2013-2015 Emails for ProPublica Request->Re_ Washington Donors for RSSC Event_001.msg From: Kennedy, Cheri [cheri.kennedy@sos.wa.gov] To: Horn, Stephanie Sent: Wednesday, April 15, 2015 1:23:19 PM Subject: Re: Washington Donors for RSSC Event Does that mean that she called Anne and told her that or was she just telling you? From: Horn, Stephanie Sent: Wednesday, April 15, 2015 11:49 AM To: Kennedy, Cheri Subject: RE: Washington Donors for RSSC Event Kim did call Anne, but can’t do anything due to the freeze since the legislature is in session. From: Kennedy, Cheri  Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2015 1:58 PM To: Horn, Stephanie Subject: Fwd: Washington Donors for RSSC Event Can you follow up with Kim on this? Thanks  Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Anne Thomas  Date: April 14, 2015 at 1:22:58 PM PDT To: Kim Wyman 4b Cc: Matt Walter , "Kennedy, Cheri"  Subject: RE: Washington Donors for RSSC Event Hello Secretary Wyman, I’m checking in to see if you have any outreach updates from our conversation yesterday afternoon. Please let me know how I can be helpful over the next day or so. Best, Anne From: Anne Thomas  Sent: Monday, April 13, 2015 3:45 PM To: Kim Wyman Cc: Matt Walter Subject: Washington Donors for RSSC Event Importance: High Secretary Wyman, Good to speak with you this afternoon! Per our conversation, below is a list of WA‐based donors to the RSLC from 2013‐2015 (not all of them have a previous RSSC giving history). Please look these over for a personal connect that you can make for support within the next 24 hours, if your schedule permits. · Dennis & David Bassford, Moneytree · Dollar Financial · Expedia · Democracy Live – lapsed RSSC member, called George Munro in February for RSSC dinner · Mark Anthony Brands (Mike’s Hard Lemonade Company) · Microsoft · George Petrie, Goodman Real Estate · Puget Sound Energy · T‐Mobile · TransAlta – pledged $10,000 to RSSC for 2015 2013-2015 Emails for ProPublica Request->Re_ Washington Donors for RSSC Event_001.msg · Washington Association of Realtors · Weyerhauser Company Please don’t hesitate to contact me anytime! I look forward to following up with you soon. Best, Anne Anne Thomas Finance Coordinator Republican State Leadership Committee 202 Contributions or gifts to the Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) and its affiliated state PACs are not tax deductible. Contributions may be used for activities of the RSLC and its affiliated state PACs at the RSLC's sole discretion. The RSLC does not accept earmarked contributions. Contributions from foreign nationals are not solicited or permitted. This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. This message contains information intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e‐mail. If you are not the intended recipient you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited. 2013-2015 Emails for ProPublica Request->RE_ Introduction_001.msg From: Kennedy, Cheri [cheri.kennedy@sos.wa.gov] To: 'Emily Keech' Sent: Thursday, May 07, 2015 8:47:05 AM Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Emily, the only time Secretary Wyman has on Tuesday is 10:30 PST. She could also do 9:30 PST on the 13th. Do either of these times work for you? From: Emily Keech [mailto:ekeech@rslc.gop]  Sent: Thursday, May 07, 2015 8:40 AM To: Kennedy, Cheri Subject: Re: Introduction Hi Cheri, no worries at all! Unfortunately Erin Veltman, who will be on the call as well, will be getting a cast off on Monday. How does secretary Wyman's day look on Tuesday? Thanks so much for your help!! Sent from my iPhone On May 6, 2015, at 8:56 PM, Kennedy, Cheri  wrote: Hi Emily, I am so sorry that I missed your email. Does Monday, May 11 at 10:00 or 11:00 PST work with your schedule? If so, could you provide your contact number and I will have Secretary Wyman call you. Thanks so much! Cheri From: Emily Keech [mailto:ekeech@rslc.gop]  Sent: Tuesday, May 05, 2015 6:17 AM To: Kennedy, Cheri Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Cheri, I hope you had a great weekend! I just wanted to follow up with you about scheduling a call for me and Secretary Wyman sometime next week. Please let me know if there is a time that works and I will do my best to make myself available! Thanks so much and I look forward to hearing from you! Emily From: Emily Keech  Sent: Thursday, April 30, 2015 2:41 PM To: 'cheri.kennedy Subject: Introduction Hi Cheri, I hope this email finds you well! I​m the new Executive Director of the RSSC. I spoke with Secretary Wyman in my interview, but I am hoping to get an introductory call scheduled with her sometime in the next week or two. Does she have some time available? Thank you for all of your help and I look forward to hearing from you! Emily Emily Keech Executive Director Republican Secretaries of State Committee O: ( RSSC Executive Committee Call Agenda June 24, 2015  RSSC Summer Leadership Dinner Update  Ballot initiative update  Finance Update Date: July 9, 2015 To: RSSC Chairman Tre Hargett RSSC Executive Committee Republican Secretaries of State From: Matt Walter, RSLC, President Emily Keech RSSC, Executive Director Re: 2015 Interim RSSC Report The office of the Secretary of State serves a variety of vitally important functions within the infrastructure of state government and for the citizens it serves. While the responsibilities of the office vary by state, many Secretaries have a number of similar duties that can offer unique fundraising opportunities. Unfortunately, many of these important responsibilities are not as well known to the public as they should be. As we discussed earlier this year, one of the top priorities for the RSSC is to identify, catalogue and promote these important programs and responsibilities. As part of the phase of this effort, please see the following initial project findings. We hope this will serve as a point of discussion about how the RSSC can better serve the people of your respective states. Responsibilities of the Secretary of State While the most commonly known functions of the office are in regards to elections –overseeing election results, approving ballot initiatives, voter education programs, campaign finance filings, voting system certification, etc. – Secretaries of State also serve in an administrative function. Almost every Secretary’s office in the country is responsible for filing legislative and executive acts following ratification by the legislature and governor. Over half of the Secretaries’ offices handle the publication of state agency rules and regulations. Further, in all but eight states, the office is responsible for administering the Uniform Commercial Code. In almost every state, the Secretary also serves as the gatekeeper of business and commercial services. The most notable functions are the registration of businesses, corporations and charitable organizations as well as trademarks. Unique Fundraising Opportunities The diverse set of responsibilities held by Republican Secretaries across the country presents previously unidentified opportunities for significant growth and expansion in the RSSC’s fundraising for the 2015-2016 cycle and beyond. Forty-five Secretaries execute trademark registrations in their states. Industries most notably involved with trademark registrations include PhRMA, American Banking Association and American Hotel and Lodging Association. National organizations such as the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Global Republican Secretaries of State Committee ★ 1201 F Street, NW ★ Suite 675 ★ Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202.448.8797 ★ www.RSLC.gop ★ Fax: 202.448.5169 Intellectual Property Center would also be excellent fundraising targets for Secretaries with trademark responsibilities. The RSSC can add significant value to companies representing these industries by helping cultivate relationships with the statewide officeholders engaged in these critical business processes and can have a tremendous impact on a company’s ability to continue to innovate and grow. Similar unique opportunities should be pursued with automobile dealers and franchises, beginning with outreach to national associations dedicated to these businesses – National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) and International Franchise Association (IFA) – to solicit their individual support and assistance in outreaching to their member companies. Secretaries playing a role in document authentication and libraries can also help establish a dialogue with information technology companies such as Lexis Nexis. Outreach to these national organizations is already in progress and will continue with the support of Republican Secretaries. The Importance of Ballot Initiatives While recognizing that the role of the Secretary of State is to serve in a non-partisan, regulatory function, the RSSC knowledge base and experience present a unique opportunity to advance best practices in service to your constituents – and democracy writ large – in this rapidly emerging element of American politics. Ballot initiatives have played a major role in shaping the debate in state politics. Ballot initiatives are not only a factor that impacts the political landscape, but they play a significant role in voter turnout. In 2014, the National Institute of Money in State Politics found that over $1 billion had been spent on ballot initiatives by the end of September. Despite a more conservative voter bloc turning out during the 2014 midterm elections, progressive ballot initiatives were successful. During the 2016 Presidential elections a younger, more liberal voter turnout is expected. The 2016 docket already has a wide variety of ballot initiatives in circulation phases –from tax issues to marijuana legalization to high profile energy issues like fracking and fossil fuel bans. Republican Secretaries of State Committee ★ 1201 F Street, NW ★ Suite 675 ★ Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202.448.8797 ★ www.RSLC.gop ★ Fax: 202.448.5169 8.1222016 Gmail Fwd: 2016 Statewide Min. Wage Jon Husted -@gmail.com> Fwd: 2016 Statewide Min. Wage 2 messages Chris Kershner -@dacc.org> Fri, Oct 16, 2015 at 11 :42 AM To: Jon Husted Chris Kershner 937. Begin forwarded message: From: Keith Lake Date: October '16, 2015 at 11:41:12 AM EDT To: Jason Kershner Chris Kershner Marty McGann "Brian Dicken" ?toledochambenoom>, Megann Eberhart Guy Coviello 'Kristen Easterday' ?Dave Kaminski" Ce: ?Joe Rosato' mohiorestaurantory Subject: FW: 2016 Statewide Min. Wage Metro Chamber P?s, Below is the invitation from Joe Rosato at the Ohio Restaurant Association to a meeting he?s organizing regarding the new minimum wage increase constitutional amendment. This is the meeting I mentioned to you all during our metro chambers meeting yesterday. The minimum wage meeting is here at the Ohio Chamber at lam on Monday, Oct. 19. 1?11} sure .Ioe would welcome all of you if you wish to attend. Also, I ?ve attached a copy of the proposed constitutional amendment in case you haven?t yet seen it. Thanks, Keith Lake lViec President, Government A??airs Ohio Chamber 0 fCommerce 230 E. Town Street, R0. Box 15159, Columbus, OH 43215 iiAllForOhio From: Joe Rosato Sent: Wednesday, October 14, 2015 10:50 AM To: Keith Lake mwambemonw; Joe mohiogrocers.org>; Joe ohia.org>; _@ohiomfg.com; 'Jacob Evans craiggroupco hris Ferrusd?n?borga Tony Fiore ?@opmca.org; Greg Saul ohiocpa.com>; Frissora, David wendys Kevin Lundy _yum.oom) Tom Pa tompappas.com>; -ohioretaiimerchantscom whitecastiecom' ofbf.org; 'Tony Fiore ?erbrowncom)? kegierbrown.com>; calfeecom; ohiohos itais.or Cc: Richard Mike Whatley -@restaurant.org> Subject: 2016 Statewide Min. Wage Dear Business Coalition: As you may know this week the AGs office received an initiative petition from a group call Stand Up Ohio to amend the constitution to increase the minimum wage statewide to $12.00 an hour. Below is a link to the language which was received by the AGs office as weii as Stand Up Ohio?s website. I know this is short notice but, i thought it would be wise for the business community to meet and strategize. The specifics of our meeting are below. Wage-Amendmentas px Location: Ohio Chamber of Commerce Address: 230 Town St. Day: Monday Oct. 19 Time: 11:00 am. if I have left anyone of this correspondence who you think may have an interest in attending this meeting please let me know. in the meantime if you have any questions don't hesitate to contact me directly. Please RSVP to me. Hope to see everyone on Oct. 19th. 81232016 Gmail Fwd: 2016 Statewide Min. Wage Joe Rosato Director of Government Affairs Ohio Restaurant Association (614) -Cell (614) -Work $1 7.8 billion in 534,300 great 21,821 Now in our 94?1 year, we're proud to represent Ohio?s restaurant ind ustry, one of the few growing economic engines in our state. Foodservice is Ohio?s third-largest, private sector employer, generating more than one?half billion dollars in sales taxes annualty. - - - .. - mm: Emma: -.