The Malleable Conflicts of Interest in State Legislature Rules
In many states, laws and ethics rules allow representatives to advance bills that would benefit their own financial interests.
state legislatures
New York State Lawmakers Appoint First Woman to Serve as Attorney General
The New York state legislature voted nearly unanimously Tuesday to appoint Barbara Underwood to serve as the state's attorney general, making her the first woman to hold the position.
Ten South Florida Cities Are Suing the State to Regain Control of Their Gun Laws
Mayors across the state are subject to a state law that threatens harsh penalties for municipalities that attempt to pass any of their own restrictions on firearms.
How to Fix Our Legislatures
The trick is to hold legislatures accountable, even when the system is oriented around individual legislators.
One Year After the Death of Eric Garner, Reform Deferred
Despite protests in New York and beyond, police reform is in a dismal state.
When Incumbents Get a Free Ride
Fielding candidates in unfavorable districts might seem like a waste of precious resources to a party—and most of the time, it is—but it's also a responsibility.
On the Need for Legislative Staff
Having a decent number of staffers available gives state legislators a better ability to make competent, independent decisions and to resist the influence of other actors.
Why We're Not Holding State Legislators Accountable
The way we vote means that the political fortunes of state legislators hinge on events outside of their state and their control.