chair of the House Judiciary Committee. Jordan and his committee are trying to obtain confidential investigative materials compiled during the district attorney’s criminal probe.

North Dakota – Bills to Boost Campaign Finance Transparency Hit Dead End in North Dakota Legislature

Fargo Forum – Jeremy Turley | Published: 4/10/2023

A recent rise in nebulous political spending has increased the desire among lawmakers for reforming North Dakota’s campaign finance law, but most measures to expand reporting requirements fell flat this year. A unique feature of thew law means groups designated as multicandidate committees are not required to list the recipients of their expenditures.

Oregon – Oregon Secretary of State’s Office Uses Business Registry to Try to Drum Up Support for Budget Request

Oregon Capital Chronicle – Julia Shumway | Published: 4/10/2023

An email from a state division director asking customers to advocate for the agency’s budget raised eyebrows among business owners and lawmakers. The request comes as legislative budget writers urge agencies to trim their budgets, keeping open positions vacant and spending less amid economic uncertainty. Corporation Division Director Eloisa Miller emailed everyone who has registered a business in Oregon asking them to submit written testimony supporting the request.

Pennsylvania – The Philadelphia Board of Ethics Is Accusing Mayoral Candidate Jeff Brown of Illegally Coordinating with a Super PAC

MSN – Chris Brennan, Sean Collins Walsh, and Anna Orsco (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 4/10/2023

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics accused a super PAC called For a Better Philadelphia and a nonprofit of the same name of coordinating with mayoral candidate Jeff Brown to circumvent the city’s contribution limits. The board asked Common Pleas Court Judge Joshua Roberts to issue an emergency order prohibiting the groups from spending money to influence the May 16 primary election and cancel any planned television advertising or other efforts to support Brown’s campaign. The board is also seeking $162,000 in fines to be paid jointly by the two groups for repeatedly violating the city’s campaign finance laws as part of the alleged scheme.

Pennsylvania – How a Pa. City Manager Allegedly Stole Thousands of Taxpayer Dollars with Virtually No Oversight

Spotlight PA – Min Xian and Angela Couloumbis | Published: 4/10/2023

Herm Suplizio, the manager of DuBois, a small city about two hours from Pittsburgh, was arrested for stealing more than $600,000 from public accounts over which he had signatory control. The scheme was so elaborate, according to officials, that investigators with backgrounds in organized and financial crimes were brought in to untangle what charging documents describe as a web of money moving in and out of accounts, with little oversight or accountability. Residents are wondering if Suplizio is convicted, how could such a large theft in a place so small occur without anyone noticing?

Tennessee – Black Lawmaker Who Was Expelled Reinstated to Tennessee Seat

Associated Press News – Jonathan Mattise, Travis Loller, and Kimberlee Kruesi | Published: 4/11/2023

One of the two Black Democrats who were expelled from the Republican-led Tennessee House was reinstated after Nashville’s governing council voted to send him back to the Legislature. The unanimous vote by the Metropolitan Council took only a few minutes to restore Rep. Justin Jones to office just four days after Republicans stripped him of his seat. The expulsions made Tennessee a new front in the battle for the future of American democracy and propelled the ousted lawmakers into the national spotlight.

Tennessee – In Tennessee, Second Expelled Black Democratic Lawmaker Is Reappointed

MSN – Robert Klemko and Karin Brulliard (Washington Post) | Published: 4/12/2023

Justin Pearson, one of two Black Democratic lawmakers expelled by Republican representatives for leading a gun-control protest on the Tennessee House floor, was reappointed to the office, returning to his seat after a tumultuous week that deepened partisan rancor in the state and transformed the pair into national political figures. Shelby County commissioners voted unanimously to reinstate Pearson two days after commissioners in Nashville voted unanimously to return the other expelled lawmaker, Justin Jones, to the statehouse.

Tennessee – Tennessee Expulsions Prompt Senate Democrats to Call for DOJ Inquiry

MSN – Matthew Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 4/12/2023

U.S. Senate Democrats urged the Department of Justice to investigate the expulsions of two state representatives in Tennessee to determine whether their removal violated the Constitution or federal civil rights law. Their letter is the first formal effort by federal lawmakers in response to the removals. The Republican-dominated Tennessee House expelled Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson both Democrats, after they led protesters in chants for gun control from the floor of the chamber.

Tennessee – Judges Block Tennessee Move to Cut Nashville Council in Half

Yahoo News – Jonathan Mattise (Associated Press) | Published: 4/10/2023

The Democratic-leaning city of Nashville’s Metropolitan Council will get to keep all 40 of its seats for now under a temporary decision issued by three state judges. The ruling stymies an effort by state Republican lawmakers to cut the council in half after it blocked the 2024 Republican National Convention from coming to the Music City. Nashville has operated under a combined city-county government system with 40 council members since 1963, when leaders were wrestling with consolidating the city and surrounding county as advocates worked to ensure Black leaders maintained strong representation.

Texas – Texas Senate Approves Ban on Local Governments Using Public Funds on Lobbyists

MSN – Hogan Grace (Austin American-Statesman) | Published: 4/12/2023

The Texas Senate approved legislation that would restrict how local governments could fund lobbyists to help them influence proposed state laws and policies moving through the Legislature. Senate Bill 175 would ban cities, counties and school districts from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists tasked with pressing lawmakers for action. The bill also prohibits political subdivisions from using public funds to pay nonprofit state associations or organizations, such as the Texas Municipal League, that contract registered lobbyists.

Texas – Gov. Greg Abbott Announces He Will Push to Pardon Daniel Perry After Murder Conviction

MSN – Tony Plohetski, Claire Osborn, and Ryan Autullo (Austin American-Statesman) | Published: 4/10/2023

Less than 24 hours after a jury found Daniel Perry guilty of shooting to death a protester, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced he would pardon the convicted killer as soon as a request “hits my desk.” The unprecedented effort came as Abbott faced growing calls from national conservative figures to undo the conviction. “Texas has one of the strongest ‘Stand your ground’ laws of self-defense that cannot be nullified by a jury or progressive district attorney,” Abbott said in a statement.

Virginia – Hounded by Baseless Voter Fraud Allegations, an Entire County’s Election Staff Quits in Virginia

MSN – Jane Timm (NBC News) | Published: 4/10/2023

Three weeks ago, Buckingham County Registrar Lindsey Taylor, along with two part-time staffers, quit. Their resignations followed a deputy registrar who left in February. The four departures left residents without a functioning registrar’s office; there was no way to register to vote or certify candidate paperwork, at least temporarily. In January, the GOP assumed control of the Buckingham County Electoral Board that oversees Taylor’s office, and local Republicans began advancing baseless voter fraud claims that baffled her. The electoral board made it clear it wanted her out of the job.

Wisconsin – Two Candidates Tied in a Town Election. They Settled It with a Dice Roll.

MSN – Kyle Melnick (Washington Post) | Published: 4/10/2023

When Nate Bell received a photo of his Wisconsin village’s election results, he was in disbelief. The photo showed he and the other candidate for the village board’s president, Rob Zoschke, had each received 256 votes. Bell wondered how the tie would be resolved. The Village of Sister Bay’s board settled on a game of chance: a dice roll. A dice representing Bell landed on six; Zoschke’s dice stopped on two. Bell’s number was larger, so he was selected as the village’s new president.

National/Federal

Attacks on Dominion Voting Persist Despite High-Profile Lawsuits

DNyuz – Stuart Thompson | Published: 4/6/2023

Claims that election software companies like Dominion Voting Systems sent helped orchestrate widespread fraud in the 2020 election have been widely debunked in the years since former President Trump and his allies first pushed the theories. But far-right Americans on social media and influencers in the news media have continued in recent weeks and months to make unfounded assertions about the company and its electronic voting machines, pressuring government officials to scrap contracts with Dominion, sometimes successfully.

Feds: Fugees rapper Pras Michel ran global influence-peddling scheme for cash

MSN – Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 3/30/2023

In opening arguments, federal prosecutors portrayed rap star Pras Michel as a washed-up, money-hungry entertainer who embarked on a brazen secret-influence scheme aimed at the highest levels of the U.S. government. The trial is a chance for the government to recover from a string of high-profile courtroom defeats it has suffered in recent years as it followed through on promises to crack down on foreign-influence efforts.

Nashville Shooting Exploited by Right to Escalate Anti-Trans Rhetoric

MSN – Fenit Nirappil (Washington Post) | Published: 3/30/2023

Conservative commentators and Republican politicians unleashed a new wave of anti-trans rhetoric following the shooting at a Nashville Christian school that killed six people, escalating a broader backlash to the rising visibility of transgender people in public life. The attempts on the right to connect violence to transgender people come even though transgender people are rarely the perpetrators of mass shootings.

Justice Dept. Said to Have More Evidence of Possible Trump Obstruction at Mar-a-Lago

MSN – Devlin Barrett and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 4/2/2023

Justice Department investigators have amassed fresh evidence pointing to possible obstruction by former President Trump in the investigation into top-secret documents found at his Mar-a-Lago home, according to people familiar with the matter. The new details highlight the degree to which special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into the potential mishandling of hundreds of classified national security papers at Trump’s Florida home and private club has come to focus on the obstruction elements of the case – whether the former president took or directed actions to impede government efforts to collect all the sensitive records.

Dominion’s Historic Defamation Case Against Fox News Will Go to Trial, Judge Rules, in Major Decision Dismantling Key Fox Defenses

MSN – Marshall Cohen (CNN) | Published: 3/31/2023

Dominion Voting Systems’ defamation case against Fox News will proceed to a jury trial, a judge ruled, in a decision that dismantled several of the network’s key defenses. The network’s highest-ranking executives and most prominent hosts could be called to the stand to testify about the 2020 election lies that were promoted on its programs. One question that jurors will not need to weigh was whether Fox’s claims about Dominion were true or false. “The evidence developed in this civil proceeding demonstrates that is CRYSTAL clear that none of the Statements relating to Dominion about the 2020 election are true,” Superior Court Judge Eric Davis wrote.

Key Senate Dems Want Supreme Court Funding Tied to an Ethics Code for Justices

MSN – Tierny Sneed (CNN) | Published: 4/3/2023

Key Senate Democrats are calling for next year’s funding for the U.S. Supreme Court to be conditioned on the creation of an ethics code for the justices. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, who leads the appropriations subcommittee charged with writing the annual funding bill for the judiciary, has expressed support for the idea. Other members of the Democratic caucus are proposing language to be attached to next year’s funding bill that would require the Supreme Court to adopt more transparent processes for recusals and for investigating ethics allegations lodged against the justices.

Twitter Slaps NPR with a Dubious New Tag: ‘State-affiliated media’

MSN – Paul Farhi (Washington Post) | Published: 4/5/2023

Is NPR “U.S. state-affiliated media”? Twitter and its new owner, Elon Musk, seem to think so. Over NPR’s protests, Twitter placed that label on its account, implying the nonprofit news organization is somehow connected to, if not controlled by, the federal government. The designation puts NPR, which has 8.8 million followers on the site, in the same Twitter category as propaganda outlets like the Russian-government-owned RT and the Chinese Communist Party’s People’s Daily newspaper.

Pence Won’t Appeal Ruling That Compels His Grand Jury Testimony on Jan. 6

MSN – Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 4/5/2023

Former Vice President Mike Pence will not appeal a judge’s ruling that requires him to testify in front of a grand jury exploring the attack on the U.S. Capitol, likely setting up a pivotal moment in the special counsel investigation related to former President Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Pence’s decision means he will probably testify under oath about Trump’s attempts to pressure him, and he could be a key witness. Trump’s team could still appeal the ruling, but they have lost similar cases previously.

The Price of a Ballot Signature Is Way Up, and Experts Worry It’s Encouraging Fraud

NPR – Ashley Lopez | Published: 4/6/2023

Michigan’s election for governor was upended last year when several Republicans were removed from the primary ballot for problems with their voter signatures. The news highlighted instances of suspected fraud in the process, which experts say could be encouraged by higher rates signature-gathering companies are now charging for their services. As a result, states such as Colorado and California are hoping to crack down on bad actors in the signature-gathering industry.

From the States and Municipalities

Oceania – Government’s Proposed Crackdown on Lobbyists Dismissed as Too Tentative

Radio New Zealand – Staff | Published: 4/4/2023

Following a media investigation into lobbying in New Zealand, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins commissioned long-term work on regulating the industry, but in the meantime wanted lobbyists to develop their own code of conduct and is removing their swipe card access to Parliament. Hipkins said while there may not be a problem with lobbying in New Zealand, there was the perception of a problem.

Arizona – Legislative Election Committees Catered to Conspiracy Theorists

Arizona Mirror – Caitlin Sievers | Published: 4/5/2023

Republican-controlled committees in both chambers of the Arizona Legislature that were charged with vetting election-reform bills used their time this year to cater to fringe right-wing conspiracy theorists and to approve measures that would make big changes to how elections are run in this state. Both the Senate and House elections committees, chaired by Sen. Wendy Rogers and Rep. Jacqueline Parker, had their last meetings recently. They used their hearings to host presentations by election conspiracy theorists and then to advance legislation that would cater to supposed election problems and alleged fraud at the heart of those conspiracy theories.

Arizona – Legislator Testifies That She Had No Idea Guest Speaker Would Make Bribery Allegations

White Mountain Independent – Bob Christie (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 3/31/2023

An Arizona lawmaker defending herself against an ethics complaint swore she was not aware ahead of time that an insurance agent planned to present what were later called “unsubstantiated and defamatory allegations” at a legislative hearing. But Rep. Liz Harris’s repeated statements that she did not know what Jacqueline Breger was going to say at a special election hearing appeared to be contradicted by a series of text messages the Ethics Committee released.

California – Planned Construction Could Forever Change the California Capitol’s West Steps. What Would That Mean for Protests and Events?

Capital Public Radio – Nicole Nixon | Published: 4/6/2023

For more than a century, the state Capito’s west steps have been one of the definitive Sacramento and California gathering places. The historic granite steps, which lead to the Capitol’s original entrance and overlook the downtown Mall, have hosted everything from decades of pro- and anti-war demonstrations and the Women’s March to gubernatorial inaugurations. But critics say plans to build an underground visitor’s center on the west side of the Capitol could displace large gatherings for years, or permanently, and forever alter the west steps’ ability to host thousands of people.

California – Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor’s Mystery ‘Special Advisor’ Raises Legal Concerns, Experts Say

East Bay Times – Grace Hase (Bay Area News Group) | Published: 4/3/2023

Santa Clara resident and small business owner Kirk Vartan has been a special advisor to Mayor Lisa Gillmor for the last three years, but now the city says it was never aware of the appointment and few records between the two exist, sparking concerns about transparency, ethics, and even legal complications. Vartan and Gillmor said the position is volunteer only and he is not paid, and Vartan asserted the city was notified.

California – Mark Ridley-Thomas Found Guilty in Corruption Case

MSN – Matt Hamilton (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 3/30/3023

A longtime Los Angeles politician was convicted on federal corruption charges in a scheme in which prosecutors said he promised to help steer a multimillion-dollar government contract to the University of Southern California (USC) if his son got a scholarship and a teaching job. Mark Ridley-Thomas now faces the possibility of years in federal prison and the permanent loss of his seat on the city council, from which he has been suspended for the last 17 months. The foreperson of the jury said the funneling of a $100,000 donation from Ridley-Thomas’ campaign committee through USC to a nonprofit led by the politician’s son persuaded jurors to convict.

Colorado – State Increases Campaign Finance Limits

Grand Junction Daily Sentinel – Charles Ashby | Published: 4/6/2023

Voters can give a little more money to state and local candidates under new rules adopted by the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office. In its normal periodic adjustment of campaign contribution limits to account for inflation, donors can give $100 more per election to candidates as governor, attorney general, and secretary of state. For contributors to legislative races, the limit goes from $200 to $225 per election, which means a primary race and the general election, among other changes.

Florida – Florida Republicans Poised to Make More Changes to Election Laws

MSN – Gary Fineout (Politico) | Published: 4/3/2023

Florida Senate Republicans released a comprehensive elections bill that includes a provision designed to undercut legal arguments that were made by those who were charged as part of a crackdown on voter fraud. The lengthy bill also changes campaign finance deadlines, speeds up when local officials must scrub voter rolls for dead and ineligible voters, and increases fines on voter registration groups if they break the law.

Florida – DeSantis Wants State Investigation into Disney Power Play

Politico – Andrew Atterbury | Published: 4/3/2023

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, apparently outflanked by Disney in a tug-of-war over the control over the thousands of acres that is home to theme parks, is now ordering an investigation into how the dynamic shift happened. The governor requested a “thorough review and investigation” by state officials into an agreement reached by the outgoing Walt Disney Co. board aiming to stymie Florida’s efforts to grab greater authority over the company’s special land district near Orlando. That deal swung power away from the new leadership board installed by the governor and created just months ago by the Legislature.

Hawaii – Hawaii Governor Signs 7 Government, Ethics Reform Bills

MSN – Audrey McAvoy (Associated Press) | Published: 3/31/2023

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green signed seven good-government bills drafted in response to news last year that two former state lawmakers had accepted bribes in exchange for influencing legislation. One measure, House Bill 137, would require lobbyists to report not only the general subject they are advocating for but the specific bill number or the identification number of the program they discussed with officials.

Illinois – Brandon Johnson Projected to Win Chicago Mayoral Election

MSN – Kim Bellware, Sabrina Rodriguez, and Colby Itkowitz (Washington Post) | Published: 4/4/2023

Brandon Johnson, a Cook County commissioner and former public school teacher, won Chicago’s mayoral runoff. He will succeed Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who lost her bid for reelection when she came in third in February’s general election. Analysts said Lightfoot bore the brunt of the blame for an increase in crime across the city. Johnson’s win over Paul Vallas, a conservative Democrat, was a major victory for the liberal wing of the party.

Indiana – City Council Creates Committee to Develop Ethics Commission for Muncie Government

Yahoo News – David Penticuff (Muncie Star Press) | Published: 4/4/2023

The Muncie City Council took an initial step toward establishing a ethics commission to provide oversight and guidance for city government. Council members adopted a resolution creating a nine-member ethics advisory committee of people from outside local government to explore the creation of a commission. A proposed ethics code would govern elected officials, appointees to boards and commissions, city employees, and individuals and entities that have a business relationship with Muncie.

Maine – Penobscot County Commissioner Voted to Give Contract to His Business Associate

Bangor Daily News – Sawyer Loftus | Published: 4/5/2023

The chairperson of the Penobscot County Commission voted to hire a lobbyist he personally worked with as recently as last year. Andre Cushing did not recuse himself from a vote in January for the county to enter into a contract with Patriot Consulting, which is owned and operated by Zachary Lingley, a lobbyist and political operative. The ethics policy states county employees should not carry on county business with a firm in which the county employee has an interest.

Maryland – Roy McGrath Shot Dead in Tennessee as FBI Closed in After Three-Week Search

MSN – Alex Mann and Lee Sanderlin (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 4/4/2023

Roy McGrath was fatally shot as federal agents sought to arrest him in Tennessee, ending a three-week fugitive search for former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan’s ex-chief of staff. McGrath was supposed to stand trial on fraud charges in the U.S. District Court in Baltimore on March 13. He never showed up. Prosecutors allege McGrath stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from the state during his tenure at the helm of the government-owned nonprofit Maryland Environmental Service.

Missouri – Judge Rejects Ex-Missouri Lawmaker’s Push to Overturn Revolving-Door Lobbying Ban

Missouri Independent – Rudi Keller | Published: 4/3/2023

Missouri’s ban on lobbying by lawmakers and legislative staff ban does not violate the right to free speech, a federal judge ruled. Former state Rep. Rocky Miller and General Assembly employee John LaVanchy sued to overturn the lobbying ban, which voters approved in 2018 as part of the Clean Missouri amendment to the state constitution. The amendment prohibits current lawmakers and employees of the General Assembly from paid lobbying during their time of service and for two years after they leave office.

Missouri – Missouri Anti-Discrimination Agency Dysfunctional, Lawyers Say, as Chairman Condemned

Yahoo News – Jonathan Shorman (Kansas City Star) | Published: 4/5/2023

When the chairperson of the Missouri Commission on Human Rights spoke against adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the state’s non-discrimination law, the remarks provoked outrage among Democrats and LGBTQ advocates. But the comments from Timothy Faber have also turned a spotlight on the commission itself, which lawyers and employment discrimination experts say is a broken agency unable to effectively respond to allegations of discrimination.

Montana – Proposed Constitutional Amendment Would End Montana Supreme Court Elections

Montana Free Press – Arren Kimbel-Sannit | Published: 3/30/2023

The House Judiciary Committee endorsed a proposed constitutional amendment that would end state Supreme Court elections in Montana, giving the governor power to appoint justices to the bench with Senate confirmation. House Bill 915 is the long-awaited culmination of Republican efforts this year to remake the state court system and its processes. The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Bill Mercer, framed the bill as an effort to combat the proliferation of campaign money in state judicial elections.

Nebraska – Goins Resigns Amid Questions About Conflicts of Interest, Improper Use of State Email

Nebraska Examiner – Paul Hammel | Published: 4/5/2023

Nebraska’s top economic developer, Tony Goins, announced his resignation amid questions about conflicts-of-interest between his state job and co-ownership of a Lincoln cigar lounge. Goins had served as director of the Department of Economic Development since 2019. Media reports detailed instances when Goins directed business to the Capital Cigar Lounge, in which he has a 51 percent ownership interest.

New Jersey – Murphy Signs Disputed Election Finance Bill That Gives Him More Power Over Watchdog Agency

Yahoo News – Ashley Balcerzak (Bergen Record) | Published: 4/3/2023

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed a controversial overhaul of the state’s campaign finance system that drastically raises limits on political contributions, curbs investigations of campaign finance violations, loosens the “pay-to-play” law, and gives Murphy more power over the Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC). All three ELEC members resigned in protest after the General Assembly approved the legislation. Lawmakers pulled the bill from scheduled full chamber votes several times after substantial provisions were added and pushed through the process at the last minute.

New York – Trump Indictment Follows 50 Years of Investigation on Many Fronts

MSN – Marc Fisher (Washington Post) | Published: 3/30/2023

Donald Trump has portrayed himself as the consummate dealmaker and the ultimate escape artist, an entrepreneur turned politician who managed to avoid major consequences despite having been investigated in every decade of his adult life by federal and state agencies, by bankers and casino regulators, by legions of prosecutors and competitors. Now, 50 years after federal officials first accused Trump and his father of violating laws that barred racial discrimination in apartment rentals, the former president has been indicted.

New York – Trump Pleads Not Guilty to 34 Felony Charges

Politico – Erica Orden, Kyle Cheney, and Josh Gerstein | Published: 4/4/2023

A stone-faced Donald Trump made a momentous courtroom appearance when he was confronted with a 34-count felony indictment charging him in a scheme to bury allegations of extramarital affairs that arose during his first White House campaign, becoming the first ex-president to ever face criminal charges. The indictment centers on allegations Trump falsified internal business records his private company while trying to cover up an effort to illegally influence the 2016 election by arranging payments that silenced claims potentially harmful to his candidacy.

North Carolina – N.C. Lawmaker Flips Parties, Handing State GOP a Veto-Proof Majority

MSN – Dan Rosenzweig-Ziff (Washington Post) | Published: 4/4/2023

A North Carolina lawmaker elected as a Democrat is defecting to the GOP, handing Republicans a veto-proof supermajority in the state Legislature. Rep. Tricia Cotham’s party change gives the GOP increased power over key issues like abortion and elections. She cited her treatment by Democrats as her motivation to switch parties. Cotham said she has been “bullied” for not toeing the party line and accused Gov. Roy Cooper and the state Democratic Party of demanding she follow the lead of top state officials.

Ohio – Dobos Resigns as Vice Chair of Ohio House Higher Ed Committee Over False MIT Grad Claim

MSN – Bill Bush (Columbus Dispatch) | Published: 4/5/2023

Ohio Rep. David Dobos resigned as vice chair of the House Higher Education Committee following a report that he falsely claimed to have graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The claim of holding an MIT degree has been repeated by Dobos often dating back some 30 years, in everything from campaigns to casual conversations. Dobos has already come under scrutiny for not disclosing $1.45 million in outstanding debts. State law requires legislative candidates to disclose people or businesses to whom they owe more than $1,000.

Ohio – AEP Doesn’t Have Much to Say About Its Support for Corrupt Utility Bailout

Ohio Capital Journal – Marty Schladen | Published: 4/3/2023

The utility AEP was not at the center of a bribery and money-laundering scandal in 2019. But it also was not very far away as a corrupt deal was hatched in the Ohio Capitol to use $61 million in bribes to pass a $1.3 billion bailout for nuclear power plants. AEP came up repeatedly in the trial that ended in the racketeering convictions of former House Speaker Larry Householder and former state GOP Chairperson Matt Borges. Through its dark-money group, AEP provided more than $900,000 that was used to help pass the bailout. It has received more than $60 million to subsidize aging coal plants that belong to a consortium in which it owns a 40% stake.

Oregon – Portland Auditor Finds Insufficient Evidence ShotSpotter Violated City Code

Oregon Public Broadcasting – Jonathan Levinson | Published: 4/4/2023

An investigation by the city auditor’s office found insufficient evidence that gunshot detection company ShotSpotter violated Portland’s lobbying rules, clearing the way for the city’s pursuit of the technology. After receiving a complaint, the auditor’s office reviewed whether ShotSpotter had passed the time or monetary thresholds in its courting of the city for a contract that would have required it to register as a lobbying entity. Private companies are required to register as lobbying entities if they have spent eight cumulative hours or at least $1,000 during any calendar quarter lobbying.

Pennsylvania – Campaign Finance, Lobbying Reform Still Receiving Little Attention in Pa. Legislature

Spotlight PA – Angela Couloumbis | Published: 3/31/2023

During the five hours that legislators questioned Pennsylvania Department of State officials during recent hearings, they inquired about the agency’s work on campaign finance and lobbying just twice. For those who follow the Capitol closely, it came as little surprise. Republican legislative leaders have not substantively discussed improving the state’s campaign finance and lobbying disclosure rules for more than a decade, despite calls by good-government advocates and others for changes.

Tennessee – Tennessee GOP Begins Expulsion Process for 3 Democrats, House Session Devolves into Chaos

MSN – Melissa Brown and Vivian Jones (Tennessean) | Published: 4/4/2023

Tennessee House Republicans introduced resolutions to expel three Democrats for “disorderly behavior” after the trio led protest chants for gun reform on the floor of the chamber in the wake of the deadly Covenant School shooting. The three House Democrats had approached the podium between bills without being recognized to speak, a breach of chamber rules. With a bullhorn, Reps. Gloria Johnson, Justin Jones, and Justin Pearson led protestors in the galleries in several chants calling for gun reform. House leadership later likened the trio’s behavior to an “insurrection.”

Texas – Texas Judge Orders Banned Books Returned to Library Shelves

MSN – Cheyanne Daniels (The Hill) | Published: 4/3/2023

A federal judge in Texas ruled Llano County officials must return more than a dozen books they had banned and removed from the county’s library shelves during 2021. The preliminary order by U.S. District Court Judge Robert Pitman also prohibited the county from removing any other books as the court case is pending. The library’s catalog is required to be updated to show county residents the removed books are once again available. In his ruling, Pitman said, “Defendants removed the books at issue to prevent access to viewpoints and content to which they objected.”

Texas – Bills Advance to Close Loophole Allowing Some Lawmakers to Increase Their Pay to $140,000

Texas Tribune – James Barragán | Published: 3/29/2023

Lawmakers are moving forward with a measure to do away with a loophole that allows long-serving legislators to increase their annual pay by $140,000 by dipping into their pension while continuing to draw a state salary. Pension payments for state employees grow based on years of service and are typically capped at the state worker’s maximum salary. But state lawmakers, who make an annual salary of $7,200, have retirement benefits tied to the salaries of state District Court judges, who make $140,000, meaning lawmakers who stay in office could have an opportunity to collect retirement payments that far exceed their state salaries.

Virginia – Judge Orders GOP Primary in Va. Senate Race After Party Official Sues

MSN – Laura Vozzella (Washington Post) | Published: 3/30/2023

A judge ordered Virginia to hold a Republican primary in a Suffolk-area state Senate contest, ruling in favor of a Republican official who accused Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s chief of staff and Attorney General Jason Miyares of pressuring the state elections chief into canceling it in favor of a convention. Circuit Court Judge Claire Cardwell ordered state Elections Commissioner Susan Beals to once again schedule the June Republican primary that had been announced but then called off.

Wisconsin – Liberals Win Control of Wisconsin Supreme Court Ahead of Abortion Case

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 4/4/2023

Liberals claimed control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, giving them a one-vote majority on a body that in the coming years will likely consider the state’s abortion ban, its gerrymandered legislative districts, and its voting rules for the 2024 presidential election. Milwaukee County Judge Janet Protasiewicz’s victory over former state Supreme Court Justice Daniel Kelly will end 15 years of conservative control of the court. Candidates, political parties, and independent groups spent more than $40 million on the race, making it the most expensive judicial contest in U.S. history.

National/Federal

Former Trump Officials Must Testify in 2020 Election Inquiry, Judge Says

DNyuz – Maggie Haberman and Alan Feuer (New York Times) | Published: 3/24/2023

A federal judge ruled a number of former officials from former President Trump’s administration – including his former chief of staff, Mark Meadows – cannot invoke executive privilege to avoid testifying to a grand jury investigating Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Prosecutors are likely to be especially eager to hear from Meadows, who refused to be interviewed by the House select committee that investigated the attack on the Capitol. Meadows was a central player in various efforts to help Trump reverse the election outcome in a number of contested states.

A Campaign Aide Didn’t Write That Email. A.I. Did.

DNyuz – Shane Goldmacher (New York Times) | Published: 3/28/2023

Inside political campaigns, artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to soon help perform mundane tasks that previously required fleets of interns. Republican and Democratic engineers alike are racing to develop tools to harness AI to make advertising more efficient, to engage in predictive analysis of public behavior, to write more and more personalized copy, and to discover new patterns in mountains of voter data. The technology is evolving so fast that most predict a profound impact, even if specific ways in which it will upend the political system are more speculation than science.

Fetterman Set to Return to Senate Week of April 17

MSN – Al Weaver (The Hill) | Published: 3/29/2023

Sources said U.S. Sen. John Fetterman is set to return to the Senate the week of April 17. He has been absent since mid-February after checking himself into Walter Reed Medical Military Hospital with clinical depression. U.S. Sen. Bob Casey said he met with his fellow Keystone State lawmaker recently and was pleased to see how he was doing.

How TikTok Built a ‘Team of Avengers’ to Fight for Its Life

MSN – Hailey Fuchs, Clothilde Goujard, and Daniel Lippman (Politico) | Published: 3/30/2023

TikTok’s battle for survival has become a vivid study in how a wealthy, foreign-owned corporation can use its financial might to build an impressive-looking network of influence, and in the limitations of what lobbying can do to protect a company at the center of a firestorm. A Politico investigation revealed an effort by TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, dating back to at least 2018, long before concerns about TikTok’s Chinese ownership reached their current pitch.

House’s Monthly Pay Cycle, an Inconvenience for Some, Could Get Review

MSN – Justin Papp (Roll Call) | Published: 3/30/2023

When money gets low, some Capitol Hill staffers hit up receptions for free food. Others, especially junior staffers, work multiple jobs to get them from one paycheck to the next. Still others run up credit card debt while working in the halls of Congress. The low pay for staff has been an issue for years. But the infrequency of the paychecks, just one per month, can compound the problem.

Schools Forced to Divert Staff Amid Historic Flood of Records Requests

MSN – Hannah Natanson and Karina Elwood (Washington Post) | Published: 3/27/2023

School districts across the nation are facing a mounting pile of increasingly complex records requests from parents, community members, or attorneys representing education advocacy groups – all of whom say they want greater transparency about how local children are educated. The focus is on curriculum documentation or the contents of emails between school board members, as concerns have spread over what public schools are teaching about race, gender and sexual orientation.

Indicted Chinese Exile Controls Gettr Social Media Site, Ex-Employees Say

MSN – Joseph Menn (Washington Post) | Published: 3/26/2023

An exiled Chinese tycoon indicted in New York in a billion-dollar fraud case controls the conservative social media platform Gettr and used it to promote cryptocurrencies and propaganda, former employees said. They said the arrested expatriate, Guo Wengui, and his longtime money manager, William Je, called the shots at the company while Donald Trump senior adviser Jason Miller was its chief executive and public face. The revelations show a man accused of massive fraud on two continents climbed high into Trump’s political sphere and dictated messaging at a social media site that reaches millions of Americans.

Activist Group Led by Ginni Thomas Received Nearly $600,000 in Anonymous Donations

MSN – Shawn Boberg and Emma Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 3/28/2023

A Washington Post investigation sheds new light on the role money from donors who are not publicly identified has played in supporting Ginni Thomas’s political advocacy, long a source of controversy. She is married to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. A conservative activist group led by Ginni Thomas collected nearly $600,000 in anonymous donations to wage a cultural battle against the left. Contributions to Crowdsourcers for Culture and Liberty were channeled through a right-wing think tank that agreed to serve as a funding conduit from 2019 until the start of last year.

AP Sources: Judge rules Pence must testify before grand jury

MSN – Jill Colvin and Eric Tucker (Associated Press) | Published: 3/28/2023

A federal judge ruled former Vice President Mike Pence will have to testify before a grand jury in the Justice Department’s investigation into efforts by Donald Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Sources said Pence would not have to answer questions about his actions on January 6, 2021, as Pence was presiding over a joint session of Congress to certify Joe Biden’s victory. But he would have to testify about any potential illegal acts committed by Trump.

Supreme Court Justices Under New Ethics Disclosures on Trips, Other Gifts

MSN – Jonathan O’Connell and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 3/28/2023

Federal judges, including Supreme Court justices, must follow strengthened financial disclosure requirements surrounding gifts they receive. The new requirements mark a technical but significant change that lawmakers and transparency advocates hope will lead to more disclosure by judges and justices. The revisions come after years of pressure from members of Congress, who say the judiciary should follow ethics guidelines closer to those that apply to the executive and legislative branches.

