Tag: history
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Maryland Campaign Finance Explained: How Exploratory Committees Became a Regulatory Blind Spot
Maryland’s campaign finance system, known for its structured disclosure requirements, faces scrutiny regarding the exploratory phase of candidacy. Currently, regulations allow fundraising without registration or donor disclosure prior to official declarations. Proposed bills HB 157 and SB 65 aim to define exploratory committees, enforce transparency, and align pre-candidacy fundraising with existing rules.
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How Governors Influence Election Administration
In the U.S., election administration is mainly handled by states, with governors playing significant roles through appointment powers, executive oversight, legal leadership, and coordination with local officials. Their influence varies across states, impacting election policies and procedures despite different constitutional frameworks and statutory arrangements governing elections.
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What the Presidency Can — and Cannot — Change After an Election
The content examines the realistic limitations of presidential power in the U.S., emphasizing that while presidents can set agendas, enact executive orders, and influence foreign policy, they cannot unilaterally change laws, rewrite the Constitution, or control independent institutions. Voter expectations often exceed these boundaries, leading to disappointment and distrust in democracy.
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Virginia Court Stops Mid-Cycle Redistricting Push
A Virginia court has blocked a Democratic proposal for a mid-decade redistricting amendment intended for the 2026 elections, citing noncompliance with state constitutional procedures. Judge Jack Hurley Jr. found that the amendment failed to meet required notice and timing obligations. Democrats plan to appeal, but current congressional maps will remain unchanged for 2026.
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Small-Dollar Donations, Big Questions: What FEC Data Can—and Can’t—Tell Us
Federal campaign finance relies heavily on online small-dollar donations, which raise transparency issues in FEC data. Current donation reporting lacks clarity, creating gaps in understanding. Fragmented oversight complicates anomaly analysis and accountability. Suggested reforms include risk-based verification and standardized reporting to enhance system clarity without restricting fundraising practices, ensuring public confidence.
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A Bold Blueprint for Reform: Brennan Center Outlines Nine Solutions to Political Corruption
The Brennan Center for Justice’s new report presents “Nine Solutions for Political Corruption,” aimed at addressing escalating political corruption in America, driven by private wealth’s influence. The proposals include constitutional amendments, banning large donations from government contractors, and enhancing ethical regulations to restore public trust in democratic institutions and accountability.
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Vermont Lawmakers Move to Codify Voting Rights in State Law Amid National Uncertainty
Democratic lawmakers in Vermont proposed the Vermont Voting Rights Act to embed federal voting protections into state law amidst national concerns about voting rights. The bill aims to expand access for historically underrepresented groups, enhance voter protections, and counteract potential federal rollbacks. It is set for legislative consideration soon.
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What Happens If Congress Is Split After an Election? Institutional Consequences Explained
Federal elections often result in a split Congress, where no single party controls both chambers. This scenario can lead to legislative gridlock, necessitating bipartisan negotiation for progress. Institutional mechanics, like tie-breaking votes in the Senate and the lack of a tie-breaking mechanism in the House, complicate governance and hinder productivity.
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Ohio Lawmakers Propose Making Election Day a State Holiday
Ohio lawmakers have introduced a bill to designate Election Day as a state holiday to enhance voter access. Proponents argue it would alleviate work-related barriers, especially for low-income workers, while opponents cite concerns over costs and effectiveness. The proposal is set for committee review, highlighting ongoing discussions on voter participation.
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Utah’s 2026 Legislative Session Begins With Election Law Changes on the Table
Utah’s 2026 legislative session is focusing on election law reforms, highlighted by House Bill 209, which seeks to establish a proof of U.S. citizenship requirement for voting. These changes, alongside previous reforms to mail-in voting, have ignited debates over election administration and voter accessibility, with significant implications for the upcoming elections.
Election Desk 