- 2 attachments 385K El ATT00001.htm 1K Craig Forbes ail.com> Sun, Oct 18, 2015 at 7:05 PM To: Jon Huste gmail.com> Cc: Matt We will have someone there. On Oct 18, 2015, at 6:57 PM, Jon Husted mgmaitcom> wrote: Please send someone to this meeting. Begin forwarded message: From: Chris Kershner -gdacc.org> Date: October 16 2015 at 11:42:12 AM EDT To: Jon Husted _@gmail.com> Subject: Fwd: 2016 Statewide Min. Wage [Quoted text hidden] HUNTER, CARNAHAN, SHOUB, BYARD HARSHMAN ATTORNEYS AT LAW Michael]. Hunter 3360 TREMONT ROAD, SUITE 230 Associate Russell E. Camahan Columbus, Ohio 43221 Jaclyn R. Tlpton Grant D. Shoub Robert R. Byard TELEPHONE: (614) 4425626 Of Counsel Cathrine J. Harshman FAX: (614) 442-5625 Robert M. Cody 13 October 2015 Honorable Mike DeWine UN 1 3 ZUIS Ohio Attorney General 30 E. Broad Street, 16?h Floor ?Willey omelet monotonous: of?ces Section Columbus. Ohio 43215 Attorney General DeWine: On behalf of Stand Up Ohio and pursuant to Ohio Rev. Code I am ?ling a petition to approve a summary of a constitutional amendment to be proposed by initiative petition. The petition contains 3398 signatures of electors on 166 part petitions and the summary and full text of the law to be proposed. A list of the number of part petitions and signatures by county is also attached for your convenience. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely 1 Cathrine J. Harshman Stand Up for Ohio Part Petitions Number of Signatures Number of Port Petitions Carroll Couuty 4 65 _Columbiaua County 51 1201 Cuyahoga County 1799 _Egir?eld County 1 _1 Jefferson County _4 45 Lake County 2 _5 Logan County I 3 Lorain County 2 9 Mahoning County 4 66 Muskingum County__ 1 1 Portage County 1 2 Stark County 3 65 Summit County 3 29 Trumbull County 1 Wayne County 1 2 Number: 132 County: INITIATIVE PETITION To the Attorney General of 0hio:Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code the undersigned electors of the State of Ohio, numbering in excess of one thousand, hereby submit to you the full text of a proposed Amendment to the Ohio Constitution and a summary of the same. TITLE The Ohio Fair Wage Amendment SUMMARY This proposed amendment will amend existing Article 11, Section 34a of the Ohio Constitution, which establishes a state minimum wage rate. Speci?cally, this amendment will: Increase the minimum wage to $10.00 per hour on January I, 2017. The minimum wage will increase by fifty cents per hour every following January 1? until it reaches $i2.00 per hour in 2021. After that, it will be annually adjusted for inflation consistent with existing law. Change existing law, which allows employers to pay tipped employees half of the full minimum wage when employees earn the full minimum wage when tips are included, to require employers to pay tipped employees at least $6.00 per hour beginning January I, 2017 when employees earn the full minimum wage when tips are included. 0 The amount that employers must pay tipped employees will be increased by $1.00 per hear every following January 1? until the wage paid to tipped employees by their employer matches the full minimum wage. 0- if the wage paid to tipped employees by an employer requires an annual increase of less than $1.00 per hour to match the full minimum wage, the annual increase will only be for the amount required to match the full minimum wage. 0 Once the amount paid by the employer equals the full minimum wage, it will increase every Ianuary l? based on the rate of inflation censistent with existing law. COMMITTEE TO REPRESENT THE PETITIONERS The following persons are designated as a committee to represent the petitioners in all matters relating to the petition or its circulation: Troy Jackson 526 Howell Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45220 Kirk Notion 4254 Lakewood Rd. Ravenna, OH 44266 Molly Shack 2581 East 5th Ave. Columbus, OH 43219 Jennifer Toies 473 Ardella Ave. Akron, OH 44306 Pastor Michael Harrison 4185 Ledgewater Dr. Mogadore, OH 44260 QEQEWEQ OCT 1320l5 61376 arisen?eras: Offices Section Trip Planner for KIM WYMAN Trip name Rodel Destination WASHINGTON D.C. Departure airport Departure date THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2015 Return date TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2015 AIRLINE TICKETS Airline Alaska Flight number/Seat Flight 2 Seat 213 Departure date November 5, 2015 Departure time 2:10 PM Arrival time 9:59 AM Con?rmation number KIM: GDNESX Aidine Alaska Flight number/Seat Flight 3 - Seat 30F Departure date November 9, 2015 Departure time 6:35 PM Arrival time 9:44 PM Con?rmation number KIM: GDNESX CAR RENTAL A RSSC LODGING Hotel name Washington Hilton Address 1919 Connecticut Ave. NW District of 20009 phone 202-483-3000 Dates booked Check-in Thursday, November 5/Check-out Friday, November 6 Con?rmation number 3212172800 RODEL LODGING Hotel name Omni Shoreham Hotel Address 2500 Calvert Street NW District of Columbia 20009 Phone 202?483-3000 Dates booked Check-in Friday, November 6/Check-out Monday, November 9 Con?rmation number 40020531831 AGENDA - THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Hotel Check-in Washington Hilton 1919 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, District of Columbia 20009 202-483-3000 You will need to arrange for Uber to transport you from Airport to Hotel AGENDA FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 9:00 AM Meet Emily Keech for Breakfast Emily will send you an Uber pick up at 8:40 Emily Keech Executive Director Republi 'es of State Committee 0: (NEW: 10:00 AM Meeting with Emily and National Restaurant Association 11:00 AM Meeting with Emily and International Franchise Association 12:00 PM Lunch with Emily - Location TBD 3:00 PM Check into Omni Shoreham Hotel - 2500 Calvert Street Northwest Washington DC US 20008 20_ When you arrive at the Omni Shoreham Hotel you will receive a welcome packet containing a final agenda, a hotel map, and other helpful information. Feel free to dress in business casual attire for all of the weekend's events. AGENDA SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 6:00 PM Opening Reception Blue Room Terrace on Lobby Level 7:00 PM Dinner Program - Palladian Ballroom on Lobby Level AGENDA SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 8:00 AM Breakfast 9:00 AM 5:30 PM Sessions 6:30 PM Reception Empire Patio - Lower Level 7:30 PM Dinner - Program Empire Ballroom, Lower Level 6:00 8:00 PM Welcome Reception Hosted by Pew Portland Museum of Art (.2 mile walk) AGENDA MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9 8:00 AM Breakfast - Hampton Ballroom on Lobby Level 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Sessions 2:00 PM End of Conference 4:30 PM Airport Check in 6:35 PM Depart DC. (from Reagan National) 9:44 PM Arrive Seattle 2013-2015 Emails for ProPublica Request->RE_ Meetings in DC_001.msg From: Kennedy, Cheri  @sos.wa.gov] To: 'Emily Keech' Sent: Tuesday, October 27, 2015 11:46:48 AM Subject: RE: Meetings in DC Thanks Emily. I will make her flight arrangements to take her out on the 5th. Have a good afternoon! Cheri From: Emily Keech [mailto: @rslc.gop]  Sent: Tuesday, October 27, 2015 9:00 AM To: Kennedy, Cheri  Subject: Meetings in DC Hi Cheri, I have two meetings set for me and Secretary Wyman next Friday. The National Restaurant Association is at 10 am and the International Franchise Association at 11 am. I​m going to also hold a lunch for her but other than that she should be free in the afternoon. I​ll keep you posted as other meetings get nailed down. Thanks for your help! Emily Emily Keech Executive Director Republican Secretaries of State Committee O:   C:  Mission The Republican Secretaries of State Committee (RSSC) is the only national organization supporting Republican secretaries of state and candidates. In addition to the critical task of maintaining the integrity of the nation’s electoral system by conducting fair elections, many secretaries also oversee trademark and business registration, run the library and archives operation, manage professional licensing and perform other critical tasks that encourage economic development within the state. The Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) welcomed the RSSC to its group of caucuses in 2007. Since then, the RSSC has assisted in Republican victories across the country. During the 2016 election cycle, the RSSC will continue its mission to elect more Republicans under the leadership of Chairman Secretary Tre Hargett of Tennessee. Facts Following the 2014 election cycle, Republicans hold 28 of the 50 secretaries of state offices. Republican secretaries have held the majority since the 2010 cycle, and it is crucial to continue to build on this lead. Since 2007, the RSSC has successfully partnered with many Republican secretary of state candidates with the following results:      One fourth of the Republican secretary of state seats are held by women. Three of these seats were newly elected to the office of secretary of state. They are Michele Reagan (AZ), Barbara Cegavske (NV) & Shantel Krebs (SD). Republicans have 24 elected secretaries of state, as opposed to the Democrats’ 14. Republicans control 8 of the 10 Secretary of State offices in states won by either political party at the presidential level since 2000, including all seven that are directly elected by popular vote. In 2012, Kim Wyman was elected in Washington (state) and is the only current Republican statewide official on the West Coast. Roles of Secretaries of State Secretaries of state across the nation are tasked with a wide variety of responsibilities. First among those is conducting fair and impartial elections, a cornerstone of democracy. They lead organizations that ensure candidates meet prescribed qualifications and enforce financial campaign regulations. They also certify voting systems, employ proven technology to improve the voting process, investigate election irregularities, and perform other important duties that maintain the integrity of the nation’s electoral process. Republican Secretaries of State Committee ★ 1201 F Street, NW ★ Suite 675 ★ Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202. ★ www.RSLC.gop ★ Fax: 2 RSSC 2016 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS February 11 RSSC Winter Leadership Dinner Washington, DC (In conjunction with the National Association of Secretaries of State) July 14 RSSC Summer Leadership Meeting Nashville, TN (In conjunction with the National Association of Secretaries of State) September 1 RSSC Braves Game, hosted by Secretary Brian Kemp Atlanta, GA *RSSC Signature Event October 9-11 RSSC Pheasant Hunt hosted by Secretary Kris Kobach Downs, KS *RSSC Signature Event **Membership runs on a 12-month cycle from date of receipt of initial contribution. Contributions or gifts to the Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) and its affiliated state PACs are not tax deductible. Contributions may be used for activities of the RSLC and its affiliated state PACs at the RSLC’s discretion. The RSLC does not accept earmarked contributions. Contributions from foreign nationals are not solicited or permitted. Paid for by the Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) www.rslc.com. 2016 RSSC MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS SECRETARIES OF STATE AMBASSADOR ($25,000 ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION) Republican Secretaries of State Committee ★ 1201 F Street, NW ★ Suite 675 ★ Washington, DC 20004 Phone: ★ www.RSLC.gop ★ Fax: 2        4 access passes to RSSC National Leadership Meetings o National Leadership Dinner (Washington, DC – February 11) o National Leadership Meeting (Nashville, TN – July 14) 4 conference fees waived at RSSC National Leadership Meetings 4 complimentary passes to all RSSC Signature Events o High Tea (Phoenix, AZ – April) o Braves Game (Atlanta, GA – September 1) o The Hunt (Downs, KS – October 9-11) Access to quarterly ballot initiative briefing calls hosted by the Center for Conservative Initiatives featuring Secretaries of State Annual