Lindsey Graham Publicly Admonished for Fundraising on Capitol Grounds

MSN – Mariana Alfaro (Washington Post) | Published: 3/24/2023

A nine-minute Fox News appearance last year earned U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham a public admonishment from the Senate Ethics Committee because in the video, he solicited campaign contributions for former candidate Herschel Walker while standing on Capitol grounds. The committee acknowledged Graham self-reported his actions to them. The committee also noted this is not the first time Graham violated Senate rules banning fundraising appeals on federal property.

Republicans Face Setbacks in Push to Tighten Voting Laws on College Campuses

Yahoo News – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 3/29/2023

Alarmed over young people increasingly proving to be a force for Democrats at the ballot box, Republican lawmakers in a number of states have been trying to enact new obstacles to voting for college students. Out of 17 states that generally require voter ID, five do not accept any student IDs. Proponents of such restrictions often say they are needed to prevent voter fraud, even though instances of fraud are rare. Two lawsuits were filed in state and federal court shortly after Idaho’s Republican governor, Brad Little, signed a student ID prohibition into law on March 15.

From the States and Municipalities

Canada – Liberals, Conservatives and Bloc Approve Loosening of Ethical Lobbying Rules

Western Standard – Lee Harding | Published: 3/27/2023

In a letter to Commissioner of Lobbying Nancy Bélanger, the House of Commons Ethics Committee approved of the commissioner’s proposed changes to the Lobbyists’ Code of Conduct. Committee members aid they wanted Belanger to formalize the ability of lobbyists to offer “sponsored travel” junket trips to members of Parliament and their family members and associates “where they serve a legitimate purpose.” They approved the increase on the annual limit on gifts from a lobbyist to $200, and on hospitality to $200.

Arizona – Arizona Court Declines Most of Lake’s Appeal Over Gov’s Race

MSN – Jacques Billeaud (Associated Press) | Published: 3/23/2023

The Arizona Supreme Court declined to hear most of Kari Lake’s appeal in a challenge of her defeat in the governor’s race but revived a claim that was dismissed by a trial court. Lake, who lost to Democrat Katie Hobbs by just over 17,000 votes, was among the most vocal 2022 Republican candidates promoting Donald Trump’s election lies, which she made the centerpiece of her campaign. While most other election deniers around the country conceded after losing their races in November, Lake did not.

Arizona – Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs’ Spokesperson Resigns After Twitter Post Invoking Gun Violence

MSN – Stacey Barchenger (Arizona Republic) | Published: 3/29/2023

Arizona – Arizona State Rep. Liz Harris Says Constitution Required Her to Allow Baseless Cartel Bribery Claims

Yahoo News – Ray Stern (Arizona Republic) | Published: 3/23/2023

A lawmaker whose invited guest speaker accused public officials and the LDS church of conspiring with a Mexican drug cartel told an Arizona House ethics panel she had a constitutional duty to allow the testimony. Rep. Liz Harris was hit with a complaint after her guest, insurance agent Jacqueline Breger, presented the allegations at a joint Senate and House elections committee hearing. Rep. Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, who filed the complaint, said the presentation amounted to “disorderly conduct” by Harris and made Arizona a “national joke.”

Colorado – Proposal to Cap Candidate Contributions in Colorado’s Local Elections Advances

Colorado Politics – Hannah Metzger | Published: 3/27/2023

Colorado could soon establish a statewide limit on donations made to candidates in local elections if a new bill is passed into law. House Bill 1245 would cap contributions from individuals at $250 and donations from small-donor committees at $2,500 in municipal elections, among other provisions. Karen Goldman with the Colorado Municipal Clerks Association raised concerns about elements of the bill intended to increase transparency in campaign contributions, calling the proposed changes “excessive and unworkable.”

Connecticut – Legislator’s Arrest Places Spotlight on Drinking at Connecticut State Capitol

Yahoo News – Christopher Keating (Hartford Courant) | Published: 3/26/2023

In previous years, organized parties with live music and copious amounts of alcohol kept lawmakers at the Capitol in Hartford until dawn on the session’s final day. Legislative receptions often featured liquor, including an annual wine tasting at the same time House and Senate members were debating in nearby chambers. The issue gained increased attention following the arrest of Rep. Robin Comey, who had been at a bar with three other legislators. Comey was driving a Honda Civic in a narrow section of Capitol Avenue near the Red Rock Tavern when her car flipped upside down and landed on its roof.

District of Columbia – D.C. Campaign Finance Office Tosses Complaints About Silverman’s Poll

MSN – Michael Brice-Saddler (Washington Post) | Published: 3/27/2023

The District of Columbia’s Office of Campaign Finance has dismissed a third and final complaint related to former city council member Elissa Silverman’s decision to poll last year’s Ward 3 Democratic primary election, concluding a controversial saga the erstwhile lawmaker says cost her a seat on the council. Silverman turned some heads in June when she said she polled the Ward 3 race and discussed the results with two candidates in that contest who had asked for her endorsement.

Florida – Florida Bill Would Shield DeSantis’s Travel Records

DNyuz – Nick Corasaniti (New York Times) | Published: 3/24/2023

Florida lawmakers moved to shield Gov. Ron DeSantis’s travel records from the public, proposing to change the state’s public information laws just as the governor ramps up what is expected to be a 2024 presidential campaign. The bill includes a sweeping retroactive clause that would block the release of many records of trips already taken by DeSantis and other officials, as well as their families and staff members. In recent months, the governor has traveled widely as he promotes a new book and moves toward a White House bid.

Florida – DeSantis Wants ‘Media Accountability.’ A New Bill Makes Suing Journalists Easier.

MSN – Elahe Izadi and Lori Rozsa (Washington Post) | Published: 3/23/2023

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is expected to challenge Donald Trump and a growing field for the 2024 Republican nomination for president, has made open antipathy toward “corporate media” a key part of his brand in his ascent in conservative politics. A new bill moving through the Legislature appears to codify DeSantis’s combative stance toward media and his portrayal of journalists as partisan players who lack accountability by making it far easier to sue news organizations for defamation and win.

Florida – Disney Quietly Dodged DeSantis’s Oversight Board, Appointees Realize

MSN – Bryan Pietsch (Washington Post) | Published: 3/30/2023

The Disney World oversight board installed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis accused the previous board of passing an 11th-hour agreement in cahoots with the company that has hamstrung it from much of its administrative power over the amusement park. In an apparent retaliation for Disney’s critique of a DeSantis-backed bill, the governor replaced the previous Disney-friendly oversight board with a new panel made up entirely of his own appointees, including religious and conservative activists.

Illinois – Out-of-State PAC Backing Conservative School Board Candidates Hasn’t Disclosed Spending

Yahoo News – Dan Petrella (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/28/2023

A New York-based PAC backing conservative candidates in local school board races in Illinois has not disclosed what it is spending on mailers that began arriving in Chicago-area mailboxes recently as required under state law, according to state election officials. While the 1776 Project is registered with the FEC, Illinois campaign finance law requires independent expenditure committees that spend money on races in the state to register. Since it is not even registered with the state, the 1776 Project had not reported any such spending one week before Election Day.

Illinois – ‘ComEd Four’ Trial Offering a Fascinating and Unprecedented Look into the Inner Workings of Madigan’s Political Power

Yahoo News – Jason Meisner and Ray Long (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/26/2023

Through wiretapped conversations, internal documents, and the sworn accounts of key insiders, federal prosecutors in a corruption trial have laid bare the inner workings of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s extraordinary power. Before resigning, Madigan held sway over the fate of legislation and the political and professional futures of hordes of lawmakers, lobbyists, and job seekers. Proving Madigan’s influence is a key element of the prosecution’s case against four associates of the former speaker accused of conspiring to bribe him to help Commonwealth Edison’s legislative agenda.

Maryland – Baltimore Board of Ethics Makes Mosby Defense Fund Donor List Public, Minus Names of Donors

MSN – Emily Opilo (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 3/23/2023

A list of donors to a legal-defense fund established to benefit Baltimore political power couple Nick and Marilyn Mosby became public, minus the names of the more than 130 donors. The list was expected to offer a public accounting of who gave to the fund. The fund was at the center of a Board of Ethics ruling against Nick Mosby, the Baltimore City Council president. The board found he violated the ethics ordinance by indirectly soliciting for the fund and by failing to include it on his annual ethics disclosure form. After contesting the ruling for nearly a year, Mosby complied with an order from the board to provide information about the fund.

New Jersey – N.J. Election Watchdog Declines to Discipline Executive Director Over Alleged Anti-Gay Email

MSN – Matt Arco (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 3/28/2023

The head of the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) will not be disciplined for allegations of workplace homophobia, racism, and insubordination after members of the commission cleared him of wrongdoing. The hearing for ELEC Executive Director Jeff Brindle was held after a colleague filed a complaint about an email Brindle sent in response to a National Coming Out Day announcement. It also came as the Legislature is considering a controversial bill that would reshape ELEC, including allowing Gov. Phil Murphy to replace the agency’s current commissioners and ultimately oust Brindle.

New Jersey – Critics Slam Lawmakers’ Push to Raise Campaign Donation Limits

New Jersey Monitor – Nikita Biryukov | Published: 3/30/2023

New Jersey lawmakers in both chambers are set to approve an overhaul of the state’s campaign finance system that, among numerous other things, would drastically increase how much donors can give to candidates and political parties. The bill, expected to receive final votes in the state Assembly and Senate on March 30, would double the $2,600 limit on contributions to candidates, roughly double the $37,000 cap on donations to county political parties, and triple the $25,000 maximum contribution limit to committees run by the state political parties and the Legislature’s leaders.

New Mexico – Steak Dinners and Ski Passes: As lobbyists spend to influence New Mexico Legislature, 2 lawmakers seek more transparency

Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 3/23/2023

State Sens. Jeff Steinborn and Mark Moores say New Mexico’s lobbyist reporting requirements miss critical information. They pushed for legislation this year that would require lobbyists to disclose what bills they are lobbying on and the position they take. Senate Bill 218 advanced through one committee but died without reaching the full Senate for a vote. Meager as the required spending reports are, Steinborn said, they nevertheless hint at lobbyists’ influence.

New Mexico – Council Walks Back Campaign Code Rewrite

Santa Fe Reporter – Andrew Oxford | Published: 3/29/2023

Santa Fe’s mayor and city council walked back proposed changes to local campaign finance rules after the municipal ethics board raised concerns the update – coming just months before an election – could lead to less transparency about who is spending money to influence voters. City Clerk Kristine Bustos-Mihelcic backed the election code rewrite as a means of simplifying Santa Fe’s labyrinthine campaign rules and more closely aligning local policies with state law.

New Mexico – NM Legislators Fail to Pass Ethical Conduct Bill as Lobbyists Fear Unsafe Working Conditions

Source New Mexico – Megan Gleason | Published: 3/23/2023

An effort to update and standardize professional conduct standards for public employees, including lawmakers, failed to get through the 2023 legislative session. As a result, lobbyists say people who work and visit the Roundhouse will still need to assign their own measures to feel safe in Santa Fe. The current guidelines already say public employees cannot ask for money or something else of value in exchange for a vote or other official favors, but this bill would have specified that sexual acts also cannot be traded.

New York – NYC Councilwoman Inna Vernikov Used Government Email to Solicit Business

MSN – Chris Sommerfeldt (New York Daily News) | Published: 3/26/2023

New York City Councilperson Inna Vernikov used her government email account to solicit business for a self-defense company she has been involved with. In an email from her government account to constituents, Vernikov wrote she has “partnered with” Legion to offer classes in Krav Maga, an Israeli martial art. Vernikov said she is no longer on Legion’s board. Richard Briffault, a former chairperson of the Conflicts of Interest Board, said Vernikov likely violated ethics law even if she is not currently involved with Legion in a formal capacity, as the rules bar public officials from using “any city resources for any non-city purpose.”

North Carolina – N.C. Board Removes Election Officials Who Refused to Certify

Yahoo News – Hannah Schoenbaum (Associated Press) | Published: 3/28/2023

The North Carolina State Board of Elections removed two local election officials who had refused to certify their county’s 2022 results after officials determined they violated state law. The elections board voted unanimously to dismiss Surry County elections secretary Jerry Forestieri and board member Timothy DeHaan in one of the strongest disciplinary actions taken against local officials across the U.S. who have delayed or refused to certify election results.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Rep. Dean Davis Claimed ‘Legislative Immunity’ During His Arrest. Are State Officials Really Exempt?

Yahoo News – Jessie Christopher Smith (Oklahoman) | Published: 3/28/2023

The circumstances and fallout regarding the arrest of Oklahoma Rep. Dean Davis have generated discussion about constitutional privileges for lawmakers and the exact boundaries of the protection. During his arrest at a bar in Oklahoma City, Davis presented his legislative identification card to police, asking an officer to read it aloud. The card contains language from the state constitution that prohibits a legislator from being arrested under certain circumstances. After reading the card, the officer told Davis he was not at the Capitol, and he was going to be arrested on a complaint of public drunkenness.

Oregon – Port of Morrow Commissioners, Already Under Investigation, Keep Voting on Amazon’s Data Center Tax Deals

MSN – Mike Rogoway (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 3/24/2023

Two commissioners at the Port of Morrow who each own a stake in Amazon’s local fiber-optics provider voted recently to give the city of Boardman a share of new tax deals for data centers the company wants to build outside city limits. They voted even though their prior votes on the port’s dealings with Amazon, a customer of their fiber business, are already the subject of a state ethics investigation. The Oregon Government Ethics Commission has said state law allows these latest votes, provided they acknowledge publicly they might profit from the deals.

Virginia – Lawsuit Filed Over Nomination Method for One Va. GOP Race

MSN – Laura Vozzella (Washington Post) | Published: 3/27/2023

A court feud has erupted over the method of nomination Virginia Republicans will use in one state Senate race, with one party official arguing Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s chief of staff and the attorney general put pressure on the state elections commissioner to change a primary to a convention. The case puts the spotlight back on the arcane business of nomination selection that split the party as Youngkin sought his party’s gubernatorial nomination. At that time, the multimillionaire political newcomer sought a primary, a format that tends to favor candidates with more money, and accused one of his rivals of trying to tilt the playing field toward a convention.

Washington – Those Mailers Telling You to Call Your Elected Leaders? They May Soon Tell You Who Paid for Them

KNKX – Scott Greenstone | Published: 3/27/2023

Legislation advancing in Washington would require groups sponsoring ads that urge people to contact lawmakers about a bill to list their major donors. When the Legislature is in session, the bill would require groups lobbying the public to register who paid for and worked on the campaign within 24 hours of the ad being presented to the public.

West Virginia – PSC Orders Audit of Mon Power, Potomac Edison Lobbying Expenses

Charleston Gazette – Mike Tony | Published: 3/27/2023

Wisconsin – Costly Court Race Points to a Politicized Future for Judicial Elections

DNyuz – Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 3/28/2023

The campaign for a swing seat on Wisconsin’s Supreme Court – officially nonpartisan but positively awash in partisanship – brings together the old and new ways of judicial politics in America and offers a preview of what might be to come. The race could lead to a sea change in how state Supreme Court races are contested in the other where high court justices are elected, injecting never-before-seen amounts of money, politicization, and voter interest.

Wisconsin – Wis. School Blocks 1st-Graders from Singing ‘Rainbowland’ in Spring Show

MSN – María Luisa Paúl (Washington Post) | Published: 3/29/2023

Melissa Tempel’s first grade class at Heyer Elementary School in Wisconsin has spent weeks preparing for its upcoming spring concert. Students were set to perform “Rainbowland,” a duet by Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton, with lyrics that advocate for inclusion. But within one day of students learning the song, Tempel said school administration asked her to remove “Rainbowland” from the concert. The district said it called for the song to be removed because its lyrics “could be deemed controversial” according to a school board policy on controversial issues in the classroom.

National/Federal

As Chatbots Spread, Conservatives Dream About a Right-Wing Response

DNyuz – Stuart Thompson, Tiffany Hsu, and Steven Lee Myers (New York Times) | Published: 3/20/2023

Artificial intelligence has become another front in the political and cultural wars in the U.S. and other countries. Even as companies scramble to join the commercial boom prompted by the release of ChatGPT, they face a debate over the use, and potential abuse, of artificial intelligence. The technology’s ability to create content that hews to predetermined ideological points of view, or presses disinformation, highlights a danger – that an informational cacophony could emerge from competing chatbots with different versions of reality, undermining the viability of artificial intelligence as a tool in everyday life and further eroding trust in society.

Two Gifts to Trump Family from Foreign Nations Are Missing, Report Says

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 3/17/2023

Federal officials cannot find two gifts received by former President Trump and his family from foreign nations, including a life-size painting of Trump from the president of El Salvador and golf clubs from the Japanese prime minister, according to a new report from House Democrats. The gifts are among more than 100 foreign gifts, with a total value of nearly $300,000, that Trump and his family failed to report to the State Department in violation of federal law, according to the report, which cites government records and emails.

Trump Lawyer Must Turn Over Evidence on Classified Documents, Court Rules

MSN – Josh Dawsey, Devlin Barrett, Jacqueline Alemany, and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 3/22/2023

A federal appeals court ruled that a lawyer for Donald Trump must provide notes, transcripts, and other evidence to prosecutors investigating how classified documents remained at the former president’s Mar-a-Lago home months after a subpoena to return all sensitive files. The order from a panel of three judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ends an emergency hold on a ruling by a lower-court judge. It is possible Trump will seek to carry the fight up to the Supreme Court.

The Jan. 6 Investigation Is the Biggest in U.S. History. It’s Only Half Done.

MSN – Spencer Hsu, Devlin Barrett, and Tom Jackman (Washington Post) | Published: 3/18/2023

The District of Columbia’s federal court system is bracing for many years more of trials stemming from the riot at the U.S. Capitol, with new charges possible against as many as 1,000 more people. Prosecutors are hopeful many will be incentivized to plead to help manage the crush of cases, which already have strained the court in the nation’s capital. A Washington Post analysis of the cases so far shows defendants who seek a trial rather than plead guilty end up getting about a year of prison time added to their sentences.

Is Sean Hannity a Journalist? Role of Hosts Is Key in Fox News Lawsuit.

MSN – Jeremy Barr (Washington Post) | Published: 3/20/2023

FEC Eyes New Rules for Candidates to Draw Pay, Perks from Campaigns

MSN – Kate Ackley (Roll Call) | Published: 3/22/2023

U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost and a slate of former congressional candidates urged the FEC to loosen restrictions on using campaign funds for salaries and benefits for those seeking office. Making it easier for candidates to draw a regular salary, plus health care and other benefits, would help encourage more diversity among House, Senate, and presidential hopefuls, they argued.

Jan. 6 Panel’s Video Depositions Become Tantalizing Tool for Probes

Roll Call – Michael Macagnone | Published: 3/22/2023

Clips from videotaped depositions with allies of Donald Trump were one of the most effective tools employed by the House select committee investigating the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol to make the public case against Trump’s role. Experts expect that will change the dynamics of congressional committees this year and beyond. Lawmakers will come around to those technological advancements that grab public attention and allow them to better shape their arguments, and witnesses will recalculate how their answers might later be used at hearings.

Abortion on the Ballot? Not If These Republican Lawmakers Can Help It.

Yahoo News – Alice Mianda Ollstein and Megan Messerly (Politico) | Published: 3/19/2023

After watching the pro-choice side win all six ballot initiative fights related to abortion in 2022, including in red states, conservatives are mobilizing to avoid a repeat. Legislatures in Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, and Oklahoma are debating bills this session that would hike the filing fees, raise the number of signatures required to get on the ballot, restrict who can collect signatures, mandate broader geographic distribution of signatures, and raise the vote threshold to pass an amendment from a majority to a supermajority.

George Santos Never Filed a Key Financial Disclosure. Enforcement Has Been Lax for Years.

Yahoo News – Jessica Piper (Politico) | Published: 3/19/2023

Though it was obvious at the time that George Santos missed the deadline in 2021 to file a financial disclosure report, the issue did not attract much attention until after he had been elected to Congress and a series of resumé fabrications began to surface. Dozens of candidates who should have filed financial disclosures over the past two election cycles avoided doing so or filed the forms late without asking for an extension. The fact that such violations are rarely even flagged, and penalties are essentially non-existent, makes it easy for candidates to avoid disclosing key financial information, ethics experts say.

US Lawmakers Resume Globetrotting Paid by Special Interests

Yahoo News – Billy House (Bloomberg) | Published: 3/18/2023

Members of Congress and their staffers rebounded from pandemic travel anxiety in 2022, accepting more than $6.6 million worth of airline tickets, hotel rooms, and meals paid for by special-interest groups. Destinations included more than 40 foreign countries, including Israel, Spain, and Japan, as well as U.S. cities such as Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Miami. Some lawmakers took spouses and other family members, also free-of-cost, on the excursions.

From the States and Municipalities

Oceania – How Well-Connected Lobbyists Ask For – and Receive – Urgent Meetings, Sensitive Information and Action on Law Changes for Their Corporate Clients

RNZ – Guyon Espiner | Published: 3/22/2023

A media investigation unearthed thousands of emails, text messages, and even encrypted Signal communications, revealing the extent of the lobbying industry in New Zealand. The documents show lobbyists targeting ministerial advisors, inviting them to drinks, dinner, and sports events with text messages addressing them as “brother” and “comrade.” New Zealand has among the weakest regimes in the developed world for regulating lobbying and the industry largely operates in the shadows, with little information about the client lists of many of the major firms.

Arizona – Group Attempts to Quash New Campaign Finance Law

White Mountain Independent – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 3/20/2023

A conservative advocacy group founded by the Koch brothers is asking a federal judge to quash new voter-approved campaign finance laws aimed at exposing “dark money” contributions for political purposes. Attorneys for Americans for Prosperity contend the First Amendment protects the right of individuals to donate to advocacy organizations without fear their identities would be disclosed. But in a new lawsuit, they contend Proposition 211 “trammels that right by subjecting countless Americans nationwide to governmental doxxing for doing nothing more than supporting their chosen non-profit organizations and charities.”

California – San Francisco Will Allow City Officials to Fundraise for Safe-Consumption Sites

KQED – Sydney Johnson | Published: 3/21/2023

San Francisco leaders are making an exception to their own ethics policy so city officials can solicit donations for safe-consumption sites. The Board of Supervisors passed a resolution on that allows Mayor London Breed, her officers, and officials at the Department of Public Health to seek out contributions for nonprofits, which would then use the private funds to operate safe-consumption sites, where medical staff can supervise people using drugs and respond if there is an overdose.

California – City Blacklists 4 More Firms Tied to Mohammed Nuru Scandal

San Francisco Standard – Michael Barba | Published: 3/22/2023

The federal cases against two Bay Area executives accused of bribing former San Francisco Public Works head Mohammed Nuru with a $40,000 tractor are about to cost them more city business. A city investigation digging deeper into the corruption cases against Alan Varela and William Gilmartin of ProVen Management, a construction and engineering firm behind major infrastructure projects, has revealed new links between the executives, their firm, and four other companies. Now City Attorney David Chiu is suspending the firms from bidding on city contracts.

California – Should San Jose Require Nonprofits to Register as Lobbyists?

San Jose Spotlight – Jana Kadah | Published: 3/16/2023

Like corporate lobbyists, nonprofit leaders meet regularly with San Jose officials to influence policy decisions. But nonprofits, which are often awarded millions in city contracts, do not have to disclose their meetings like other lobbyists. Ethics experts say more transparency is needed, while nonprofit leaders worry changing the rules will make it harder for them to advocate for policies and discourage smaller nonprofits from working with the city.

California – Stockton Councilman Files Restraining Order Against 209 Times Founder, Cites Threats, Harassment

Yahoo News – Ben Irwin and Aaron Leathley (Stockton Record) | Published: 3/22/2023

A temporary restraining order was granted protecting Stockton City Councilperson Brando Villapdua, who accused the 209 Times founder, Motecuzoma Sanchez, of harassing the lawmaker. Court documents say Sanchez harassed and threatened Villapudua into supporting the removal of City Manager Harry Black “and others.” After a closed meeting of the council, Sanchez began verbally attacking and threatening Villapudua and became “physically aggressive in such a quick manner” that the 209 Times founder had to be physically restrained at Valley Brewin the city, according to court documents.

California – State Launches Probe of Cannabis Licensing to ‘Clean House’ of Corruption

Yahoo News – Adam Elmahrek (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 3/23/2023

Corruption in California’s cannabis industry has become widespread and brazen. There have been “pay-to-play” schemes, including a demand for cash in a brown paper bag for a marijuana license, threats of violence against local officials, and city council members accepting money from cannabis businesses even as they regulated them. Those problems and more were uncovered by a Los Angeles Times investigation. Now state officials are launching an audit aimed at curtailing bribery, conflicts-of-interest, and other misdeeds.

Colorado – Kelly Brough’s Partner Has Long Influenced City Politics on Behalf of Businesses Like Frontier Airlines, Kroenke and Large Developers

Denverite – Ben Markus | Published: 3/21/2023

Before Kelly Brough decided to run for mayor of Denver, she had a conversation with her partner, David Kenney. Brough said she has been in a relationship for about 10 years with Kenney, a longtime political consultant and city and state lobbyist, whose clients make up some of the largest developers in Denver. He has exercised his connections in the current administration, meeting with Mayor Michael Hancock and several of his top deputies at least 31 times between 2011 and 2022. His firm has been involved in a series of successful ballot issue campaigns on behalf of business interests.

Connecticut – Former West Haven Employee Sentenced to Prison for Fraud

Connecticut Mirror – Andrew Brown | Published: 3/22/2023

John Bernardo, a former West Haven employee, was sentenced to 13 months in prison for participating in a scheme to steal federal relief funds that were meant to help the city and its residents weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Bernardo was the first defendant to be sentenced as part of a federal probe, which uncovered more than $1.2 million that was embezzled through a network of bogus companies and a stream of fake invoices paid by the city’s Finance Department.

Florida – Randy Fine Pulls $2 Million Request as Brevard Zoo Considers Ban on Campaign Events

Yahoo News – Eric Rogers and Dave Berman (Florida Today) | Published: 3/16/2023

Florida Rep. Randy Fine pulled a $2 million state funding request for the Brevard Zoo’s aquarium project at Port Canaveral. The move came after Brevard Zoo Executive Director Keith Winsten said the zoo’s board would consider halting rentals for political campaign events after the 2024 election cycle in the wake of controversy over a fundraiser held at the zoo’s Nyami Nyami River Lodge for Fine’s 2024 state Senate run.

Georgia – Grand Jury Heard Audio of Another Trump Call Seeking to Overturn Election

MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 3/16/2023

An Atlanta-area special grand jury that investigated efforts by Donald Trump and his allies to overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia heard audio of another phone call in which Trump pressed a top state official to help overturn Joe Biden’s victory in the state. Five members of the special grand jury said they listened to a recording of a 2020 phone call between Trump and the Georgia House speaker at the time, David Ralston, in which Ralston resisted Trump’s requests to convene a special session of the legislature to overturn Biden’s narrow election win.

Hawaii – Why This Hawaii Lawmaker’s Job with a Major Construction Company Raises Concern

Honolulu Civil Beat – Kevin Dayton | Published: 3/20/2023

In a state in which construction and development interests wield strong influence, first-term Rep. Micah Aiu’s job outside the Hawaii Legislature could be seen as problematic. Aiu works as an in-house lawyer for Nan Inc., a major construction company that competes for state jobs. Since last summer, Nan was awarded eight contracts worth $325 million. Aiu also sits on the House Finance Committee, which plays an outsized role in developing the state budget and the list of construction projects the state will fund each year. Freshmen lawmakers are routinely assigned to that committee to help them absorb the nuances of the budget process.

Illinois – Suburb Tries New Tack, an Elected Ethics Board, to Nip Illinois-Style Corruption; Critics Say It May Not Have Enough Teeth

Yahoo News – Caroline Kubzansky (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/21/2023

Critics note most or all ethics boards in Illinois, which range throughout the state, are limited because they have only advisory powers. They can investigate wrongdoing by officials but then must refer their findings to that same board so its members can consider whether to take action. Niles, a town shaken by an ethics scandal in which the mayor was convicted on federal corruption charges in 2010, floated a different approach. On April 4, voters there will elect the members of their ethics board, creating what may be the first entity of its kind in Illinois.

Indiana – Numerous Indiana Lawmakers Do Private Consulting. But Who Are They Working For?

Indiana Capital Chronicle – Casey Smith | Published: 3/13/2023

At least 15 legislators in the Indiana General Assembly provide professional advice and guidance to private businesses outside of the Capitol. Other lawmakers have outside limited liability companies that do not specifically reference consulting work but still could provide that service. While some lawmakers choose to list individual clients in their financial disclosure forms, they are not required to do so unless they are a significant income source, leaving the public in the dark about who they are affiliated with.

Kansas – Kansas Lawmakers Are Among Worst Paid in Nation. Some Say It Impedes True Representation

MSN – Ketie Bernard (Kansas City Star) | Published: 3/20/2023

Since 2009, Kansas lawmakers have been paid $88.66 per day. Assuming an eight-hour workday, lawmakers make roughly $11.08 per hour, not including the per diem received for travel and living expenses in Topeka. But oftentimes the hours far exceed the traditional eight-hour day once constituent services on unpaid days, evening meetings, and late-night debates are factored in. Lawmakers are expected to continue serving their constituents year-round even though they are only paid for the 90-day legislative session. Kansas may be paying below the federal minimum wage to the officials tasked with determining the policies and laws of the state.

Kansas – Kansas Lawmakers Back Off Aggressive Campaign Finance Overhaul. Here’s What They Will Do.

Yahoo News – Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital Journal) | Published: 3/22/2023

Kansas lawmakers backed off a more aggressive overhaul of the state’s campaign finance laws, instead opting for a more limited set of changes that focuses on the Governmental Ethics Commission’s administrative procedures. The initial bill was criticized as an attempt to eviscerate limits on campaign donations and effectively render the commission powerless. It raised eyebrows at the Capitol as it came amid an investigation into prominent legislators and state Republican Party officials, despite arguments from GOP lawmakers that the bill was unrelated to the high-profile investigation.

Maryland – Baltimore Council President Nick Mosby Complies with Ethics Order on Legal-Defense Fund

MSN – Emily Opilo (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 3/21/2023

Baltimore City Council President Nick Mosby closed a nearly yearlong saga over a legal-defense fund formed in his name by complying with a Board of Ethics order. A judge upheld the board’s findings that Mosby violated the law by indirectly soliciting donations for the fund and by failing to disclose its existence on his ethics filing in 2022, which covered activity in 2021. The fund was established for the defense of the council president and also his wife, former Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, as federal authorities investigated their financial dealings.

Massachusetts – Residents’ Right to Be Rude Upheld by Massachusetts Supreme Court

Yahoo News – Jenna Russell (New York Times) | Published: 3/17/2023

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court reaffirmed the right to be rude at public meetings. Stemming from a lawsuit filed against the town of Southborough by a resident who said members of the Select Board had silenced her unlawfully, the decision pushed back against attempts to mandate good manners. Many local public officials experienced fierce disputes over masks, vaccines, and remote learning during the coronavirus pandemic that erupted at meetings.

Michigan – Can ‘Deradicalization’ Reform Extremists? Michigan Program to Find Out in Limbo

Bridge Michigan – Jonathan Oosting | Published: 3/22/2023

Michigan’s experiment in deradicalizing young extremists may be over before it begins, after the second arrest of a man who had agreed to participate in the program. In a first-of-its kind arrangement, Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office last fall agreed to pay up to $10,000 for a pair of consultants to help Andrew Nickels disengage “from extremist organizations” and avoid violence through counseling and support, according to a contract.

Michigan – Former Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Marrocco Sentenced to 3 Months in Prison in Corruption Probe

Detroit News – Anna Liz Nichols | Published: 3/16/2023

Former Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Anthony Marrocco was sentenced to three months in prison followed by two years of supervised release in connection with a long-running federal corruption probe. Marrocco was sentenced for trying to extort a developer into buying tickets to a campaign fundraiser and threatening to delay or withhold a county permit. He agreed to plead guilty to attempted extortion in exchange for prosecutors dropping three other extortion-related charges that each carried a 20-year possible prison sentence.

Montana – Lawmakers Opt to Keep ‘Clean Campaign Act’ Despite Judge Striking It Down

Helena Independent Record – Sam Wilson | Published: 3/22/2023

A campaign finance law struck down by a federal judge last year will live on in Montana’s law books after legislators from both parties voted down a proposal to repeal the defunct statute. The state’s requirement that candidates give their opponent a heads-up on attack ads published or broadcast in the last 10 days before an election was ruled unconstitutional. The judge found the disclosure requirement violated the free-speech rights of a conservative political committee.

Nebraska – Filibuster Over Transgender Bill Jams Nebraska Legislature for Weeks

MSN – Maham Javaid (Washington Post) | Published: 3/20/2023

The Nebraska Legislature has been unable to pass a single bill this year. One senator’s distaste with the advancement of a bill seeking to ban gender-affirming care for Nebraskans under 19, coupled with the state’s unique filibustering rules, has brought the session to a standstill. While filibustering is not rare for Nebraska’s unicameral Legislature, state Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh is the first lawmaker to filibuster every bill introduced to the floor. Senators opposing the bill seeking to restrict gender-affirming care say this is the first time their Legislature has become a part of the national culture war around transgender rights.

New Jersey – Independent Election Watchdog Sues Murphy for Trying to Force Him Out. ‘It’s Political Thuggery.’

MSN – Susan Livio, Matt Arco, and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 3/16/2023

Election Law Enforcement Commission Executive Director Jeff Brindle filed a lawsuit against New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and three of his top aides, alleging a conspiracy to force Brindle from his job. The suit alleges the Murphy administration sought to remove Brindle over a satirical op-ed he wrote that was critical of groups that engage in political activity but do not publicly disclose their donors. Brindle says he has been the subject of a “concerted and joint action and conspiracy to extort and coerce” him to resign by citing a homophobic email he allegedly sent and a racist statement he allegedly made. Brindle has denied the allegations.

