Try to look surprised: The Obama Administration has doled out access to the White House and to top aides as a way to keep top Democratic donors feeling special.
The Washington Times has a good rundown today on how it all works, including invitations for two bundlers to bring their families to the famous bowling alley at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next door to the White House.
As in past administrations, access to the White House is an irresistible addition to the Dems’ quiver of perks for donors.
The Times reports:
At least 39 donors and fundraisers also were treated to a lavish White House reception on St. Patrick’s Day, where the fountains on the North and South Lawns were dyed green, photos and video reviewed by The Times and CBS News also show.Presidential aides said there has been no systematic effort to use the White House complex to aid fundraising, though they acknowledge the DNC has paid for some events at the presidential mansion.
DNC documents obtained by the Times show that donors who promised to give $30,400 for four consecutive years were promised access to meet “senior members” of the administration and “senior members” of Congress.
All of this is reminiscent of Obama’s campaign strategy of giving “VIP” contributors access to high-level advisers.
Late Update:: The White House responds.