opportunity to host private briefings with Secretaries of State In person Political Update with RSLC Political Director Posting access to online RSLC Briefing Room SECRETARIES OF STATE CABINET        3 access passes to RSSC National Leadership Meetings o National Leadership Dinner (Washington, DC – February 11) o National Leadership Meeting (Nashville, TN – July 14-16) 3 conference fees waived at RSSC National Leadership Meetings Complimentary passes to RSCC Signature Events o High Tea (Phoenix, AZ – April) o Braves Game (Atlanta, GA – September 1) o The Hunt (Downs, KS – October 9-11) Access to quarterly ballot initiative briefing calls hosted by the Center for Conservative Initiatives featuring Secretaries of State Annual opportunity to host one private briefing with one Secretary of State Political Update Call with RSLC Political Director Posting access to online RSLC Briefing Room SECRETARIES OF STATE ROUNDTABLE    ($10,000 ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION) 2 access passes to RSSC National Leadership Meetings o National Leadership Dinner (Washington, DC – February 11) o National Leadership Meeting (Nashville, TN – July 14) Political Update Call with RSLC Political Director SECRETARIES OF STATE CAUCUS  ($15,000 ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION) ($5,000 ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION) 1 access pass to one RSSC National Leadership Meeting of your choice o National Leadership Dinner (Washington, DC – February 11) o National Leadership Meeting (Nashville, TN – July 14) Political Update Call with RSLC Political Director For more information, please contact Emily Keech, RSSC Executive Director, at 202- or **Membership runs on a 12-month cycle from date of receipt of initial contribution. Contributions or gifts to the Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) and its affiliated state PACs are not tax deductible. Contributions may be used for activities of the RSLC and its affiliated state PACs at the RSLC’s discretion. The RSLC does not accept earmarked contributions. Contributions from foreign nationals are not solicited or permitted. Paid for by the Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) www.rslc.com. Republican Secretaries of State Committee ★ 1201 F Street, NW ★ Suite 675 ★ Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202. ★ www.RSLC.gop ★ Fax: 202.4 Jennifer Russell From: bkcnevada -@aol.com> Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 11:19 AM To: Jennifer Russell Subject: Fwd: NV Prospect Companies Attachments: 2016 RSSC Membership Packetpdf; NV Prospects 2016.xlsx Sent from my Verizon Wireless 46 LTE smartphone Original message From: Emily KeechFl@rslc.gog> Date: 04/04/2016 9: AM To: "Barbara Cegavske?M)" Subject: NV PrOSpect Companies Hi Secretary Cegavske, I hepe you had a great weekend! I am so excited to have you on the Executive Committee and I appreciate your willingness to help make ?mdraising calls for the RSSC. We have had the most successful Q1 in the history of the RSSC we raised $1 1 1,833 in this quarter alone which is more than we raised in all of 2013. It is imperative that we keep pushing and raise far more than our budget of $292,500 which is why I?ve attached a spreadsheet with corporations, contact information, background on their political giving and how much I would ask for each company. Once you identify which companies you?re comfortable reaching out to, I will make more detailed call sheets for you. I?ve also attached the membership packet for you to reference. Let me know if you have any questions at all and thank you for helping the RSSC team! Emily Emily Keech Executive Director Republican Secretaries of State Committee Company Contact Phone Boyd Gaming Corporation Gina Polovina 702-7 Caesars Entertainment Corporation A.J. Baker 314 Email Ask per corporatoin I would ask for $10k since they spend broadly and there are already 6 ballot initiatives pertaining to gambling for 2016. Again, I would ask for at least $10k, possibly $15k if they seem receptive, because they have so much money to contribute politically. Sierra Nevada I would ask tehm to join at the $5k level so they can participate in our leadership dinners and get to know the organization. I would ask them for $15k because of the gambling ballot initiatives that are cropping up in 2016. We don't have a contact here but if you know someone I think they would be good to get in touch with. We don’t have a contact there but if you have a contact I would ask for $10k because of the liquor ballot initiatives in 2016. Wynn Resorts Based on their giving history I would ask for $25k due to the gambling and gaming initiatives all across the country. InCorp Services, Inc. Karla Vazquez 800 MGM Mirage Terrence Lanni 702 k @incorp.com NV Energy Stacie Truesdell Michaels 702-7 @wynnlasvegas.com 2015 Giving History Boyd Gaming gives to every congressional seat in NV and they give the NRSC $10k. They give $17.5k to the RLCC, $50k to the RGA, $15k to the NRSC and contribute to all NV politicians. They contribute $5k to NASS and have never been involved with the RSSC. They previously contributed $100k to the RGA, $50k to RAGA, $30k to the NRSC and $15k to the NRCC. They contributed $25k to RAGA but they've never given to the RSLC. They have previously given $10k to the DGA, $15k to the NRCC and most of the NV members of congress. Previously contributed $540k to the RSLC in 2012 and in 2015 the contributed $2M to the RGA. Jennifer Russell From: Sent: To: Subject: Attachments: Jennifer Russell @me.com> Monday, April 11, 2016 5:14 PM Jennifer Russell Fwd: Barbara's Asks 2016 RSSC Membership Packet.pdf; ATT00002.htm Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Emily Keech @rslc.gop> Date: April 6, 2016 at 10:37:21 AM PDT To: Jennifer Russell @me.com> Subject: RE: Barbara's Asks What great news!!!! I'm always concerned about the contact list since l pull them out of the large RSLC database which is why I send the spreadsheet. The Secretaries' contacts are ALWAYS better than ours. I've attached our membership packet which lists all of our events except a fly-in that we're doing on May 3rd that pertains to ballot initiatives - it's a much smaller event and I don't want that to be listed anywhere since it can be a sensitive topic for some secretaries. Let me know if she needs any more info at all! Also, let her know that once she establishes at what level they'll contribute I will send them an invoice and I can copy her - totally her preference if I do or not. Thank you SO SO much for your help! What a great start to her time on the Executive Committee! Emily -----Original Message----@me.com] From: Jennifer Russell (mailto Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 1:30 PM To: Emily Keech @rslc.gop> Subject: Barbara's Asks Good morning Emily! Hope you are having a good week!! Barbara has contacted NV Energy and they are good for a contribution. They need an information packet that includes explanation of organization and $ limits etc. She also said that the contact list is outdated - Thinks Gina at Boyd is gone, has never heard of the Caesars person, doesn't know what Incorp is, thinks Terrance at MGM passed away, unsure of Sierra NV (thought that was part of NV energy but I told her I thought that was a liquor company). Finally, she doesn't think Stacie is still with Wynn for some reason. She says she had other contacts in mind, but needs the information packet. Thank you!!! 1 Jennifer Russell From: Sent: To: Subject: bkcnevada < @aol.com > Thursday, April 21, 2016 9:43 AM Jennifer Russell Fwd: RE: Ballot Initiative Private Meetings in DC Fyi. I told her yes Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone -------- Original message -------From: Emily Keech @rslc.gop> Date: 04/2112016 9:17 AM (GMT-08:00) To: bkcnevada @aol.com> Subject: RE: Ballot Initiative Private Meetings in DC I completely understand that it's last minute. If it's possible, I would love to have you call in -forum permitting. I know that the National Rifle Association has some concerns in NV so it would be helpful to get your insights. Could I circle back with you as I keep chipping away at this with the policy team? From: bkcnevada (mailto @aol.com] Sent: Thursday, April 21, 2016 12:14 PM To: Emily Keech @rslc.gop> Subject: RE: Ballot Initiative Private Meetings in DC Hi, thank I would love to join in this one. I have a trip to California planned and then it is employee appreciation week. I need to be in Carson and Vegas for the luncheons. But please keep me on mind for future ones. Wish I could be there. Any chance I can be on the phone with everyone? Barbara Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone -------- Original message ------From: Emily Keech @rslc.gop> 1 Date: 04/21/2016 7:53 AM (GMT-08:00) To: "Barbara Cegavske @aol.com)" Subject: Ballot Initiative Private Meetings in DC @aol.com> Hi Secretary Cegavske, I hope your week is off to a great start! I wanted to see if you are interested in participating in several private meetings that we are having on May 3rd pertaining to ballot initiatives. Over the past few months several of our donors have come to us asking to discuss the initiatives that they're experiencing with some of our Secretaries. So far we have meetings scheduled with the National Restaurant Association, the National Rifle Association and Reynolds American. Secretaries Husted, Williams and Wyman will be flying in for the day - or the night before for the day - for these meetings and they'll be joined by Matt Walter and the RSLC Political and Policy Directors. Is this something that you're interested in participating in and if so could we schedule a call to discuss it further? Let me know what you think. Thank you! Emily Emily Keech Executive Director Republican Secretaries of State Committee 0: C: 2 [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE Ballot Initiative Meeting Itinerary May May 3ml Monday, May 2"?l 2:08pm: Secretary Williams departs COS on American Airlines Flight 5691 to DFW Record Locator: IQUOIR 4:55pm: Secretary Wyman departs SEA on Alaska Airlines Flight 2 to DCA - Record Locator: DJTEIS 5:45pm: Secretary Williams departs DFW on American Airlines flight 1121 to DCA 8:39pm: Secretary Williams arrives at DCA 8:55pm: Secretary Williams departs DCA via taxi en route to the Mayflower Hotel - 1127 Connecticut Avenue NW - con?rmation 9:59pm: Secretary Wyman arrives at DCA 10:10pm: Secretary Wyman departs DCA via taxi en route to the Mayflower Hotel 1127 Connecticut Avenue NW - confirmation - Tuesday, May 7:363m: Secretary Husted departs CMI-I on American Airlines Flight 4332 Record Locator: 9:00am: Matt, Micah, Justin, Kuper and Emily meet at the RSLC office 9:07am: Secretary Husted arrives at DCA 9:15am: Secretary Husted departs DCA en route to the RSLC - 1201 Street NW, Suite 675 9:30am: Secretaries Wyman and Williams depart the Mayflower en route to the RSLC via taxi 1201 Street NW, Suite 675 9:55am: Go up to Reynolds office - 1201 Street NW, Suite 1000 10:00 - 11:00am: Reynolds meeting dial in 1-855-then enter and then enter - to connect Attendees: Secretary Jon Husted (0H) Secretary Wayne Williams (CO) Secretary Kim Wyman (WA) Heidi Tringe, MMR Republican Secretaries of State Committee 1201 Street, NW Suite 675 ~k Washington. DC 20004 Phone:_ Fax: [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE David Spross, Reynolds, Vice President of State Government Affairs Cassie Folk, Reynolds, Regional DirectorPhil Cox, 50 State, Founding Partner Colm O'Comartun, 50 State, Founding Partner Roshan Patel, 50 State, Partner Matt Walter, RSLC, President Justin Richards, RSLC, Political Director Micah Ketchel, RSLC, Policy Director and Counsel Kuper Jones, RSLC, Deputy Policy Director Emily Keech, RSSC, Executive Director Dial in: Barbara Cegavske (NV) 11:053m (or when event is wrapping up): Emily and Justin call Uber XLs 11:10am: Depart Reynolds en route to the National Restaurant Association 2055 Street NW, Suite 700 11:30am-12:30pm: National Restaurant Association Meeting dial in 866- pin - Attendees: Secretary Jon Husted (0H) Secretary Wayne Williams (C0) Secretary Kim Wyman (WA) Cicely Simpson, Restaurant Association, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs Lexa Lemieux, Restaurant Association, Director of Political and Government Affairs Mike Whatley, Restaurant Association, Director of State Government Affairs Andy Rothe, Restaurant Association, Manager of State Government Affairs Matt Walter, RSLC, President Justin Richards, RSLC, Political Director Micah Ketchel, RSLC, Policy Director and Counsel Kuper Jones, RSLC, Deputy Policy Director Emily Keech, RSSC, Executive Director Dial in: Barbara Cegavske (NV) 12:35pm (or when meeting is wrapping up): Emily and Justin call Uber XLs 12:40pm: Depart Restaurant Association en route to the Capitol Hill Club 300 First Street SE 12:55pm: Lunch at the Capitol Hill Club in the Presidential Dining Room Reservation under Valerie Nelson. Meals have been ordered ahead of time by Devon. 