New Jersey – NJ Senate Passes Money-in-Politics Overhaul That Would Give Phil Murphy Sway Over Election Watchdog

Yahoo News – Ashley Balcerzak (Bergen Record) | Published: 3/20/2023

The New Jersey Senate passed an amended campaign finance overhaul critics say continues to gut “pay-to-play” laws, weakens the watchdog agency overseeing all elections in the state, and contains a second attempt to give the governor more power to choose who leads that agency. The Elections Transparency Act includes substantial changes to how money flows in New Jersey elections, including increasing the amounts that individuals and corporations can donate to politicians and parties; illuminating certain “dark money” donors; and cutting down the time accounts can be investigated for violations.

New York – New York Is Overhauling Campaign Finance. But Not the Loophole That Makes Party Fundraising Stronger

Buffalo News – Chris Bragg | Published: 3/21/2023

Soon after Gov. Kathy Hochul was elected last year, 43 members of her campaign staff received a total of $363,000 in payments from the New York State Democratic Party’s so-called called housekeeping account, a type of fundraising allowed under state election law but long criticized by reform groups. Housekeeping accounts can receive unlimited contributions from donors, including corporations. Watchdogs argued that, in practice, donations to housekeeping accounts have been used to subsidize favored candidates backed by political parties, permitted by loopholes and lackluster election law enforcement.

North Carolina – Biden Administration Suggests Supreme Court Drop Election Case

Bloomberg Law – Greg Stohr | Published: 3/20/2023

The Biden administration suggested the U.S. Supreme Court drop a closely watched election case after an unusual twist raised fresh questions about the court’s jurisdiction. The dispute centers on the “independent state legislature theory,” which would oust state judges and other officials from longstanding roles in shaping the rules for federal elections. The case, argued in December, centers on the North Carolina Supreme Court’s rejection of a Republican-drawn congressional map.

Ohio – Cuyahoga County Gave No-Bid, $120,000 Lobbying Contract to Ronayne Campaign Donor

MSN – Lucas Daprile (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/18/2023

A company whose president donated $10,000 to Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne’s campaign later received a $120,000 no-bid lobbying contract from the county. The year-long contract to McCaulley&Company was approved by the Board of Control following a recommendation from the county executive’s office. The board also approved an exemption from competitive bidding on the contract, even though the county interviewed multiple firms before approving its last federal lobbying contract.

Tennessee – Nashville Sues State Over New Council-Slashing Law

MSN – Cassandra Stevenson (Tennessean) | Published: 3/15/2023

Days after Gov. Bill Lee signed a bill that will slash Nashville’s metro council in half, the city filed a lawsuit against the state claiming the law violates the Tennessee Constitution and the rights of Davidson County voters. The new law requires city and metropolitan governments to cap their councils at 20 members. In practice, Nashville’s 40-member council is the only body in the state immediately impacted by the legislation. No other city or metropolitan government has a council larger than 20 members.

Texas – The Justice Department’s Fight Against Judge Shopping in Texas

MSN – Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 3/19/2023

The Justice Department challenged three high-profile lawsuits filed in Texas against Biden administration policies, accusing state politicians of choosing small, conservative federal court divisions that have little relevance to their cases but nearly guarantee them a sympathetic judge. It is part of the administration’s first concerted effort to fight what some legal experts say is a growing problem of “forum shopping” – a strategy in which plaintiffs are alleged to cherry-pick judges they want to hear their cases, bucking the random assignment of judges that is considered a tenet of the American legal system.

Utah – Got an Ethics Complaint Against an Elected Official? You’ll Need Insider Knowledge and Email Address.

MSN – Emily Anderson Stern (Salt Lake Tribune) | Published: 3/20/2023

The Executive Branch Ethics Commission was created one decade ago after Utah was rattled by two major scandals that led to the FBI investigating a state attorney general and his predecessor, as well as a lieutenant governor. Annual reports indicate the commission has heard just two complaints, none of which seemingly have been found to have merit and referred to the Legislature for potential action. In that time, the governor-appointed volunteer panel’s operations have been supplemented with nearly $50,000 from the Legislature.

National/Federal

No Rest Between Censuses for Congressional Mapmakers

DNyuz – Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 3/10/2023

For just about all of the nation’s history, politicians would fight over redistricting for a short period after each once-a-decade census, then forget about congressional maps until the next reapportionment. Now, a string of lawsuits and in-the-works state referendums are poised to redefine the battles over state legislative and congressional lines and leave the country in a state of perpetual redistricting. Not since 2012 and 2014 have all 50 states’ congressional lines remained constant for consecutive elections, a streak unlikely to be broken next year.

Social Media Threats Exploded after Tucker Carlson’s Jan. 6 Claims, Analysis Finds

MSN – Jessica Guynn and Will Carless (USA Today) | Published: 3/13/2023

Tucker Carlson’s portrayal of the deadly January 6 attack as a largely peaceful event on his  Fox News show set off a new wave of social media chatter that includes death threats against Capitol police officers and Democratic leaders, according to experts who monitor extremism and a report from Advance Democracy. The segment downplayed the violence, falsely recasting the mob that breached the Capitol as an “orderly and meek” gathering of “sightseers.”

GOP Rep. Andy Ogles Seems to Have Kept $25,000 From a GoFundMe for a Child Burial Garden

New Republic – Tori Otten | Published: 3/15/2023

U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles appears to have kept money raised through a charitable GoFundMe event. A media investigation found Ogles set up a GoFundMe in 2014 after his son was stillborn. Ogles said he wanted to build a garden where families could bury their stillborn children and sit on benches by the gravestones. It raised almost $25,000, but the garden was never built. GoFundMe confirmed that Ogles received the money.

Sold: Yacht with a waterfall. Price: $19 million. Broker: George Santos.

Yahoo News – Rebecca Davis O’Brien and William Rashbaum (New York Times) | Published: 3/15/2023

A $19 million luxury yacht deal brokered by U.S. Rep. George Santos between two of his wealthy donors has captured the attention of federal and state authorities investigating his campaign finances and personal business dealings. Even if Santos broke no laws, the deal serves as further evidence of an emerging narrative given by people in his political orbit, that Santos seemed to use his campaign not only to win elected office but also as a networking exercise to ingratiate himself with rich donors and enrich himself from those contacts.

House Republicans Quietly Halt Inquiry into Trump’s Finances

Yahoo News – Luke Broadwater and Jonathan Swain (New York Times) | Published: 3/13/2023

House Republicans halted a congressional investigation into whether Donald Trump profited improperly from the presidency, declining to enforce a court-supervised settlement agreement that demanded that Mazars USA, his former accounting firm, produce his financial records to Congress. Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairperson James Comer professed ignorance about the inquiry Democrats opened when they controlled the House, and was instead focusing on whether President Biden and members of his family were involved in an influence-peddling scheme.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Commissioner Will Change Response to Ethics Complaint Following 12News Reports

MSN – Joe Dana (KPNX) | Published: 3/10/2023

A prominent association representing utility commissioners across the country said its name was falsely used to promote a two-day event hosted by the American Gas Association in New York in January. The revelation contradicts a statement filed by Arizona Corporation Commission member Kevin Thompson in response to an ethics complaint. Thompson, a former manager and lobbyist at Southwest Gas, said the meetings were beneficial to the public because it’s the job of commissioners “to reassure there’s regulatory stability in Arizona.”

California – Ethics Commission Wants More Time to Decide If Nonprofits, Other Groups Will Have to Register as Lobbyists

Long Beach Post – Jason Ruiz | Published: 3/9/2023

The Long Beach Ethics Commission said it will continue to work on its recommendations for changes to the city’s lobbying law after dozens of nonprofit leaders turned out to its meeting to demand their current exemption from the law remain intact. There are over 600 nonprofits with a location in Long Beach, according to Michelle Byerly, executive director of The Nonprofit Partnership, who told the commission its proposal to add “advocacy” to the law and treat advocates the same as lobbyists would put a great burden on nonprofits.

California – Inside the Financial Ties Between a Controversial Housing Nonprofit and Kevin de León

MSN – Liam Dillon, Benjamin Oreskes, and Doug Smith (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 3/13/2023

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation in 2020 was pursuing a lawsuit alleging Los Angeles illegally denied funding for an affordable housing project the nonprofit was proposing. Kevin de León, the area’s incoming city council member who had been elected but not yet taken office, contacted an aide to then-Mayor Eric Garcetti. The aide arranged a video call for De León with city department heads and high-ranking mayoral staffers. But those in the meeting did not know De León was a consultant working for the foundation, a job that would pay him more than $100,000 in the six months prior to his taking office.

California – Lawyers Make Opening Statements in Mark Ridley-Thomas Corruption Trial

MSN – Matt Hamilton (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 3/8/2023

At the start of the corruption trial of suspended Los Angeles City Councilperson Mark Ridley-Thomas, jurors heard conflicting portraits of the onetime power broker. Defense attorneys cast him as a lifelong public servant who represented the poorest communities of Los Angeles. Prosecutors said Ridley-Thomas was a conniving operator eager to “monetize” his position and conceal a sexual harassment investigation into his son, then a state Assembly member. To preserve the family’s political brand, the elder Ridley-Thomas helped engineer his son’s abrupt resignation from the Legislature, supposedly for medical reasons, and leaned on the University of Southern California for favors to benefit his son.

Colorado – Former Trump Lawyer Jenna Ellis Censured by Colorado Judge for False Statements

MSN – Matthew Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 3/9/2023

A Colorado judge censured Jenna Ellis, a former senior legal adviser to Donald Trump’s presidential campaign who admitted in state disciplinary proceedings that she made at least 10 false statements about the 2020 election as part of an effort to mislead the public. Ellis is the latest of Trump’s legal aides to face scrutiny for their conduct in the aftermath of the 2020 election. She is the first of the cohort to acknowledge in public that comments she made surrounding the election were false.

Florida – Florida Scoured Math Textbooks for ‘Prohibited Topics.’ Next Up: Social Studies.

DNyuz – Sarah Mervosh (New York Times) | Published: 3/16/2023

In Florida, textbooks have become hot politics, part of Gov. Ron DeSantis’s campaign against what he describes as “woke indoctrination” in public schools, particularly when it comes to race and gender. Last year, his administration made a splash when it rejected dozens of math textbooks, citing “prohibited topics.” Now, the state is reviewing curriculum in what is perhaps the most contentious subject in education: social studies. A prominent conservative education group, whose members volunteered to review textbooks, objected to a slew of them, accusing publishers of “promoting their bias.” At least two publishers declined to participate altogether.

Florida – Inside Ron DeSantis’s Politicized Removal of an Elected Prosecutor

Yahoo News – Alexandra Berzon and Ken Bensinger (New York Times) | Published: 3/11/2023

As he travels the country promoting a new book and his expected presidential campaign, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis repeatedly points to his ouster of Hillsborough County State Attorney Andrew Warren as an example of the decisive way he has transformed Florida and could remake the nation. He casts Warren as a rogue ideologue whose refusal to enforce the law demanded action. But an examination of the episode reveals a different picture: a governor’s office that seemed driven by a preconceived political narrative, bent on a predetermined outcome, and focused on maximizing media attention for DeSantis.

Georgia – Little-Known Lawyer, a Trump Ally, Draws Scrutiny in Georgia

Yahoo News – Danny Hakim and Richard Fausset (New York Times) | Published: 3/11/2023

At a Georgia Senate hearing after Donald Trump lost his bid for reelection, attorney Robert Cheeley presented video clips of election workers handling ballots at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Cheeley spent 15 minutes laying out specious assertions the workers were double- and triple-counting votes. The fact that Cheeley was called to appear before the special grand jury investigating election interference by Trump adds to the evidence that the false claims made by his allies at legislative hearings have been of significant interest.

Hawaii – Hawaii’s New Deputy Economy Chief Has a Powerful Business Partner in The Senate

Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 3/15/2023

The business partner of a powerful state senator is on his way to being confirmed as deputy director for Hawaii’s economic development agency. Dane Wicker, a former chief of staff to Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz and co-owner of Kilani Brew with Dela Cruz, cruised through a Senate committee hearing on his nomination. Senate rules on conflicts-of-interest apply to legislation in which a senator has a “direct financial interest.” The rules do not have any provisions on nominees before the Senate.

Illinois – ‘ComEd Four’ Bribery Trial to Put Focus on Ex-Speaker Madigan’s Power, State’s Blurry Line Between Politics and Crime

MSN – Jason Meisner and Ray Long (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/12/2023

Four former Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) officials – ex-Chief Executive Officer Anne Pramaggiore, onetime utility lobbyist Mike McClain, retired ComEd executive John Hooker, and ex-City Club of Chicago president and former ComEd consultant Jay Doherty – are on trial in federal court, accused of scheming to influence indicted ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Prosecutors alleged the four defendants tried to bribe Madigan, who controlled what proposals the House would consider and approve, from 2011 until 2019 to advance legislation favorable to ComEd and defeat bills the company opposed.

Illinois – As ComEd Bribery Trial Gets Underway, Judge Reverses Course and Will Allow Secret Recordings to Be Released to the Media

WBEZ – Jon Seidel and Tina Sfondeles (Chicago Sun-Times) | Published: 3/14/2023

The federal judge presiding over the Commonwealth Edison bribery trial reversed course and ruled secret recordings made of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and his allies may be released to the media after they are played for jurors. That means people across the state will finally have an opportunity to hear the evidence at the core of the corruption investigation that ended Madigan’s record-breaking tenure as the leader of the state House and landed him under indictment.

Kansas – Kansas Republicans Push Forward with Changes to Ethics Rules Amid Ongoing Investigations

Kansas Reflector – Sherman Smith | Published: 3/15/2023

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly’s chief of staff urged Republican lawmakers to spend more time studying proposed changes to campaign finance law before moving forward with legislation inspired by ongoing investigations. The House Elections Committee amended and advanced a version of House Bill 2391, which was written by attorneys who represent a GOP political operative. The executive director of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission warned lawmakers the revised bill still contains numerous changes that would limit his agency’s authority.

Kansas – Wichita Council Member Frye’s Vote Buys time for Wife’s Company on City Contract

Yahoo News – Chance Swaim and Matthew Kelly (Wichita Eagle) | Published: 3/15/2023

Wichita City Council member Bryan Frye cast a decisive vote related to a city contract with his wife’s employer, Copp Media Services. Frye’s action raises questions about whether his vote ran afoul of the city’s ethics rules that aim to prevent council members from voting on friend-and-family deals. Frye did not disclose the potential conflict-of-interest or recuse himself from the vote. Mayor Brandon Whipple and council members who knew about it did not raise any public objections during the meeting, citing confusion over who actually voted.

Louisiana – New Orleans Mayor Fights Lowered Recall Signature Threshold

Yahoo News – Kevin McGill (Associated Press) | Published: 3/14/2023

A court settlement that significantly lowered the number of petition signatures New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s opponents need to force a recall election was challenged in two state courts by Cantrell and one of her supporters. The settlement came after recall organizers sued election officials saying New Orleans voter rolls still list hundreds of dead people and thousands of voters who should be placed on an “inactive” list because they have likely moved. Questions have been raised about Cantrell’s travel expenses and her personal use of a city-owned apartment, among other issues.

Maine – Portland City Council Begins Developing State’s First Municipal Clean Elections Program

Yahoo News – Rachel Ohm (Portland Press Herald) | Published: 3/13/2023

The Portland City Council began developing a new clean elections program the city plans to have in place for the November election. The state in 1996 established the Maine Clean Elections Act, a voluntary program for public campaign funding for state level offices including governor and legislators, but Portland is the state’s first community to establish such a program at the municipal level.

Maryland – Judge Issues Warrant for Roy McGrath, Hogan’s Former Chief of Staff

MSN – Ovetta Wiggins (Washington Post) | Published: 3/13/2023

A federal judge issued a bench warrant for Roy McGrath, once a top aide to former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, after he did not appear in court for the first day of trial on wire fraud and embezzlement charges. McGrath was charged in federal and state court in 2021 with dozens of charges stemming from his time working for a quasi-governmental agency he led before serving as Hogan’s chief of staff. He became the subject of an investigation shortly after it was publicly revealed he was given a severance package of nearly $250,000 when he left the Maryland Environmental Service.

Minnesota – Revolving Door at Minnesota Capitol Creates Windstorm

Minnesota Reformer – Michelle Griffith | Published: 3/15/2023

State lawmakers becoming lobbyists in Minnesota is not a new phenomenon, but heavy turnover at the Capitol has clients turning to legislators-turned-lobbyists. Sen. Matt Klein said lobbyists who recently left office have an advantage in information and relationships, and questioned the propriety of the arrangement. David Schultz, a political science professor at Hamline University said that special access for clients who can afford to hire a former lawmaker could mean less access for average Minnesotans.

Minnesota – Former House Majority Leader, Key Player in THC Law, to Start THC Beverage Company

Minnesota Reformer – Michelle Griffin | Published: 3/15/2023

Former Minnesota House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler is starting a THC beverage company after playing a key role in the passage of the law that legalized the THC edible industry. Winkler said he had no intentions of starting a company last year when he led the effort to legalize low-dose THC products. He only decided to go into the business after he lost the primary election for Hennepin County attorney last August.

Missouri – ‘It Forces You to Be More Creative’: How lobbyists kept their grip on Missouri politics

MSN – Jonathan Shorman and Kacen Bayless (Kansas City Star) | Published: 3/12/2023

Missouri voters in 2018 approved an amendment to the state constitution that effectively eliminated lobbyist gifts to state legislators, tightened campaign contribution limits, and further restricted the “revolving door” of lawmakers becoming lobbyists. It was a striking achievement for good government advocates, who had voiced outrage for years over the state’s cozy Capitol scene. But as the fifth anniversary of the Clean Missouri vote approaches, a strong lobbying culture remains as Jefferson City has learned to adapt.

New Jersey – Why Is New Jersey the Only State That’s Never Had a State Song?

Philadelphia Inquirer – Alfred Lubano | Published: 3/14/2023

New Jersey is the only state that has never had a state song. It has a state mollusk shell (the knobbed whelk); a state dance (the square dance); and a state microbe (Streptomyces griseus), and a state animal, flower, fruit, bug, reptile, and dinosaur. “It’s a political hot potato,” said Tom Cunningham, host of the “Springsteen on Sunday” radio program. “You’ve got North, Central, and South Jersey – unique areas with their own ideas about music. Hopefully, one day the twain shall meet. But not now.”

New Mexico – Money in Politics Transparency Nears Finish as Legislative Session Winds Down

New Mexico In Depth – Marjorie Childress | Published: 3/14/2023

An effort to close a loophole in New Mexico’s campaign disclosure laws and bar campaign contributions from lobbyists and political committees to lawmakers during legislative sessions has a tailwind heading into the final week of the legislative session. New additions to Senate Bill 42 would require more timely reporting of political contributions so the public has more complete information just before elections and just before the legislative session each year.

New Mexico – Lobbyists Had Safety Plans and Trainings for NM’s 2023 Session, Fearing Misconduct by Lawmakers

Source New Mexico – Megan Gleason | Published: 3/9/2023

This year, the Center for Civic Policy created a safety plan for New Mexico’s 2023 legislative session and shared it with other lobbying organizations around the state. It lays out measures such as staying with colleagues, understanding who to confide in, knowing the surroundings, and taking notes of any incidents that happen. The group also held safety training sessions before and midway through the legislative session with other advocacy organizations. Lan Sena policy director for the Center for Civic Policy, said the Capitol is an unsafe work environment for many people working with advocacy and nonprofit organizations.

New York – NY Troopers PBA Removes Political Director Amid FBI Investigation

Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 3/13/2023

The board of directors for the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association (PBA) voted to part ways with the union’s longtime political director, Gordon Warnock, amid an ongoing investigation of the organization’s finances and business dealings. The departure comes after it was reported that the investigation includes examining hundreds of thousands of dollars paid through the years to individuals or companies with connections to the union. A lobbying firm operated by Warnock has done extensive work for the union and subcontracted some of its national work to a limited liability company formed by the PBA’s former president.

New York – Former State Sen. Jeff Klein Loses Appeal Seeking to End Ethics Probe

Albany Times Union – Staff | Published: 5/10/2023

A New York appellate court rejected former state Sen. Jeffrey Klein’s efforts to shut down an ethics panel’s investigation into allegations he violated the law when he allegedly forcibly kissed a female staff member outside an Albany bar in 2015. Documents show that the Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE) found there was a substantial basis to proceed with a case despite a hearing officer’s recommendation it should be dismissed. Klein’s 2020 petition alleged JCOPE exceeded its authority when it rejected the recommendations of hearing officer Richard Rifkin.

New York – NYC Mayor Eric Adams Faces Thousands in Fines for Potential Campaign Finance Violations

Gothamist – Gwynne Hogan | Published: 3/15/2023

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing tens of thousands of dollars in fines for three alleged violations of campaign finance law based on issues stemming from his 2021 Transition and Inauguration Entity, a fund that recently elected candidates use to cover expenses after they win an election and before they officially take office. The Campaign Finance Board accused Adams of accepting prohibited donations, failing to respond to requests for information and documentation, and failing to close the fund once Adams became mayor in 2022.

New York – Prosecutors Signal Criminal Charges for Trump Are Likely

Seattle Times – William Rashbaum, Ben Protess, and Jonah Bromwich (New York Times) | Published: 3/9/2023

The Manhattan district attorney’s office recently signaled to Donald Trump’s lawyers that he could face criminal charges for his role in the payment of hush money to a porn star, the strongest indication yet prosecutors are nearing an indictment of the former president. The prosecutors offered Trump the chance to testify before the grand jury that has been hearing evidence in the potential case. Such offers almost always indicate an indictment is close; it would be unusual for the district attorney, Alvin Bragg, to notify a potential defendant without ultimately seeking charges against him.

North Carolina – N.C. High Court Mulls Throwing Out Rulings on Redistricting, Voter ID

MSN – Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 3/14/2023

The North Carolina Supreme Court, now controlled by Republicans following the November midterms, weighed reversing a three-month-old decision aimed at ensuring election maps are drawn fairly. Ahead of oral arguments, critics excoriated the justices for reexamining the redistricting case and a voter ID decision so soon after ruling on them, contending the justices were doing so for partisan reasons instead of legal ones. In December, when Democrats controlled the court, a four-to-three majority issued decisions that went against Republicans on redistricting and threw out the voter ID law.

Ohio – What’s Next in Ohio Corruption Probe After Guilty Verdicts?

ABC News – Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) | Published: 3/14/2023

The largest corruption case in Ohio history culminated with guilty verdicts for ex-House Speaker Larry Householder and lobbyist Matt Borges, the former head of the Republican Party. But state Attorney General Dave Yost said it is “only the beginning of accountability” for the now-tainted $1 billion bailout of two aging nuclear power plants. There have been no charges against the FirstEnergy executives who were fired in the wake of the scandal. They include former Chief Executive Officer Chuck Jones and former Vice President for External Affairs Michael Dowling, whose texts, emails, and travel itineraries factored heavily into the case against Householder.

Ohio – Guilty: Former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder, ex-Ohio GOP chairman Matt Borges convicted in $60M bribery scheme

MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 3/9/2023

A jury found former House Speaker Larry Householder and ex-Ohio Republican Party Chairperson Matt Borges guilty in the largest public corruption case in the state’s history. Prosecutors accused Householder and Borges of being part of a scheme to funnel nearly $61 million in “dark money” from First Energy Corp. and its subsidiary to elect Householder as speaker, solidify his power base, secure enough votes to pass a ratepayer-funded bailout of two nuclear plants that benefitted a FirstEnergy subsidiary, and ensure the law survived a ballot campaign to overturn it.

Oklahoma – Okla. Lawmaker Says Bible Endorses Corporal Punishment of Disabled Children

MSN – María Luisa Paúl (Washington Post) | Published: 3/15/2023

Oklahoma Rep. John Talley thought his bill to bar schools from spanking children with disabilities would find little to no opposition in the Legislature. What seemed like a rare bipartisan moment quickly came crashing down as other Republican lawmakers invoked the Bible to argue against Talley’s House Bill 1028, claiming in some instances that “God’s word is higher than all the so-called experts,” as Rep. Jim Olsen said during debate. The bill wound up six votes short of the 51 it needed to pass.

Pennsylvania – ‘Ya Fav Trashman’ Mishandled Campaign Funds and Bilked Staffers. He Says He Wants to Make Things Right.

MSN – Mike Martin (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 3/10/2023

Terrill Haigler, a former city sanitation worker who gained Instagram fame under his alter ego “Ya Fav Trashman,” ended his campaign for Philadelphia City Council, telling his thousands of social media followers he did not get enough signatures to appear on the ballot. But behind the scenes, financial problems plagued his campaign. Haigler has not paid his staffers, used campaign funding for personal expenses in a possible violation of Pennsylvania law, and could face penalties from the city’s Board of Ethics for failing to account for the money.

Tennessee – Tennessee Governor OKs Bill to Cut Nashville Council in Half

Yahoo News – Jonathan Mattise and Kimberlee Kruesi (Associated Press) | Published: 3/9/2023

Republican lawmakers and Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed off on cutting Democratic-leaning Nashville’s metro council in half, a move that follows the council’s rejection of efforts to host the 2024 Republican National Convention. The move drew an immediate outcry and is expected to spark legal challenges. Nashville Mayor John Cooper’s administration and others say the change will throw this year’s council elections into chaos, spurring the need to redraw districts after more than 40 candidates already launched campaigns.

Tennessee – Lt. Gov. Randy McNally Faces Criticism for Comments on Young Man’s Mature Instagram Photo

Yahoo News – Melissa Brown (Tennessean) | Published: 3/9/2023

Tennessee Lt. Gov. Randy McNally is facing controversy after reports revealed his Instagram account liked half-nude photos of a gay man whose account he follows despite McNally’s support for anti-LGBTQ legislation. Screenshots show McNally’s official account posting emojis of red hearts, fire, hands clapping, and a smiling face with hearts for eyes. The state Senate, with McNally as its leader, advanced and passed bans this year on gender-affirming care for transgender youth and restrictions on where certain drag shows can take place.

Texas – Legislature Has Little Appetite to Fund Ken Paxton’s Settlement with Whistleblowers

Texas Tribune – James Barragán | Published: 3/13/2023

Texas lawmakers are facing a choice: approve $3.3 million in state funds to end a lawsuit accusing Attorney General Ken Paxton of improperly firing four whistleblowers or reject an out-of-court settlement – potentially adding millions of dollars in costs while leaving the outcome of the lawsuit to fate in a long-shot attempt to make Paxton pay. The settlement would resolve a lawsuit that alleges Paxton fired former high-ranking deputies in retaliation for accusing him of using his office to benefit a friend and political donor. But lawmakers have shown little appetite to use state funds to help Paxton settle the case.

Texas – Ken Paxton’s Campaign Against Election Crimes Ensnared a Texas Justice of the Peace Three Times Before Judges Thwarted the Efforts

Texas Tribune – Alejandro Serrano | Published: 3/15/2023

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office in 2021 pursued criminal election fraud charges Tomas Ramirez III, a justice of the peace in Medina County. An indictment accused Ramirez of illegally possessing absentee ballots of 17 voters during the 2018 GOP primary in which he toppled a Republican incumbent by nearly 100 votes. Ramirez said he never had any voter’s absentee ballots. The indictment did not explain how the alleged scheme worked or the role Ramirez was accused of playing.

National/Federal

Group Seeks Disbarment of a Trump-Aligned Lawyer for a Key Jan. 6 Witness

DNyuz – Charlie Savage (New York Times) | Published: 3/6/2023

In appearing before the January 6 committee last year, Cassidy Hutchinson, the former White House aide who recounted Donald Trump’s conduct in the lead-up to the attacks on the Capitol, shared how her original lawyer had tried to influence her testimony. While represented by Stefan Passantino, Cassidy told the committee she remembered little. But after hiring a different lawyer, she provided damaging details about Trump and disclosed Passantino pressured her to protect Trump. Now, several dozen prominent legal figures are seeking to revoke Passantino’s license to practice law.

Election Deniers Take Aim at Group That Helps States Maintain Voter Rolls

MSN – Amy Gardner (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2023

At a time of hyperpolarization over voting and elections, Democrats and Republicans had largely managed to agree on one thing – that a little-known data-sharing consortium of more than 30 states has helped keep voter rolls updated and free of opportunities for fraud. But the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) has been straining lately under the weight of accusations and misinformation from election deniers. Now, ERIC’s survival is in jeopardy. Should ERIC collapse, its boosters say the country would lose one of its most powerful tools for keeping ballot fraud at bay just as states are beginning to prepare for the 2024 elections.

John Fetterman Sponsored a Bill from the Hospital. Here’s What He Can and Can’t Do in the Senate During Treatment.

MSN – Jonathan Tamari (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 3/7/2023

Despite remaining hospitalized while undergoing treatment for depression, U.S. Sen. John Fetterman cosponsored a bill to avert future crises like the one unfolding after a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. Fetterman’s office says it is one example of how he is staying engaged with his job. In the face of scrutiny on his recovery, and questions about his long-term health after a stroke in May, Fetterman’s team points to the early activity to argue he is still able to fulfill key aspects of his new job.

Trump Can Be Sued by Police Over Jan. 6 Riot, Justice Department Says

MSN – Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 3/2/2023

Former President Trump can be held liable in court for the actions of the mob that overtook the Capitol January 6, 2021, the Justice Department said. Two officers with the U.S. Capitol Police, joined by 11 Democratic House members, are seeking to hold Trump liable for physical and psychological injuries they suffered during the riot. Trump has argued he is protected from the lawsuit by the absolute immunity conferred on a president performing his official duties.

Met Gala Getup Gets Ethics Review for Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

MSN – Justin Papp (Roll Call) | Published: 3/2/2023

The House ethics committee published findings from an Office of Congressional Ethics investigation into U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on allegations she failed to pay in a timely manner for rental clothes, accessories, and services related to her attendance at the 2021 Met Gala. The report states Ocasio-Cortez may have “accepted impermissible gifts” in connection with the September 2021 event in violation of House rules, standards of conduct, and federal law.

House Ethics Committee Launches Investigation of Rep. George Santos

MSN – Amy Wang and Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) | Published: 3/2/2023

The House Committee on Ethics will investigate U.S. Rep. George Santos, who has admitted to fabricating large swaths of his biography and who has been accused of breaking campaign finance laws. The committee voted to establish an investigative subcommittee to look into a litany of claims about the freshman congressman, including about his past business practices, campaign finance expenditures, and an allegation of sexual misconduct.

Trump Spurred ‘Existential Crisis’ at Fox News, Lawsuit Exhibits Show

MSN – Sarah Ellison (Washington Post) | Published: 3/7/2023

For years, Fox News executives and hosts cultivated a close relationship with Donald Trump. But after he lost the 2020 presidential election and turned his back on the network – inspiring many once-loyal viewers to do the same – the relationship curdled. The ensuing pressure caused tension, second-guessing, and infighting within Fox on the scale of an “existential crisis,” as one senior executive called it, a cache of internal communications released as part of a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit indicates.

‘Just a Lie’: Senate Republicans blast Tucker Carlson’s Jan. 6 narrative

MSN – Paul Kane, Marianna Sotomayor, Liz Goodwin, and Tom Jackman (Washington Post) | Published: 3/7/2023

Senate Republicans blasted Fox News for airing a show that twisted details of the attack on the U.S. Capitol into a conspiracy-fueled narrative, breaking ranks with House GOP colleagues who cheered on the show. From Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to rank-and-file lawmakers, Republican senators largely rejected Fox personality Tucker Carlson’s vision of the deadly insurrection as a mostly peaceful protest that involved little violence. The criticism from left House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on the defensive following his decision to grant Carlson exclusive access to 41,000 hours of video from Capitol Police security cameras that day.

Trump-Endorsed Congressional Candidate Admits Taking Illegal Donation

MSN – Paul Duggan (Washington Post) | Published: 3/8/2023

A failed congressional candidate pleaded guilty to committing a felony campaign finance violation during her bid to replace former U.S. Rep. Mark Meadows, a political ally and family friend, after Meadows chose not to seek reelection. Lynda Bennett admitted she borrowed $25,000 from a family member in 2019 and illegally funneled the money, in her own name, into her Republican campaign in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District.

New Democratic Digital Firm Wants to Make Candidate Fundraising Less Annoying

MSN – Jessica Piper (Politico) | Published: 3/8/2023

As 2024 Race Begins, Special Counsel Advances with Focus on Trump Lawyers

MSN – Jacqueline Alemany, Josh Dawsey, Spencer Hsu, and Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) | Published: 3/3/2023

The actions of federal prosecutors investigating efforts to overturn the 2020 election highlight the ways in which the probes are unusual and complex – turning some of Donald Trump’s many current or former attorneys into witnesses or potential investigative targets. Special counsel Jack Smith’s pace appears to be quickening as the 2024 presidential election starts to take shape, with Trump once again a candidate. Legal experts say if Smith brings criminal charges against Trump, they would likely be pending when the GOP primary debates begin in August.

More Black Women Run for Office, but Prospects Fade the Higher They Go

Yahoo News – Jazmine Ulloa (New York Times) | Published: 3/8/2023

Black women have made tremendous gains: Kamala Harris broke barriers as the nation’s first Black, Asian American and female vice president. More Black women are leading major cities, and many more have sought U.S. Senate seats and governorships. But winning those offices still poses enduring challenges for women of color, and Black women in particular. Many confront both blatant racism and sexism, along with subtler forms of racial and gender bias that, candidates said, make it more difficult for them to raise money to pay for the costly work of hiring staff and buying advertising in expensive markets.

GOP Bill Would Bar Fellow Rep. George Santos from Profiting from Campaign Lies

Yahoo News – Michael McAuliff (New York Daily News) | Published: 3/7/2023

U.S. Rep. George Santos should not be able to cash in on his infamy, a group of Republican lawmakers declared. They introduced a pair of bills that they said would block him from profiting from his web of lies. Santos’ notoriety soared after reports revealed much of his life story that he campaigned on could not be confirmed. Among other things, he claimed to be the descendent of Jews who fled the holocaust, that he worked for Goldman Sachs, and that his mother died in the Twin Towers on September 11, none of which appears to be true.

