Lobbyist Dinner With Pelosi Costs Up to $30,400

By Paul Bedard, Washington Whispers

When you get an invitation from the city's hottest lobbyists for a dinner in honor of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, expect to pay.

But even with the promise of dinner prepared by "celebrity women chefs," ticket prices ranging from $5,000 to $30,400 are enough to choke on. "Whatever," Democrats will say as they fork over the money to attend the exclusive fundraiser for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee at the home of überlobbyists Heather and Tony Podesta. And the truth is, this is now an annual event.

Several top Dems plan to attend the February 9 soiree, including DCCC Chairman Rep. Chris Van Hollen and key committee chairs Henry Waxman and George Miller.

"Come raise a glass," writes Heather Podesta in an E-mail with no hint of the antilobbyist fervor President Obama campaigned on.

Here's her E-mail to potential donors with this link to the tasteful invitation.

Dear Friends,

Please join us on Tuesday, February 9th from 8:00 to 10:00 pm for our seated dinner with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, DCCC Chairman Chris Van Hollen, Representatives Anna Eshoo, John Larson, George Miller, Richie Neal, Ed Towns, Henry Waxman, and others. Dinner will be prepared by celebrity women chefs from around the country - this is an evening you will not want to miss.

Seating is limited, so please RSVP at your earliest convenience. The suggested contribution for "Host" is $30,400, "PAC Supporter" is $15,000, and "Individual Supporter" is $5,000. Please make checks payable to the "DCCC." Invitation is attached.

Come raise a glass,

Heather

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