1:55pm: Depart the Capitol Hill Club Republican Secretaries of 1201 Street, NW -k Suite 675 -k Washington. DC 20004 Phone 1t Fax: [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE 2:00-3:00prn: Meeting with the National Ri?e Association - 412 First Street SE, 3" Floor - Dial in 87 pin- Attendees: Secretary Jon Husted (OH) Secretary Wayne Williams (CO) Secretary Kim Wyman (WA) Chris Cox, NRA, Director of the Institute of Legislative Action Lacey Biles, NRA, Director of State Local Affairs John Commerford, Deputy Director of State Local Affairs Matt Walter, RSLC, President Justin Richards, RSLC, Political Director Micah Ketchel, RSLC, Policy Director and Counsel Kuper .Iones, RSLC, Deputy Policy Director Emily Keech, RSSC, Executive Director Dial in: Barbara Cegavske (NV) 3:00pm: Secretary Williams departs the NRA for DCA via uber 3:00pm: Meetings are finished 4:50pm: Secretaries Husted and Wyman depart for DCA 5:05pm: Williams departs DCA on American Airlines Flight 1460 to DFW - Record Locato 6:50pm: Secretary Wyman departs DCA on Alaska Flight 3 to SEA - Record Locator: 7:00pm: Secretary Husted departs DCA on American Airlines Flight 4543 - Record Locator: Republican Secretaries of State Committee 1201 Street. NW it Suite 675 Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202- Fax: 202.? REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE BRIEFING PACKET: The National Ri?e Association Tuesday, May 3Ird at 2:00pm NRA Attendees: Chris Cox, Executive Director of the NRA institute for Legislative Action Lacey Biles, Director of State and Local Affairs John Commerford, Deputy Director of State and Local Affairs Secretaries of State Attending: John Husted (0H) Wayne Williams (CO) Kim Wyman (WA) RSLC Attendees: Matt Walter, RSLC President Micah Ketchel, RSLC Policy Director Justin Richards, RSLC Political Director Emily Keech, RSSC Executive Director Discussion Topics: 0 They would like to focus on the gun control initiatives in California, Maine and Nevada. About the NRA: Dismayed by the lack of marksmanship shown by their troops, Union veterans Col. William C. Church and Gen. George Wingate formed the National Ri?e Association in 187l. The primary goal of the association would be to "promote and encourage ri?e shooting on a scienti?c basis," according to a magazine editorial written by Church. A?er being granted a charter by the state of New York on November I7, 187] the NRA was founded. Civil War Gen. Ambrose Burnside, who was also the former governor of Rhode Island and a US. senator, became the ?edgling NRA's ?rst president. An important facet of the NRA's creation was the development of a practice ground. In 1872, with ?nancial help from New York State, a site on Long island, the Creed Farm, was purchased for the purpose of building a ri?e range. Named Creedmoor, the range opened a year later, and it was there that the ?rst annual matches were held. Political opposition to the promotion of marksmanship in New York forced the NRA to ?nd a new home for its range. In 1892, Creedmoor was deeded back to the state and NRA's matches moved to Sea Girt, New Jersey. The NRA's interest in promoting the shooting sports among America's youth began in 1903 when NRA Secretary Albert S. Jones urged the establishment of ri?e clubs at all major colleges, universities and Republican Secretaries of State Committee a 1201 Street, NW at Suite 675 at Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202? a Fax: 202 [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE . military academies. By 1906, NRA's youth program was in full swing With more than 200 boys competing in matches at Sea Girt that summer. Today, youth programs are still a cornerstone of the NRA, with more than one million youth participating in NRA shooting sports events and affiliated programs with groups such as 4-H, the Boy Scouts of America, the American Legion, Royal Rangers, National High School Rodeo Association and others. Due to the overwhelming growth of NRA's shooting programs, a new range was needed. Gen. Ammon B. Crich?eld, adjutant general of Ohio, had begun construction of a new shooting facility on the shores of Lake Eric, 45 miles east of Toledo, Ohio. Camp Perry became the home of the annual National Matches, which have been the benchmark for excellence in marksmanship ever since. With nearly 6,000 people competing annually in pistol, smallbore and high-power events, the National Matches are one of the biggest sporting events held in the country today. Through the association's magazine, The American Ri?eman, members were kept abreast of new ?rearms bills, although the lag time in publishing often prevented the necessary information from going out quickly. In response to repeated attacks on the Second Amendment rights, NRA formed the Legislative Affairs Division in 1934. While NRA did not lobby directly at this time, it did mail out legislative facts and analyses to members, whereby they could take action on their own. In 1975, recognizing the critical need for political defense of the Second Amendment, NRA formed the Institute for Legislative Action, or ILA. Meanwhile, the NRA continued its commitment to training, education and marksmanship. During World War I I, the association offered its ranges to the government, developed training materials, encouraged members to serve as plant and home guard members, and deveIOped training materials for industrial security. NRA members even reloaded ammunition for those guarding war plants. Incidentally, the NRA's call to help arm Britain in 1940 resulted in the collection of more than 7,000 ?rearms for Britain's defense against potential invasion by Germany (Britain had virtually disarmed itself with a series of gun-control laws enacted between World War I and World War 11). After the war, the NRA concentrated its efforts on another much-needed arena for education and training: the hunting community. In I949, the NRA, in conjunction with the state of New York, established the first hunter education program. Hunter Education courses are now taught by state fish and game departments across the country and Canada and have helped make hunting one of the safest sports in existence. Due to increasing interest in hunting, NRA launched a new magazine in 1973, The American Hunter, dedicated solely to hunting issues year-round. NRA continues its leadership role in hunting today with the Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC), a program that allows youngsters to build on the skills they learned in basic hunter education courses. YHECs are now held in 43 states and three Canadian provinces, involving an estimated 40,000 young hunters. The American Hunter and The American Ri?eman were the mainstays of NRA publications until the debut of The American Guardian in 1997. The Guardian was created to cater to a more mainstream Republican Secretaries of State 1201 Street. NW air Suite 675 it Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202. 1hr Fax: 20 [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE audience, with less emphasis on the technicalities of ?rearms and a more general focus on self-defense and recreational use of ?rearms. The Guardian was renamed America's Freedom in June of 2000. Law enforcement training was next on the priority list for program development. Although a special police school had been reinstated at Camp Perry in 1956, NRA became the only national trainer of law enforcement of?cers with the introduction of its NRA Police Firearms Instructor certi?cation program in 1960. Today, there are more than 13,000 NRA-certi?ed police and security ?rearms instructors. Additionally, top law enforcement shooters compete each year in eight different pistol and shotgun matches at the National Police Shooting Championships held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. in civilian training, the NRA continues to be the leader in ?rearms education. Over 125,000 certi?ed instructors now train about 1,000,000 gun owners a year. Courses are available in basic ri?e, pistol, shotgun, muzzleloading ?rearms, personal protection, even ammunition reloading. Additionally, nearly 7,000 certi?ed coaches are specially trained to work with young competitive shooters. Since the establishment of the lifesaving Eddie Eagle GunSafe? Program in 1988, more than 28 million pre~ kindergarten to fourth grade children have learned that if they see a ?rearm in an unsupervised situation, they should TOUCH. RUN AWAY. TELL A Over the past seven years, Refuse To Be A Victim? seminars have helped more than 100,000 men and women develop their own personal safety plan using common sense strategies. In 1990, NRA made a dramatic move to ensure that the ?nancial support for ?rearms-related activities would be available now and for future generations. Establishing the NRA Foundation, a 501 (3) tax?exempt organization, provided a means to raise millions of dollars to fund gun safety and educational projects of bene?t to the general public. Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible and bene?t a variety of American constituencies including youth, women, hunters, competitive shooters, gun collectors, law enforcement agents and persons with physical disabilities. While widely recognized today as a major political force and as America's foremost defender of Second Amendment rights, the NRA has, since its inception, been the premier ?rearms education organization in the world. But our successes would not be possible without the tireless efforts and countless hours of service our nearly ?ve million members have given to champion Second Amendment rights and support NRA programs. As former Clinton spokesman George StephanOpoulos said, "Let me make one small vote for the NRA. They're good citizens. They call their congressmen. They write. They vote. They contribute. And they get what they want over time.?I California Ballot Initiatives In circulation with 25% of signatures collected 1756. (15-0098Al) Firearms. Ammunition Sales. Initiative Statute. Republican Secretaries of State Committee it 1201 Street, NW i Suite 675 'ir Washington. DC 20004 Phone: 202_* iv Fax: 202 [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE Summary Date: 12r31r?2015 Circulation Deadiine: 06.92836 Signatures Required: 365,880 - (25% at Signatures Reached 02/11/2016) Prohibits possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines, and requires their disposal by sale to dealer, destruction, or removal from state. Requires most individuals to pass background check and obtain Department of Justice authorization to purchase ammunition. Requires most ammunition sales be made through licensed ammunition vendors and reported to Department of Justice. Requires lost or stolen ?rearms and ammunition be reported to law enforcement. Prohibits persons convicted of stealing a ?rearm from possessing ?rearms. Establishes new procedures for enforcing laws prohibiting ?rearm possession by felons and violent criminals. Requires Department of Justice to provide information about prohibited persons to federal National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Summary of estimate by Legislative Analyst and Director of Finance of ?scal impact on state and local government: increased state costs in the tens of millions of dollars annually related to regulating ammunition sales, likely offset by various regulatory fees authorized by the measure. Increase in court and law enforcement costs, not likely to exceed the tens of millions of dollars annually, related to removing ?rearms from prohibited persons as part of court sentencing proceedings. These costs could be offset to some extent by fees authorized by the measure. Potential increase in state and local correctional costs, not likely to exceed the low millions of dollars annually, related to new and increased penalties. Nevada Ballot Initiatives - 0n the ballot Background Checks for Gun Purchases Initiative, Question 1 The Nevada Background Checks for Gun Purchases Initiative, Question I is on the November 8, 2016, ballot in Nevada as an indirect initiated state statute. The measure, upon voter approval, would require that an unlicensed person who wishes to sell or transfer a ?rearm to another person conduct the transfer through a licensed gun dealer who runs a background check. A licensed dealer may charge a "reasonable fee" for his or her service. If the measure is approved, those found to be in violation of the law would be charged with a "gross misdemeanor," which could result in a $2,000 ?ne, up to one year in prison, or both, depending on the results ofa trial byjury. The measure exempts certain transfers of ?rearms from background checks, including transfers between immediate family members and temporary transfers while hunting or for immediate self- defense. Maine Ballot Initiatives On the ballot Background Checks for Gun Sales Initiative This initiated bill requires a background check before a ?rearm sale or transfer between individuals not licensed as ?rearm dealers. If neither party to a sale or transfer has a federal ?rearms license, the parties meet at a licensed ?rearm dealer, who conducts a background check on the transferee and Republican Secretaries of State Committee ir 1201 Street, NW Suite 675 a Washington, DC 20004 Phone: 202? 