International

Canada – Doug Ford’s Campaign Finance Law Struck Down by Court

Toronto Star – Robert Benzie | Published: 3/6/2023

The Ontario Court of Appeal struck down Premier Doug Ford’s controversial campaign finance law that limits spending by unions and other third parties. The court gave Ford’s government “12 months to allow Ontario to fashion Charter-compliant legislation.” The coalition of plaintiffs argued their members’ rights were unfairly hindered by the law preventing third-party PACs from spending more than $600,000 on advertising and other activities in the 12 months before an election.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Sues After County Puts an Election Skeptic in Charge of Voting

DNyuz – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 3/8/2023

An Arizona county is being sued by the state’s attorney general after it transferred voting oversight to the county’s Republican recorder, who has cast doubts about past election results in a place where former President. Trump won nearly 60 percent of the vote in 2020. It is the latest clash between Democrats in statewide office and Cochise County, a deeply Republican area in southeastern Arizona, where conspiracy theories about voter fraud and irregularities still swirl.

Arizona – Judge Orders Sanctions Against Arizona GOP Candidate Who Refused to Accept Loss

MSN – Amy Wang (Washington Post) | Published: 3/6/2023

A judge ordered sanctions against Mark Finchem and his attorney over false claims they made about election fraud after Finchem, the Republican candidate for Arizona secretary of state, lost his race in November and refused to accept the results. Weeks after the election, Finchem sued his Democratic opponent, Adrian Fontes, and then-Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, challenging the results of the vote and requesting that a new election be held. Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Melissa Iyer Julian tossed his suit in December, saying it was groundless.

California – Ninth Circuit Upholds San Francisco Initiative Donor Disclosure Rules

Courthouse News Service – Eric Burkett | Published: 3/8/2023

A federal appeals court panel affirmed a lower court ruling that said providing the public with information about donors of ballot measures is in the public interest. San Franciscans Supporting Prop B sued in 2022, protesting the city’s requirement that committees must run a message disclosing their campaign’s top three donors of $5,000 or more at the top of campaign ads.

California – Nonprofits, Neighborhood Groups Push Back Against Rule That Would Regulate Them as Lobbyists

Long Beach Post – Jason Ruiz | Published: 3/6/2023

As the Long Beach Ethics Commission readies its recommendations for changes to the city’s lobbying ordinance, community groups, nonprofits, and others are apprehensive over what it could mean for the future of their ability to engage with city officials. The law has exempted nonprofits, neighborhood organizations, and business improvement districts. But that could soon change, according to proposed amendments that could be sent to the city council.

California – Ex-SF Department Head to Get $4K Fine After City Hall Scandal

San Francisco Standard – Michael Barba | Published: 3/7/2023

Yahoo News – Matt Hamilton and Katie Licari (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 3/6/2023

When a federal grand jury indicted Mark Ridley-Thomas on corruption charges, the veteran Los Angeles politician protested his innocence and vowed to fight. There was one problem: how would he pay his lawyers? The lifelong civil servant lost his income after the city council suspended him, and the city controller halted his salary and benefits. Then a network of supporters opened their wallets. These donors helped him amass nearly $1.5 million in two defense funds and allowed him to retain an elite legal team.

Georgia – Ga. Republicans Push for Prosecutorial Oversight Amid Trump Election Probe

MSN – Matthew Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 3/7/2023

Georgia’s Republican legislators are pushing bills that would make it easier to remove local prosecutors from office, an effort that prominent Democratic prosecutors have decried as “dangerous” overreach. The move comes as Atlanta-area prosecutor Fani Lewis considers bring charges against former President Trump and his allies over 2020 election interference. GOP lawmakers have said the measures are needed to rein in reform-minded prosecutors and crack down on crime.

Idaho – Rape Victim Sues Idaho Lawmakers for Outing and Harassing Her

Courthouse News Service – Edvard Pettersson | Published: 3/8/2023

A woman who was raped by former Idaho Rep. Aaron von Ehlinger sued him and state Rep. Priscilla Giddings for allegedly outing and harassing her after she came forward with her allegations. Jane Doe reported the rape, and the House Ethics Committee opened an investigation into her allegations. This prompted von Ehlinger to provide unredacted copies of his confidential response to the committee, which contained intimate details about Doe, and to the media. The conservative online publication Redoubt News then ran a story that included a photo of Doe when she was a minor.

Idaho – The MAGA-fication of North Idaho College

Yahoo News – Charles Homans (New York Times) | Published: 3/6/2023

For most of the past two years, North Idaho College’s (NIC) governing board has been a volatile experiment in turning grievances into governance. Trustees backed by the county Republican Party hold a majority on the board. They have denounced liberal “indoctrination” by the college faculty and vowed to bring the school administration’s “deep state” to heel and “Make N.I.C. Great Again.” The injection of such sweeping political aims into the routine administration of a community college of 4,600 students, one better known locally for its technical training programs than the politics of its faculty, has devolved into a full-blown crisis.

Illinois – Vallas Loans $100,100 to His Bid for Mayor, Lifting State Limits on Campaign Contributions

WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 3/2/2023

Paul Vallas and Brandon Johnson can now raise nearly unlimited amounts of cash for their campaigns for mayor of Chicago after Vallas loaned $100,100 to his campaign. Had Vallas not contributed more than $100,000 to his campaign, state-imposed donation limits would have been in place for the April 4 runoff. Caps on contributions imposed by city law remain in place.

Kansas – As Special Interests Try to Influence Kansas Lawmakers, Some Want to Loosen the Rules

MSN – Jonathan Shorman and Katie Bernard (Kansas City Star) | Published: 3/6/2023

In response to a sprawling campaign finance investigation by the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission, Republican lawmakers authored a bill that would expand the ability of legislators to seek campaign contributions during the legislative session. It would also substantially weaken the commission’s investigatory powers, including its authority to issue subpoenas. Collectively, the changes could shift the balance of power between lawmakers and special interests, campaign finance experts and other critics of the legislation argue.

Louisiana – Council Opens Investigation of Cantrell Mailer and Lobbying Firm Connected to Vitter, Scalise

NOLA.com – John Stanton | Published: 3/8/2023

The New Orleans City Council opened an investigation into a mailer touting Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s work in office and whether she hired a public relations firm represented by former U.S. Sen. David Vitter and a former top aide to House Majority Leader Steve Scalise. The mailer was sent to thousands of city voters at taxpayer expense as organizers of a campaign to recall the mayor faced a February 22 deadline. The mailer appears to violate several state laws, including a prohibition of using public funds to produce ads that feature an elected official’s name or likeness.

Maryland – Baltimore Bought $30,000 in Tickets to CIAA Tournament; Officials Strike Deal for Lower Price Amid Questions

MSN – Emily Opilo (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 3/8/2023

As Baltimore makes a play to continue as host for the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament, the pressure has been on city officials to show their enthusiasm. Visit Baltimore President Al Hutchinson appeared at a city council meeting to encourage council members and their families to attend. He also said Visit Baltimore, the city’s nonprofit marketing group, would give each council member a free ticket to the final games of the tournament. Visit Baltimore’s offer, however, proved not to be aligned with the city’s ethics ordinance.

Massachusetts – Campaign Finance Regulators Investigating Whether MassGOP Coordinated with Super PAC, in Violation of Law

MSN – Emma Platoff (Boston Globe) | Published: 3/6/2023

State campaign finance regulators are investigating whether the Massachusetts Republican Party coordinated with an outside super PAC, in a potential violation of state law. E-mails show Jim Lyons, the former state GOP chairperson, sent multiple messages last fall to Antoine Nader, chair of the Mass Freedom Independent Expenditure PAC, referring to opposition research Lyons had solicited on Maura Healey during her bid for governor.

Minnesota – Tighter Lobbyist Rules Considered at Capitol Would Get at Disclosure of Topics Lobbied, Not Just Paper Clips

MinnPost – Peter Callaghan | Published: 3/2/2023

Three years of negotiations between the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and people who lobby the Legislature has produced an agreement to tighten disclosure rules. The deal is found in Senate File 2121 that has bipartisan sponsorship. It would update decades-old rules that required lobbyists to disclose how much they spent on phones and postage but did not require them to disclose many details about which issues they were trying to influence. The bill requires more specifics in twice-a-year lobbyist reports and the annual reports by the companies and organizations that hire lobbyists.

Minnesota – Session Fundraising Lockdown Doesn’t Close Off All Avenues

MPR – Brian Bakst | Published: 3/2/2023

A long-standing law in Minnesota restricts certain political donations during the regular legislative session but it is not the barrier to influence that it has been held up to be. Major political groups and state parties remain open for contributions. They also can rely on the same officials restricted by law, such as registered lobbyists or associations with matters before the Legislature, to draw donors to fundraisers as long as the lawmakers are not called hosts.

New Jersey – The Last New Jersey Reporter on Capitol Hill Just Got Laid Off

MSN – Elahe Izadi (Washington Post) | Published: 3/4/2023

As Washington, D.C. correspondent for the Newark Star-Ledger and several affiliated media outlets, Jonathan Salant combed through campaign finance reports, monitored voting patterns, and cornered members of Congress in Capitol hallways to answer his questions – until he was laid off. Even at a time of mass layoffs across the news industry, Salant’s recent dismissal caused alarm in both Washington and New Jersey, with the same politicians he so closely scrutinized protesting the decision and imploring the newspaper’s parent company to reverse it.

New Mexico – Lawmakers Pass Legislation Through the Senate Specifying Standards of Political Conduct

Source New Mexico – Megan Gleason | Published: 3/8/2023

Bills to ensure professionalism and safety at the Capitol are making their way through the New Mexico Legislature. Rep. Kathleen Cates said the legislation was spurred because the state Supreme Court held that New Mexico’s main anti-corruption provisions are not specific enough to be criminally enforceable.

Oregon – Oregon Democrats Say They’re Serious About Capping Political Donations, but Their Proposals Include Loopholes

MSN – Hillary Borrud (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 3/8/2023

Oregon – Portland Cop-Stacked Firm Loses City’s Truth-and-Reconciliation Contract After No-Bid Process

MSN – Maxine Bernstein (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 3/8/2023

City officials were set last year to award a $200,000 contract for a truth and reconciliation project to a firm stacked with retired Portland police officers as advisers until a tip revealed that the city failed to seek competitive bids. TrustLab had no track record of doing the kind of restorative justice work the project demanded: improving trust between Portland police and city residents, the city auditor’s office found. The city has since put bids on indefinite hold.

Pennsylvania – Pa. House Lawmaker Accused of Sexual Harassment Says He Will Resign

Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 3/8/2023

Pennsylvania Rep. Mike Zabel, who is accused of sexually harassing multiple people including two sitting state lawmakers, said he will resign. His decision comes a week after union lobbyist Andi Perez publicly accused him of sexually harassing her, and the same day that state Rep. Abby Major made a similar accusation. At least two other people have accused Zabel of similar harassment. One is a sitting lawmaker who has requested anonymity; the other is Zabel’s former campaign manager, Colleen Kennedy, who wrote a public essay about his behavior.

Rhode Island – Can a Firefighter Preside Over Firefighter Bills? Here’s What the RI Ethics Commission Said

Yahoo News – Katherine Gregg (Providence Journal) | Published: 3/7/2023

State Rep. Stephen Casey, a Woonsocket firefighter, won Rhode Island Ethics Commission clearance to preside over hearings and vote on a package of bills sought by the state’s firefighter lobby. While the Ethics Code bars public officials from taking part “in any matter in which he has an interest, financial or otherwise, which is in substantial conflict with the proper discharge of his duties in the public interest,” there is what is broadly called “a class exception.”

South Dakota – Bill to Ban South Dakota Lawmakers’ Spouses from Being Private Lobbyists Fails

Yahoo News – Annie Todd (Sioux Falls Argus Leader) | Published: 3/6/2023

Texas – Changes to City Lobbying Rules OK’d by Ethics Review Commission

Austin Monitor – Chad Swiatecki | Published: 3/6/2023

The Ethics Review Commission approved a series of amendments to Austin’s lobbying regulations. The city clerk’s office suggested them to clarify issues regarding lobbyists’ registration and renewal fees and quarterly activity reports, as well as how the city levies the $50 late fees when filings and payments are late. The changes are set to be voted on by the city council on March 23.

Texas – Houston PAC Leaders Face $45K in Fines for Operating Illegally, Not Filing Finance Reports

MSN – Yilun Cheng (Houston Chronicle) | Published: 3/2/2023

The state Ethics Commission issued a $45,000 fine for Terrence Shanks and Damella Wilkerson, the president and the director of finance of the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats – Harris County for operating without a campaign treasurer, failing to file required reports, and possibly selling endorsements to local candidates. PACs are required to submit semiannual reports. The last time the PAC filed a report was in 2014. Since then, however, it has continued to carry out political activities, including publishing endorsements lists that included candidates who have donated to the group, commission investigators found.

Virginia – Virginia General Assembly Adjourns for 2023 After Passing Modest Campaign Finance Reform

OpenSecrets – Jimmy Cloutier | Published: 2/28/2023

The Virginia General Assembly ended the 2023 legislative session having passed only one campaign finance bill to the dismay of activists who say the state’s election laws need reform. Virginia’s laws governing political spending are among the least restrictive in the country. Under this system, total state-level fundraising in legislative races more than tripled over the last two decades. The legislation that passed, Senate Bill 1427, would expand disclosure laws by creating new filing deadlines and require PACs to report large donations more frequently.

National/Federal

Indian Americans Rapidly Climbing Political Ranks

DNyuz – Maggie Astor and Jill Cowan (New York Times) | Published: 2/27/2023

Despite being one of the largest immigrant groups in the U.S., Americans of Indian descent in 20123 were barely represented in politics. Ten years later, the 118th Congress includes five Indian Americans; nearly 50 are in state Legislatures. Vice President Kamala Harris is Indian American. Nikki Haley’s campaign announcement makes 2024 the third consecutive cycle in which an Indian American has run for president, and Vivek Ramaswamy’s newly announced candidacy makes it the first cycle with two.

Student Loan Case Could Redefine Limits of Presidential Power

DNyuz – Michael Shear and Adam Liptak (New York Times) | Published: 3/1/2023

One of President Biden’s most ambitious proposals, a $400 billion program to forgive student loan debt for 40 million Americans, could become the latest victim of a legal tug of war with the U.S. Supreme Court over the powers of the presidency. The case has the potential to curtail Biden just as newly empowered Republicans in the House have vowed to block his every move in Congress. It will set additional legal precedents, potentially defining new limits for presidential power.

Rep. Scott Perry Fights to Keep Phone from Team Probing Jan. 6 Attack

MSN – Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 2/23/2023

U.S. Rep. Scott Perry is asking an appeals court to block a search of his cellphone by the special counsel investigating the insurrection at the Capitol. He is supported by bipartisan House leadership in arguing the speech or debate clause of the Constitution bars the Justice Department from seeing the phone contents. After the 2020 election, Perry pushed the White House and Justice Department to investigate implausible election fraud claims. He was also involved in the effort to install as acting attorney general Jeffrey Clark, who backed plans to block Biden from taking office.

Trump White House Pressured Disney to Censor … Jimmy Kimmel

MSN – Asawin Suebsaeng (Rolling Stone) | Published: 2/26/2023

In early 2018, then-President Trump was so upset by late night host Jimmy Kimmel’s comedic jabs he directed his White House staff to call up one of Disney’s top executives in Washington, D.C., to complain and demand action. Disney owns ABC, on which Jimmy Kimmel Live! has long aired. The following year, Trump directed his staff and attorneys to see whether the Federal Communications Commission and the Justice Department could retaliate against late night shows critical of him after he was incensed by the jokes about him on SNL.

Murdoch Admits Some Fox Hosts ‘Were Endorsing’ Election Falsehoods

MSN – Jeremy Barr, Sarah Ellison, and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2023

Embattled Rep. Ogles Acknowledges Misrepresenting His College Major

MSN – John Wagner (Washington Post) | Published: 2/27/2023

Showdown Before the Raid: FBI agents and prosecutors argued over Trump

MSN – Carol Leonnig, Devlin Barrett, Perry Stein, and Aaron Davis (Washington Post) | Published: 3/1/2023

Months of disputes between Justice Department prosecutors and FBI agents over how best to try to recover classified documents from Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club and residence led to a tense showdown near the end of July last year. It was one of several previously unreported clashes in a tug of war between two arms of the Justice Department over how aggressively to pursue a criminal investigation of a former president. The FBI conducted an unprecedented raid and recovered more than 100 classified items.

Dark Money and Special Deals: How Leonard Leo and his friends benefited from his judicial activism

MSN – Heidi Przybyla (Politico) | Published: 3/1/2023

A network of political nonprofits formed by judicial activist Leonard Leo moved at least $43 million to a new firm he is leading, raising questions about how his conservative legal movement is funded. Leo’s own personal wealth appeared to have ballooned as his fundraising prowess accelerated since his efforts to cement the U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority helped to bring about its decision to overturn abortion rights. Most recently, Leo reaped a $1.6 billion windfall from a single donor in what is likely the biggest single political gift in U.S. history.

Judge Won’t Unseal Details of Trump’s Privilege Fight Over Jan. 6 Grand Jury

MSN – Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 2/23/2023

U.S. District Court Judge Beryl Howell rejected a bid to obtain access to details of former President Trump’s efforts to block testimony by aides to a grand jury investigating his effort to derail the transfer of power after the 2020 election. Howell said a federal court rule mandating grand jury secrecy precluded the release of court opinions and other filings about disputes she has ruled on behind closed doors. The New York Times and Politico petitioned Howell to unseal portions of the grand jury proceedings in October, citing the historic nature of the secret rulings she had issued. The Justice Department opposed the unsealing, prompting Howell’s decision.

New Indictment Details Bankman-Fried’s Illegal Campaign Contributions

Yahoo News – Declan Harty and Sam Sutton (Politico) | Published: 2/23/2023

Yahoo News – Lisa Lerer and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 3/1/2023

For decades, the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) occupied a center ring in Republican politics. This year, Donald Trump will be back at the four-day gathering, joined by a long list of right-wing media provocateurs, culture-war activists, and a smattering of senators. Missing from the agenda: many of the Republicans seen as the future of the party. Some Republicans say the CPAC gathering has increasingly become more like a sideshow than a featured act, one that seems made almost exclusively for conservative media.

From the States and Municipalities

Alabama – AG Steve Marshall Accuses Alabama Ethics Director Tom Albritton of ‘Self-Dealing’ from Charitable Trust

AL.com – Mike Cason | Published: 3/1/2023

State Attorney General Steve Marshall accused Alabama Ethics Commission Director Tom Albritton of improperly benefiting from a charitable trust for which Albritton was a board member because Albritton’s children received more than $100,000 in scholarship money from the fund. The accusation came in a civil case and is not a criminal allegation. Marshall alleged Albritton and two other members of the board breached their duties by engaging in “self-dealing” or by failing to prevent it.

Arizona – Pro-Lake PAC Didn’t Fabricate Its Source of $2.1 Million, Officials Concluded Last Year

Arizona Mirror – Jim Small | Published: 2/27/2023

A campaign finance complaint accusing a super PAC that spent $2.1 million boosting Kari Lake’s bid for Arizona governor of inventing the source of its funding was quietly dismissed last year after elections officials determined a media report questioning the money’s origin was inaccurate. In July 2022, the Arizona Republic reported on the mysterious source of more than $2 million that had been spent on television ads to help Lake win her Republican primary contest against wealthy developer Karrin Taylor Robson.

Arizona – Arizona Governor Seeks Ethics Review of Former Attorney General

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Isaac Stanley-Becker (Washington Post) | Published: 2/25/2023

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs is seeking a review of what her office alleges was “likely unethical conduct” by the state’s former attorney general, Mark Brnovich. A letter sent from the governor’s office to the State Bar of Arizona follows the disclosure of records showing Brnovich, a Republican, withheld findings by his own investigators refuting claims of fraud in the 2020 election and mischaracterized his office’s probe of voting in the state’s largest county. The letter signed calls the conduct “harmful to our democracy, our State, and the legal profession itself.”

California – California Business Groups File Lawsuit Seeking to Block New Campaign Finance Law

MSN – Theresa Clift (Sacramento Bee) | Published: 2/24/2023

A new lawsuit seeks to block a state law that requires city and county elected officials to recuse themselves from certain decisions that would financially benefit any entity or person that donated over $250 to that official’s campaign in the past year. It allows the official to return the money to cast a vote. The law applies to permits, licenses, and contracts, and might also be expanded to things like rezoning for development projects, said the bill’s author. The suit alleges lawmakers never had the authority to amend the Political Reform Act of 1974 in such a significant way.

California – Anaheim Officials Reverse Course and Fully Fund an Independent City Corruption Probe

Voice of OC – Spencer Custodio and Hosam Elattar | Published: 3/1/2023

The Anaheim City Council decided to fully fund an independent, city-commissioned corruption probe after hesitating earlier in February, which fueled outcry amongst many residents and activist groups. Council members also voted to allow investigators to share information about possible criminal misconduct with the district attorney’s office. The investigation was launched in August after revelations of an FBI corruption probe, in which federal agents allege Disneyland resort area interests and the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce wielded outsized influence on policy making at City Hall. They help fund city council campaigns.

Colorado – A Piece of Colorado Capitol History Is for Sale on eBay for $9,000. State Officials Want It Back.

Colorado Sun – Jessie Paul | Published: 3/1/2023

Sage Naumann, a former staffer at the Colorado Legislature, was conducting his occasional nerd search of state relics on eBay when an item caught his eye: “ORIGINAL BRONZE WALL SCONCE FROM THE COLORADO STATE CAPITOL BLDG. IN DENVER COLO.” The list price was $8,995. The Capitol Building Advisory Committee determined it wants the sconce – a decorative light fixture – back. The eBay listing has prompted a larger discussion about how to get missing Capitol relics back when they are discovered.

Florida – Jason Brodeur Wants Pay-to-Play Blog Posts About Elected Officials Reported with the State

Florida Politics – Jacob Ogles | Published: 3/1/2023

Florida could require blogs paid to produce content about elected officials to register and report that activity. Senate Bill 1316 requires reporting with the state “if a blogger posts to a blog about an elected state officer and receives, or will receive, compensation for that post.” Under the bill, bloggers must file monthly reports that list what posts mention those officials, along with disclosing any individual who paid for the posts and the amount paid.

Florida – DeSantis Takes Over Disney District, Punishing Company

MSN – Anthony Izaguirre (Associated Press) | Published: 2/27/2023

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill that gives him control of Walt Disney World’s self-governing district, punishing the company over its opposition to the “Don’t Say Gay” law. The bill requires DeSantis to appoint a five-member board to oversee the government services the Disney district provides in its theme park properties in Florida. The signing came as DeSantis gears up for an expected presidential run and marks a high-profile legislative victory for a governor whose leveraging of cultural and political divides has pushed him to the front of national Republican politics.

Florida – Federal Judge Blocks Part of Florida Law Banning Elected Officials from Lobbying Other Governments

MSN – Anthony Man (South Florida Sun Sentinel) | Published: 2/28/2023

U.S. District Court Judge Beth Bloom struck down part of Florida’s ban on paid lobbying by elected officials. The temporary injunction prohibits enforcement of the provision that bars elected officials from paid lobbying on behalf of clients before any other government entity. The judge let stand a six-year ban on certain lobbying activities by former government officials once they leave office. The law has already had an impact. Some elected officials who have worked as lobbyists stopped. Others resigned their government posts.

Florida – DeSantis Wants to Roll Back Press Freedoms – with an Eye Toward Overturning Supreme Court Ruling

Yahoo News – Matt Dixon (Politico) | Published: 2/23/2023

At the Gov. Ron DeSantis’s urging, Florida’s Republican-dominated Legislature is pushing to weaken state laws that have long protected journalists against defamation suits and frivolous lawsuits. The proposal is part DeSantis’s ongoing feud with media companies he claims are biased against Republicans as he prepares for a likely 2024 presidential bid. The proposal is being positioned to spark a larger legal battle with the goal of eventually overturning New York Times v. Sullivan, the landmark 1964 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that limits public officials’ ability to sue publishers for defamation.

Georgia – Judge Overseeing Trump Georgia Grand Jury Speaks After Foreperson’s Controversial Interviews

Yahoo News – Olivia Rubin (ABC News) | Published: 2/27/2023

After the foreperson of the grand jury investigating former President Trump and a push to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia spoke out in several headline-making interviews, the judge overseeing the case said jurors “can talk about the final report.” But Judge Robert McBurney noted the matter can get “problematic” if jurors start to “synthesize the testimony” and the group’s thoughts on it. The foreperson, Emily Kohrs, gave interviews to news outlets regarding her work as a juror, including that the panel had recommended indictments against multiple people.

Illinois – In 4 Years, Lori Lightfoot Went from Breakout Political Star to Divisive Mayor of a Chicago Beset by Pandemic and Crime

MSN – Gregory Pratt and Alice Yin (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 3/1/2023

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s failure to advance to a runoff election represents an astonishing fall from power four years after she was ushered into City Hall with a promise of reform. Instead, Lightfoot struggled through a storm of skyrocketing crime, the COVID-19 pandemic and a series of personality conflicts that left her labeled as a divisive leader who was unable to build political coalitions or maintain relationships.

Massachusetts – Several Thorny Political Corruption Cases Await New Attorney General Andrea Campbell

MSN – Samantha Gross (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/26/2023

Among the many different types of crimes that the Massachusetts attorney general’s office investigates, none present quite the minefield as the prosecution of another politician. Some previous state prosecutors pursued such cases with vigor. Others, less so. And either way, they usually got criticized, for being too zealous or too timid. The newly elected attorney general, Andrea Campbell, inherited several high-profile political cases, including allegations of illegal campaign finance activity by a sitting state senator and the former head of the Massachusetts GOP and pending criminal charges against a former state senator and congressional candidate.

Montana – Lawmakers Look to Define Investigative Authority After Judicial Conflict

Helena Independent Record – Seaborn Larson | Published: 3/1/2023

After the Montana Legislature’s investigation into the judiciary last session was blocked by the courts’ finding they had lacked authority to do so, Republicans worked to fill that gap. Senate Bill 490 would provide a scope and use of the Legislature’s “investigative powers.” The state Supreme Court in 2021 found lawmakers needed a legislative purpose to investigate the judiciary.

New Jersey – Assembly Postpones Vote on Bill That Could Gut Some NJ Campaign Finance Rules

MSN – Ashley Balcerzak (Bergen Record) | Published: 2/27/2023

The New Jersey Assembly postponed a vote on an overhaul of the state’s campaign finance system that would eviscerate “pay-to-play” rules, give the governor more control over the agency that polices election law, and increase what individuals and companies can donate. Assemblyperson Carol Murphy confirmed the chamber did not have enough votes to pass the measure and pulled the bill to take a closer look at the last-minute amendments.

New Mexico – Bill to End Gag on Ethics Complainants Clears Committee

NM Political Report – Susan Dunlap | Published: 2/25/2023

The Senate Rules Committee passed a bill that would allow someone who files an ethics complaint in New Mexico to speak publicly on the matter. The current law prohibits both the complainant and committee staff from speaking publicly about a complaint. House Bill 169 generated a discussion around the constitutional right to free speech.

New Mexico – Trump Cowboy Found Not Guilty of Campaign Finance Charge

Yahoo News – Associated Press | Published: 3/1/2023

Cowboys for Trump co-founder Couy Griffin was found not guilty of a misdemeanor charge of failing to register a political committee in New Mexico. Cowboys for Trump staged horseback parades to spread Donald Trump’s conservative message on issues. Griffin invoked free speech protections in declining to register and disclose donors the group, while expressing concern that contributors might be harassed.

New York – Democrats Seek to Close Lobbying Loophole on Nominations Exposed by LaSalle Fight

Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 2/27/2023

New York Senate Democratic leaders are seeking to close an apparent lobbying loophole for nominations to statewide positions that require confirmation. The loophole allows for individuals or groups seeking to influence the vote of senators on a nominee without having to report their activities to the state Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government. “The danger in people trying to influence judicial appointments is just as great, if not greater, than for those trying to influence legislation,” said Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris. “To somehow allow that influence to be exerted in secrecy makes absolutely no sense.”

New York – Could Public Campaign Finance Unlaunch in New York?

City & State – Rebecca Lewis | Published: 2/28/2023

It has been reported that despite the new statewide public campaign finance system’s official launch in November, legislative leaders in New York may push to postpone payouts for two years even as lawmakers and other candidates have begun to sign up. Good government advocates have touted the program as a way to reduce corruption by reducing the influence of big-dollar donors. Opponents have argued that taxpayer money should not pay for lawmakers’ elections.

North Carolina – Federal Court of Appeals Rules NC’s Ag-Gag Law Is Unconstitutional, Signals a Win for Whistleblowers

NC Policy Watch – Lisa Sorg | Published: 2/24/2023

A federal appeals court upheld a lower court ruling that North Carolina’s “ag-gag law” is unconstitutional and infringes on free speech. The Property Protection Act allows courts to assess civil fines on employees who took videos or photos, or even took handwritten notes, of a business’s non-public areas to document alleged wrongdoing, and then passed that information to anyone besides the employer or law enforcement. The fines were $5,000 per day, plus attorney’s fees.

Ohio – A Behind-the-Scenes Look at How Ohio Enacted the Most Restrictive Voter Photo ID Law in America

Ohio Capital Journal – Zurie Pope | Published: 3/1/2023

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed House Bill 458 in January, enacting what has been called one of the most restrictive voter-ID laws in the country. Public records show how the law moved through the process, with lawmakers often ignoring moderation suggestions proposed by the secretary of state’s office and a law firm that lobbied on the measure. Republican leaders insist the new voting restrictions were necessary, despite no evidence of significant voter fraud.

Ohio – Norfolk Southern Plied Ohio Politicians with Campaign Cash, Extensive Lobbying

WSYX – Darrell Rowland | Published: 2/23/2023

Almost exactly a month before a Norfolk Southern train derailed and spewed hazardous materials in East Palestine, Ohio, the company gave the maximum $10,000 to help bankroll Gov. Mike DeWine’s inaugural festivities. The railway company contributed about $98,000 during the past six years to Ohio statewide and legislative candidates. It also filed more than 200 quarterly reports disclosing the lobbying of state officials or legislators in the same period. Most of the lobbying was on generic transportation issues. Some efforts were devoted to defeating legislation that would have established tougher safety standards for train operations.

Pennsylvania – Shapiro Admin Contends Taking Super Bowl Tickets Didn’t Violate Governor’s Own Gift Ban

MSN – Kate Huangpu and Stephen Caruso (Spotlight PA) | Published: 2/22/2023

Under a policy instituted in January, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and executive branch employees are not allowed to accept tickets to recreational events such as football games. The ban states these employees cannot accept such a gift from any “person or entity” that “has financial relations with the Commonwealth.” But Team Pennsylvania – a public-private partnership that works to improve the state’s “competitiveness and economic prosperity” – paid for Shapiro and his staff’s flights, lodging, and tickets for the Super Bowl in Arizona this year. The state has given the group over $17.2 million in contracts since 2007.

Pennsylvania – Ex-Philly Councilmember Bobby Henon Sentenced to 3 1/2 Years in Union Bribery Case

MSN – Jeremy Roebuck and Oona Goodin-Smith (Philadelphia Inquirer) | Published: 3/1/2023

A federal judge sentenced former city council member Bobby Henon to three-and-one-half years in prison, calling his conviction on bribery charges a case that “exposed the dirty underbelly of how Philadelphia politics works.” U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey Schmehl said Henon deserved his prison term for essentially selling his office to labor leader John Dougherty in exchange for a $70,000-a-year union salary.

Pennsylvania – Lobbyist Says She Was Sexually Harassed by Pa. Lawmaker Mike Zabel, Calls on Him to Resign

Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 3/1/2023

Andi Perez a lobbyist for the Service Employees International Union 32BJ, says Pennsylvania Rep. Mike Zabel sexually harassed her and called for him to resign. Perez did not name Zabel when she publicly shared her story in January. She said an unnamed lawmaker harassed her while they discussed a bill outside of the Capitol. Spotlight PA spoke to a woman who was with Perez at the time of the incident and corroborated Perez’s story. Spotlight PA also viewed a text message Zabel sent to Perez the day after she said the harassment occurred, in which he confirmed the two met and apologized for his “bad manners at times.”

Pennsylvania – McClinton Voted Pa. Speaker; First Black Woman to Win Post

Yahoo News – Mark Scolforo (Associated Press) | Published: 2/28/2023

State Rep. Joanna McClinton became the first woman to serve as speaker of the Pennsylvania House, ascending to the chamber’s top position on the strength of a fresh one-vote Democratic majority. The leadership reshuffling came nearly two months after Rep. Mark Rozzi became the surprise choice for speaker. Democrats flipped a net of 12 seats in November to retake majority control by the narrowest of margins after more than a decade, but their control did not become effective until their candidates won three special elections in February.

South Carolina – SC House Freedom Caucus Takes Colleagues to Federal Court on Free Speech Grounds

MSN – Joseph Bustos (The State) | Published: 2/28/2023

The South Carolina House Freedom Caucus is taking its colleagues to federal court. The caucus, an ultra-conservative wing of House Republicans, filed a lawsuit against Ethics Committee members over free speech grounds. The group is asking the court to equal the playing field for legislative caucuses, allowing them, most importantly, to solicit donations similar to the two main party caucuses in the lower chamber. State ethics law only allows the Republican, Democratic, Legislative Black Caucus, and Women’s caucuses to raise money, openly advocate for candidates and hire staff.

