The flattening of the futures yield curve indicates shorter maturity instruments are catching bids faster than long bonds. This may reflect uncertainty regarding long-term growth prospects. Candidates running for federal office are also subject to contributions limits and other tighter reporting requirements than their local counterparts. A 2016 report published by the Congressional Research Service found that allegations of "pay-to-play" relationships - distinct from quid-pro-quo in that donors typically give with the expectation of a future reward rather than a direct immediate exchange - have increased in recent decades at the state and local level. Meets 8 times a year on U.S. monetary policy and the key interest rate; any change will impact the markets. Short-term bond futures rallied after weaker consumer sentiment numbers yesterday. Traders anticipate that subdued spending patterns will push central banks toward more accommodative policies over the next quarter.