1: Fax: 202.4- [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE completes the sale or transfer as though selling or transferring from the dealer's own inventory. Exceptions to the background check requirement are made for transfers between family members, while the parties are hunting or Sport shooting, for emergency self-defense, in the presence of the transferor and in other circumstances. 2015 Political Giving History: 0 RAGA: $100,000 0 RGA: $50,000 0 RNC: $45,000 0 RSLC: $135,000 I RSSC: $0 Republican Secretaries of State Committee it 1201 Street. NW 1: Suite 675 4r Washington. DC 20004 Phone: 202._ir 1r Fax: 2 REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE BRIEFING PACKET: The National Restaurant Association Tuesday, May 3rd at 11:30am NRA Attendees: Cicely Simpson, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs Lexa Lemieux, Director of Political and Government Affairs Mike Whatley, Director of State and Local Affairs Andy Rothe, Manager of State and Local Affairs Secretaries of State Attending: John Husted (OH) Wayne Williams (CO) Kim Wyman (WA) RSLC Attendees: Matt Walter, RSLC President Micah Ketchel, RSLC Policy Director Justin Richards, RSLC Political Director Emily Keech, RSSC Executive Director Discussion Topics: 0 They would like to discuss minimum wage initiatives in Colorado, Washington and Ohio as well as the possibility of minimum wage at the municipal level in Cincinnati and Seattle. About the NRA: The National Restaurant Association (NRA) is the largest foodservice trade association in the world?supporting over 500,000 restaurant businesses. In partnership with our state restaurant associations, we work every day to empower all restaurant owners and operators to achieve more than they thought possible. We represent and advocate for foodservice industry interests?taking on ?nancial and regulatory obstacles before they hit our members? bottom line. We provide tools and systems that help members of all sizes get signi?cantly better operating results. And we offer the kinds of networking, education and research resources that are only possible because of our vast, and active, membership base. We save our members time, money and headaches by helping them take on what matters most for their success and growth?whether that?s protecting their economic interests, sharing best practices, or getting them in front of emerging trends. We strive to move our industry forward by ?nding answers to the tough questions, distilling complex information into practical knowledge and helping our members navigate the issues that can leave them Republican Secretaries of State Committee 1t 1201 Street, NW Suite gton, DC 20004 Phone: 202-1: 4: Fax: 202 [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE in the weeds. And that makes us the go-to resource for smart, relevant intelligence that helps our members run their businesses better. At the NRA, we believe that there is strength in numbers. When we come together as an industry, our collective voice is stronger and our impact is greater than when any of us stands alone. And that means our shared spirit of hospitality, passion for serving others and belief in the American entrepreneurial dream will be safeguarded and advanced. Minimum Wage Ballot Initiatives Maine Minimum Wage Increase Initiative - On the ballot This initiated bill raises the minimum wage to $9.00 per hour in 2017 and by $1.00 per hour each year after that until it is $12.00 per hour in 2020. The minimum wage then increases at the same rate as the cost of living. The minimum wage for workers who receive tips increases to $5.00 per hour in 2017 and then by $1.00 per hour each year until it matches the minimum wage for all other workers, which occurs no sooner than 2024. Colorado $12 Minimum Wage Amendment - In collection phase The $12 Minimum Wage Amendment may appear on the November 8, 2016, ballot in Colorado as an initiated constitutional amendment. The measure would raise the minimum wage to $9.30 per hour, further providing for increases of 90? each year on January 1 until the wage reaches $12 in 2020. After 2020, the measure calls for annual adjustments to account for increases in cost of living. Initiative proponents need to collect 98,492 signatures by August 8, 2016, to land the measure on the ballot. Washington Minimum Wage Initiative In collection phase The Minimum Wage Initiative is an initiated state statute prOposed for the Washington ballot on November 8, 2016. The measure would increase the state's current minimum wage by 2020. There are numerous versions of this measure with different sponsors. Supporters ?led the petition with the secretary of state on January 12, 2016. 246,372 valid signatures are required for quali?cation purposes. Supporters have until July 8, 2016, to collect the required signatures. Ohio Fair Wage Amendment - In collection phase The Ohio Fair Wage Amendment is a constitutional amendment proposed for the Ohio ballot on November 8, 2016. The measure would increase the state's minimum wage to $10 per hour effective January 1, 2017. After the minimum wage was increased to $10 in 2017, the wage would continue to rise by 50 cents each Republican Secretaries of State Committee 1- 1201 Street. NW 1: Suite 675 11' Washington. DC 20004 Phone: 202-+ 1: Fax: 202.4- [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE year until it reached $12 by 2021, then be adjusted for in?ation annually. Tipped employees would be paid at least $6 per hour when they earn the full minimum wage, including tips. Supporters need to collect 305,591 signatures by July 6, 2016, to get the initiative placed on the November 2016 ballot. Cincinnati Minimum Wage Increase Measure - on hold If approved, the initiative would increase the city's minimum wage to $12.20 per hour by 2018. The measure was also designed to mandate a minimum of ?ve paid sick days for all workers after at least 60 days of employment. The group needs about 6,000 valid signatures to qualify its measure for the ballot. In September 2015, the Cincinnatians for a Strong Economy announced it would try to put the initiative before voters at an election in 2016. There is no update on the status of the measure from the Hamilton County board of elections. 2015 Political Giving Histogg: I RGA: $50,000 I RAGA: $50,000 - RSSC: $10,000 members as of April 2016 Republican Secretaries of State Committee i 1201 Street, NW it Suite 675 ir Washington. DC 20004 Phone: 202- 11- Fax: 202 REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE BRIEFING PACKET: Reynolds American Tuesday, May at 12:30pm Reynolds American Attendees: David Spross, Vice President of State Government Affairs Cassie Folk, Regional Director of State Government Relations Heidi Tringe, MMR LLC Phil Cox, 50 State, Founding Partner Colm O?Comartun, 50 State, Founding Partner Roshan Patel, 50 State, Partner Secretaries of State Attending: John Husted (OH) Wayne Williams (CO) Kim Wyman (WA) RSLC Attendees: Matt Walter, RSLC President Micah Ketchel, RSLC Policy Director Justin Richards, RSLC Political Director Emily Keech, RSSC Executive Director Discussion Topics: Tobacco tax ballot initiatives. About Reynolds: Reynolds American lnc. and its operating companies are leading the transformation of the tobacco industry. At each operating company, we are in a position to help resolve many of the controversial issues related to the use of tobacco. Committing ourselves to resolving these issues is the right thing to do and will ultimately advance our commercial objectives. Transforming Tobacco Transforming tobacco is a bold vision that we believe in, and ourjourney is well under way. We are moving our businesses forward with a full appreciation of stakeholder expectations. Our goal is to ultimately achieve market leadership by effectively executing this transformation strategy. We will lead change in our industry by driving innovation throughout RAl's businesses, redefining enjoyment for adult tobacco consumers, reducing the harm caused by smoking, and accelerating the decline in youth tobacco use. We are committed to meeting society's expectations for how a tobacco company should operate, while growing our businesses now and over the long term. Republican Secretaries of State Committee ir 1201 Street, NW Suite 675 ?Av hington, DC 20004 Phone: 202-1: 1 Fax: 202?5 [Rssc REPUBLICAN SECRETARIES OF STATE COMMITTEE As part of our commitment to transforming tobacco, RAI and its operating companies are focusing on three key areas of activity: Youth Tobacco Prevention, Tobacco Harm Reduction and Commercial Integrity. We believe these pillars will drive our future success. 2016 Pro osed Tobacco Tax Increases Colorado Colorado requires an extensive initiative process to become certi?ed for the general election ballot. Recently, a proposed initiative in Colorado requiring new cigarette and tobacco taxes was submitted for language and single subject approval to the Secretary of State, and was approved on these grounds. The next step in the process is obtaining the requisite number of signatures (98,492) Missouri The Tobacco Tax Initiative is an initiated state statute pr0posed for the Missouri ballot on November 8, 2016. There are two versions of the measure. The measures would increase taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products. By 2021, the cigarette tax would increase a total of 23 cents per pack. The current tobacco tax is 17 cents per pack. State revenue would grow from $95 million to $103 million annually once the taxes were fully implemented. However, version 79 would dedicate the revenue to the state general revenue fund and version 80 would require revenue to be used exclusively for transportation infrastructure projects. Washington Initiative Measure No. 1516 concerns a single-payer health care system. This measure would establish a single?payer state health care system with taxing authority; create and increase a number of taxes. The system would be funded by a federal block grant that replaces all federal health bene?ts now provided to Washington residents, if the federal government agrees; by transferring all state and local government health spending to the system; and by an employer payroll tax, an income tax, m1 increased tobacco per pack] and alcohol taxes (up to two dollars per liter]. Supporters have until July 8, 2016, to collect the required signatures. 