Tennessee – Gov. Bill Lee Will Sign Drag Bill, Reacts to Yearbook Photo Showing Him Dressed as a Woman

MSN – Josh Keefe (Tennessean) | Published: 2/27/2023

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said he intends to sign an antidrug show bill into law when it reaches his desk, the first time he has publicly taken a position on the legislation. Lee also said comparisons between the performances targeted in the bill and an old yearbook picture of him dressed in woman’s clothes were “ridiculous.” In 2019, Lee said he regretted attending “Old South” parties while an undergraduate student at Auburn University after a yearbook photo showed him dressed as a Confederate soldier.

Texas – Two GOP Legislators in Harris County Want to Let the State Replace Local Elections Administrators

Texas Tribune – Natalia Contreras (Votebeat) | Published: 2/27/2023

Bills filed by Republican lawmakers in response to Harris County’s mismanagement of its recent elections could give the Texas secretary of state the authority to step in, suspend county election administrators when a complaint is filed and appoint a replacement administrator. Election administration experts said the legislation was an overreaction to the desire to hold Harris County accountable for years of election mismanagement and would disrupt the state’s ability to help county election offices improve and address systemic problems.

Wyoming – Bouchard Reprimanded by Senate Leadership; Lawmaker Doubles Down on Social Media

Wyoming Tribune Eagle – Jasmine Hall | Published: 3/1/2023

Wyoming Senate leaders issued a formal letter of reprimand against Sen. Anthony Bouchard for his behavior that led to a second ethics complaint in less than a year. The most recent complaint was filed by nurse practitioner Jennifer James, who had testified in the House Appropriations Committee on a bill sponsored by Bouchard. He used an obscenity in a text message to James for her comments on the bill regarding the World Professional Association for Transgender Health.

National/Federal

Trump Spent $10 Million From His PAC on His Legal Bills Last Year

DNyuz – Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 2/21/2023

Former President Trump spent roughly $10 million from his PAC, Save America, on his own legal fees last year. The money that went to Trump’s legal bills was part of more than $16 million that Save America spent for legal-related payments in 2021 and 2022. Some campaign finance experts are raising questions about whether, as an announced candidate for president, Trump can continue to use the PAC to pay for his personal legal bills.

Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump Subpoenaed in Jan. 6 Investigation

DNyuz – Maggie Haberman and Michael Schmidt (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2023

Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, have been subpoenaed by the special counsel to testify before a federal grand jury about Trump’s efforts to stay in power after he lost the 2020 election and his role in a pro-Trump mob’s attack on the Capitol. The decision by the special counsel, Jack Smith, to subpoena Ivanka Trump and Kushner underscores how deeply into the former president’s inner circle that Smith is reaching and is the latest sign no potential high-level witness is off limits.

Months After Her Trump Indignity, U.S. Judge Aileen Cannon Catches Another Political Hot Potato

Florida Bulldog – Dan Christensen | Published: 2/19/2023

Former U.S. Rep. Rivera was ordered to pay a $456,000 civil penalty to the FEC after the agency showed he secretly financed the primary campaign of another candidate to “weaken” his likely 2012 general election opponent. Rivera has a motion pending before U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon asking her to declare the penalty enhancement provision of the Federal Election Campaign Act as unconstitutional. Cannon’s ruling in the case of missing classified documents found at Donald Trump’s residence was vacated on appeal and questions are likely to arise about her ability to impartially handle another politically charged case.

McCarthy Gives Tucker Carlson Exclusive Access to Jan. 6 Riot Video

MSN – Meryl Kornfield and Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 2/21/2023

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy provided exclusive access to a trove of U.S. Capitol surveillance footage from the insurrection to Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who has played down the deadly violence that occurred and claimed it was a “false flag” operation. The decision by McCarthy to provide the video to Carlson raised serious questions about whether the release of the footage would force U.S. Capitol Police to change the location of security cameras and why the speaker would give the material to a Fox News host who has peddled conspiracy theories about the attack and not share it with other news organizations.

50 Years Ago, Depression Ended a Campaign. That’s Changed, Politicians Say.

MSN – Jonathan Edwards and Praveena Somasundaram (Washington Post) | Published: 2/17/2023

When it was revealed that U.S. Sen. Thomas Eagleton, a vice-presidential nominee in 1972, had been hospitalized three times for depression and undergone electroshock therapy, it derailed his chance to be on the Democratic ticket that year. Fifty years later, when U.S. Sen. John Fetterman’s office announced he had voluntarily sought treatment for clinical depression, the reaction was far different, signaling a shift in the way those holding public office talk about mental health.

When Chiefs Play, Lobbyists Pay to Get Missouri and Kansas Politicians into Big Games

MSN – Jonathan Shorman, Kevin Hardy, and Katie Bernard (Kansas City Star) | Published: 2/17/2023

Public officials in Missouri and Kansas have accepted more than $30,000 in football tickets from special interests to Kansas City Chiefs games and related gifts, like parking, since 2017 when the Patrick Mahomes era began, a period capped by the team’s Super Bowl victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Missouri voters in 2018 voted to ban most gifts to state lawmakers. But other public officials like mayors and city council members were not included, leaving lobbyists free to continue giving them tickets, meals, and other items.

Before Ohio Derailment, Norfolk Southern Lobbied Against Safety Rules

MSN – Ian Duncan, Luz Lazo, and Michael Laris (Washington Post) | Published: 2/18/2023

Three months before one of his railroad’s trains derailed and burned in Ohio, Norfolk Southern chief executive Alan Shaw shared a picture of him and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg smiling together after a meeting in Washington. It was an opportunity for Norfolk Southern to raise concerns about a proposed federal rule that would require trains, in most cases, to have two crew members. Federal regulators have argued that two workers could better respond to derailments and other emergencies. Labor leaders say Norfolk Southern resists proposed regulation, opposing new safety standards while searching for loopholes through existing rules.

Fox News Hosts, Execs Privately Doubted 2020 Conspiracy Claims Shared on Air

MSN – Jeremy Barr and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 2/16/2023

George Santos Reported Spreading Campaign Cash to Other Republicans. The Money Never Showed Up.

Yahoo News – Jessica Piper (Politico) | Published: 2/22/2023

One of George Santos’s first acts as a candidate for Congress in 2019, according to his campaign finance filings, was making a series of four-figure contributions from his campaign to a pair of local Republican groups and former President Trump’s reelection committee. But according to those groups’ own filings, the contributions were never received and may not have been donated. The purported donations included $2,800 to Trump’s campaign that is not reflected in his campaign finance disclosures and would have exceeded contribution limits if it did happen as Santos’s campaign reported it.

International

Canada – Lobbying Commissioner Proposes New Rules – but Critics Aren’t Happy

MSN – Darren Major (CBC) | Published: 2/19/2023

Canada’s lobbying commissioner is proposing a new set of guidelines on how lobbyists should conduct themselves when engaging with public officials. Some critics say the changes would eviscerate the guidelines, while others say they go too far. The proposed changes would set monetary limits on what lobbyists should offer officials in the way of gifts and food. They would also reduce the period of time after a person leaves a politician’s employ when they are not supposed to lobby that politician.

From the States and Municipalities

Alaska – Alaska House Censures Rep. Eastman for Comments About the Economic ‘Benefit’ of Child Abuse Deaths

KTOO – James Brooks (Alaska Beacon) | Published: 2/22/2023

The Alaska House voted to reprimand state Rep. David Eastman for speculating the state could financially benefit if child abuse victims died of their abuse. Eastman’s remarks, which he said were intended to criticize some arguments in favor of abortion rights, spread on social media, contributing to the public outcry. A censure has no consequences other than putting a formal statement of disapproval or reprimand on the record. But some lawmakers said their vote should be considered an action, not mere words.

Arizona – Arizona’s Top Prosecutor Concealed Records Debunking Election Fraud Claims

MSN – Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Isaac Stanley-Becker (Washington Post) | Published: 2/22/2023

An investigation found virtually all claims of error and malfeasance in Maricopa County, Arizona, in the 2020 election were unfounded, according to documents. Then-state Attorney General Mark Brnovich, a Republican who launched the probe, kept the findings private. He released an “Interim Report” claiming his office had discovered “serious vulnerabilities.” He left out edits from his own investigators refuting his assertions. The innuendo and inaccuracies, circulated not just in the far reaches of the internet but with the imprimatur of the state’s attorney general, helped make Arizona an epicenter of distrust in the democratic process.

Arizona – ‘Dark Money’ Opponents Want to Block Effort to Quash Law

Sierra Vista Herald Review – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 2/15/2023

The group that convinced voters last year to outlaw “dark money” in Arizona is asking a judge to block a bid by two special interest groups to keep the law from taking effect. In new legal filings, attorney Chanele Reyes told a Superior Court judge there is nothing unconstitutional about ensuring that voters know who is trying to influence elections. Approved by voters in November by a wide margin, Proposition 211 says any organization that spends more than $50,000 on a statewide race – half that for other contests – must publicly disclose anyone who has given at least $5,000.

California – Family Business: Meet the legacy caucus in the California Legislature

CalMatters – Ben Christopher | Published: 2/8/2023

Of the 120 state lawmakers in California, twelve have current or former members in their immediate family. At least 10 percent of the Legislature has been related to at least one current or former state lawmaker since 2001. The ubiquity of political families can shape the culture at the Capitol. At best, it provides a way for institutional knowledge to pass from one generation to the next despite term limits. At worst, it can provide fodder for cynics who believe that political power is only available to those who know the right people.

California – Ethics Commission Set to Recommend Tougher Lobbying Rules

Long Beach Post – Jason Ruiz | Published: 2/19/2023

The Long Beach Ethics Commission could propose dramatic changes to the city’s lobbying rules that would redefine who has to register their activities with the city, lower the threshold for when activity needs to be reported, and require politicians and other officials to self-report contacts with people advocating for policies or projects. The commissioners could formally refer them to the city council for approval at its March 8 meeting.

California – Trial Begins for Former LA Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan on Corruption Charges

Los Angeles Daily News – Fred Shuster (City News Service) | Published: 2/21/2023

A former Los Angeles deputy mayor played a key role in a complex City Hall-based bribery scheme run by ex-city council member José Huizar designed to “get money, keep power, and avoid the feds,” a prosecutor told jurors in Raymond Chan’s trial on corruption charges. Chan is accused of being a member of what prosecutors dubbed the Council District 14 “enterprise,” a conspiracy which operated as a “pay-to-play” scheme in which Huizar, assisted by others, unlawfully used his office to give favorable treatment to real estate developers who financed and facilitated bribes and other illicit benefits.

California – San Jose Mayor’s Chief of Staff Accused of Conflict of Interest

San Jose Spotlight – Jane Kadah | Published: 2/17/2023

While working in the top offices of city government, Jim Reed helped raise six figures to elect San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. Then he went to work for him. Many say that could be considered a conflict-of-interest. Some in are considering a call to demand Reed step down as Mahan’s chief of staff or at least be investigated by the city’s ethics commission. Government employees such as Reed cannot intermingle official resources with political campaigns, or use public resources including their time or city offices for lobbying or political activities.

Colorado – Denver City Councilmember Forced to Crawl onto Debate Stage Due to Lack of Wheelchair Access

Denver Gazette – Alex Andrews | Published: 2/15/2023

A Denver City Council member who relies on a wheelchair says he was humiliated after being forced to crawl onto a stage to take part in an election debate because the venue did not have a ramp. Hinds participates in the city’s Fair Election Fund program, in which candidates who agree to raise money in lower amounts get a matching disbursement from the city. The program requires candidates to participate in debates or forfeit the funding. Hind’s campaign said he stands to lose $125,000. “People often think that the [Americans with Disabilities Act] solved accessibility problems, but here is a stark reminder that serious issues still persist,” Hinds said.

Florida – Mayor Jane Castor’s Partner Vowed Not to Lobby the City. How’d That Go?

MSN – Charlie Frago and Sue Carlton (Tampa Bay Times) | Published: 2/22/2023

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor’s partner, lobbyist Ana Cruz, has helped run Florida campaigns for Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton. On Twitter, she goes by Tampa’s 1st Lady. When Castor announced she would run for mayor, questions were raised about her connection to Cruz, who is a managing partner at Ballard Partners. The firm, which specializes in governmental and public affairs, has represented clients to the city of Tampa.

Georgia – Georgia Grand Jury: ‘Perjury may have been committed’ in Trump election probe

MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 2/16/2023

An special grand jury investigating efforts by Donald Trump and his allies to overturn Trump’s 2020 election loss in Georgia concluded some witnesses may have lied under oath during their testimony and recommended charges be filed. But those witnesses were not identified in the excerpt of the grand jury report that was made public. The unsealed document offered no major clues about the grand jury’s other findings, although the panel noted it unanimously agreed that Georgia’s 2020 presidential vote had not been marred by “widespread fraud,” contrary to what Trump and many of his allies have claimed.

Hawaii – Should Hawaii’s Legislature Meet Year-Round?

Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 2/21/2023

When Sen. Stanley Chang was elected to the Hawaii Senate in 2016 after serving for four years on the Honolulu City Council, he was surprised by the pace of the legislative session. The council’s schedule of weekly committee hearings and twice-monthly council meetings throughout the year “permitted time for deliberation, consultation with stakeholders and accessibility for the public,” Chang said. On the other hand, “[the Legislature is] just four months of chaos …,” he said. Chang introduced a bill that would eliminate the current 60-day limit on legislative sessions and require lawmakers to meet at least once monthly instead.

Illinois – Lightfoot’s Campaign Sent 9,900 Emails Seeking Support from CPS and City Colleges Staff, Documents Show

WBEZ – Nader Issa (Chicago Sun-Times), Sarah Karp, Tessa Weinberg, and Mariah Woelfel | Published: 2/21/2023

When news broke in January that Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s reelection campaign had solicited help from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and City Colleges of Chicago educators to recruit student volunteers, the incumbent candidate apologized, calling the effort a “bad mistake” by one young staffer. But the campaign had for months been sending CPS and City Colleges staff thousands of other emails unrelated to the student volunteer solicitation, some from multiple campaign staffers. The emails ranged from generic fundraising appeals to invitations to private town halls and requests for help gathering petitions.

Illinois – How Admittedly Corrupt Ex-Illinois Lawmakers Get to Keep Their Pensions

WBEZ – Dave McKinney | Published: 2/16/2023

A media investigation found nearly $2 million in state retirement checks sent to a mix of federally charged, convicted, and self-admitted felons who once served at the Illinois Legislature. In some cases, loved ones were the beneficiaries. All these cases won sign-off from an obscure state panel, often on the advice of Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. His office found the criminal wrongdoing did not disqualify them from their pensions because it was not linked to their work as public officials. That is a legal standard Illinois pension boards rely on to decide who gets a pension.

Illinois – Chicago Board of Ethics Cracks Down on Use of City Property in Campaign Ads

WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 2/20/2023

The Chicago Board of Ethics determined there is probable cause to believe a candidate running in the February 28 election violated the ethics ordinance by using city property in their campaign advertisements. The candidate, who was not named, will have a chance to challenge the board’s determination in March. The board voted to give eight other candidates for city offices 10 days to refute allegations they also violated the city’s ethics law by using city property in their campaign ads.

Illinois – Red-Light Camera Officials Caught on FBI Wire Talking About Giving Perks to Suburban Mayor, Unsealed Document Shows

Yahoo News – Jason Meisner and Joe Mahr (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/17/2023

An unsealed court document reveals for the first time that two top officials at a red-light camera company were caught on undercover FBI recordings talking about giving a suburban Chicago mayor campaign contributions and other perks at the same time their firm was pressuring the mayor to increase ticket revenue. The search warrant was part of an investigation into corruption surrounding cameras operated by SafeSpeed LLC, a probe that has netted charges against more than half a dozen public officials, businesspeople, and political operatives.

Indiana – Indiana Secretary of State Hires Brother-in-Law for Top Post

MSN – Associated Press | Published: 2/16/2023

New Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales has hired his brother-in-law for a top position paying a six-figure salary, in a move that has drawn criticism as crossing an ethical line. Shawn Grady is now the co-director of the office’s Auto Dealer Services Division. Grady previously worked as a sales consultant at a car dealership and is married to Morales’ sister. While critics raised questions of nepotism, state law does not prohibit state employees from hiring brothers-in-law or sisters-in-law.

Kansas – Kansas Legislature Considers Bill to Overhaul Ethics Commission as It Probes GOP Officials

MSN – Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) | Published: 2/17/2023

Amid a Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission probe into activities of prominent legislators and state Republican Party officials, lawmakers are considering a massive overhaul of the agency that could limit its ability to conduct future investigations. The agency’s leader said the bill would make Kansas’ ethics laws among the weakest in the nation. House Bill 2391, which was debated in committee would end the agency’s subpoena power unless it has already established probable cause. Its consideration comes after revelations that subpoenas had been issued to prominent interest groups, Republican Party officials and lawmakers.

Maine – Maine Lawmaker Pleads Not Guilty to Fraud Charges, Says He’ll Resign

Yahoo News – Edward Murphy (Portland Press Herald) | Published: 2/16/2023

Maine Rep. Clinton Collamore Sr., who pleaded not guilty to charges he defrauded the state’s clean elections program, announced he is resigning from his seat. His attorney said Collamore filled in the signatures of donors to qualify for matching campaign funds from the state after he neglected to get them to sign, but he did not intend to defraud the program. Collamore also said he will return to the state the salary he has collected since being sworn into office and would reimburse the more than $14,000 in public campaign funding he received.

Maryland – Former Baltimore County Official Charged with Stealing $140k from Campaign Accounts for Councilmember, Slate

Maryland Matters – William Zorzi | Published: 2/16/2023

A former Baltimore County official was charged with stealing more than $140,000 from two campaign accounts, one for a former county councilmember and the other a slate controlled by a former county executive, while he served as their treasurer. William McCollum was charged with felony theft, embezzlement, and perjury. McCollum allegedly took money to pay his personal credit card bill and to travel with a “romantic partner” in Puerto Rico and for flights to Palm Beach.

Massachusetts – The Mass. GOP May Have $600,000 in Debts, Misreported Hundreds of Thousands in Spending, Memo Says

MSN – Matt Stout (Boston Globe) | Published: 2/22/2023

The Massachusetts Republican Party misreported hundreds of thousands of dollars to state campaign finance officials, and may owe vendors more than $600,000, a sum that would far eclipse what party officials had previously disclosed, according to a memo its new leader, Amy Carnevale, sent to party officials. Carnevale, who was recently elected to replace Jim Lyons as party chair, described a party that had fallen in fiscal disarray under her predecessor, telling Republican State Committee members in a letter she and others are trying “get our financial house in order.”

Michigan – New Landlord for Michigan Lawmakers Surfaces, Raising Questions About Secret Deals

GNT News – Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 2/17/2023

A Michigan lobbyist rented a house across the street from the Capitol to six lawmakers, according to amended disclosures the lobbyist filed weeks after The Detroit News revealed a separate interest group had been former House Speaker Lee Chatfield’s landlord. In less than three months, two different rental arrangements involving lobbyists and seven lawmakers have come to light in Lansing, raising questions about the enforcement of the state’s lobbying requirements and the possibility of other deals between advocates and policymakers remaining hidden.

Mississippi – Miss. Bill Would Create Unelected Court System in Majority-Black Jackson

MSN – Emmanuel Felton (Washington Post) | Published: 2/16/2023

The Washington Post found Jackson, Mississippi, had the highest murder rate in the country. About a quarter of its residents live in poverty, among the highest rates for American cities with more than 100,000 residents. Local officials recently warned the periodic water outages residents have been suffering through for years could continue for another decade. Republicans are now pushing legislation they say is designed to provide needed resources by giving the state more control of an affluent part of the city. But leaders of this majority-Black city are calling it a power grab, rather than a helping hand.

New Jersey – Morristown Mayor’s Wife Stripped of Real Estate License for Her Role in Bribery Scandal

Yahoo News – Kyle Morel (New Jersey Herald) | Published: 2/20/2023

The wife of Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty has been banned from practicing real estate for at least a year after accepting illegal campaign funds during her 2018 run for county office. Mary Dougherty, who eventually pleaded guilty to a charge of falsifying campaign records, will be subject to a two-year probationary period if she obtains another license, and her employer must notify the commission within 72 hours if there is reason to believe she violated the law again.

New York – How Public Money Goes to Support a Hasidic Village’s Private Schools

DNyuz – Jay Root (New York Times) | Published: 2/19/2023

Kiryas Joel, a village near New York City, is populated almost entirely by Hasidic Jews. The village’s unique public school system immediately drew concerns that a school district created for members of a single faith could never separate itself from their religious institutions. In 2009, state auditors found two of the school district’s board members voted to use tens of millions of tax dollars to lease a building from a private religious school organization they also helped run. Since then, the conflicts have grown, with millions in public education dollars continuing to flow into the same religious school organization and its affiliates.

North Dakota – North Dakota House Backs Bill That Would Shine Light on Burgum-Funded Campaign Group

Grand Forks Herald – Jeremy Turley (Forum News Service) | Published: 2/21/2023

The North Dakota House passed legislation that would require multicandidate committees to disclose how they spend their money. House Bill 1441 now moves to the Senate. Multicandidate committees must report their donor list, but they are not legally required to reveal which candidates they support or oppose. The majority of the groups registered under the designation are affiliated with a political party or a series of candidates, but the Dakota Leadership PAC, which derives nearly all of its funding from Gov. Doug Burgum, is a notable exception.

Oklahoma – Pro-Cockfighting Group Has Spent More Than $70K on Effort to Decriminalize Sport in Oklahoma

Yahoo News – Ben Felder (The Oklahoman) | Published: 2/22/2023

A pro-cockfighting organization has donated more than $70,000 to Oklahoma lawmakers in a push to decrease penalties for participating in the illegal sport, although the group does not report the source of its funds. The Oklahoma Gamefowl Commission, a PAC, has donated to dozens of state lawmakers. But because some individuals associated with the organization have been accused of fighting and breeding roosters for cockfighting, which is illegal, opponents of the sport say lawmakers should be skeptical about where the money is coming from.

Oregon – Gunshot Detection Company Investigated for Possible Violations of Portland Lobbying Laws

OPB – Jonathan Levinson | Published: 2/17/2023

The city auditor in Portland has opened an investigation into ShotSpotter, a gunshot detection technology company, for possibly violating lobbying laws. Portland requires private companies to register as a lobbyist once they have spent a minimum of either $1,000 or eight hours on lobbying within a quarter. The law defines lobbying as “attempting to influence the official action of City Officials.” There are a number of exceptions, including the time it takes to submit a bid, respond to information requests, and negotiate the terms of a contract. Much of ShotSpotter’s activity over the past 15 months appears to fall outside those carveouts.

Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania Lawmaker Proposes Campaign, Lobbying Reform Bills

WHTM – George Stockburger | Published: 2/21/2023

State Rep. Joe Webster is proposing a new ethics package in the Pennsylvania House focused on campaign and lobbying reform. Webster said current state laws allow for unlimited donations for state and local candidates, the ability for lawmakers to accept gifts, and just a one year prohibition on former lawmakers becoming lobbyists. “Current ethics laws are riddled with loopholes, which leads to corruptive influences controlling our state government,” said Webster.

Pennsylvania – Top Gaming Regulators in Pa. Met with Industry Lobbyists Before Coming Out Against a Casino Competitor

Yahoo News – Angela Couloumbis (Spotlight PA) | Published: 2/16/2023

Lobbyists for Parx Casino met privately with top officials at the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board about unregulated slots-like machines called skill games that were a major competitor. Within weeks, the board shed its neutral stance and aligned with Parx and others in a court fight to declare skill games illegal. Emails and other documents provide a glimpse into the lobbying of public officials in Pennsylvania that the public rarely sees. State law requires lobbyists to disclose only a bare minimum of information about their activities. The emails raise questions about whether the Gaming Control Board should have disclosed the meeting to the public.

Texas – State Rep. Chris Paddie to Stop Lobbying After Regulators Crack Down on Loophole He Used

Texas Tribune – Patrick Svitek | Published: 2/16/2023

Former Texas Rep. Chris Paddie said he will stop lobbying after the state Ethics Commission cracked down on a “revolving-door” loophole in the lobbying law he was using, potentially exposing him to fines. The law says a former lawmaker cannot register to lobby until two years after they last used campaign funds to donate to another politician. Paddie sought to get around that earlier this year by reimbursing his campaign account with personal money to cover political donations that were implicated by the law.

Wisconsin – Strong Democratic Showing in Wisconsin Court Race Sets Up a Frenzied Finish

DNyuz – Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 2/22/2023

The Wisconsin Supreme Court primary election was a triumph for the state’s liberals. Janet Protasiewicz, a liberal Circuit Court judge in Milwaukee County, will face off against Daniel Kelly, a conservative former State Supreme Court justice who lost a 2020 election for his seat by nearly 11 percentage points. With an opportunity to retake a majority on the state Supreme Court that could undo Wisconsin’s ban on nearly all abortions and throw out the state’s gerrymandered legislative maps, Democrats have the general election matchup they wanted.

National/Federal

After Helping Prince’s Rise, Trump and Kushner Benefit from Saudi Funds
MSN – Michael Kranish (Washington Post) | Published: 2/11/2023

The day after leaving the White House, Jared Kushner created a company he transformed months later into a private equity firm with $2 billion from a sovereign wealth fund chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Kushner’s firm structured those funds in such a way that it did not have to disclose the source. A year after his presidency, Donald Trump’s golf courses began hosting tournaments for the Saudi fund-backed LIV Golf. The Trump Organization secured an agreement with a Saudi real estate company that plans to build a Trump hotel as part of a $4 billion golf resort in Oman.

Biden Fires Architect of the Capitol Over Alleged Abuses
Yahoo News – Lisa Mascaro and Colleen Long (Associated Press) | Published: 2/13/2023

President Biden fired the embattled Architect of the Capitol, Brett Blanton, following a scathing inspector general report on his personal and professional management and calls for his removal. An inspector general report found “administrative, ethical and policy violations” by Blanton, a Trump-era appointee, including that he abused his government vehicle and misrepresented himself as a law enforcement official.

Combating Disinformation Wanes at Social Media Giants
DNyuz – Steven Lee Myers and Nico Grant (New York Times) | Published: 2/14/2023

YouTube, like other social media platforms, spent years expanding its efforts to tackle misinformation after the 2016 election. Not anymore. The company quietly reduced its small team of policy experts in charge of handling misinformation. The cuts, part of the reduction of 12,000 employees by Google’s parent company left only one person in charge of misinformation policy worldwide. The cuts reflect a trend across the industry that threatens to undo many of the safeguards that social media platforms put in place in recent years to ban or tamp down on disinformation.

Election Deniers Face a Nationwide Wave of Pushback
MSN – Amy Gardner, Patrick Marley, and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 2/15/2023

There is a growing effort among state election officials, lawmakers, and private-sector advocates to push back against the wave of misinformation and mistrust of elections that sprang from Donald Trump’s false claim that his 2020 defeat was rigged. Since that vote more than two years ago, election administrators have regularly found themselves fending off false accusations, baseless lawsuits, and violent threats. Election administrators and their advocates say they are motivated to act because election denialism does not appear to be going away, even as the evidence has grown that most Americans have grown tired of it.

FBI Finds One Additional Document with Classified Markings at Pence Home
MSN – Perry Stein and Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 2/10/2023

The FBI found one additional document with classified markings during a five-hour search of former Vice President Mike Pence’s Indiana home. The planned search follows revelations in January that Pence had turned over to the FBI “a small number” of documents bearing classified markings that his lawyers discovered at his home. Pence is the latest politician to face scrutiny for potentially mishandling classified materials after leaving elected office.

FEC Tells George Santos to Name Campaign Treasurer or Face Ban on Fundraising and Spending
CNBC – Kevin Breuninger | Published: 2/15/2023

The campaign of scandal-plagued U.S. Rep. George Santos will lose its ability to raise donations or make payments if it fails to appoint a treasurer, the FEC warned. The agency told Santos it “has received no information regarding a new treasurer” since the former person in that role, Nancy Marks, resigned in January. “… Failure to appoint a treasurer will result in the inability of the committee to accept contributions and make disbursements,” the FEC wrote to Santos.

Former FBI Agent’s Side Work Puts Bureau Under New Scrutiny
MSN – Shane Harris, Rosalind Helderman, and Catherine Belton (Washington Post) | Published: 2/13/2023

In January, Charles McGonigal, special agent in charge of counterintelligence for the FBI’s New York field office, was indicted on federal charges of money laundering, violating U.S. sanctions, and making false statements. He is one of the most senior FBI officials ever charged with criminal offenses, and his case has deeply concerned national security professionals, given the extraordinary access he had to sensitive government secrets.

Free Speech vs. Disinformation Comes to a Head
Seattle Times – Steven Lee Myers (New York Times) | Published: 2/9/2023

The attorneys general of Missouri and Louisiana, both Republicans, have sued the White House and dozens of officials like Dr. Anthony Fauci, accusing them of forcing social media platforms to stifle the voices of its critics in violation of the constitutional guarantee of free speech. The outcome could help decide whether the First Amendment has become a barrier to virtually any government efforts to stifle a problem that, in the case of a pandemic, threatens public health and, in the case of the integrity of elections, even democracy itself. Government officials have long urged social media companies to fight illegal or harmful content online.

Pence to Fight Special Counsel Subpoena on Trump’s 2020 Election Denial
Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/14/2023

Former Vice President Mike Pence plans to fight a subpoena by the special counsel overseeing investigations into efforts by Donald Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Pence is set to argue that his former role as president of the Senate – therefore a member of the legislative branch – shields him from certain Justice Department demands. Pence allies say he is covered by the constitutional provision that protects congressional officials from legal proceedings related to their work, language known as the “speech or debate” clause.

Prosecutors Seek Trump Lawyer’s Testimony, Suggesting Evidence of Crime
Seattle Times – Alan Feuer, Maggie Haberman, and Ben Protess (New York Times) | Published: 2/15/2023

Federal prosecutors overseeing the investigation into former President Trump’s handling of classified documents are seeking to pierce assertions of attorney-client privilege and compel one of his lawyers to answer more questions before a grand jury, adding a new dimension to the inquiry and underscoring the legal peril facing Trump. The prosecutors sought approval from a federal judge to invoke what is known as the crime-fraud exception, which allows them to work around attorney-client privilege when they have reason to believe that legal advice has been used in furthering a crime.

Rep. Gaetz Won’t Be Charged in Sex-Trafficking Probe, His Lawyers Say
MSN – Devlin Barrett and Perry Stein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/15/2023

Federal prosecutors have closed a long-running sex-trafficking investigation into U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz and have decided not to press charges against him, attorneys for Gaetz said. It was reported that career prosecutors had recommended not charging Gaetz, telling Justice Department superiors that a conviction was unlikely in part because of credibility questions with the two central witnesses. Investigators set out to determine if Gaetz paid for sex in violation of federal sex-trafficking laws, people familiar with the matter have said.

Santos Was Charged with Theft in 2017 Case Tied to Amish Dog Breeders
Yahoo News – Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) | Published: 2/9/2023

U.S. Rep. George Santos was charged with theft in Pennsylvania in 2017 after a series of bad checks were written in his name to dog breeders. Just days after $15,125 in checks were made out for “puppies,” according to the memo lines, Santos held an adoption event at a pet store with his animal rescue charity Friends of Pets United. The charge was dismissed, and his record expunged after Santos claimed someone had stolen his checkbook. Santos has said he merely fabricated parts of his résumé and has denied breaking any laws.

They’re Trying to Topple Trump. But They Barely Utter His Name.
Yahoo News – Jonathan Weisman and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 2/15/2023

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley’s entry to the presidential race underscored how difficult it will be for many Republican candidates to persuade the party’s base they should bear the standard for the GOP, not former President Trump, who maintains the loyalties of so many voters. Haley’s announcement seemed like a calculated appeal to Republican voters who are ready to turn the page from the Trump era without burning the book of Trump’s presidency. But she never mentioned Trump by name, much less leveled any direct criticism at the only other major candidate in the presidential race.

Trump Campaign Paid Researchers to Prove 2020 Fraud but Kept Findings Secret
MSN – Josh Dawsey (Washington Post) | Published: 2/11/2023

Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign commissioned an outside research firm in a bid to prove electoral-fraud claims but never released the findings because the firm disputed many of his theories and could not offer any proof he was the rightful winner of the election. Trump continues to falsely assert the 2020 election was stolen despite abundant evidence to the contrary, much of which had been provided to him or was publicly available before the Capitol assault.

Canada

Canada – Federal Ethics Commissioner Retiring After 5 Years, Citing Health Issues
CTV News – Rachel Aiello | Published: 2/14/2023

Federal Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner Mario Dion announced he is retiring, effective February 21, citing “persistent health issues.” Dion took on the role in 2018 and was set to serve a seven-year term after his predecessor Mary Dawson held the role for more than a decade. In 2019, Dion took a leave of absence from his role for medical reasons, but the work of his office continued.

From the States and Municipalities

Arkansas – GOP Lawmaker Booed for Asking Trans Doctor About Her Genitalia at Public Hearing
MSN – LGBTQNation Staff | Published: 2/14/2023

In 2021, Arkansas became the first state to ban gender-affirming care for people under the age of 18. That law, however, is on hold pending a legal challenge. Pharmacist Gwendolyn Paige Herzig, who is trans, testified against the bill. One lawmaker shocked LGBTQ+ rights advocates and members of the public by asking Herzig whether she has a penis in front of the entire gallery.

California – Fresno Politicians Clash Over Campaign Money Rule That Critics Say Unfairly Protects Incumbents
MSN – Melissa Montalvo (Fresno Bee) | Published: 2/15/2023

County election rules say Fresno City Council candidates cannot transfer their council campaign funds to their supervisor campaign fund accounts. But city council members Garry Bredefeld and Luis Chavez, who are running for county supervisor, said they plan to transfer most or all of the money in their council accounts to their supervisor accounts. Fresno County officials weighed in on this debate, responding to what they called “incorrect and incomplete information about the county’s campaign contribution ordinance.”

