The Lawful Influence Podcast

In this episode, host Sterling Marchand discusses a recent announcement from the chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission announcing her intent to seek support for a rule that would regulate the use of artificial intelligence tools in the United States in political ads.

In this episode, host Sterling Marchand discusses what triggers the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA), what the immediate impact is, and what the long-term reverberations are, along with tips for compliance and highlighting common mistakes.

In this episode, host Sterling Marchand analyzes the recent decision by a majority of the Colorado Supreme Court disqualifying former President Donald Trump from appearing on the State’s primary ballot by applying the insurrection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The decision is available here: 23SA300.pdf (state.co.us)

Just in time for the holidays, in this episode, host Sterling Marchand covers the federal ethics laws applicable to gift giving, parties, and receptions.

In this episode, host Sterling Marchand analyzes the Federal Election Commission’s recent request for comments on potential regulations that target the use of artificial intelligence in PAC solicitations and campaign advertising, and highlights a number of issues for the FEC to consider.

In this episode of Lawful Influence, Baker Botts Litigation Partner, Sterling Marchand, discusses the breaking news out of the state of Minnesota where the governor recently signed the Democracy for the People Act which included comprehensive revisions to the state's campaign finance, voting, and election laws. This law is the first in the country in two critical ways. First, it applies to any political expenditures in the state, whether for federal or non-federal elections, and it set a very low threshold for their definition of foreign influenced corporation.  For more information or for questions, please reach out to Sterling Marchand. 

Solicitations are key to a successful PAC because that's how the PAC generates money, that it can then in turn spend on candidates and elections. In this episode of Lawful Influence, Baker Botts Litigation Partner, Sterling Marchand, covers three types of PACs and the five elements they should consider when soliciting for contributions. For more information or for questions, please reach out to Sterling Marchand. 

Most companies and organizations recognize that there is a strategic benefit to participating in certain political activity. They also share the recognition that there are risks, both legal and reputational. So how do they find ways to engage in the political process, in a way that suits them, but also in a way that adheres to the dizzying array of federal and state regulations? How can they make their position known to those who matter in a legal way? In this inaugural episode, Baker Botts Litigation Partner, Sterling Marchand, takes the time to introduce himself and define the concept of Lawful Influence.  For more information or for questions, please reach out to Sterling Marchand.