GOP Frosh: Screw Populism, Let's Throw Swank Party!

John Boehner is not pleased with the kids: While the speaker-elect might prefer his caucus stick to the populist message that won them the House, on the eve of taking it over, a dozen freshman Republicans are throwing a lavish DC fundraiser headlined by LeAnn Rimes. For $2,500, Politico reports that lobbyists, PAC managers, and others will be able to hobnob with lawmakers at the swanky W Hotel, with the highest rollers paying $50,000 for access to the hotel’s “VIP suite.”

Though Boehner’s name is featured prominently on the invitation, he says he won’t actually show up for the event. (Not so sure he won't be attending is Eric Cantor.) “It’s causing a buzz because it’s in direct contradiction to the image that leadership is trying to portray,” says one GOP fundraising consultant, who has advised clients to steer clear. Another bluntly called the event “a nightmare.” (More Republican stories.)