California – Midway Rising Fined $5K for Disclosing Lobbying Activities After Selection
San Diego Union Tribune – Jennifer Van Grove | Published: 2/13/2023

The development team selected to lease and redo the city of San Diego’s sports arena site failed to properly report all its lobbying activities, as is required by law. The city Ethics Commission approved a stipulation order fining the Midway Rising development team $5,000 for failing to file on time what is known as expenditure lobbyist disclosure reports, which are required when an entity spends $5,000 or more in a calendar quarter to indirectly influence municipal decisions.

Colorado – 10th Circuit Tosses GOP Challenge to Colorado’s Campaign Spending Limits
Colorado Politics – Michael Karlick | Published: 2/14/2023

A federal appeals court rejected an attempt by a trio of Republicans to temporarily block enforcement of the voluntary campaign spending limits that voters enacted two decades ago as an anti-corruption measure. Article 28 limits donors’ contributions to candidates per election cycle, adjusted for inflation, to $400 per legislative candidate and $1,250 per statewide executive candidate. Candidates may collect twice those amounts per donor in exchange for voluntarily limiting their overall spending. The appeal focused only on the alleged unconstitutionality of the candidates’ spending limits.

Florida – The Rocky Path to the College Board’s A.P. Black Studies Course
DNyuz – Anemona Hartocollis, Dan Goldstein, and Stephanie Saul (New York Times) | Published: 2/13/2023

The College Board finalized its new Advanced Placement course in African American studies, altering an earlier draft that had become a lightning rod for conservative critics. The Florida Education Department asserted the course “lacks educational value” and violates state law amid a national debate over how topics like racism and history are taught. The state of Florida released a chronology of its communications with the College Board, seeming to take credit for the changes. The College Board, which relies on state participation to administer its tests, fired back, saying changes were made after hearing from teachers about what worked.

Hawaii – ‘Pay To Play’: Hawaii moves to expand the ban on contractor campaign donations
Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 2/8/2023

The Hawaii Legislature is setting its sights on campaign donations from state and county contractors, which have been the subject of public corruption cases in recent decades. Now, a law banning donations from government contractors only applies to the contracted business, not the owners, officers, or employees of those companies. Senate Bill 201 would close a loophole and ban owners, officers, employees, and immediate family from donating to campaigns for the duration of a state or county contract.

Illinois – Donors to Political Committee Supporting Paul Vallas Are Secret, but Leadership Has Ties to Current Campaign
MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/9/2023

A recently launched political committee has spent more than $165,000 on television and digital ads for Paul Vallas’ mayoral bid, and while its supporters so far remain a mystery, its spending and leadership have ties to a top Vallas strategist. Like all independent expenditure committees, the new Chicago Leadership Committee is not allowed under Illinois law to coordinate with any candidate or campaign it supports. One of the group’s ads shows it using the same messaging and word-for-word language that Vallas’ campaign has on the media page of its website, along with still images and video from the site.

Illinois – Right After Landing a Big Deal with the CTA, Businessman Helps Lightfoot’s Reelection Effort
WBEZ – Dan Mihalopoulos | Published: 2/10/2023

Less than a month ago, the Chicago Transit Authority – whose leaders are appointed by the mayor – announced a lucrative new contract with a company founded by real-estate magnate Elzie Higginbottom. Another company tied to Higginbottom then gave a $50,000 contribution to a new political fund created by a close ally of Mayor Lori Lightfoot. That independent expenditure committee recently spent more than $70,000 to attack Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson, who is one of Lightfoot’s main challengers for mayor. A chain of events like this was supposed to have become a thing of the past.

Iowa – ‘Zoom Bombings’ Disrupt Iowa Senate Meetings with Profanity, Pornography and Racial Slurs
Yahoo News – Katie Akin (Des Moines Register) | Published: 2/13/2023

In the first few minutes of a meeting about restructuring state government in the Iowa Senate, a Zoom user took over the television monitor and showed a sexually explicit video. Garbled racial slurs blared from the monitor’s speaker. “… Just hit the ‘leave meeting,'” said Sen. Jason Schultz, the subcommittee’s chairperson. Schultz said the Senate has taken “all the precautions that we could think of” to prevent future interruptions. But he suggested Zoom access may be sacrificed if issues continue.

Maryland – Gov. Wes Moore Recuses Himself from Under Armour Contract Vote as Team Creates Blind Trust to Manage Financial Assets
MSN – Sam Janesch (Baltimore Sun) | Published: 2/14/2023

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore recused himself from a scheduled vote by the state Board of Public Works to decide whether to extend a warehousing contract with Under Armour. Moore served on the athletic apparel maker’s board, resigning after he won the election in November, and owned thousands of shares of the company’s stock. A millionaire several times over after previous careers that included investment banking and running a national nonprofit, Moore faces numerous potential conflicts-of-interest between his holdings and the business of running the state.

Maryland – Judge Upholds Two Ethics Violations Against Nick Mosby, but Rules Council President Didn’t Take Money
Baltimore Banner – Emily Sullivan | Published: 2/13/2023

A Baltimore Circuit Court judge upheld two out of three findings in an administrative ruling that city council President Nick Mosby violated Baltimore’s ethics code for elected officials. Judge Lawrence Fletcher-Hill agreed with the Baltimore City Ethics board that Mosby solicited donations from controlled donors to a legal defense fund established for him and his wife, former City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby. While neither Mosby served as an officer of the fund, the council president erred by not explicitly disavowing himself from the trust.

Michigan – Nessel Requests Greater Transparency from Utilities on Lobbying [Spending]
Detroit News – Breana Noble | Published: 2/15/2023

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office is requesting the state regulator of utilities demand more transparency around the money spent to influence public policy when electric and gas companies file their rate cases. The current requirements are not sufficient, according to the office. It suggests requiring details around the utilities’ and affiliates’ expenses for influencing regulation or legislation directly or indirectly and for influencing public opinion.

Montana – Senate Confirms Gallus as State’s Top Political Cop
Flathead Beacon – Blair Miller (Daily Montanan) | Published: 2/15/2023

Montana’s new commissioner of political practices, Chris Gallus, was confirmed by the state Senate. Despite a lengthy political history that includes working closely with the Montana Republican Party and conservative causes, Gallus only received three “no” votes. Commissioners are limited to a single, six-year term under state law.

New Mexico – Ethics Board Fines Ex-Commissioner for Taking Lobbyist’s Contribution
Albuquerque Journal – Jessica Dyer | Published: 2/8/2023

The Code of Conduct Review Board publicly censured former Bernalillo County Commissioner Charlene Pyskoty and fined her $500. At issue is the $5,000 in-kind contribution Pyskoty’s 2022 reelection campaign reported receiving from lobbyist Vanessa Alarid’s firm.  A complaint maintained Alarid is a “restricted donor,” and county code prohibits officials and candidates from accepting campaign contributions over $1,000 from such contributors.

New Mexico – Lawmakers Seek to Close Big Transparency Gap
New Mexico In Depth – Sarah Childress | Published: 2/9/2023

A 2019 New Mexico law sought to force independent groups who are not required to register as political committees to disclose the money they spend in elections. The changes were quickly put to the test during the 2020 election cycle, when a new independent expenditure group found a loophole to evade reporting who donated hundreds of thousands of dollars it spent on political advertising. A new bill gives more details about when donations or spending would have to be disclosed. It also changes reporting by independent groups.

New Mexico – Ousted Election Clerk Hit with Ethics Lawsuit in New Mexico
Yahoo News – Morgan Lee (Associated Press) | Published: 2/10/2023

A local elections regulator in rural New Mexico who was recently declared missing from work and replaced is now facing possible sanctions from the State Ethics Commission. The lawsuit alleges Yvonne Otero used her office for personal gain and to exchange favors, seeking sanctions that include fines of up to $5,000.

New York – Developer Seeks Aid from Adams’ Housing Commissioner After Scandal That Ensnared Both of Them
The City – Greg Smith | Published: 2/9/2023

A decade ago, real estate developer Peter Fine was banned from New York City housing subsidy programs after one of his firms pleaded guilty to criminal charges following a scandal that involved former Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión Jr. Now, Carrión is Mayor Eric Adams’ housing commissioner. Public records reveal Fine has for the last year been paying lobbyists to seek support for his proposed housing project in The Bronx from Carrión. For his part in the scandal, Carrión had to pay a $10,000 penalty for violating city ethics rules.

Oregon – Top OLCC Officials Kept Popular Booze – Including Pappy Van Winkle – for Themselves, Diverting It from Public
MSN – Noelle Crombie (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 2/8/2023

Top executives and managers at the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) diverted specialty bourbons away from public consumption for their own personal use for years. The internal investigation revealed a practice within the agency of reserving bottles of the popular bourbon Pappy Van Winkle for multiple employees, including the former executive director, Steve Marks. The OLCC has a monopoly on liquor sales in the state. Some brands are often difficult for the public to buy in Oregon because demand outpaces supply.

Pennsylvania – Shapiro Sat Courtside at a Sixers Game with a Donor. His Campaign Called It a ‘Political Meeting.’
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 2/14/2023

Then Gov.-elect Josh Shapiro sat next to a longtime campaign donor and co-chair of his inaugural committee at the January 4, 2023, NBA game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers at the Wells Fargo Arena. Manuel Bender, a spokesperson for Shapiro’s transition who now works for the administration, said the outing was a “political meeting.” He did not say who paid for the tickets, which conservatively cost $3,000. Bonder did say related expenses will be reported as an in-kind campaign contribution. Political veterans and campaign finance experts called the classification unusual.

South Dakota – South Dakota Lawmakers Want to Ban Spouses from Being Registered Lobbyists
Yahoo News – Annie Todd (Sioux Falls Argus Leader) | Published: 2/13/2023

South Dakota lawmakers want to prevent their spouses from being employed as registered lobbyists in a bill that was passed out of a Senate committee. Senate Bill 197 addresses two problems by providing better clarity about the role of legislative spouses and preventing them from having an advantage that other lobbyists and everyday people do not.

Tennessee – After Wearing Traditional Garment on the House Floor, TN Lawmaker Told to Look for a New Career
WKRN – Adam Mintzer | Published: 2/10/2023

Tennessee Rep. Justin Pearson wore a dashiki – a traditional West African loose-fitted shirt – in the House chamber. On the floor that day, a lawmaker made a statement on the importance of dress code without naming Pearson. Then the House GOP addressed the issue on Twitter, saying, “If you don’t like rules, perhaps you should explore a different career opportunity that’s main purpose is not creating them.”

Texas – Attorney General Ken Paxton Agrees to Apologize and Pay $3.3 Million to Whistleblowers in Settlement
Texas Tribune – James Barragán | Published: 2/10/2023

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and four of his former top deputies who said he improperly fired them after they accused him of crimes have reached a tentative agreement to end a whistleblower lawsuit that would pay those employees $3.3 million. The agreement would bring an end to the lawsuit over the firing of the staffers but would not end Paxton’s legal troubles. The allegations by the former aides of bribery and abuse of office prompted an FBI investigation, though no charges have been filed and Paxton has denied wrongdoing.

West Virginia – WV Senate Passes Bills That Would Decrease Political Contribution Transparency
Logan Banner – Mike Tony | Published: 2/13/2023

The West Virginia Senate passed two bills that would lower transparency in state elections. The House will now consider the bills, which would increase contribution limits that trigger reporting requirements for those spending money to influence legislation coming before state lawmakers or advocate electing or defeating a candidate without a candidate’s support.

Wisconsin – Democrats Meddle Again in a G.O.P. Primary, This Time Down-Ballot
DNyuz – Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 2/13/2023

Last year, Democrats spent millions of dollars elevating far-right candidates in Republican primary contests for governor and Congress – betting, it turned out correctly, that more extreme opponents would lose general elections. Now Wisconsin Democrats are trying to do it again, this time with mail and television ads before a GOP primary in a special election for a state Senate seat that carries ramifications far beyond the district in suburban Milwaukee.

Wyoming – Wyoming State Rep. Says No Truth to Ethics Complaint
Cowboy State Daily – Leo Wolfson | Published: 2/8/2023

An ethics complaint was filed against state Rep. Jon Conrad, alleging his status as a registered lobbyist in Wyoming, along with his occupation and source of campaign donations, creates a conflict-of-interest for the lawmaker. Conrad is an active registered lobbyist for TATA Chemicals. He is also an Environmental, Health, Safety, and Governmental Affairs Manager for TATA. Conrad is a member of the House Business, Minerals, and Economic Development and Agriculture, State, and Public Lands & Water Resources Committees. There are not explicit rules against serving as a lobbyist while being a legislator.

National/Federal

2016 Trump Campaign in $450,000 Lawsuit Settlement Voids Worker Non-Disclosure Pacts
MSN – Jack Stebbins (CNBC) | Published: 2/4/2023

Former President Trump’s 2016 campaign, as part of a $450,000 settlement of a class-action lawsuit by a former campaign aide, agreed to void non-disclosure agreements that hundreds of campaign workers and volunteers had signed as a condition of their work. The deal ended a federal lawsuit filed by former Trump campaign aide Jessica Denson. The settlement potentially opens the door for campaign workers to publicly discuss events related to the 2016 race, and to Trump himself, without fear of potentially financially ruinous legal retaliation by him.

Despite Fears Agency Could Be Crippled, House Fills Ethics Posts
MSN – Kate Ackley (Roll Call) | Published: 2/7/2023

Even though watchdog groups predicted House Republicans’ changes to the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) could sideline it in the 118th Congress, they now say their worst fears appear unlikely. They credit House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for swiftly filling Democratic slots on OCE’s board and say they are now optimistic about the office’s ability to operate. Still, the state of ethics enforcement in the current Congress remains somewhat uncertain.

Despite Prior Sexual Harassment Probe, Executive Hired to Senior Federal Job
MSN – Lisa Rein (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2023

The agency that sets personnel and hiring policy across the federal government hired a senior leader last year who was found in a previous job to have sexually harassed two women who were his subordinates. Frederick Tombar III, hired in October as second-in-command in the Office of Personnel Management’s retirement services division, resigned as executive director of the Louisiana Housing Corp. in 2015 amid an internal probe by a state agency that concluded he harassed the women. The state also paid $89,500 to one of his accusers in a settlement after she sued.

DNC Approves Biden Plan to Remake 2024 Calendar but Hurdles Remain
MSN – Dylan Wells and Tyler Pager (Washington Post) | Published: 2/4/2023

Democrats voted overwhelmingly to remake the party’s presidential nominating calendar, embracing President Biden’s push for South Carolina to be the first state to hold its contest in 2024 and replacing Iowa amid calls for greater racial, geographic, and economic diversity in the process. The move by members of the Democratic National Committee was long expected, but it does not guarantee the calendar will ultimately be enacted as designed.

Federal Election Commission Hikes Contribution Limits Ahead of 2024 Election Cycle
OpenSecrets – Taylor Giorno | Published: 2/2/2023

The FEC announced new contribution limits for the 2024 election cycle. The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 established limits for donations by individuals to candidates and national party committees. The FEC increases the caps every odd-numbered year to reflect changes in inflation, which skyrocketed in 2022 to the highest level in four decades and the unprecedented increase to the donation limit reflects the historic rise in prices.

Feds Probing Santos’ Role in Service Dog Charity Scheme
MSN – Jacqueline Sweet (Politico) | Published: 1/31/2023

The FBI is investigating U.S. Rep. George Santos’s role in an alleged GoFundMe scheme involving a disabled U.S. Navy veteran’s dying service dog. Richard Osthoff said Santos used his plight to raise $3,000 for life-saving surgery for the dog, then disappeared with the funds. Attorney Joshua Schiller said the veteran’s encounter with Santos could offer prosecutors a quick way to file criminal charges even though they are also investigating possible financial crimes.

Gavels for Top House Committees Don’t Always Come Cheap
MSN – Kate Ackley (Roll Call) | Published: 2/9/2023

Winning control of the most sought-after committees in the House can come with a hefty price tag – in party dues. The eight lawmakers atop the four panels dubbed “A” committees transferred more than $5.2 million from their own political accounts to their respective parties’ campaign arms in the 2022 cycle, according to Issue One, a group that advocates for overhauling campaign finance laws. Although chairperson races and committee assignments do not merely come down to who raised the most money for the party, it can help members move up the hierarchies of the House if they spread campaign money generously.

Heckling of Biden Reflects a New, Coarser Normal for House G.O.P.
Yahoo News – Karoun Demirjian (New York Times) | Published: 2/8/2023

The shouts of “liar,” “that’s not true,” and at least one expletive lobbed at President Biden during his State of the Union address dwarfed outbursts during previous such speeches, most of which have been interrupted by a single disturbance, if at all. The display reflected the ethos that has come to define the Republican-led House, where an emboldened right wing that styles itself after former President Trump is unapologetic about its antipathy for Biden and eager to show it in attention-grabbing ways.

Jordan Fires Off First Subpoenas Against Biden Admin
MSN – Jordain Carney and Kyle Cheney (Politico) | Published: 2/3/2023

House Judiciary Committee Chairperson Jim Jordan issued the first subpoenas of the GOP’s new majority, demanding records about certain Biden administration decisions regarding threats against school officials during the Covid-19 pandemic. Jordan sent subpoenas to Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, requesting a laundry list of documents by March 1. The subpoenas are linked to a long-held GOP claim that federal agencies “targeted” parents.

Koch Network to Back Alternative to Trump After Sitting Out Recent Primaries
MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 2/5/2023

The network of donors and activist groups led by conservative billionaire Charles Koch will oppose Donald Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination, mounting a direct challenge to the former president’s campaign to win back the White House. The move marks the most notable example to date of an overt and coordinated effort from within conservative circles to stop Trump from winning the GOP nomination for a third straight presidential election. Some Republicans have grown increasingly frustrated with Trump after disappointing midterm elections in which he drew blame for elevating flawed candidates and polarizing ideas.

Santos’ Unusual $199.99 Campaign Expenses Are Putting Scrutiny on His Longtime Treasurer
MSN – Fredreka Schouten, Kara Scannell, and Gregory Krieg (CNN) | Published: 2/7/2023

U.S. Rep. George Santos and former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin shared a striking set of unusual expenses in their campaign finance reports: 21 payments on a single day that each total exactly $199.99, which is one penny below the figure at which campaigns are required to keep receipts, and all went to anonymous recipients. The Zeldin and Santos congressional campaigns had one more thing in common: they shared a treasurer, Nancy Marks. She resigned from the Santos campaign recently, but the reports Marks filed are the subject of FEC complaints centered on allegations that records were falsified in violation of federal law.

Supreme Court Justices Discussed, But Did Not Agree on Code of Conduct
MSN – Robert Barnes and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 2/9/2023

Although U.S. Supreme Court justices say they voluntarily comply with the same ethical guidelines that apply to other federal judges, the lack of an ethics code has become a prominent complaint on Capitol Hill. In 2019, Justice Elena Kagan told a congressional committee that Chief Justice John Roberts was “seriously” studying the issue. But a discussion among the justices to establish a code failed to produce agreement, people familiar with the matter said. The inertia has frustrated critics, whose demands for reform have intensified.

From the States and Municipalities

Arkansas – Ex-State Senator Hutchinson Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette – Dale Ellis | Published: 2/3/2023

Former state Sen. Jeremy Hutchinson, the son of ex-U.S. Rep. Tim Hutchinson and nephew of former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison after being convicted of bribery and filing a false tax return. He was also ordered to pay $355,535.10 in restitution. Hutchinson admitted to accepting more than $157,000 from a businessperson disguised as legal fees to advance legislation.

California – Calls Intensify for Anaheim’s City Leaders to Keep Promises to Root Out Corruption
Voice of OC – Spencer Custodio and Hosam Elattar | Published: 2/9/2023

Resident watchdogs, activists, community leaders, and the Orange County Democratic Party are all pushing back on Anaheim City Council members, calling on them to stay the course on a contracted corruption investigation into City Hall instead of paring down efforts stemming from a scandal that surfaced last year. The scandal triggered the mayor’s resignation and ended up terminating a proposed stadium deal between the city and the Los Angeles Angels.

California – LA Council’s Governance Reform Committee Recommends Stricter Lobbying Rules
MSN – City News Service | Published: 2/6/2023

In a step toward reforming Los Angeles’s lobbying ordinance for the first time in decades, the city council’s ad hoc committee on reform recommended approval of an city Ethics Commission report that would place stricter rules on people or organizations looking to impact policy. The Municipal Lobbying Ordinance has not been comprehensively updated since its adoption in 1994, with two prior recommendations by the ethics agency expiring after the council did not act on them. But the racist audio involving some council members spurred the creation of the special committee, which took up the May 2022 recommendations.

Florida – Amid Attacks from DeSantis, AP African American Studies Course Is Updated
MSN – Nick Anderson and Lori Rozsa (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2023

After debate on how to construct a class focused on the Black experience, the College Board finalized a plan for its new Advanced Placement course in African American studies that seeks to immerse students in Black history and culture without shying from fraught topics of race and racism in a way that until now has mostly been available only on college campuses. The College Board denied any suggestion it watered down the course after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis attacked an earlier draft as progressive “indoctrination.” But the document now omits mention of certain left-leaning figures who appeared in a previous version.

Florida – Brevard Consultant Failed to Report Political Contributions, Gambled with PAC Funds
Yahoo News – Eric Rogers (Florida Today) | Published: 2/8/2023

A Brevard County political consultant is facing a long list of election law violations over electioneering and a defunct PAC he used during the 2020 election cycle. Florida Elections Commission investigators said Robert Burns failed to file months of campaign finance reports for his short-lived PAC, Friends of Florida, failed to disclose tens of thousands in contributions, regularly spent money the PAC did not have, and failed to properly disclose political ads paid for with PAC funds.

Florida – Fort Lauderdale Follies: City Hall drama gets Seinfeldesque
MSN – Susannah Bryan (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) | Published: 2/8/2023

It was not a Seinfeld episode, but it sounded like one as Fort Lauderdale City Commission members Steve Glassman and John Herbst faced off at a meeting. Glassman needled Herbst over how many hours the city attorney’s office has spent drafting opinions for him on whether a commissioner can accept invites from lobbyists and organizations to pricey and not-so-pricey events without breaking ethics laws.

Hawaii – Hawaii Government Transparency Bills Clear a Key Hurdle in The Legislature
Honolulu Civil Beat – Blaze Lovell | Published: 2/7/2023

Four bills that would ban lawmakers from taking donations while in session and increase transparency in Hawaii’s campaign finance system were unanimously approved with bipartisan support in the state House. The bills are the first batch of those aimed at reforming government transparency and ethics in the wake of felony charges against two former lawmakers who took bribes from a businessperson. They now go to the Senate. Gov. Josh Green signaled support for many of the transparency measures being considered this session and said he planned to sign those that came to his desk.

Illinois – New Illinois Supreme Court Justices Got Major Boost from Hidden Spending by Democratic Group
MSN – Ray Long and Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 2/5/2023

All for Justice spent $7.3 million on the 2022 Illinois Supreme Court races to help expand the Democratic majority on the court. But the PAC failed to follow disclosure guidelines mandated by state election law, which meant its spending went undisclosed until months after the election. In contrast, independent expenditure groups that funded the Republican candidates filed the required ongoing spending reports. Although All for Justice did not file timely expenditure reports, it did file the mandated reports on money it was taking in from donors, indicating an awareness of the campaign finance laws.

Kansas – Kansas Bill Would Limit Subpoena Power of Ethics Commission Amid Ongoing Investigation
MSN – Jenna Barackman (Kansas City Star) | Published: 2/6/2023

A new bill would limit the subpoena power of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. It would require the commission to verify the legitimacy of a claim and determine probable cause before issuing a subpoena. The panel would be unable to use subpoenas to determine whether probable cause exists. The legislation comes after the commission’s executive director, Mark Skoglund, subpoenaed Republican officials last year in relation to an investigation into possible campaign finance violations.

Maryland – Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates Scraps Plans for Foundation While in Office
Baltimore Banner – Justin Fenton and Dylan Segelbaum | Published: 2/8/2023

Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates is scrapping plans for a nonprofit foundation that was expected to accept contributions from donors it would not have to disclose under the law to pay for events while he served as the city’s top prosecutor. Since its formation, Building Bridges for a Better Baltimore Foundation, a 501(c)(4) group, has been mainly a vehicle to fund Bates’ inauguration events. Though state law now requires the governor to disclose donors to inaugural committees, it does not cover other public officials, such as state’s attorneys.

Massachusetts – Limits on Super PACs Stump Top Massachusetts Court
Courthouse News Service – Thomas Harrison | Published: 2/6/2023

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court heard arguments in a case concerning a proposed initiative petition filed in June 2022 and rejected in September. It would have limited contributions to super PACs to $5,000 in a calendar year. Justice Scott Kafker referred to the matter as an “incredibly novel, difficult constitutional issue that probably will get us smacked down by the U.S. Supreme Court” and wondered whether it was appropriate for the state’s highest court to get involved at this stage.

Michigan – Feds Investigate Ex-Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson for Alleged Bribery in Pot Licensing
Gwinnett Daily Post – Robert Snell and Craig Mauger (Detroit News) | Published: 2/1/2023

FBI agents and a federal grand jury have spent more than two years investigating whether former Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson and others received bribes in return for awarding state licenses to operate medical marijuana facilities. The probe has the potential to raise new questions about financial influences over Lansing while Republicans controlled the Legislature and how the state’s burgeoning marijuana industry was shaped.

Minnesota – Appeals Court Greenlights Donation Investigation into GOP Group
Yahoo News – Roger Sollenberger (Daily Beast) | Published: 2/8/2023

A federal appeals court said Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison can pursue his investigation into Republican online fundraising giant WinRed over an allegedly deceptive marketing scheme that bilked unwitting donors out of untold amounts of money. The Eighth Circuit of Appeals rejected WinRed’s argument that federal campaign finance laws preempt state attorneys general from enforcing state-level consumer protection laws.

Minnesota – Our Streets Minneapolis Must Register Lobbyists
KMSP – Tom Lyden | Published: 2/2/2023

The Minnesota Campaign Finance Board announced a settlement with Our Streets Minneapolis for failing since 2018 to register some of its employees as lobbyists. Five employees have now registered as lobbyists, while Our Streets Minneapolis will register as a group that engages in lobbying and pay a civil penalty of $4,000. In a response to the complaint, Brian Dillon, an attorney for Our Streets, wrote that the group “Now recognized that it recently began engaging in regulated lobbying activity without knowing that it had done so.”

Missouri – Records Point to Lacy Clay and Brandon Bosley in St. Louis Corruption Scandal
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Jacob Barker and Austin Huguelet | Published: 2/6/2023

Federal officials just sent three former members of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen to prison for taking bribes from a gas station owner. But recently released court documents indicate the FBI provided cash to an informant who offered bribes to at least two other public officials: former U.S. Rep. William Lacy Clay and current Alderman Brandon Bosley. The revelations spring from new details sprinkled through an unsealed search warrant application.

Montana – Helena Attorney Gallus Prepares for Confirmation Hearing as Montana Commissioner of Political Practices
KTVH – Jonathan Ambarian | Published: 2/6/2023

Gov. Greg Gianforte’s choice to be Montana’s commissioner of political practices has already started his new job as the state Senate prepares to consider his confirmation. Chris Gallus has been at work since January 23, several days after Gianforte appointed him to the position. Gallus previously served as legal counsel for the Montana Chamber of Commerce, then started his own legal practice – often working on campaign-related matters, like cases involving ballot measures. He also previously worked as a lobbyist.

New Jersey – Ethical Questions Raised as Murphy Extends Reach at Port Authority with New Nominations
MSN – Colleen Wilson (Bergen Record) | Published: 2/6/2023

Gov. Phil Murphy sent three nominations, including two top staffers, for the state Senate to consider for roles on the board of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Some have raised questions about whether two officials in the governor’s office can sit on the Port Authority board and if there is a conflict-of-interest for the mayor of Elizabeth, a city where authority business and property is located.

New Mexico – Legislation Could Be Fast-Tracked to Resolve Simmering Ethics Law Disagreement
Albuquerque Journal – Dan Boyd | Published: 2/7/2023

New Mexico lawmakers are poised to move quickly to pass legislation clarifying their ability to represent constituents in dealings with state agencies, after a dust-up over the practical implications of a nearly 60-year-old state ethics law. The filing of a Senate bill was prompted by a recent state Ethics Commission advisory opinion that concluded lawmakers could run afoul of the Governmental Conduct Act by writing letters on legislative stationery to state agencies on behalf of constituents, or by making references to their role as legislators.

New Mexico – Legislators Take Aim at Secrecy Rule in Harassment Complaints
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 2/1/2023

New Mexico legislators took a step toward ending the one-sided confidentiality law that keeps people who file a harassment complaint at the Capitol from speaking about their case. Under the current system, a lawmaker accused of harassment is free to comment in public, but the person who lodged the complaint cannot, unless there is a finding of probable cause after an investigation. Lobbyist Marianna Anaya, who accused a prominent state senator last year of sexual harassment and abusive behavior, said the secrecy provision could interfere with a person’s ability to speak to family members and seek out other support.

New York – N.Y. Prosecutors Group Says Former Trump Investigator Violated Ethics with Book
MSN – Shayna Jacobs (Washington Post) | Published: 2/3/2023

An association of New York state prosecutors said a former member of the Manhattan district attorney’s office who investigated Donald Trump violated ethical standards by writing a book about the case during an ongoing criminal investigation. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has previously said former investigator Mark Pomerantz may have broken a law that bars prosecutors from disclosing grand jury material by writing “People vs. Donald Trump: An Inside Account.”

North Carolina – Appeals Court Backs N.C. Attorney General in Battle to Avoid Criminal Libel Prosecution
Yahoo News – Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 2/8/2023

A federal appeals court sided with North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein in his bid to avoid prosecution under a state law criminalizing “derogatory” statements related to candidates. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals did not outright prohibit a North Carolina district attorney from going forward with a highly unusual prosecution of Stein over his claims related to a rival’s handling of rape test kits. But the appeals court’s decision makes it highly likely a lower federal court will preclude such an action.

North Carolina – NC May Loosen Sanctions for Political Campaigns and PACs After First-Time Violations
MSN – Dan Kane (Charlotte Observer) | Published: 2/7/2023

The State Board of Elections is considering a policy that would allow some campaigns and PACs to keep smaller donations that violate campaign finance rules for first-time infractions. The board is soliciting public comments on the plan. Under the policy, the board would settle cases involving prohibited donations or spending of less than $1,000 per election cycle. First-time rule-breakers would receive warning letters recommending they forfeit prohibited contributions, but not requiring it.

North Carolina – On North Carolina’s Supreme Court, G.O.P. Justices Move to Reconsider Democratic Rulings
DNyuz – Michael Wines (New York Times) | Published: 2/5/2023

The North Carolina Supreme Court moved to rehear two voting rights cases, one striking down a gerrymandered map and another nullifying new voter ID requirements. Such re-hearings are exceedingly rare. What also made the move exceptional was that the cases had been decided less than two months ago by a court that, at the time, contained four Democratic and three Republican justices. The court that voted to rehear the cases has a five-to-two GOP majority after the November midterms. The two Democratic justices criticized the rehearing orders, calling them “an exercise of raw partisanship” that would undermine public trust in the court.

North Dakota – Opposites Align in Push to Clamp Down on Dark Money in North Dakota Campaigns
Dickinson Press – Jeremy Turley | Published: 2/1/2023

State law in North Dakota allows campaign finance groups that classify themselves as “independent expenditure” filers to avoid disclosing their donors. House Bill 1500 would require the nebulous organizations to publicly divulge the “ultimate and true source” of the funds they use to buy political ads. The bill is one of about a half-dozen proposals before lawmakers that would expand public campaign finance reporting requirements for groups or candidates. The wave of legislation comes in response to a perceived increase in the number of attack ads over the last few election cycles.

Ohio – Larry Householder Again Paid His Defense Lawyers with Campaign Funds, Though a Quick Refund Followed
MSN – Jeremy Pelzer (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 2/8/2023

Indicted ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder has again used his campaign funds to pay $300,000 in legal bills last year, a practice repeatedly found in the past to be illegal under state law. He refunded the money a day later, however, a shift from past practice that landed him in a case before the Ohio Elections Commission. That case is on hold as Householder faces a criminal trial over a racketeering charge.

Ohio – Reporter Arrested After Broadcast at Ohio Governor’s News Conference
MSN – Ben Brasch (Washington Post) | Published: 2/8/2023

A television reporter was arrested for trespassing and disorderly conduct following a live shot at the back of a news conference held by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. The event was intended to announce that residents in the village of East Palestine can safely return to their homes after a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed days earlier. Video shows Evan Lambert of NewsNation being handcuffed on the ground and taken to a police vehicle. It isn’t clear what led to Lambert being detained.

Oregon – In the Fight Over Gas Stoves, Meet the Industry’s Go-To Scientist
DNyuz – Hiroko Tabuchi (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

When Multnomah County in Oregon convened a recent public hearing on the health hazards posed by pollution from gas stoves, a toxicologist named Julie Goodman was the first to testify. Studies linking gas stoves to childhood asthma, which have prompted talk of gas-stove bans recently, were “missing important context,” she said. What Goodman did not say was that she was paid to testify by a local gas provider. She is a toxicologist who works for Gradient, a consulting firm that provides environmental reviews for corporations.

Pennsylvania – Democrats Sweep Special Elections, Affirming First Pa. House Majority in 12 Years
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 2/7/2023

Democrats swept three Allegheny County special elections, cementing their one-vote majority in the Pennsylvania House, and ending a two-month debate over which party controls the chamber. It is unclear if the wins will be enough for House Democrat Leader Joanna McClinton to claim the speaker’s gavel, which is currently held by Rep. Mark Rozzi. He was elected in a deal Republicans engineered in a last-ditch effort to avoid entering the minority. But Rozzi’s arrangement has not panned out as Republicans planned, and the party now faces an adjustment to life in the legislative minority.

National/Federal

At the Supreme Court, Ethics Questions Over a Spouse’s Business Ties
Seattle Times – Steve Eder (New York Times) | Published: 1/31/2023

After Chief Justice John Roberts joined the U.S. Supreme Court, his wife, Jane Sullivan Roberts, gave up her career as a law firm partner to become a legal recruiter to alleviate potential conflicts-of-interest. Now, a former colleague of Mrs. Roberts raised concerns that her recruiting work poses potential ethics issues for the chief justice. Seeking an inquiry, the ex-colleague has provided records to the Justice Department and Congress indicating Mrs. Roberts has been paid millions of dollars in commissions for placing lawyers at firm, some of which have business before the Supreme Court.

