If you want to understand how money and politics intersect in D.C. in ways that make it abundantly clear that the rich and powerful control the game, witness two news events of the past week. What a display of raw money and power! On Tuesday, the city council heard from community groups and advocates who pleaded for city funds now that the government is trying to trim $188 million from its budget. It was both heartening and sad to see so many well-meaning people on their knees before the council.
In a perfect counterpoint, the next day incoming Mayor Vince Gray divulged the big bucks and the donors who have ponied up $180,000 to finance his transition team and his inaugural festivities. Some of the region’s fattest cats bellied up to Gray’s bar and plunked down $25,000 to help him celebrate his victory over Adrian Fenty.