2015 Political Giving Histogy: 0 RSSC: $10,000 membership Republican Secretaries of State Committee 1: 1201 Street. NW Suite 675 111' Washington. DC 20004 Phone: 202- ?Jr Fax: 20 MEMORANDUM TO INTERESTED PARTIES FROM: Steve Rosenthal & Larry Scanlon RE: Targeting Secretary of State Races in 2014 Date: December 11, 2013 Background The office of Secretary of State is playing an increasingly important role for progressives. With the national right---wing attack on voting rights, conservatives have effectively targeted secretary of state races across the country in an effort to control the offices that administer the electoral processes. Equally as important, in many states, secretaries of state play pivotal roles in the ballot initiative process. With so many important issues being decided through ballot initiatives (increases in the minimum wage, gay marriage, environmental protections, etc.), increasing our involvement in electing secretaries of state who will stand with working families is vital. In many states, secretaries of state have far---reaching influence over the electoral process. Their powers often include controlling the certification of names of candidates on the ballot and ballot proposals/initiatives, conducting recounts, overseeing the testing and implementation of voting machines, maintaining the lists of registered voters in their state, as well as certifying and registering campaign expenditure reports by both candidates and outside groups. Given the importance of this office and the fights our side can expect to have moving forward, we convened a group of progressive organizations on September 12th of this year, hosted by the National Education Association, to discuss forming an independent expenditure committee called SoS for Democracy. The sole purpose of this organization will be to help elect progressive candidates as secretaries of state in targeted states around the country. Based on some early analysis and conversations, we are looking at a handful of secretary of state races for 2014, including Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico and Ohio.1 However, final targets will be based on our donors' preferences. Once final targets have been selected, our organization will work with top---notch consultants who have a history of proven success in these states to develop plans for review and approval. Several progressive organizations including AFSCME, NEA, SEIU and Emily's List have all expressed their support our efforts. The good news is that by and large, the money raised and spent in these races is significantly less than other statewide offices - in most states we are targeting, independent expenditures of $250,000 to $500,000 can have a huge impact. However, the state of Ohio, compared to other states we have discussed thus far, would require a larger investment of resources (see chart below). 1 Note: States were chosen based on whether the Secretary of State is an elected or appointed position and narrowed based on affordability. 1 Amounts Spent by Secretary of State Candidates in 2010 $5,512,513 $6,000,000 $5,000,000 $4,000,000 Dem $3,000,000 Rep $2,000,000 $1,042,666 $980,939 $483,618 $354,663 $640,898 $203,660 $388,034 $190,845 $187,710 $165,398 $275,449 $0 AZ CO NV MI NM OH $1,000,000 2 However, Secretary of State campaigns, even in expensive media market states like Ohio, are much less expensive relative to other statewide campaigns in those states (see below). SoS Races are Rela+vely Inexpensive Compared to Other Statewide Races $40,000,000 $34,942,419 $35,000,000 $30,000,000 $26,520,048 $25,000,000 $20,508,149 Gov $20,000,000 $15,000,000 $10,000,000 $7,327,908 $7,774,466 $5,000,000 $936,572 $630,112 SOS $10,280,579 $6,586,419 $1,857,509 $831,743 $369,058 $0 AZ CO MI NV NM OH 3 2 Fundraising totals represent the amount raised by the two general election candidates throughout both the general and primary campaigns. National Institute on Money in State Politics. Amounts represent the 2010 cycle. 3 Totals represent the amount raised by all candidates in both the primary and general elections. National Institute on Money in State Politics. Amounts represent the 2010 cycle. 2 While we certainly anticipate outside groups targeting governors and state legislatures, we cannot simply overlook the secretary of state races if we hope to pass a progressive agenda and stop the right from making further gains. Arizona Incumbent: Ken Bennett (R)--Term Limited: Running for Governor Primary Date: August 26, 2014 Arizona Secretary of State: At---a---Glance 2014 Ken Bennett (R)* Wil Cardon (R) Justin Pierce (R) Michele Reagan (R) Status Running for Governor Declared Candidate Declared Candidate Declared Candidate Total Raised (Oct., 2013) N/A Not Available $18,600 Not Available Cash on Hand (Oct., 2013) N/A Not Available $16,332 Not Available Latest Poll No Polling Available 2010 Chris Deschene (D) Ken Bennett (R)* Results 41.8% 58.2% Total Raised $187,710 $483,618 *Incumbent Powers Related to Elections & Voting The office of the secretary of state in Arizona is powerful, as the state has no Lieutenant Governor, and the secretary of state serves as acting governor when the governor is absent from the state. Additionally, the secretary of state is first in line to succeed the governor in the event of death, resignation, removal from office, or permanent disability to discharge the duties of the office.4 Furthermore, the secretary of state is also the chief elections officer for the state. The secretary of state has the power to: o o o o o Certify the names of state candidates and initiative and referendum measures to the ballot Test the voting equipment in each county before each election Conduct recounts Prepare the official canvass for both the primary and general elections Certify recognition of new political parties5 4 "Department of State, Office of the Secretary of State," Arizona Blue Book, accessed March 5, 2013. 5 "Department of State, Office of the Secretary of State," Arizona Blue Book, accessed March 5, 2013. 3 Ken Bennett (R) Ken Bennett, Arizona's current Secretary of State, was first appointed to the position in 2009 when current Governor and then Secretary of State Jan Brewer (R) replaced Janet Napolitano, who was appointed Homeland Security Secretary. Before his appointment, Bennett served as the president of Arizona's state senate.6 In 2010, Bennett was elected Secretary of State, beating Democrat Chris Deschene 58.2% to 41.8%.7 Due to term limits, Bennett is ineligible to run for reelection in 2014. Instead, he has formed an exploratory committee for the 2014 governor's race.8 Bennett came under fire before the 2012 elections when he demanded President Obama prove his citizenship before he would put him on the ballot.9 Bennett eventually put the President on the ballot after the Hawaii Department of Health verified that President Obama was in fact born in the United States.10 Bennett later reneged on a pledge he made while running for office in 2010 not to endorse candidates for office by becoming a Romney co---chair in Arizona.11 Bennett also came under fire for his handling of Proposition 204, a ballot initiative that would have increased sales taxes to benefit education. Bennett attempted to disqualify the initiative, making a technical argument about language on the petitions, after supporters of the measure submitted 290,000 signatures.12 In the end, a high court decided that the technicality was not enough to disqualify the measure.13 In August 2013, Bennett, along with Republican Attorney General Tom Horne, asked a federal court to require that those looking to register to vote prove they are United States citizens. 2014 Bennett is term limited from running for Secretary of State in 2014 and has announced that he is running for Arizona Governor.14 Wil Cardon, who unsuccessfully challenged Sen. Jeff Flake in Arizona's 2012 Republican primary, has announced that he will be running for Secretary of State in 2014. Cardon is a wealthy real estate mogul and businessman15 who raised $7,267,139 for the 2012 primary election, of which $6,265,709 was self---funded. His campaign spent a total of $7,248,836.16 Cardon received 110,150 of a total 516,025 votes, or 21.3% in that election.17 Republican state Representative Steve Montengro withdrew from the race in August 2013 and endorsed Wil Cardon.18 In October 2013, two Republicans, state Senator Michele Reagan and state Representative Justin Pierce, entered the secretary of state's race.19,202122 Democrat Christopher Campas, who was one of 6 Fischer, Howard. "Melvin announces campaign for Ariz. Governor," Arizona Daily Sun, April 23, 2013 7 The Atlas Project Toolkit, Accessed June 3, 2013 8 Campaign Finance Database, Office of the Secretary of State, Arizona Department of State, Accessed June 3, 2013 9 Catalina Camia, "Arizona Official May Keep Obama Off the Ballot," USA Today, May 18, 2012. 10 Rachel Weiner, "Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett Satisfied Obama Was Born in United States," The Washington Post, May 23, 2012. 11 Howard Fischer, "Bennett changes personal policy, co---chairs Romney campaign," East Valley Tribune, May 29, 2012. 12 Mary Jo Pitzl, "Court to decide Arizona tax initiative's fate," Arizona Republic, June 26, 2012. 13 Howard Fischer, "State high court doesn't disqualify sales---tax initiative," Arizona Daily Star, August 15, 2012. 14 Backhaus, Ben, "Secretary of State Ken Bennett eyes 2014 gubernatorial race," The Arizona Republic, May 2, 2011. 15 Trygstad, Kyle. "Flake Draws Wealthy GOP Primary Opponent," Roll Call, August 8, 2012. 16 "Wilford R. Cardon," Center for Responsive Politics, accessed September 5, 2013. 17 State of Arizona Official Canvass, Arizona Department of State Office of the Secretary of State, Accessed September 5,2012. 18 http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/story/23152411/2013/08/15/montenegro---bows---out---of---secretary---of---state---race 19 Associated Press, "Scottsdale Legislator May Run for Secretary of State," Arizona Public Media, August 28, 2013. 20 "Justin Pierce," Justin Pierce for Arizona Secretary of State Exploratory Committee Website, Accessed September 2, 3013. 21 http://ktar.com/22/1673335/Arizona---Sen---Michele---Reagan---enters---GOP---race---for---secretary---of---state 22 http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/story/23701141/rep---justin---pierce---to---run---for---secretary---of---state 4 Arizona's 80 delegates at the 2012 Democratic National Convention,23 has established a campaign committee, though he has not yet reported raising any money. 24 Colorado Incumbent: Scott Gessler (R)--Exploring Run for Governor Primary Date: June 24, 2014 Colorado Secretary of State: At-a-Glance 2014 Ken Gordon (D) Joe Neguse (D) Scott Gessler (R)* Wayne Williams (R) Status Declared Candidate Declared Candidate Running for Governor Declared Candidate Total Raised (October, 2013) $1,100 $102,411 N/A Not Available Cash on Hand (October, 2013) $2,895 $75,440 N/A Not Available Latest Poll No Polling Available 2010 Bernie Buescher (D)* Scott Gessler (R) Results 43.9% 49.5% Total Raised $354,663 $275,449 *Incumbent Powers Related to Elections & Voting The office of Colorado's secretary of state has broad authority over elections and voting. Officially, the Secretary of State oversees and administers: o o o o o Colorado election code Voter registration law Campaign finance laws Lobbyist regulation The Colorado Charitable Solicitations Act25 Aside from administering rules and laws related to elections, voting, and political/charitable giving, additional duties of the office include: o o o Supervising elections Maintaining a statewide voter registration file Verifying initiative petition signatures26 23 2012 Democratic National Convention: Arizona Delegates, P2012 Race for the White House, Accessed June 3, 2013 24Campaign Finance Search, Office of the Secretary of State, Arizona Department of State, Accessed September 5, 2013. 25 "Office Overview," Colorado Secretary of State, accessed March 5, 2013. 26 "Office Overview," Colorado Secretary of State, accessed March 5, 2013. 