Indicate the amount (if any) that Michael can deduct as ordinary and necessary business deductions in each of the following situations and explain your solution.

a) From time to time, Michael rents a dump truck for his business. While hauling gravel to a job site, Michael was stopped for speeding. He paid a fine of

$125 for speeding and a fine of $80 for carrying an overweight load.

b) Michael paid a part-time employee $750 to drive his rented dump truck.

Michael reimbursed the employee $35 for gasoline for the truck.

c) Michael gave a member of the city council a new watch, which cost $200. He hopes that the city councilman will “throw” some contracts to his business.