(tips to Phillip Martin on BOR)
Dallas Morning NewsTexas House Republicans seeking funds ahead of weeklong resort gatheringMonday, November 17, 2008
The Associated Press
AUSTIN – They may have lost ground in the last election, but state House Republicans are playing up their two-seat majority for all it's worth: They're asking for "unlimited" corporate and personal contributions to raise money and to finance strategy sessions this week at the Lost Pines Resort & Spa near Austin, where donations and access to top leaders go hand in hand.
GOP House Caucus meetings are held before every legislative session, with the next one set to begin in January. But critics, including fellow Republicans, said the economic downturn, the party's recent electoral losses and the way the money is being raised – by doling out access to GOP leaders based on the amount given – is particularly ill-timed and tone-deaf.
(snip)
This year, for $5,000, contributors will receive two tickets to "VIP dinner & Strategy Meetings," a single golf outing and other benefits. Those giving $10,000 get six VIP dinner tickets plus two golf outings with a "Preferred House Leader." Chip in $25,000 or more and you get 15 VIP dinner tickets, four golf outings with a "Preferred House Member" and prominent company advertising at the event, which begins today.
Ah, Texas Republicans - when the going gets tough - they go on a spa retreat on corporate money! :grr:
Sonia