5 o Chairing the Title Board,27 which has approval powers over proposed ballot measures and sets ballot titles28 Scott Gessler (R) Current Secretary of State Scott Gessler has fully exercised the considerable powers of his office, becoming one of the most closely---watched elected officials in the nation. Since he was elected in 2010, Gessler has weakened Colorado's strict campaign finance laws, tried to stop county clerks from mailing ballots to inactive voters on the permanent absentee list,29 and embarked on an aggressive voter purge effort aimed at alleged non---citizen registrants.30 While efforts to raise the financial disclosure threshold for political committees from $200 to $5,000 fell to a suit from progressive organizations,31 the majority of the changes made when he re---wrote the state's campaign finance laws in 201132 stand. Prior to the 2012 election, Gessler's office mailed letters to thousands of Latino voters questioning their citizenship.33 This action raised concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement as well as suppressed turnout among Latino voters in the state heading into the election.34 Gessler's prohibitions on mailing ballots to inactive voters led to a protracted fight, which was partially resolved by a district court in favor of the county clerks who wished to continue mailing ballots.35 On May 10, Governor John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill that would restructure Colorado's voting system by allowing for same---day registration and ensuring that all registered voters receive a ballot through the mail.36 Gessler opposed the bill citing the possibility of voter fraud.37 Following passage of the bill, the Secretary of State's office released a new rule directing election officials to determine if potential voters plan to live permanently in Colorado. Under the new rule, both students and military families may be considered nonresidents.38 Gessler was also the subject of pending civil and criminal investigations by the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission and the Denver County District Attorney respectively, stemming from allegations that he improperly used state funds for political purposes by traveling to Florida for the Republican National Convention as well as a meeting about election law.39 He has since repaid the state $1,278 for the trip, though he insists that he committed no wrongdoing.40 On June 27 "Office Overview," Colorado Secretary of State, accessed March 5, 2013. 28 "How to file - Placing an initiated proposition on the statewide ballot," Colorado Legislative Council, accessed March 5, 2013. 29 Robert Barnes, "Scott Gessler, Colorado's 'honey badger,' may be closest---watched election official," Washington Post, September 20, 2012. 30 Sam Levin, "Scott Gessler pushes new bill that would allow him to remove non---citizen voters from the rolls," Denver Westword, January 11, 2013. 31 Colorado Common Cause and Colorado Ethics Watch v. Scott Gessler, Colorado Secretary of State, 2012 COA 147, Colorado Court of Appeals, accessed January 15, 2013. 32 Sara Burnett, "Secretary of State Scott Gessler rewrites Colorado campaign finance rules," Denver Post, February 23, 2012. 33 Tim Hoover, "Noncitizen voters ID's fraction of those first alleged by Gessler," Denver Post, September 16, 2012. 34 "Most Suspected Ineligible Voters US Citizens," CBS Denver, August 29, 2012. 35 Kurtis Lee, "Colorado judge denies Scott Gessler on 'inactive voters' lawsuit," Denver Post, January 21, 2013. 36 "Hickenlooper signs Colorado election rules overhaul," Denver Post, May 10, 2013. 37 Bunch, Joey, "Colorado bill offers more ballots, Election---Day registration," Denver Post, April 10, 2013. 38 Bunch, Joey, "Gessler voter residency rule draws Democratic critics," Denver Post, August 20, 2013. 39 Tim Hoover, "Ethics commission agrees to seek outside investigator in Gessler case," Denver Post, March 5, 2013. 40 Riccardi, Nicholas, "Secretary of State Gessler Repays Colorado For Trip To RNC," CBS Denver, May 23, 2013. 6 19, a Denver grand jury ruled that Gessler did not break any laws, though they stated that his use of state funds was "not prudent." 41 2014 On May 30, Gessler stated that he is suspending his reelection campaign in order to consider challenging Democratic Governor John Hickenlooper in 2014, though he has not yet made a formal announcement of his candidacy.42 On June 25, Democrat Joe Neguse, a University of Colorado Regent, announced that he will be running for the Secretary of State's office in 2014. 43 Democrat Ken Gordon, a former state Senate Majority Leader and current anti---corporate personhood activist44 who narrowly lost the 2006 race for Secretary of State,45 has also announced that he will run for Secretary of State. However, The Colorado Statesman noted that during Neguse's announcement, "the Democratic Party appeared united behind Neguse," and there is speculation that Gordon will not continue his campaign.46 Additionally, antifracking activists are considering a possible statewide referendum in 2014. Already, voters in Broomfield, Colorado (15 miles north of Denver) narrowly approved a five---year moratorium on fracking in their community. Gessler criticized Bloomfield's handling of the state's voter registration law. The initial election count showed the measure failing by 13 votes. After military, overseas and other ballots were included, the tally showed the measure passing by 17 votes; close enough to trigger a recount. Gessler said the city counted ballots from people who were ineligible to vote and rejected ballots from legitimate voters.47 Voters in three of Broomfield's neighboring communities - Boulder, Lafayette and Fort Collins also succeeded in passing five---year moratoriums or outright bans. Environmental activists hope to expand their efforts statewide. Colorado is the ninth---largest oil---producing state and the sixth largest gas producer.48 Michigan Incumbent: Ruth Johnson (R) Michigan Secretary of State: At-a-Glance 2014 Jocelyn Benson (D) Ruth Johnson (R)* Status Potential Candidate Likely Running for Re---Election Total Raised (January, 2013) N/A $200,057 41 Hendrick, Thomas, "Denver DA: No charges against Sec. of State Gessler," KWGN Colorado, June 19, 2013. 42 Rittiman, Brandon, "Scott Gessler suspends re---election bid to focus on Governor's race," NBC 9News, May 30, 2013. 43 Marcus, Peter, "Democrat Joe Neguse files for SoS," The Colorado Statesman, June 27, 2013 44 Tim Hoover, "Friday marks 2 years since Citizens United: probably no cake at this birthday party," Denver Post, January 19, 2012. 45 "Colorado Cumulative Report - General Election," Colorado Secretary of State, December 13, 2006. 46 Marcus, Peter, "Democrat Joe Neguse files for SoS," The Colorado Statesman, June 27, 2013 47 http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20131202/NEWS11/312020012/ 48 http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579199811796359826?cb=logged0.27809931710 362434 7 Cash on Hand (January, 2013) N/A Latest Poll $125,297 No Polling Available 2010 Jocelyn Benson (D) Ruth Johnson (R) Results 45.2% 50.7% Total Raised $980,939 $388,034 *Incumbent Powers Related to Elections & Voting The Secretary of State is responsible for preparing any proposed amendments for the ballot, investigating possible election law violations and reporting them to the attorney general, training election officials, determining the validity of petition signers and circulators and the general advising and directing of local election officials into the conduct of elections.49 Ruth Johnson (R) Ruth Johnson has served as Michigan's Secretary of State since 2011, after she defeated Democrat and Wayne State University Law School Dean Jocelyn Benson 50.7% to 45.2% in the 2010 election.50 Johnson has often taken a partisan approach to her role, particularly in regard to the 2012 ballot proposals and in trying to push Voter ID laws in Michigan,51 as well as her efforts to purge Michigan's voting rolls52--part of her "Secure and Fair Elections" initiative. In 2012, Johnson faced sharp scrutiny for her attempts to add a "citizenship checkbox" to the ballot. According to Johnson, the checkbox, which would require voters to re---confirm their citizenship on their ballot after they already proved their citizenship while registering to vote, would reduce voter fraud, but opponents and county clerks argued that it would both confuse and deter some citizens from voting.53 In July, Republican Gov. Rick Snyder vetoed legislation that would have added the question to the ballot, but Johnson included it in the August primary anyway and pushed for it to be on the November ballot as well.54 A federal judge eventually ruled that the checkbox should be removed from the ballot, arguing that it was an infringement on voting rights.55 49 "Michigan Election Law Act 116 of 1954," Michigan Legislature accessed June 3, 2013 50 General Election Results, Secretary of State 4 Year Term (1) Position, Michigan Department of State, November 2, 2010 51 Murray, Dave, "Secretary of State Ruth Johnson: Calling reforms voter suppression is 'partisan theatrics' or a misunderstanding," June 13, 2012 52 Murray, Dave, "Secretary of State Ruth Johnson urges tougher campaign finance laws, help in removing invalid voters from rolls," October 12, 2011 53 Neher, Jake, "Federal judge orders Ruth Johnson to defend citizenship checkbox in court," Michigan Radio, October 4, 2012 54 "Election Coalition Urges Secretary of State to Ban the Citizenship Checkbox," ACLU Michigan, September 4, 2012 55 Burke, Katie, "Secretary of State Johnson drops citizen checkbox from ballot," The Michigan Daily, October 8, 2012. 8 2014 According to in---state experts, Benson, who authored a book on the role of Secretary of State,56 is widely believed to be challenging Johnson again. Both Benson and Johnson maintain active candidate committees for Secretary of State.57 Nevada Incumbent: Ross Miller (D)--Term Limited Primary Date: June 10, 2014 Nevada Secretary of State: At-a-Glance 2014 Ross Miller (D)* Kate Marshall (D) Barbara Cegavske (R) Status Running for Attorney General Declared Candidate Declared Candidate Total Raised (December, 2013) N/A Not Available Cash on Hand (December, 2013) N/A Not Available Latest Poll No Polling Available 2010 Ross Miller (D)* Rob Lauer (R) John Wagner (I) Results 53.2% 37.3% 6.0% Total Raised $640,898 $190,845 $0 *Incumbent Powers Related to Elections & Voting Nevada's secretary of state has the following powers over elections and voting: o Certifies statewide candidates and ballot questions o Reports and certifies primary and general election results o Supervises state and local elections o Registers and files candidate contribution and expenditure reports Ross Miller (D)--Ineligible for Reelection Democratic Secretary of State Ross Miller was elected to his current position in 2006 and has served his two allowable terms. In that time, he has exercised the powers of his office to lead implementation of online voter registration in the state,58 as well as fighting for campaign finance and elections reform, including the state's searchable finance database,59 and cracking down on fraudulent voter registration in 2008.60 He is currently serving his second term and will be ineligible to run again in 2014, though he is widely expected to run for attorney general. 56 "Jocelyn F. Benson," Wayne State University Law, Accessed June 4, 2013 57 http://miboecfr.nictusa.com/cgi---bin/cfr/can_search_res.cgi 58 Ray Hagar, "Ross Miller's online voter---registration push can only help if he runs for AG in 2014," Inside Nevada Politics, October 11, 2012. 59 "About Ross," Nevada Secretary of State's Office, accessed March 7, 2013. 60 Steve Friess, "Acorn charged in voter registration fraud case in Nevada," New York Times, May 5, 2009. 9 2014 Miller is term limited from running again in 2014. Democrat Kate Marshall, who is termed out of her current position as State Treasurer,61 is running, and state senator Kelvin Atkinson of North Las Vegas has also expressed interest in the race.62 Marshall has already received endorsements from the Northern Nevada Building and Trades Council and the Las Vegas Police Protection Association.63 In 2011, Marshall lost a special election in Nevada's 2nd Congressional District against Mark Amondei (R), 36% to 57.9%.64 Republican state Senator Barbara Cegavske jumped into the race in October. She will likely face Democratic Treasurer Kate Marshall in the general election.65 New Mexico Incumbent: Dianna Duran (R) Primary Date: June 3, 2014 New Mexico Secretary of State: At-a-Glance 2014 Maggie Toulouse Oliver (D) Dianna Duran (R)* Status Declared Challenger Likely Running for Re---Election Total Raised (October, 2013) $68,152 $6,150 Cash on Hand (October, 2013) $45,034 $7,538 Latest Poll No polling available 2010 Mary Herrera (D) Dianna Duran (R) Results 42.6% 57.4% Total Raised $165,398 $203,660 *Incumbent Powers Related to Elections & Voting The Secretary of State is New Mexico's chief elections officer and oversees the election process. Duties related to elections and voting include: o o Maintaining a list of the state's registered voters Testing and evaluating voting machines 61 "Kate Marshall for Secretary of State 2014." Official website. Committee to Elect Kate Marshall. Accessed August 21, 2013. 62 Doughman, Andrew, "North Las Vegas Sen. Atkinson mulls run for secretary of state," Las Vegas Sun, August 10, 2013. 63 Associated Press, "Kate Marshall gets endorsements for secretary of state," Reno Gazette---Journal, September 4, 2013. 64 "2011 Official Special Election Results September 12, 2011," Nevada Secretary of State Website, Accessed September 5, 2011. 