By Steve Thompson Steve Thompson Accountability reporter focusing on government and politics in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia Email Bio Follow March 1 at 4:21 PM D.C. Council Member Jack Evans has repeatedly emailed business proposals to law firms that lobby District officials, offering his connections and influence amassed as the city’s longest-serving lawmaker.
And they come to light as federal prosecutors scrutinize Evans’ business affairs. In September, a federal grand jury issued a subpoena to District officials for documents relating to legislation Evans promoted in 2016 that would have benefited a digital sign company, Digi Outdoor Media. Evans had received and has said he returned money and stock from the company.
Throughout his 28-year tenure on the council, Evans has engaged in outside legal and consulting work. In required disclosures, he has listed law firms for which he’s worked but has not named his clients. D.C. ethics rules require him to identify clients only if they have a contract with the District or stand to benefit from pending legislation.
Evans sent his 2018 proposal to Nelson Mullins lawyer Timothy Fitzgibbon, who did not return a request for comment. There is no indication the firm hired or retained Evans. Evans continued: “Despite this fertile ground, no local firm has yet to establish itself as the “Go-To” government relations firm. The opportunity to claim this mantle is clear.”
Probably the most boring headline in history.