Senator Frist is reportedly skirting federal lobbying regulations by throwing an "AIDS fundraiser" that's actually a way for rich Republican donors to buy access to influential GOP lawmakers while dodging strict federal disclosure rules. Isn't it nice that the GOP can even find a silver lining to AIDS.
The gala will consist of a concert, reception, and a VIP reception, which purportedly would feature Republican senators. The gala package, consisting of ten tickets to the VIP reception, 50 tickets to the concert, and entry into a separate Frist reception, costs a hefty $250,000.
Donors to Frist's fundraiser would buy invaluable face time with Republicans and, because their contributions go to a nonprofit, would simultaneously circumvent federal lobbying regulations and dodge public disclosure requirements. This political transaction would leave no paper trail-nonprofits do not have to identify their donors, and donors do not have to disclose their donations. Sen. Frist's promise of not accepting money from lobbyists attending the World of Hope gala is virtually useless, as representatives from corporations do not have to be official lobbyists to be able to donate to a nonprofit such as Frist's.