65 http://www.reviewjournal.com/news/cegavske---announces---candidacy---nevada---secretary---state 10 o o o Certifying precinct boundary maps Regulating lobbyist activity Oversees reporting of campaign finances by candidates and PACs, as well as financial disclosure by candidates and state officials.66 Dianna Duran (R) Dianna Duran, elected alongside Republican Governor Susanna Martinez in 2010, is the first Republican to hold the office of secretary of state in New Mexico since 1930.67 Duran is expected to run for reelection in 2014, though she has not yet announced her candidacy. Democrat and Bernalillo County Clerk Maggie Touloise Oliver will run for the seat in 2014.68 Since being elected, Duran has made a number of changes to election law and administration in the state and taken actions that have angered Democrats. In one case, she reversed course on her office's interpretation of a key campaign finance law that was perceived as aiding Republican Gov. Susana Martinez.69 While Duran's office advised some Democrats that campaigns could not accept the maximum $5,000 per election (primary and general) at one time, she later changed course, allowing Martinez to take in $10,000 donations as long as the contributions were designated for separate campaigns.70 In 2012, Duran blocked the League of Women Voters from distributing its voter guide at polling places and county clerks' offices. According to Duran's office, the guides were banned because they violated a 2011 law prohibiting electioneering within 100 feet of a polling place.71 Duran eliminated New Mexico's straight---ticket voting option before the 2012 elections. A bill to reinstate straight---ticket voting passed the New Mexico Senate with Democratic support in March.72 Other actions undertaken by her office include the pursuit of alleged non---citizens73 and a purge of the voter roll using a postcard program in which postcards were sent to 177,768 addresses suspected by the Postal Service and county clerks to be inaccurate. Voters whose cards were returned as undeliverable or who did not return their card with a current address and did not vote in the 2014 election would be purged from the state's voter roles in 2015.74 The voter purge has been halted by complaints from progressive groups including Progress Now New Mexico.75 Democrats and civil---rights groups have expressed frustration at Duran's methods of reform. In one instance, Duran claimed that there was a "culture of corruption" in the state regarding elections in response to findings that 37 foreign nationals had voted in the 2010 election in New Mexico. She also sent 64,000 voter registration records to the state police to investigate for possible voter registration fraud.76 In response, the New Mexico ACLU said that she "undermined the public's confidence in our elections" and was "making unfounded allegations."77 66 "Secretary of State's Duties," New Mexico 2012 Blue Book, accessed March 7, 2013. 67 "New Mexico's Past Secretaries of State," New Mexico Secretary of State, accessed March 4, 2013. 68 http://roundhouseroundup.blogspot.com/2013/09/maggies---in---for---sos.html 69 http://www.abqjournal.com/62825/politics/n---m---elections---official---changes---view---on---contribution---cap.html 70 Massey, Barry, "NM elections official changes view on contribution gap," Albuquerque Journal, October 13, 2011. 71 http://kunm.org/post/league---women---voters---voter---guides---prohibited---polls---election---day 72 Reichbach, Matthew, "Bill to allow straight---ticket voting clears Senate," New Mexico Telegraph, March 7, 2013. 73 Michael Haederle, "Voter fraud claims ruffle feathers in New Mexico," Los Angeles Times, July 31, 2011. 74 Baker, Deborah, "Dems Cry Foul at Voter Mailings," Albuquerque Journal, August 10, 2012. 75 "SOS Puts Purge On Pause After Progress Now NM Raises Concerns," Progress Now New Mexico, February 4, 2013. 76 Haederle, Michael, "Voter fraud claims ruffle feathers in New Mexico," Los Angeles Times, July 31, 2011. 77 "ACLU---NM Files Motion for Summary Judgment in NM District Court," ACLU New Mexico, January 10, 2012. 11 2014 Though Duran is eligible for reelection, she has not yet declared her intentions for 2014. However, Duran recently became a member of the executive committee of the Republican Secretaries of State Committee, an arm of the Republican State Leadership Committee, with the goal of electing Republican secretaries of state.78 Democrat and Bernalillo County Clerk Maggie Toulouse Oliver has announced that she will be running.79 Ohio Incumbent: Jon Husted (R) Primary: May 6, 2014 Ohio Secretary of State: At-a-Glance 2014 Nina Turner (D) John Husted (R)* Status Declared Challenger Likely Running for Re---Election Total Raised (July, 2013) $203,972 $593,580 Cash on Hand (July, 2013) $128,756 $1,612,295 Latest Poll (August 2013) 36% 37% 2010 Maryellen O'Shaughnessy (D) John Husted (R) Results 41.5% 53.7% Total Raised $1,042,666 $5,512,513 *Incumbent Powers and Related Duties The Secretary of State of Ohio serves as the chief elections officer of the state, overseeing election processes and appointing members of the board of elections in Ohio's 88 counties. The SOS is responsible for: o Supervising the administration of election laws o Reviewing statewide initiative and referendum petitions o Chairing the Ohio Ballot Board, which approves ballot language for statewide issues o Canvassing votes for all elective state offices and issues o Investigating election fraud and irregularities o Training election officials o Working with counties to train poll workers o Compiling and maintaining election statistics, political party records, and other election--- related elections 78 Cole, Thomas J, "Gov. rubs elbows with high rollers," Albuquerque Journal, May 18, 2013. 79 "Toulouse Oliver says she's in SOS race," New Mexico Telegram, September 9, 2013. 12 o Overseeing campaign finance compliance by receiving campaign finance reports from candidates, PACS, state political parties and legislative caucus campaign committees. Additionally, the Secretary of State is a member of the Ohio Apportionment Board, which meets every 10 years following the census to redraw the boundaries for each of the 99 Ohio House and 33 Ohio Senate districts. Other members of the Apportionment Board are the Governor, the Auditor of State and two members, one Republican and one Democrat, appointed by state legislative leaders. Outside of elections, the Secretary of State receives and approves articles relating to businesses in Ohio and is the keeper of official state records.80 Jon Husted (R) Incumbent Jon Husted was first elected in 2010 with 53.66% of the vote. He defeated Democrat Maryellen O'Shaughnessy by 457,969 votes. O'Shaughnessy had previously served as the Democratic Clerk for Courts in Franklin County before running for the open SOS position. The previous SOS, Democrat Jennifer Brunner, opted to run for Senate in 2010 but lost in the primary. Prior to 2010, Husted was a state representative and state senator from suburban Dayton.81 In the 2012 election, Husted generated controversy with his efforts to limit early voting hours.82 Husted also flagrantly "violat[ed] state elections law"83 in an effort to prevent counting of provisional ballots. In both instances, Democrats successfully challenged Husted's directives in federal court. The Ohio Secretary of State's office has long been central to election controversy; previously, Republican Ken Blackwell oversaw the 2004 Presidential election in Ohio, leading to the potential disenfranchisement of "tens of thousands of voters."84 Husted called on the Ohio Constitutional Modernization Commission to reform the redistricting process. Under his proposal, in order for maps to be enacted into law, they would need to be developed by a larger commission and require a supermajority in both legislative chambers to pass. Husted also said any new districts should be compact and competitive.85 In October 2013, Husted sent a letter to legislative leaders recommending that they cut early voting hours.86 2014 Husted will face challenger Nina Turner in 2014. Turner is a former Cleveland City Councilwoman, and currently serves as a state senator, representing parts of Cuyahoga and Lake Counties. Through July, Husted reported raising $593,600, bringing his total cash on hand to about $1.6million. Over the same period, Turner raised about $204,000, and had $128,750 cash on hand in July.87 If elected, Turner would be the first African American Democrat to be elected to a 80 Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted: Duties & Responsibilities. Accessed Sept. 16, 2012. 81 Jim Provance, "O'Shaughnessy trumpets experience on local level," The Toledo Blade, Oct. 23, 2010. 82 Alan Johnson, "Supreme Court rejects Husted's early voting appeal," The Columbus Dispatch, Oct. 16, 2012. 83 Joe Guillen, "Federal judge rips Jon Husted for unconstitutional change to Ohio election rules," The Plain Dealer, Nov. 13, 2012. 84 Anhttp://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2013/11/jon_husted_makes_pitch_for_ove.htmldy Kroll, "GOPer Behind Ohio's Botched 2004 Election Eyes Senate Run," Mother Jones, Apr. 21, 2011. 85 http://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2013/11/jon_husted_makes_pitch_for_ove.html 86 http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2013/10/24/Husted---letter---to---legislators.html 87 Robert Higgs, "Secretary of State Jon Husted holds large advantage in fundraising over challenger, Sen. Nina Turner," The Plain Dealer, July 31, 2013. 13 statewide office in Ohio.88 Turner has been a frequent critic of Husted's policies toward access to the ballot. Most recently, she told an audience in Akron, "The policies being pushed right now are immoral. People are being faced with obstacles to thwart their access to vote."89 Turner has already racked up endorsements from the Ohio Democratic Party and progressive groups such as Emily's List, SEIU District 1199, the Ohio AFL---CIO, UAW Region 2B and several UFCW locals. Our Team SoS for Democracy will be led by: Steve Rosenthal For nearly 30 years, Steve Rosenthal has been at the center of progressive Democratic politics and policy, having served as the founder and CEO of America Coming Together (ACT), one of the largest voter mobilization campaigns in Democratic history, as the innovative political director of the AFL--- CIO, and currently as founder and president of The Atlas Project. Steve has been described by the New York Times as one of the Democratic Party's "smartest and most influential strategists" and by the Washington Post as "one of the party's best---known voter turnout specialists." Steve is founder and president of The Organizing Group, a consulting firm that works with labor unions and other progressive organizations. He is also the president of Working for Us PAC, whose mission is to hold members of Congress accountable to the populist vision at the heart of the Democratic Party. Beginning in 1981, Steve spent eleven years working for the Communications Workers of America, where he started as an organizer and ended as Administrative Assistant to former---CWA President Morton Bahr. During the first three years of the Clinton Administration Steve served as Associate Deputy Secretary of the US Department of Labor where he acted as former---Secretary Robert Reich's chief advisor on policy and legislation related to unions. Larry Scanlon Larry Scanlon is the former Political Director of The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), the nation's largest public employee and health care workers union. Larry is credited with having built one of the most innovative and progressive labor unions in the country. Larry has worked in races across the country at the local, state and federal level using modern campaign techniques and strategies. 88 Henry J. Gomez, "Nina Turner announces bid for Ohio secretary of state; Democrat hopes to unseat Jon Husted," The Plain Dealer, July 1, 2013. 89 Stephanie Warsmith, "Democratic candidate for secretary of State Nina Turner calls GOP attempts to limit voting 'immoral,'" Akron Beacon Journal, Sept. 12, 2013. 14 Larry began his career more than 30 years ago with New York's Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), AFSCME's largest local affiliate. Before being named executive director, Scanlon served as CSEA's acting director of education, acting regional director, coordinator of school district affairs, director of organizing, and director of legislative and political action. 15