EXCLUSIVE: Democratic donors rewarded with W.H. perks

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By Matthew Mosk

But veteran Washington observers say the Obama-era perks still carry shades of the so-called "donor maintenance" programs of past administrations, when Bill Clinton rewarded fundraisers with White House coffees and overnight stays in the Lincoln Bedroom and George W. Bush invited "Pioneers" to Camp David or his Texas ranch.

And the donor access raises questions about the fervor of Mr. Obama's stated commitment to clean up what he once called the "muddy waters" of Washington, where political cash is exchanged for access, ethics experts said.

"Once you start trading money for access, you set up a situation where donors eventually say, 'Well, actually I have another favor to ask,'" said Scott Thomas, a former Democratic appointee to the Federal Election Commission.

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"It starts setting up that relationship. If you help with the money, we'll do something nice for you. And that is a slippery slope."

Democratic Party officials told The Times that there is "absolutely no correlation" between fundraising and attendance at White House events.

"I don't think it's surprising that people that support the president do go to functions at the White House and have other access, but there are many, many more Americans who attend events and town halls and other things at the White House every single day," DNC spokesman Brad Woodhouse said.

Only select members of the public, however, were provided access to a series of invite-only briefings by senior administration officials organized by the DNC.