Biden Lawyer: FBI finds no classified docs at beach house
Associated Press News – Eric Tucker, Colleen Long, and Zeke Miller | Published: 2/1/2023

The FBI searched President Joe Biden’s vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, without finding any classified documents, the president’s attorney said. Agents did take some handwritten notes and other materials relating to Biden’s time as vice president for review. The search was the latest discomfiting moment for a president who has sought to contrast his sensitivity to rule-following with that of Donald Trump, who faces a criminal investigation into his handling of classified documents.

Court Blocks DOJ Review of Scott Perry’s Phone in Jan. 6 Probe
MSN – Spencer Hsu, Jacqueline Alemany, and Rachel Weiner (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

An appeals court put on hold the search of U.S. Rep. Scott Perry’s phone data in the probe of the Capitol insurrection pending appeal. Perry’s appeal sets the stage for a constitutional test over the scope of immunity held by members of Congress from criminal investigation by the Justice Department under the Constitution’s “speech or debate clause,” which protects legislative work from executive branch interference. House leaders from both parties concluded that at least reviewing Perry’s case and weighing in on its impact on Congress’s constitutional independence is in its best interests.

EU Lobby Register Still Riddled with Errors
EU Observer – Nikolaj Nielsen | Published: 1/31/2023

The European Union’s lobby register remains riddled with errors, as pro-transparency campaigners demand better data and mandatory oversight rules. The latest findings come amid a raft of proposals by the European Parliament president to weed out corruption in the wake of a lobbying scandal. Vicky Cann of the Corporate European Observatory identified some 431 suspicious entries, which were then reviewed by the register’s secretariat. The secretariat then reached out to each one and found only three percent of the original entries were correct.

Google’s Ex-CEO Eric Schmidt Tapped for Federal Biotech Commission That Allows Members to Keep Biotech Investments
CNBC – Eamon Javers | Published: 1/31/2023

Leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services committees announced the selection of former Google Chief Executive Officer Eric Schmidt and 11 others to serve on a new commission on biotechnology. It is tasked with reviewing the biotech industry and suggesting investments that would benefit national security. But the appointment does not require members to divest their own personal biotech investments. Schmidt holds stakes in several biotech companies, placing him in a position to potentially profit if those companies are the beneficiaries of a new wave of federal spending.

GOP Report Shows Plan to Ramp Up Focus on Disproven Election Fraud Claims
MSN – Amy Gardner and Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

A new internal report prepared by the Republican National Committee proposes creating a permanent infrastructure in every state to ramp up “election integrity” activities in response to perceptions within GOP ranks of widespread fraud and abuse in the way the country selects its leaders. The report suggests building a massive new party organization involving state-level “election integrity officers” and intensive new training models for poll workers and observers, all based on unsubstantiated claims that Democrats have implemented election procedures that allow for rigged votes.

How Barr’s Quest to Find Flaws in the Russia Inquiry Unraveled
DNyuz – Charlie Savage, Adam Goldman, and Katie Benner (New York Times) | Published: 1/26/2023

Then-Attorney General William Barr in 2019 set out to dig into the theory the investigation to Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign ties to Russia likely stemmed from a conspiracy by intelligence or law enforcement agencies. Barr turned to prosecutor John Durham to prove the theory, and later granted him special counsel status. But after almost four years, Durham’s work is coming to an end without uncovering anything like the deep state plot alleged by Trump and suspected by Barr. The New York Times found Durham’s inquiry was marked by some of the very same flaws that Trump allies claim characterized the Russia investigation.

Hunter Biden’s Lawyers, in Newly Aggressive Strategy, Target His Critics
MSN – Matt Viser (Washington Post) | Published: 2/1/2023

Hunter Biden’s lawyers sent a series of letters to state and federal prosecutors urging criminal investigations into those who accessed and disseminated his personal data and sent a separate letter threatening Fox News host Tucker Carlson with a defamation lawsuit. The string of letters, which included criminal referrals and cease-and-desist missives aimed at critics and detractors, marked the start of a new and far more hard-hitting phase for the president’s son just as House Republicans prepare their own investigations into him.

‘Just Off K Street’ Lobbyist Sheds Instagram Alias and Day Job
Bloomberg Law – Jack Fitzpatrick | Published: 1/26/2023

The lobbyist behind the popular Instagram account about Washington’s lobbying culture is stepping away from the daily grind on Capitol Hill, but not before shedding her anonymity. Katie McMichael, manager of government relations at Aurora Innovation, said she will maintain her “Just Off K Street” Instagram presence, but she is taking a reprieve from government affairs to spend more time with her family. Most of her 1,500 posts frequently lament the exhausting absurdity of Congress, told from the perspective of a bedraggled industry association lobbyist just trying to get through the day.

Justice Department Asks FEC to Stand Down as Prosecutors Probe Santos
MSN – Isaac Stanley-Becker and Emma Brown (Washington Post) | Published: 1/27/2023

The Justice Department asked the FEC to hold off on any enforcement action against U.S. Rep. George Santos, who lied about key aspects of his biography as prosecutors conduct a parallel criminal probe.  The request also asked the FEC to provide any relevant documents to the Justice Department. The FEC ordinarily complies with the department’s requests to hold off on enforcement. Those requests arise from a 1977 memorandum of understanding between the agencies that addresses their overlapping law enforcement responsibilities.

National Archives Asks Past Presidents, VPs to Look for Classified Items
MSN – Jacqueline Alemany (Washington Post) | Published: 1/26/2023

The National Archives sent a letter to representatives of living former presidents and vice presidents asking them to review their personal records to verify that no classified materials are outstanding. The request comes after a limited number of records bearing classified markings were found in recent weeks at President Biden’s home and a think tank bearing his name, as well as at the home of former Vice President Mike Pence.

Redistricting Lawsuits Could Shape the 2024 Battle for House Control
MSN – Daniel Altimari (Roll Call) | Published: 1/30/2023

The reconfiguration of political districts after the 2020 census resulted in a flood of legal challenges, some of which remain unresolved. The 15 states with ongoing litigation include New York and Texas – home to 64 seats combined – along with the battleground state of Georgia. After Republicans flipped nine seats in November, Democrats need to win five back to retake the majority, so redrawn maps could be a factor in shaping party control in the 2024 elections.

Rep. George Santos Is Stepping Down from Committees Amid Fabrications About His Biography
MSN – Meryl Kornfield, Leigh Ann Caldwell, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

Embattled U.S. Rep. George Santos told House Republicans he will step down temporarily from his committee assignments amid multiple investigations into his campaign finances after he lied about key aspects of his biography. The temporary retreat from committees marks Santos’s first major concession after weeks of maintaining a steadfast resistance to any consequences over his fabrications.

Statehouse Efforts to Avoid Partisan Gridlock Hit Obstacles
Yahoo News – Amee LaTour (The Hill) | Published: 1/31/2023

Leaders in state Legislatures across the country have turned to cross-party alliances and power-sharing agreements as they seek to avoid the political deadlock that has hindered lawmakers in Congress, but signs are emerging that some of those efforts might be in vain. It underscores the fact that while these coalitions may enable lawmakers to avoid political paralysis at least temporarily, they are not a cure-all for the hyper-partisanship plaguing the country as a whole.

Trump’s Evolution in Social Media Exile: More QAnon, more extremes
Yahoo News – Ken Bensinger and Maggie Haberman (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

In September, former President Trump went on Truth Social and shared an image of himself wearing a lapel pin in the form of the letter Q, along with a phrase closely associated with the QAnon conspiracy theory movement: “The storm is coming.” In doing so, Trump ensured the message would be hugely amplified, visible to his more than 4 million followers. Even as Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, announced Trump would be reinstated, there is no sign he has curtailed his behavior or stopped spreading the kinds of messages that got him exiled in the first place.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Arizona Republicans Exempt Lawmakers from the State’s Open-Records Law
MSN – Patrick Marley and Yvonne Wingett Sanchez (Washington Post) | Published: 1/26/2023

Arizona Republicans shielded legislators from the state’s open-records law, a move that comes months after the release of thousands of documents detailing extensive efforts to undermine Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election in the state. Senators will not have to disclose any text messages sent on personal devices, even when dealing with state business. For lawmakers in both the Senate and the House, emails and other documents will be destroyed after 90 days – in many cases, well before members of the public know to ask for them.

Arizona – GOP Leaders Pressure Hobbs to Donate $1.3M in Excess Inaugural Cash
KJZZ – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 1/26/2023

The top two Republican lawmakers want Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs to put money left over from the inaugural celebration into a state account, where it cannot be used to elect more Democrats. House Speaker Ben Toma and Senate President Warren Petersen called on her to surrender control of what is left from the more than $1.5 million she collected for the celebration. At the same time, the costs totaled only about $207,000.

Florida – Hide Your Books to Avoid Felony Charges, Fla. Schools Tell Teachers
MSN – Hannah Natanson (Washington Post) | Published: 1/31/2023

School officials in at least two Florida counties, Manatee and Duval, have directed teachers to remove or wrap up their classroom libraries. The removals come after the State Board of Education ruled a state law restricting the books a district may possess applies not only to schoolwide libraries but to teachers’ classroom collections, too. The law mandates that schools’ books be age-appropriate, free from pornography, and “suited to student needs.” Breaking the law is a third-degree felony, meaning a teacher could face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine for displaying or giving students a disallowed book.

Florida – Penalty Decided for Manatee Commissioner Baugh Who Violated Ethics in Vaccine Rollout
MSN – Ryan Callihan (Bradenton Herald) | Published: 1/27/2023

The Florida Ethics Commission on Ethics accepted Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh’s proposed settlement over scheduling herself an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine site she helped organize. Baugh was ordered to pay $8,000 and accept a public reprimand. Baugh sent an email to county staff with personal information for herself, a developer, and two former neighbors. Staff members said they understood the list to be a clear directive to ensure those people received a COVID-19 vaccine. At the time, more than 100,000 people were in the county’s vaccine waiting pool.

Illinois – Ethics Board Warns Candidates: Don’t use uniformed cops in your ads
WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 2/1/2023

The Board of Ethics warned candidates running for mayor, city council, and Police District Council to not use images of uniformed Chicago police officers, firefighters, or city personnel in campaign advertisements. U.S. Rep. Jesús García edited his first television advertisement in the race for mayor to remove images of the candidate talking to two uniformed officers while promising to get tough on crime. Representatives of the police department confirmed the two officers were under investigation.

Illinois – Jury Finds Son of Former State Rep. Edward Acevedo Guilty of Tax Evasion Charges with Ties to ComEd Bribery Probe
MSN – Jason Meisner (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 1/30/2023

The son of former state Rep. Edward Acevedo was found guilty of tax evasion charges that were an offshoot of the investigation into Commonwealth Edison’s (ComEd) alleged attempts to influence then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Alex Acevedo was convicted for underreporting his lobbying income by about $70,000 in 2016 and 2018, resulting in a total tax loss of about $20,000. Though relatively minor in scope, the indictment against Alex Acevedo, along with separate charges filed against his younger brother and their father, received widespread attention due to the connection to the ComEd probe.

Iowa – State Agency Can’t Enforce Iowa’s Campaign Finance Laws; Asks Lawmakers for Changes
KCRG – Ethan Stein | Published: 1/27/2023

According to data from the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board, thousands of politicians and advocacy groups have received fines for submitting campaign finance reports late. An investigation found hundreds of fines have not been paid because state law does not set a deadline for when the penalty is paid. It also found the agency’s data is inaccurate and campaigns, along with advocacy groups, were not notified about penalties.

Kansas – Kansas Republicans Tried to Oust Ethics Head Amid Subpoenas. Will They Try Again?
Yahoo News – Andrew Bahl (Topeka Capital-Journal) | Published: 1/26/2023

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson wants to reopen discussions about the scope and management of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission as the office pursues an investigation into campaign finance violations involving Republican officials. Masterson did not provide details on what action would be pursued but he said that under previous directors, lawmakers looked to the commission for guidance and cannot anymore. Although the ethics agency is an independent body that has jurisdiction to investigate lawmakers, Masterson said legislative efforts to change the commission were appropriate.

Massachusetts – Mass. Republican Party Elects New Leader, Rejecting Chairman Jim Lyons’ Bid for Third Term
MSN – Emma Platoff (Boston Globe) | Published: 1/31/2023

After years of dismal election results and weak fundraising, the Massachusetts Republican Party picked a new leader, narrowly rejecting the embattled chairperson, Jim Lyons. in favor of Amy Carnevale, a lobbyist for K&L Gates who promised to steady the party and reverse its electoral decline. Documents obtained by the Globe showed Lyons used party funds to investigate two fellow Republicans. He also appears to have communicated directly with an outside PAC about digging up dirt on Gov. Maura Healey during last year’s election.

Missouri – Former St. Louis County Official Sentenced to Prison for COVID Relief Kickback Scheme
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Katie Kull | Published: 1/26/2023

A former St. Louis County jail official who was long involved with politics and government was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for engaging in a pandemic relief kickback scheme. While still working for the county, Tony Weaver filled out fraudulent applications and sought kickbacks from a small businessperson who applied for multiple grants during the COVID-19 pandemic, a scheme Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith said revealed Weaver’s “unbridled arrogance.”

New Mexico – New Mexico Bill to Restrict Lobbyist ‘Revolving Door’ Advances
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 1/30/2023

A proposal moving through the New Mexico Senate would prohibit former legislators and executive branch appointees from returning immediately to the Capitol as paid lobbyists. The legislation was sharply expanded in committee. The change adds employees who serve at will under the governor to the two-year lobbying ban. At least 20 former legislators and state officials are among the hundreds of people registered to lobby this session, though many of them served several years ago.

New Mexico – New Mexico Considers Roasted Chile as Official State Aroma
MSN – Susan Montoya Bryan (Associated Press) | Published: 2/1/2023

The smell of green chile roasting on an open flame permeates New Mexico every fall, wafting from roadside stands and grocery store parking lots. Now one state lawmaker says it is time for everyone to wake up and smell the chile. Sen. Bill Soules’ visit with fifth grade students in his district sparked a conversation about the hot peppers and the potential for New Mexico to become the first state to have an official state aroma, a proposal now being considered by lawmakers.

New York – Hochul’s Vow to Boost Ethics and Sexual Harassment Training Falls Flat
DNyuz – Jay Root (New York Times) | Published: 1/29/2023

On her first day as governor of New York, Kathy Hochul vowed to overhaul policies on ethics and sexual harassment in the government workplace. Her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo, had just resigned amid a sexual harassment scandal. Hochul said she would strengthen the training, requiring state workers to participate in live classes and seminars. No longer would employees “click their way through a class,” Hochul said. Nearly a year and a half later, there is still no universal live training in either subject for the state’s work force.

New York – Inside George Santos’s District Office: Nothing to see here
Buffalo News – Dana Rubinstein (New York Times) | Published: 1/30/2023

The storefront in the Tudor Revival building in the Douglaston neighborhood of Queens has lived many lives: It was a flower shop; the satellite office of former U.S. Rep. Thomas Suozzi, whose name still adorns the green awning. Now it is home to perhaps its most notorious tenant: U.S. Rep. George Santos. With the northern half of Long Island’s Nassau County falling into Santos’s district, County Executive Bruce Blakeman has said he will direct all federal constituent calls to Anthony D’Esposito, another Long Island representative. “My office will have no interaction with George Santos or his staff until he resigns,” said Blakeman, a Republican.

New York – Lobbying on LaSalle Nomination Shows Apparent Gap in Reporting Requirements
Albany Times Union – Joshua Solomon | Published: 1/30/2023

Citizens for Judicial Fairness spent between $75,000 to $100,000 on its brief efforts trying to influence the vote of state senators on the Judiciary Committee as they considered New York Gov. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s nomination of Hector LaSalle for chief judge of the Court of Appeals. State law is silent on the issue of nominations and appointments to public office, according to a spokesperson for the state’s ethics commission. It leads to a near-impossible dynamic for observers who want to follow either the money or those seeking to influence the nominations.

New York – Manhattan Prosecutors Present Trump Case to Grand Jury
Buffalo News – William Rashbaum, Ben Protess, Jonah Bromwich, and Hurubie Meko (New York Times) | Published: 1/30/2023

The Manhattan district attorney’s office began presenting evidence to a grand jury about Donald Trump’s role in paying hush money to a porn star during his 2016 presidential campaign, laying the groundwork for potential criminal charges against the former president in the coming months. The grand jury was recently impaneled, and the beginning of witness testimony represents a clear signal that the district attorney, Alvin Bragg, is nearing a decision about whether to charge Trump.

North Dakota – North Dakota Senate Cuts Back Ethics Panel’s Bill to Expand Authority
Bismarck Tribune – Jack Dura | Published: 1/31/2023

North Dakota’s ethics panel might not get everything it sought in a bill for tweaks to state laws. The Senate approved legislation advanced by the Ethics Commission for several requested changes, including a proposed but deleted expansion to include nearly 9,000 more state employees under its authority. Changes also include extending the time frame to notify an accused person of an ethics complaint, and adding criteria for who can make complaints.

Ohio – Corporate Jets, Bribes and Dark Money: Householder trial spotlights weaknesses in Ohio ethics laws
MSN – Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/29/2023

Aspects of Larry Householder’s corruption prosecution show grey areas or even loopholes in Ohio ethics laws that either enabled his activities or, perhaps, made them legal. But lawmakers have taken no substantive action to address any of the ethical issues underlined in the case, with several bills stalling despite at times getting bipartisan support. On the eve of the trial’s start, a group of House Republicans announced a proposed set of ethics reforms they said would address some of the issues exposed by the scandal. But the bill, which has yet to be introduced, has an uncertain future.

Oregon – Oregon Elections Director Who Worked for Democratic Party Will Not Recuse Herself from Investigation into Party’s Crypto Donor
Portland Oregonian – Hillary Borrud | Published: 2/1/2023

Oregon’s new elections director, Molly Woon, will not recuse herself from the investigation into a $500,000 donation the state Democratic Party received from an FTX executive last year even though she previously worked as a top employee of the party. In October, the Democratic Party accepted the contribution the party claimed was from a Las Vegas cryptocurrency company Prime Trust. But Prime Trust was not the actual donor. Under state law, it is a felony to make a campaign contribution under a “false name” and elections employees are deciding whether the case should be forwarded to the state attorney general for prosecution.

Pennsylvania – Lobbyist Says She Was Harassed by Current Pa. Lawmaker, Wants Legislature to Change Misconduct Rules
Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso | Published: 1/27/2023

A lobbyist for one of Pennsylvania’s most influential unions says a sitting state lawmaker sexually harassed her, and she is urging the Legislature to expand internal rules that govern who can bring misconduct complaints. Andi Perez, who advocates on behalf of Service Employees International Union, made the allegation during a listening session organized by new Speaker Mark Rozzi. He has scheduled a series of public meetings to solicit feedback about the House’s operating procedures Amid a partisan deadlock over which party controls the chamber.

Rhode Island – AG’s Office Nixes $40,000 in Funding as NAACP President Faces Campaign-Finance Charges
Yahoo News – Mark Reynolds and Amy Russo (Providence Journal) | Published: 1/27/2023

Gerard Catala, the newly elected president of the Providence NAACP and a former city council candidate, faces criminal prosecution for failing to report on the finances of his 2022 campaign as required by state law. Because of the charges against Catala, the state attorney general’s office will withhold the $40,000 it had planned to give the branch over the course of four years. The funds were part of a large grant from the U.S. Department of Justice meant to support “hate-crime prevention and education.”

South Dakota – House Kills Bill That Would Have Increased Campaign Donation Limits
KEVN – Austin Glass | Published: 1/31/2023

The South Dakota House defeated a bill that would have increased the campaign contribution limits for individuals and entities. Proponents said the increase would be good in light of inflation. But opponents said the current system works well and increasing the caps would allow wealthy donors to have more influence.

Texas – Ex-Legislator Tests Lobbying Revolving Door Law by Repping Big Energy Companies
MSN – Lauren McGaughy (Dallas Morning News) | Published: 1/27/2023

A former Texas representative is testing a state law meant to crack down on the “revolving door” between the Legislature and lobbying firms. Chris Paddie chaired a powerful House’s committee that held hearings to demand answers from energy firms after 2021’s deadly winter storm. Now, he has registered to lobby for a handful of the same power companies he was previously tasked with scrutinizing. His activities come despite a law that bans state legislators from becoming lobbyists within two years of using their own campaign cash to donate to other politicians.

Virginia – GOP-Led Panel Again Defeats Campaign Finance Reform
MSN – Sarah Rankin (Associated Press) | Published: 2/1/2023

A Virginia House panel voted down legislation that would prohibit lawmakers from using campaign funds for personal expenses such as a vacation, mortgage, or country club membership. Virginia’s elected officials are currently outliers in the nation for their ability to spend money donated to their campaigns on virtually anything. Similar legislation is still alive in the Senate, but the vote signals it is likely to meet a similar fate should it cross to the House.

Washington – As Capital Gains Tax Goes to WA Supreme Court, a Push to ‘Microtarget’ Justices
Seattle Times – David Gutman | Published: 1/26/2023

As the Washington Supreme Court prepares to decide the fate of the state’s new capital gains tax, a conservative think tank, whose leadership sued to stop the tax, is “microtargeting” the state’s nine justices with an ad campaign. The Washington Policy Center wrote to donors recently outlining its advertising strategy as the justices prepare to hear challenges to the tax. The campaign focused on areas “where justices spend the bulk of their time (work and home) as well as secondary places our research found that may be relevant,” the think tank wrote to supporters.

Washington – Prominent Lobbyist Barred from WA Capitol After Ruling He Stalked State Representative
Seattle Times – Jim Brunner | Published: 1/31/2023

A prominent lobbyist was barred from the Capitol campus after a judge ruled that he had stalked a state representative, leading her to flee her home for months. Rep. Lauren Davis last year obtained a domestic violence protective order against lobbyist Cody Arledge, citing what she said was an escalating pattern of obsessive and threatening behavior after she broke off their romantic relationship. Their dispute is now before the state Court of Appeals, where Arledge is challenging the restrictions on him as an “Orwellian” violation of his constitutional right to privacy and ability to work. Davis’s attorneys are defending the restrictions as necessary to protect her.

National/Federal

2-Year Sentence for Hawaii Woman’s Trump Lobbying Scheme
MSN – Associated Press | Published: 1/18/2023

An American consultant was sentenced to two years in prison for an illicit lobbying effort to get the Trump administration to drop an investigation into the multibillion-dollar looting of a Malaysian state investment fund, and to arrange for the return of a Chinese dissident living in the U.S. Nickie Mali Lum Davis pleaded guilty in 2020 to one count of aiding and abetting in violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act.

Classified Documents Found at Pence’s Indiana Home
MSN – Jamie Gangel, Jeremy Herb, and Evan Perez (CNN) | Published: 1/24/2023

A lawyer for former Vice President Mike Pence discovered about a dozen documents marked as classified at Pence’s Indiana home and he has turned those classified records over to the FBI. The Justice Department’s National Security Division and the FBI have launched a review of the documents and how they ended up in Pence’s house. Pence asked his lawyer to conduct the search of his home out of an abundance of caution, and the attorney began going through four boxes, finding a small number of documents with classified markings.

Cyberthieves Jacked a U.S. Senator’s Campaign and Stole Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars
MSN – Dave Levinthal (Raw Story) | Published: 1/23/2023

Cyberthieves stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from the campaign committee of U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran and the FBI is investigating. It is the latest in a series of thefts from the political accounts of prominent politicians, party committees, trade associations, and advocacy groups representing all points across the political spectrum. Together, the money lost early in this decade has soared into the millions of dollars.

Dark Money Group Linked to Leonard Leo Is Dissolved
MSN – Heidi Przybyla (Politico) | Published: 1/20/2023

A “dark money” group tied to conservative judicial activist Leonard Leo was dissolved three days after Politico inquired about whether it helped to facilitate the multi-million-dollar sale of former White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway’s polling company. The BH Fund, which was formed in 2016 with an anonymous $24 million donation, has been a nerve center for distributing millions of dollars around Leo’s network of groups bolstering former President Trump’s Supreme Court picks.

Four Oath Keepers Convicted of Jan. 6 Seditious Conspiracy
Associated Press News – Michael Kunzelman and Alanna Durkin Richer | Published: 1/24/2023

Four members of the Oath Keepers were convicted of seditious conspiracy in the attack on the Capitol in the second major trial of far-right extremists accused of plotting to forcibly keep Donald Trump in power. It is another major victory for the Justice Department, which is also trying to secure sedition convictions against the former leader of the Proud Boys and four associates. It was one of the most serious cases brought so far in the sweeping January 6 investigation which continues to grow two years after the insurrection.

Judge Sanctions Trump, Habba Nearly $1 Million for ‘Completely Frivolous’ Clinton Suit
MSN – Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein (Politico) | Published: 1/20/2023

A federal judge ordered nearly $1 million in sanctions against Donald Trump and his attorney Alina Habba, calling the former president a “mastermind of strategic abuse of the judicial process.” U.S. District Court Judge Donald Middlebrooks said Trump’s sprawling lawsuit against Hillary Clinton and dozens of former Justice Department and FBI officials was an almost cartoonish abuse of the legal system. Trump continues to face peril in advancing criminal probes and civil lawsuits related to his effort to overturn the 2020 election and his retention of sensitive national security records at his Mar-a-Lago estate after leaving office.

Justice Dept. Search of Biden Home in Wilmington Turns Up More Documents
MSN – Matt Viser and Tyler Pager (Washington Post) | Published: 1/21/2023

The Justice Department completed an extensive search of President Biden’s home in Wilmington and turned up additional classified documents, some of which date to his time in the U.S. Senate and others from his eight-year tenure as vice president. After being given full access to Biden’s home, the Justice Department took possession of six items. The department also took some of Biden’s handwritten notes from his vice-presidential years to further review them.

Lobbying Gold Rush May Persist Despite Divided Congress
Yahoo News – Karl Evers-Hillstrom (The Hill) | Published: 1/23/2023

K Street lobbying firms expect a historic earnings boom to continue, even as a divided Congress threatens to slow legislation to a crawl. The top firms reported massive earnings for the final three months of 2022, capping off a record-breaking year for K Street. The strong fourth-quarter performance, which defied election season norms, boosted hopes that corporations will continue to spend big on lobbyists in the new year.

Meta to Reinstate Donald Trump’s Facebook Account
MSN – Rebecca Kern (Politico) | Published: 1/25/2023

Meta will lift the ban on Donald Trump’s Facebook and Instagram accounts after a suspension that lasted more than two years. The decision restores the former president’s access to a platform that he used to powerful effect as a campaigner and could potentially boost his faltering 2024 fundraising. But a Trump return could also lead to more election misinformation on the platform, Democrats warn, since Facebook has a policy of not fact-checking candidates. The company said Trump will have to abide by new rules if he decides to post again, but ultimately decided to reinstate him because the public deserves to hear from politicians.

Mystery Deepens Around George Santos’s $700,000 in Campaign Loans
Seattle Times – Michael Gold and Nicholas Fandos (New York Times) | Published: 1/24/2023

An updated campaign finance report raised new questions about the source of six-figure loans that U.S. Rep. George Santos gave his congressional campaign. In previous filings, the Santos campaign has reported he lent his own campaign more than $700,000. But in an update to a report originally filed in April 2022, the campaign unmarked a box that had originally indicated $500,000 of those loans came from Santos’s own personal funds. Experts said they were struggling to interpret the change, especially because in filings from later in 2022, the box marking “personal funds of the candidate” remains checked.

Students Want New Books. Thanks to Restrictions, Librarians Can’t Buy Them.
MSN – Hannah Natanson (Washington Post) | Published: 1/22/2023

States and school districts nationwide have begun to constrain what librarians can order. At least 10 states have passed laws giving parents more power over which books appear in libraries or limiting students’ access to books. At the same time, school districts are passing policies that bar certain kinds of texts – most often, those focused on issues of gender and sexuality – while increasing administrative or parental oversight of acquisitions. School librarians said in the past they had wide latitude to choose the books they thought would best supplement the curriculum and stimulate students’ literary appetites.

Supreme Court Asks Biden Administration to Weigh in on Social Media Case
MSN – Robert Barnes and Cat Zakrzewski (Washington Post) | Published: 1/23/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court asked the Biden administration to weigh in on whether states may bar giant social media platforms from removing certain types of political speech, a major First Amendment case that could determine how the constitutional right to free speech applies to the marketplace of ideas on the internet. At stake is the constitutionality of state laws in Florida and Texas that would restrict platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube from blocking or limiting political speech, and require transparency in how such decisions are made.

Supreme Court Says It Can’t Determine Who Leaked Draft Dobbs Opinion
MSN – Robert Barnes and Ann Marimow (Washington Post) | Published: 1/19/2023

The U.S. Supreme Court said it cannot identify the person who in the spring leaked a draft of the opinion that overturned Roe v. Wade, an inconclusive likely finale to what the justices declared “one of the worst breaches of trust” in the court’s history. Although the report did not indicate it was against the law to disclose the draft opinion, those interviewed were told they could be fired if they refused to answer or did not truthfully respond to questions. The report did not indicate clearly whether the justices themselves or others close to them were questioned.

US: Ex-FBI counterintelligence agent aided Russian oligarch
MSN – Michael Sisak and Eric Tucker (Associated Press) | Published: 1/23/2023

A former high-ranking FBI counterintelligence official who investigated Russian oligarchs was indicted on charges he secretly worked for one, in violation of U.S. sanctions. The official was also charged in a separate indictment with taking cash from a former foreign security officer. Charles McGonigal, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s counterintelligence division in New York from 2016 to 2018, is accused in an indictment of working with a former Soviet diplomat-turned-Russian interpreter on behalf of Oleg Deripaska, a Russian billionaire they purportedly referred to in code as “the big guy” and “the client.”

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Voter Fraud Unit in Arizona Will Shift Focus to Voter Rights
Las Vegas Sun – Neil Vigdor (New York Times) | Published: 1/23/2023

Arizona’s new Democratic attorney general, Kris Mayes, is redirecting an election integrity unit her Republican predecessor created, focusing its work instead on addressing voter suppression. The unit’s former leader, Jennifer Wright, meanwhile, has joined a legal effort to invalidate Mayes’s narrow victory in the November election. Former Attorney General Mark Brnovich, a Republican who ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate last year, created the office to investigate voter fraud complaints in Arizona, a battleground state.

California – Ex-State Democratic Party Leader Who Helped FBI in Anaheim Probe Agrees to Plead Guilty to Wire Fraud
MSN – Hannah Fry and Gabriel San Román (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 1/19/2023

A California Democratic Party leader who was central to a wide-reaching corruption investigation in Anaheim involving the proposed sale of Angel Stadium agreed to plead guilty to attempted wire fraud. Melahat Rafiei was a well-known political consultant in Orange County. In late 2019, according to a plea agreement, Rafiei told a commercial cannabis company owner she would work to pass a marijuana related ordinance in Anaheim that would benefit the business in exchange for a payment of at least $300,000.

California – Former L.A. Councilmember Jose Huizar Pleads Guilty in Corruption Case
MSN – Michael Finnegan and David Zahniser (Los Angeles Times) | Published: 1/19/2023

Former Los Angeles City Councilperson José Huizar pleaded guilty to two federal charges stemming from a bribery and money laundering scheme in which he took more than $1.5 million in cash, gambling trips, and escorts in exchange for his support of a planned hotel project. Prosecutors said they will request a 13-year prison term. Huizar will also pay restitution of about $1.85 million. The plea deal came after developers were convicted of bribing Huizar and an array of other players at City Hall pleaded guilty to felonies.

Florida – Florida Blocks High School African American Studies Class
Yahoo News – Anthony Izaguirre (Associated Press) | Published: 1/19/2023

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s administration blocked a new Advanced Placement course on African American studies from being taught in high schools, saying it violates state law and is historically inaccurate. DeSantis has opposed what he calls liberal ideologies in schools, including lessons around critical race theory, which examines systemic racism and has become a frequent target of conservatives.

Florida – ‘This Is Not Over.’ Judge Says DeSantis Was Wrong, but Declines to Restore Andrew Warren to Office
MSN – Dan Sullivan and Sue Carlton (Tampa Bay Times) | Published: 1/20/2023

Despite concluding Gov. Ron DeSantis violated the Florida Constitution and the First Amendment last year when he suspended Hillsborough State Attorney Andrew Warren, a federal judge ruled he did not have the power to restore Warren to office. U.S. District Court Judge Robert Hinkle found DeSantis suspended Warren based on the allegation that the state attorney had blanket policies not to prosecute certain kinds of cases. Yet Hinkle concluded the U.S. Constitution prohibits a federal court from awarding the kind of relief Warren seeks – namely, to be restored to office.

Georgia – Fulton County DA Says Charging Decisions in Trump Investigation Are ‘Imminent’
MSN – Holly Bailey (Washington Post) | Published: 1/24/2023

An Atlanta-area district attorney investigating whether former President Trump and his allies broke the law when they sought to overturn Trump’s 2020 election loss in Georgia said charging “decisions are imminent.” Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis told a judge that a special grand jury report into the matter should remain sealed to protect the ongoing criminal investigation and the rights of potential “defendants” in the case. Willis’s comments came during a hearing on whether to release the final report of the special grand jury, which was formally dissolved after a roughly eight-month investigation into alleged 2020 election interference.

Idaho – Idaho Legislature Introduces Bill Creating Waiting Period Before Officials Can Become Lobbyists
Idaho Capital Sun – Clark Corbin | Published: 1/23/2023

Legislation in Idaho would prohibit lawmakers, executive branch employees, and other elected officials from registering as a lobbyist or lobbying during the next regular legislative session and for at least six months after leaving office. Although it had bipartisan support and similar “revolving door” provisions are common in most other states, the House State Affairs Committee had a tricky time with the bill.

