The elements of bribery includes -
The individual being bribed is a public official, which includes rank-and- file federal employees
on up to elected officials
A thing of value has been offered, whether it's tangible (such as cash) or intangible (such as the
promise of influence or official support)
There is an official act that may be influenced by a bribe (such as pending legislation that may
have a direct impact on the party offering the bribe)
The public official has the authority or power to commit the official act (for instance, the
official is a senator who is voting on a particular piece of legislation)
There must be the establishment of intent on the part of the bribing party to get a desired result
(the intent to sway the vote by handing over an envelope full of cash)
The prosecution must establish a causal connection between the payment and the act.