Party Time? Not for Leaders

Rules Put Kibosh on Blowouts Honoring Members

By Tory Newmyer and Erin P. Billings
Roll Call Staff

Aug. 25, 2008, 12 a.m.

Four years ago at the Democratic National Convention in Boston, about 700 lucky guests gathered at the city’s Museum of Fine Arts for a lavish party honoring Rep. Steny Hoyer (Md.) and Sen. Harry Reid (Nev.). Guests were serenaded by Natalie Merchant as they mingled among priceless 17th-century paintings. Nearly two dozen corporate sponsors including the Altria Group, Fannie Mae and FedEx lined up to pick up the tab.

Schumer Advocates for Many on Panel

Nov. 16, 12 a.m.

As Senate Majority Leader, Lyndon Johnson once said of the Joint Economic Committee, “It’s as useless as tits on a bull.” But as that panel’s chairman during the 110th Congress, Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) seized the opportunity to elevate the traditionally low-profile post to the forefront of shaping policy. Read Full Article