Illinois – Ethics Board Sends Lightfoot Campaign Complaints to Watchdogs
MSN – A.D. Quig (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 1/23/2023

The Chicago Board of Ethics decided more thorough investigations needed to be done before rendering judgment about whether Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s campaign violated city ethics rules when it solicited public school teachers to encourage students to help her reelection efforts. The board tasked the inspectors general for both City Hall and Chicago Public Schools to conduct investigations into the matter.

Illinois – Former Cook County Board of Review Employee Sentenced to 3 Months in Prison for Taking Bribes to Fix Tax Appeals
MSN – Adriana Pérez (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 1/24/2023

A former employee of the Cook County Board of Review was sentenced to three months in prison and at least one year of probation for taking bribes to fix tax appeals on more than two dozen properties. Unbeknownst to Barjaktarevic, an individual named in documents as “CS-1” was a confidential source operating at the direction of the FBI. Barjaktarevic told the source he would accept $2,000 to lower assessments for each commercial property, while he would charge $1,000 for each residential property, for a total cost of $43,000.

Illinois – Swept Into Office by Promises of Reform, Lightfoot Faces New Scrutiny on Ethics Record
WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 1/18/2023

Lori Lightfoot won every ward in her first bid for mayor after her campaign was fueled by promises that she alone could end the notion that placing Chicago government and integrity in the same sentence is an oxymoron at best, or a joke at worst. Lightfoot’s campaign for a second term has been weighed down by a growing amount of evidence that she has at times governed more like an old-school machine politician than a reformer. Lightfoot has said her administration has made strides in pushing back against corruption.

Maine – House Speaker Calls on Waldoboro Lawmaker to Resign After He Was Indicted for Signature Fraud
Maine Public Radio – Steve Mistler | Published: 1/24/2023

A newly elected member of the Maine House of Representatives was indicted for allegedly forging multiple signatures to obtain public funds through the state’s public campaign finance system. Rep. Clinton Collamore is accused of forging the signatures of more than two dozen people to receive financing for his successful legislative campaign through the Clean Election Act. According to the state’s ethics commission, he received more than $14,000 through the program.

Massachusetts – E-mails Appear to Show Coordination Between Mass. GOP Chairman and Outside PAC, in Alleged Violation of State Law
MSN – Emma Platoff (Boston Globe) | Published: 1/18/2023

Embattled Massachusetts Republican Party Chairperson Jim Lyons appears to have communicated directly with an outside PAC about digging up dirt on Gov. Maura Healey during last year’s election, according to emails. The emails follow accusations levied by the state GOP’s treasurer, who told party officials he believed the coordination between Lyons and the PAC violated state campaign finance laws and he would report the matter to state regulators. The treasurer, Pat Crowley, has previously clashed with Lyons over party finances.

Michigan – Who Funded Michigan Campaigns? For Nearly Every Legislator, It Wasn’t the Folks They Ran to Represent.
MLive – Simon Schuster | Published: 1/24/2023

When new district maps were finalized at the end of 2021, many incumbent state legislators and first-time candidates pivoted to appealing for votes from new communities they had not reached out to in the past. But did lawmakers rely on the people they hoped to represent to fund their campaigns? According to a new analysis of campaign finance records, the answer is largely no. PACs remain the dominant force in legislative fundraising, and their financial footprint has grown significantly over the last decade. PACs can donate 10 times as much as individuals, and many incumbent legislators create PACs as a means of wielding influence with their colleagues.

Minnesota – Why Some Want to Make Public Spending on Political Campaigns in Minnesota Less Like Menards Rebates
MSN – Peter Callaghan (MinnPost) | Published: 1/24/2023

In Minnesota, individuals can donate to politicians using tax dollars, but only a small percentage of residents use the system. The process is awkward. People contribute $50 and get a receipt. Then they must fill out a form, mail it in or file on a government website, and wait for two state agencies to verify their eligibility. Then they get a reimbursement check. Supporters of a new bill want to simplify the system and increase usage with “Democracy Dollars,” a program pioneered in Seattle.

Nebraska – Watchdog Group Says State Capitol Bible Study Leader Should Register as Lobbyist
Nebraska Examiner – Paul Hammel | Published: 1/20/2023

Arin Hess, the chaplain and president of Capitol Studies, holds Bible study sessions for Nebraska lawmakers and staff members during the legislative session. While Hess says he is merely maintaining a four-decade-long tradition of “serving civil servants with Scripture” at the Capitol, some watchdogs, along with at least one state senator, contend what happens at those studies amounts to lobbying and Hess should register as one. Common Cause Nebraska said his teachings have led to the introduction of bills and his work fits the definition of a lobbyist.

Nevada – Nevada’s New Governor Vilified Lobbyist’s Influence in COVID Lab Scandal, Then Asked Him to Help with Budget
ProPublica – Anjeanette Damon (Nevada Independent) | Published: 1/25/2023

During his contentious campaign to become Nevada governor, Joe Lombardo accused the Democratic incumbent of catering to the family of a donor and their lobbyist who helped an error-prone COVID-19 testing lab get licensed in the state. Shortly after he won the race, Lombardo turned to that same lobbyist for help in building the state budget, giving him access to confidential documents and putting him in a position that allowed him to advocate for state funding sought by his clients. Lobbyist Mike Willden’s name does not appear on the list of people Lombardo appointed to his transition team.

New Mexico – Proposal Aims to Keep Legislators from Drinking While on the Job
Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 1/23/2023

For some New Mexico legislators, drinking is part of the Capitol culture. At least a few have been known to keep alcohol in their offices. And it is common for lawmakers to head to dinner before a late-night floor session at restaurants serving alcohol. But Sen. Harold Pope Jr. said he has seen enough. The first-term legislator is proposing a Senate rule that would prohibit members of the chamber from drinking alcohol before committee meetings or floor sessions. They could not drink during the meetings either.

New York – City Council Passes New Disclosure Requirements for Spending to Influence Votes on Ballot Referendums
Gotham Gazette – Ethan Geringer-Sameth | Published: 1/18/2023

The New York City Council passed legislation that requires entities spending to influence voters in local referendums to disclose their funders. The bill would close a loophole in the city’s campaign finance law that watchdogs have decried for years. If signed by the mayor, independent expenditures of $5,000 or more would be subject to disclosure. It also requires ads for or against ballot questions to include a “paid for by” notice, including the names of up to three of its top donors

New York – Email Describes Hochul Meeting Before $637 Million Deal with Donor for Covid-19 Tests
Buffalo News – Chris Bragg | Published: 1/23/2023

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration used emergency authority to buy $637 million in coronavirus tests through a company owned by a major Hochul campaign donor. Hochul and her allies have insisted the governor did not have any direct involvement in the deal. The governor said her “only involvement” was directing her team to purchase as many tests as possible from any available sources. But an email from the company’s owner, Charlie Tebele, suggested he may have directly discussed Covid-19 tests with Hochul at a campaign fundraiser Tebele had thrown for the governor.

New York – Trump Withdraws Second Lawsuit Against New York Attorney General
MSN – John Wagner (Washington Post) | Published: 1/24/2023

Donald Trump withdrew a second lawsuit against New York Attorney General Letitia James related to her office’s fraud probe of his business practices. No reason was given for the withdrawal. Trump first filed the lawsuit in federal court in Syracuse, claiming James was violating his rights and that of his company by pursuing a politically motivated investigation. After a judge in May found “no evidence” James had acted with bias, Trump appealed the ruling. The withdrawal of the appeal was the second time in five days that Trump had abandoned litigation against James, who is pursuing a $250 million against Trump.

Ohio – ‘Clear as Mud’: Ohio’s new voting restrictions from GOP raise alarm
MSN – Meryl Kornfield (Washington Post) | Published: 1/19/2023

Weeks after a Republican-backed voting law significantly reshaped Ohio’s election procedure, local officials, advocates, and voters are still making sense of the changes and how the alterations could restrict who might cast ballots in 2024. Legal challenges of the law could further complicate the situation: A federal lawsuit brought against Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose by groups representing the homeless, teachers, seniors, and veterans argues the restrictions are unconstitutional and suppress votes.

Ohio – Ohio’s Historic Corruption Case Tests Limits of Citizens United
Bloomberg Law – Alex Ebert | Published: 1/20/2023

Former House Speaker Larry Householder and ex-Ohio Republican Party Chairperson Matt Borges are on trial in what federal prosecutors have called the largest corruption case in the state’s history. Prosecutors allege Householder, Borges, and consultants Jeffrey Longstreth, Neil Clark, and Juan Cespedes accepted millions of dollars in “dark money” from FirstEnergy to pass legislation that included a $1 billion bailout for the utility’s nuclear power plants. The defense maintains the arrangement was politics as usual and protected by the U.S. Supreme Court in its Citizens United v. FEC decision and other precedent.

Pennsylvania – Refusal to Release Inaugural Donors Exposes Gap in Pa. Law
MSN – Marc Levy (Associated Press) | Published: 1/23/2023

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s refusal to disclose who paid for his inaugural bash exposed the gap in state law that lets governors escape the kind of transparency that is sometimes required elsewhere. Presidential inaugural committees are required by federal law to disclose donors who give over $200 to inaugural celebrations. States like Virginia, Maryland, and New Jersey have such laws, as do cities including New York and Philadelphia, where city officials also cap the amount that an individual donor can give to an inauguration. Many other states have no such disclosure laws.

Pennsylvania – Shapiro Bars Gifts from Lobbyists, Requires Ethics Training
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Capitolwire | Published: 1/20/2023

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order barring staff under his jurisdiction from accepting gifts from lobbyists and requiring state officials to sign an ethics pledge and complete ethics training. Eric Fillman, chief counsel for the House Ethics Committee who will lead the ethics training, said the new gift ban is intended to provide a degree of reasonableness that will ensure lobbyists cannot use gifts to gain undue influence while at the same time ensuring state officials can accept modest gifts from members of the community.

Virginia – Campaign Finance Reform Advocates Put Pressure on Virginia General Assembly
OpenSecrets – Jimmy Clothier | Published: 1/25/2023

A coalition of grassroots organizations gathered at the Virginia General Assembly to urge state lawmakers to pass campaign finance reform. While lawmakers have already rejected some proposals, multiple bills that failed in prior legislative sessions advanced out of committee. Others are up for consideration in the coming days. Virginia’s laws governing political spending are among the least restrictive in the country, with virtually no limits on the amount of money state politicians can accept from donors, as well as loopholes that allow for the personal use of campaign funds.

Wisconsin – 2023’s Biggest, Most Unusual Race Centers on Abortion and Democracy
DNyuz – Reid Epstein (New York Times) | Published: 1/25/2023

Wisconsin will hold an election that carries bigger policy stakes than any other contest in 2023. The April race for a seat on the state’s evenly divided Supreme Court will determine the fate of abortion rights, gerrymandered legislative maps, and the governor’s appointment powers – and perhaps even the state’s 2024 presidential election if the outcome is again contested. The contest will almost certainly shatter spending records for a judicial election in any state. The seat is nonpartisan in name only. Indeed, the clash for the court is striking because of how nakedly political it is.

Wyoming – Bill Would Prohibit Former Legislators from Immediately Becoming Lobbyists with 2-Year Wait Period
Cowboy State Daily – Leo Wolfson | Published: 1/23/2023

The Wyoming Legislature is considering a bill that would prevent former state lawmakers from serving as lobbyists within two years after leaving elected office. Under House Bill 146, those who violate the waiting period could face up to $5,000 in fines. Rep. Scott Smith, who sponsored the bill, said his attention was drawn to the issue when he learned his opponent in last summer’s Republican primary, former Rep. Shelly Duncan, had become a lobbyist. Until Smith was sworn in this year, Duncan was the House District 5 representative.

National/Federal

Billions at Stake as Online Fundraising Practices Turn Off Voters
MSN – Jessica Piper (Politico) | Published: 1/17/2023

Llyod Cotler, the founder of Banter Messaging, advises friends and family to write a check if they want to make political contributions and avoid online giving, lest their emails and phone numbers end up on lists that recirculate through the campaign world for eternity. That advice reflects a recognition among digital campaign staff that text and email programs have gone from innovative to out of hand, to the point that it is harming the campaign ecosystem. The rate of return on individual appeals is falling compared to a few years ago, as candidates and outside groups find themselves targeting the same pool of donors.

FEC Dismisses GOP Complaint Over Gmail Spam Filter
MSN – Isaac Stanley-Becker (Washington Post) | Published: 1/17/2023

The FEC dismissed a complaint brought by Republican campaign groups arguing that Gmail spam filters disproportionately flagged GOP fundraising emails in a way that amounted to a prohibited in-kind contribution to Democrats. Google’s spam technology ignited a controversy last year, as GOP groups blamed the technology for a dip in fundraising.

Free Speech or Out of Order? As Meetings Grow Wild, Officials Try to Tame Public Comment.
MSN – Karin Brulliard (Washington Post) | Published: 1/17/2023

Across a polarized nation, governing bodies are restricting – and sometimes even halting – public comment to counter what elected officials describe as an unprecedented level of invective, misinformation, and disorder from citizens when they step to the microphone. As contentious social issues roil once-sleepy town council and school board gatherings, some officials say allowing people to have their say is poisoning meetings and thwarting the ability to get business done.

Garland Appoints Special Counsel to Review Biden Documents
Yahoo News – Kyle Cheney, Josh Gerstein, and Kelly Hooper (Politico) | Published: 1/12/2023

Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed a special counsel, former U.S. attorney Robert Hur, to review the storage of sensitive documents discovered in spaces used by President Biden during the years preceding his return to the White House. Garland’s decision to place the probe under supervision of a special counsel ratchets up the legal stakes for Biden, who has stressed he takes the matter seriously while saying he was surprised to learn about the existence of the documents.

George Santos Pocketed $3,000 in Donations for Dying Dog, Veteran Alleges
MSN – Timothy Bella (Washington Post) | Published: 1/18/2023

U.S. Rep. George Santos is accused of pocketing $3,000 from a GoFundMe page he set up for a homeless veteran to help pay for surgery for the man’s dying service dog. After he realized he could not afford the thousands of dollars needed for the surgery, a veterinarian tech recommended U.S. Navy veteran Richard Osthoff get in touch with a man named Anthony Devolder, who ran a pet charity that could help his dog. Anthony Devolder was one of the aliases used by Santos before he lied about much of his biography to win a seat in the House.

GOP Congressman Linked to Jan. 6 Probe Assigned to House Committee Investigating Biden
MSN – Amy Wang and Azi Paybarah (Washington Post) | Published: 1/18/2023

U.S. Rep. Scott Perry’s efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in favor of Donald Trump attracted the attention of the Department of Justice, which seized Perry’s cellphone as part of its investigation into the events leading up to the insurrection, when a pro-Trump mob overran the U.S. Capitol seeking to stop the certification of Joe Biden’s victory. That did not prevent Perry from being named to the powerful House Oversight and Accountability Committee, along with several other of Trump’s most controversial allies.

How Restaurant Workers Help Pay for Lobbying to Keep Their Wages Low
Yahoo News – David Fahrenthold and Talmon Joseph Smith (New York Times) | Published: 1/17/2023

Before starting a new job, many cooks, waiters, and bartenders pay $15 to a company called ServSafe for an online class in food safety. ServSafe doubles as a fundraising arm of the National Restaurant Association, the largest lobbying group for the food-service industry. The association has spent decades fighting increases to the minimum wage at the federal and state levels, as well as the subminimum wage paid to tipped workers. For years, the restaurant association and its affiliates have used ServSafe to create an arrangement with few parallels in Washington, where labor unwittingly helps to pay for management’s lobbying.

Statehouse Democrats Embrace an Unfamiliar Reality: Full power
Yahoo News – Mitch Smith (New York Times) | Published: 1/18/2023

Democrats will have control of the governorship and both legislative chambers in 17 states. That is still fewer than the 22 states where Republicans have full control, but it is a major comeback from a lost decade for state-level Democrats, who as recently as 2017 had sole control at only six Capitols. Slightly more people will now live in states with full Democratic control than in those with full Republican control. What remains untested, though, is whether Democrats can or will wield their newfound authority with the same unflinching force that Republicans exerted over the last decade.

Supreme Court Poised to Reconsider Key Tenets of Online Speech
DNyuz – David McCabe (New York Times) | Published: 1/19/2023

For years, giant social networks like Facebook and Twitter have operated under two crucial tenets. The first is that the platforms have the power to decide what content to keep online and what to take down, free from government oversight. The second is that the websites cannot be held legally responsible for most of what their users post online, shielding the companies from lawsuits over libelous speech, extremist content, and real-world harm linked to their platforms. Now the U.S. Supreme Court is poised to reconsider those rules.

The Speaker Vote Underscored How Money Is So Central to Politics Today
MSN – Tal Kopan (Boston Globe) | Published: 1/16/2023

Money is a regular part of leadership battles in Congress, where fundraising prowess is practically a job requirement, and there have long been debates about whether dedicated congressional campaign committees should spend to protect incumbent lawmakers from upstart challengers. But the deals cut during the vote for House speaker involved entities that legally are supposed to be separate from specific candidates and parties, specifically the Congressional Leadership Fund and a PAC related to Club for Growth.

Two States Still Observe King-Lee Day, Honoring Robert E. Lee with MLK
MSN – Meena Venkataramanan (Washington Post) | Published: 1/16/2023

As the country celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 16, two states observed a different holiday: King-Lee Day, which commemorates both King and Confederate general Robert E. Lee. Mississippi and Alabama mark King-Lee Day as a state holiday. Texas still celebrates Confederate Heroes Day on Lee’s actual birthday, January 19, and its state employees can take a paid holiday on both days. For many Black Southerners, these holidays are part of a broader effort to glorify the Confederacy, 158 years after its secessionist war effort went down in defeat.

What the Jan. 6 Probe Found Out About Social Media, But Didn’t Report
MSN – Cat Zakrzewski, Cristiano Lima, and Drew Harwell (Washington Post) | Published: 1/17/2023

The January 6 committee spent months gathering new details on how social media companies failed to address the online extremism and calls for violence that preceded the Capitol riot. The evidence they collected was written up in a 122-page memo that was circulated among the panel. But committee leaders declined to delve into those topics in detail in their final report, reluctant to dig into the roots of domestic extremism taking hold in the Republican Party beyond Donald Trump and concerned about the risks of a public battle with powerful tech companies.

From the States and Municipalities

Arizona – Where Did Arizona Gov. Hobbs’ Inaugural Funds Come From?
KAWC – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 1/15/2023

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs has been under pressure to release information on the sources of funds for the inaugural event since it was reported she was not fully disclosing the names of all the individuals or corporations paying for the celebration. She subsequently put a full list of the names in a booklet that was given out at the event and listed them on an inaugural web site. Now there is a report from the administration giving a full accounting of how much each has donated.

Arkansas – Former Legislator Wilkins Sentenced to a Year and a Day on Bribery Plea
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette – Dale Ellis | Published: 1/18/2023

Former Arkansas Sen. Henry Wilkins was sentenced to a year and a day in prison and ordered to pay $123,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to bribery. Wilkins was involved in a scheme that brought down a number of state legislators as well as executives of a nonprofit that provided Medicaid-funded counseling services to troubled youth and adults in Arkansas.

California – Deal or No Deal? A Corruption Case Spins Out of Control with a Judge’s Last-Minute Change of Heart
Los Angeles Times – Richard Winton | Published: 1/13/2023

For more than a decade, tax consultant Ramin Salari fought charges that he had bribed former Los Angeles County Assessor John Noguez in a “pay-for-play” conspiracy. Then Salari reversed course, agreeing to a deal with prosecutors that called for him to plead guilty to a single charge and pay more than $9 million in penalties in exchange for a sentence that spared him from time in prison. But things did not go according to plan. In weighing whether to approve the deal, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Stephen Marcus refused, then relented, then refused again – throwing the long-running case against Salari, Noguez, and others into chaos.

California – Ex-San Jose Mayor’s Public Records Reforms Spark Alarm
San Jose Spotlight – Tran Nguyen | Published: 1/15/2023

In one of his last actions in office, former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo wants to reform how the city complies with transparency laws, a move experts say could limit the public’s access to the inner workings of City Hall. Liccardo, whose legacy as a council member and mayor is plagued by transparency-related lawsuits and violations, is calling for revising the city’s process for responding to public records requests, citing the need to cut down costs, reduce delays, and avoid errors. He also wants to explore changes to the city’s document retention policies.

Connecticut – They Make Money Videotaping Officials. Why and How Some CT Leaders Want to Stop Them
Middletown Press – Sandra Diamond Fox | Published: 1/16/2023

Public officials in Connecticut are considering ways to react legislatively to a growing group of people who consider themselves First Amendment rights activists and make money by creating YouTube videos of themselves walking into Town Halls and other public offices unannounced and taping them. While the YouTubers say they are defending the Constitutional rights of all and performing a service that helps the community, many officials and employees say the activists’ actions disrupt their workplaces. In local incidents, police have been called and sometimes officials or the YouTubers get arrested or into other legal trouble.

Florida – DeSantis Inauguration Sponsored by Companies He Loves to Bash
MSN – Isaac Arnsdorf (Washington Post) | Published: 1/18/2023

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has built his national profile, and possibly a future presidential run, on challenging major companies on controversial social issues. But some of those same companies and their lobbyists bankrolled his recent inaugural festivities. The donations underscore how DeSantis maintains corporate ties even while he works to burnish his image as taking on “woke” corporations.

Hawaii – Honolulu Permitting Inspector OK’d His Own Company’s Projects
Honolulu Civil Beat – Christina Jedra | Published: 1/18/2023

An inspector in the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) has been running an electrical company on the side for over a decade and has inspected and approved more than a dozen of his own projects, public records show. Arthur Suverkropp, a supervising electrical inspector, is also the head of K&A Electric. The company has applied for some 350 permits from DPP since 2007. Dawn Takeuchi Apuna, DPP’s director designate, said the department was unaware of the situation until The Honolulu Civil Beat contacted the office for comment.

Illinois – ACLU of Illinois Says Lightfoot Campaign Emails to Chicago Teachers May Violate Federal Law; CPS Inspector General Opens Investigation
WTTW – Heather Cherone | Published: 1/12/2023

The decision by Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s reelection campaign to send emails to Chicago Public Schools (CPS) teachers asking them to encourage their students to earn class credit by volunteering to help Lightfoot win a second term as mayor may have violated federal law, according to the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois. The emails have also prompted responses from the Chicago Board of Ethics and the city’s inspector general and the CPS inspector general.

Maryland – Former Delegate Pleads Guilty to Misconduct in Office for Misusing State Funds to Pay for Middle River Cottage
Maryland Matters – William Zorzi | Published: 1/13/2023

Former Maryland Del. Richard Impallaria pleaded guilty to one count of misconduct in office and agreed to pay the state $44,100 in restitution. Prosecutors said Impallaria paid his landlord with rental payments from the General Assembly for a “district office” that was outside his district and next door to a cottage he rented for personal use from the same landlord. They alleged Impallaria paid twice the rent on the “office” cottage, charging the full cost to the Legislature while rent on his personal cottage was simultaneously lowered to $0.

Maryland – Judges Can Attend Inauguration Gala for Md. Governor, Ethics Panel Rules
Maryland Daily Record – Madeleine O’Neill | Published: 1/12/2023

Judges can attend the swearing-in and inaugural festivities for Governor-elect Wes Moore as long as they follow certain guidelines, the Maryland Judicial Ethics Committee said in an opinion. Tickets to the gala can cost between $125 and $1,000, according to the event’s website. The ethics panel concluded it was permissible for judges to attend the event because tickets were available to all members of the public.

Massachusetts – Mass. GOP Chairman May Have Violated Campaign Finance Law, Party Treasurer Alleges, in Escalating Woes for State Republican Party
MSN – Emma Platoff (Boston Globe) | Published: 1/12/2023

Chairperson Jim Lyons seems to have coordinated with an independent PAC in apparent violation of campaign finance law, the state party treasurer told regulators. Treasurer Pat Crowley believes Lyons improperly coordinated with an outside spending group, the Mass Freedom Independent Expenditure Political Action Committee, in engaging an opposition research firm to dig up dirt on Gov. Maura Healey during last year’s race. The prospect of possible violations is the latest in a string of legal and financial challenges for the struggling state GOP.

Missouri – Missouri State Lawmakers Revise Their Dress Code for Women
Yahoo News – Eduardo Medina (New York Times) | Published: 1/16/2023

The Missouri House revised its dress code for female legislators and staff members, requiring them to wear a jacket, such as a blazer or a cardigan, and setting off a debate about policing the fashion choices of women. The updated code drew criticism from some Democratic lawmakers, who described the Republican-backed effort as sexist and pointless. Supporters said it was a small tweak that would help ensure professionalism inside the chamber.

Nebraska – Veteran Head of Political Accountability Commission to Retire in August
Nebraska Examiner – Paul Hammel | Published: 1/12/2023

Frank Daley Jr., who has been executive director of the Nebraska Political Accountability and Disclosure Commission since 1999, announced he will retire in August. Daley called his job “fascinating” but said he will be 69 by August and felt it was time to “look at something else.” Daley served as legal counsel for the commission prior to taking the executive director’s job. He is the fifth person to hold the job.

New Mexico – Election-Fraud Conspiracies Behind Plot to Shoot at New Mexico Democrats’ Homes, Police Say
MSN – Amy Gardner and Dan Rosenzweig-Ziff (Washington Post) | Published: 1/17/2023

The arrest of a defeated candidate for the New Mexico Legislature on charges he orchestrated a plot to shoot up the homes of four Democratic officials in Albuquerque prompted widespread condemnation as well as accusations that the stolen-election rhetoric among supporters of former President Trump continues to incite violence. Albuquerque police said Solomon Peña, who lost a state House race in November by a nearly two-to-one margin but complained his defeat was rigged, hatched the plot. Police accused him of conspiring with four accomplices to drive past the officials’ homes and fire at them.

New York – NYC Council Bills Could Slow ‘Revolving Door’ Between City Hall and Lobbying Agencies
Gothamist – Brigid Bergin | Published: 1/18/2023

A new legislative package would make it harder for high-ranking New York City officials to cash in on lucrative lobbying jobs as soon as they leave public service. The two bills in the city council would increase the length of time and scope of lobbying restrictions that apply to certain former municipal employees and local elected officials. Currently, top former city officials like deputy mayors and commissioners face a two-year ban from lobbying and appearing before their former agency or branch of government.

Ohio – How Dark Money Groups Led Ohio to Redefine Gas as ‘Green Energy’
MSN – Maxine Joselow (Washington Post) | Published: 1/17/2023

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine recently signed legislation that legally redefines natural gas as “green energy.” Natural gas is a fossil fuel and a significant cause of climate change. The Empowerment Alliance, a “dark money” group with ties to the gas industry helped Ohio lawmakers push the narrative that that the fuel is clean, documents show. The American Legislative Exchange Council, another anonymously funded group whose donors remain a mystery, assisted in the effort. The legislation took an unusual path through the Ohio Senate, where it was an amendment to a bill focused on poultry purchases.

Ohio – How Sports Betting, Nuclear Bailouts and Undercover FBI Agents Collided in Ohio’s Historic Public Corruption Scandal
MSN – Jake Zuckerman (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/15/2023

In 2019, two FBI agents and an informant sat for a meeting in the office of a lobbyist who they suspected was a crook. The gathering was organized to discuss influencing sports betting legislation in Ohio. But the conversation turned to Larry Householder, at the time the speaker of the state House. Householder will face trial soon in a public corruption case prosecutors have described as the largest in state history. In a case bogged down in the finer points of campaign finance and utility law, the FBI agents’ cloak and dagger approach yielded statements the government is using as express proof of a bribery scheme.

Ohio – Military Families Frustrated as States Change Mail Ballot Timelines
Yahoo News – Julie Carr Smyth and Gary Fields (Associated Press) | Published: 1/15/2023

Ohio’s new election law significantly shortens the window for mailed ballots to be receive, despite no evidence the extended timeline has led to fraud or any other problems, and that change is angering active-duty members of the military and their families because of its potential to disenfranchise them. Republican lawmakers said during debate on the bill that even if Donald Trump’s claims that late-arriving ballots played a nefarious role in his reelection loss are not true, the skepticism they have caused among conservatives about the accuracy of election results justifies imposing new limits.

Ohio – Ohio House Republicans Push Ethics Reform Bill Ahead of Householder Corruption Trial
MSN – Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 1/18/2023

A group of Ohio House Republicans are calling for changing state ethics law to require greater disclosure from lobbyists and utility board nominees while restricting elected officials from holding corporate board positions, among other changes. The announcement comes days before former Speaker Larry Householder is scheduled to begin his trial on federal corruption charges. Bill supporters said the timing was somewhat coincidental.

Oklahoma – Campaign Watchdog Sees Evidence of Abuses but Lacks the Funding to Prosecute
Yahoo News – Ben Felder (Oklahoman) | Published: 1/13/2023

The Legislature has not given the Oklahoma Ethics Commission the money needed to prosecute cases of campaign finance law violations, said Ashley Kemp, the commission’s executive director. The ethics agency can seek civil penalties in District Court but taking a case to trial can be costly. Just one trial case can cost one-third of the agency’s budget, Kemp said.

Oregon – Shemia Fagan and Her Elections Director Disagreed About Disclosing Campaign Finance Violations. Here They Are.
Willamette Week – Nigel Jaquiss | Published: 1/18/2023

Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan and the elections director she forced out last year, Deborah Scroggin, disagreed whether the agency should publish a website disclosing campaign finance reporting violations. The Elections Division had worked on such a website for a year only to have Fagan’s management team repeatedly reject Scroggin’s pleas to let it go live. Willamette Week has published the cases with the 12 largest fines, for more than $2,000 each.

Pennsylvania – Driven by Election Deniers, This County Recounted 2020 Votes Last Week
Yahoo News – Trip Gabriel (New York Times) | Published: 1/15/2023

Under pressure from conspiracy theorists and election deniers, 28 employees of Lycoming County on January 10, 2023, counted – by hand – nearly 60,000 ballots from the 2020 presidential contest. It took three days and an estimated 560 work hours. The results of the recount – like earlier ones of the 2020 election in Wisconsin, Georgia, and Arizona – revealed no evidence of fraud. The numbers reported more than two years ago were nearly identical to the numbers reported last week. Forrest Lehman, the county director of elections, oversaw the recount but opposed it as a needless bonfire of time, money, and common sense.

Utah – The Office of the Lt. Gov. of Utah Is Considering Punishing Gene Davis for Using Campaign Funds to Fight Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
Local Today – Emily Anderson Stern (Salt Lake City Tribune) | Published: 1/14/2023

Former Utah Sen. Gene Davis used more than $10,000 of his campaign funds to pay legal fees to challenge allegations of sexual misconduct, a campaign finance report shows. Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson’s office said she was considering penalties for the spending. Davis’s campaign paid attorney Benjamin Grindstaff $10,837.50 in November. Grindstaff represented Davis when he was accused by a former intern and campaign worker of repeatedly touching her and behaving in a way that made her uncomfortable. State law has strict rules about how a candidate can use campaign funds.

Vermont – Campaign Finance Watchdog Files FEC Complaint Against Liam Madden for Funneling Donations Through Family
VTDigger.org – Sarah Mearhoff | Published: 1/18/2023

Nearly three months after failed congressional candidate Liam Madden described on the radio a self-funded scheme to inflate his campaign fundraising numbers, a campaign finance watchdog group has filed a complaint against Madden with the FEC. Asked by the show’s hosts to respond to critics’ scrutiny of Madden’s campaign finance filings, particularly a $5,300 donation reportedly made by his toddler son, Madden said he “drained” his wife’s business’s bank account, distributed roughly $25,000 among family members, then directed his family members to donate the money to his campaign.

Virginia – ‘A Missed Opportunity’: Virginia subcommittee on campaign finance reform has little to show after 2-year study
OpenSecrets – Jimmy Cloutier | Published: 1/13/2023

A Virginia legislative panel formed to study campaign finance reform failed to deliver its final report in yet another setback for advocates who say the cost of elections in the commonwealth is untenable. Virginia’s rules governing election spending are among the least restrictive in the country, with virtually no limits on the amount of money individuals and corporations can donate to state politicians. The General Assembly created the subcommittee almost two years ago to review potential reforms, including limits on donations and new disclosure requirements.

Virginia – Virginia Senate Panel Blocks Campaign Finance Reform Bills, Again
Virginia Mercury – Graham Moomaw | Published: 1/17/2023

Shortly after a Virginia Senate committee defeated legislation creating an across-the-board $20,000 cap on donations to candidates for the General Assembly and executive branch offices, the same panel voted down another bill that would have only banned political contributions from publicly regulated utilities like Dominion Energy. Senators warned of unintended consequences if Virginia were to move away from its unlimited, transparency-based campaign finance system to setting caps on how much money candidates can accept from one source.

Washington – Lawsuit Filed Over State Lawmakers’ Use of ‘Privilege’ to Deny Access to Public Records
The Olympian – Shauna Sowersby | Published: 1/11/2023

A new lawsuit challenges the use of “legislative privilege” by Washington lawmakers to withhold public records. Public records from multiple sources also showed lawmakers have invoked the privilege more frequently within the last year. In 2019, the state Supreme Court voted ruled in favor of The Associated Press’s lawsuit to reject “lawmakers’ assertion that they are not required to turn over daily schedules, emails, text messages, and other materials related to their work.”

Wyoming – Remote Participation Shut Out of Two Legislative Committees
WyoFile – Maggie Mullen | Published: 1/16/2023

Two legislative committee chairpersons closed the door on remote public testimony, limiting who can participate in the lawmaking process. Committee hearings are the only public opportunity to testify or otherwise formally weigh in on proposed legislation. Stakeholders can also call or email lawmakers directly, but such correspondence is not public record. The Legislature has benefited from additional public testimony made possible by Zoom in recent years, according to Sen. Chris Rothfuss. At the same time, he does not think the Legislature has the policy quite right.