A nonpartisan, public-interest news organization dedicated to the principles of transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility.

United States
Joined August 2009
What does a dispute over immigration enforcement have to do with disaster relief?
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Are some students being disadvantaged by changes to magnet school admissions?
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Companies with business before Los Angeles donated millions at Mayor Karen Bass’ request. Now, California’s ethics watchdog is reviewing three complaints involving donations she solicited, including issues exposed by The Center Square’s reporting.
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What happens when major donations raise questions about government transparency?
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An Illinois lawmaker accused in an alleged kickback scheme involving taxpayer funds is asking a federal judge to dismiss the charges against her. State Rep. Carol Ammons argues prosecutors misinterpreted Illinois ethics laws and failed to establish that she committed a crime.
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Prosecutors allege taxpayer funds went to nonprofits employing Ammons' adult daughter. Her attorneys argue Illinois law does not prohibit that arrangement and that prosecutors have not alleged her daughter was paid for work she didn't perform. Read more: thecentersquare.com/illinois…
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Why did a state agency have to give up its $1 million spy truck?
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On Nov. 3, Colorado voters will decide whether to ban gender-related surgeries for anyone under 18. Proposition 135 would also bar government funds and health insurance from paying for those procedures.
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Colorado’s three major pediatric surgical providers say they do not currently perform these surgeries on minors. Advocacy group Do No Harm reports 60 cases since 2023. Denver Health disputes those findings. Read more: thecentersquare.com/colorado…
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ELECTIONS: Wisconsin's candidates for governor are divided over how to power the state's growing data center industry. Democrat David Crowley supports requiring 100% renewable energy, while Republican Tom Tiffany argues that approach would raise costs and consume farmland.
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Companies with business before Los Angeles City Hall made large donations to third parties at the mayor's request. The Center Square found missing or late disclosures. Now the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) is investigating.
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Can fundraising and polling numbers accurately predict election results?
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How do voters view Democratic Socialist candidates gaining office?
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What's changing for Californians who rely on food assistance?
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Among voters who don't lean toward either major party, 61% trust neither party on the economy. That compares with 14% of registered voters overall in The Center Square's latest Voters' Voice Poll.
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Are license plate readers helping police solve crimes, or raising new concerns about government surveillance?
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An Ohio auto parts manufacturer agreed to pay more than $3 million in fines and restitution after admitting it provided false information to obtain federal COVID-19 relief loans and loan forgiveness. The company failed to include employees of affiliated businesses in its reported counts.
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Prosecutors say Murotech Ohio Corp. falsely certified that it met employee limits on two Paycheck Protection Program applications in 2020 and 2021. The settlement includes more than $1 million in restitution, and whistleblowers will each receive $151,980.75. Read more: thecentersquare.com/ohio/art…
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Minnesota hasn't elected a Republican U.S. senator since 2002. A 270toWin polling average puts Peggy Flanagan ahead of Michele Tafoya, 47% to 42.6%, while a new race rating signals a more competitive contest.
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Virginia state Sen. Louise Lucas and three relatives are among seven defendants charged in an alleged marijuana and money-laundering scheme the FBI estimates at $4.5 million. Prosecutors accuse Lucas of using her political influence for financial gain. She has challenged the prosecution.
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According to the indictment, Lucas discussed a potential marijuana license and said, "This is our last chance at generational wealth." Lucas faces five federal counts, including racketeering and money-laundering conspiracy. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Read more: thecentersquare.com/virginia…
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