On the Money Trail: Inauguration Perks Go To the Rich
VIP-seating at the "We Are One" concert among the benefits for big donors.
Jan. 19, 2009— -- President-elect Barack Obama billed his inauguration an event "for all Americans." But in the nation's capital this long weekend, wealthy visitors are finding themselves a bit more equal -- and warmer -- than others.
Most Americans here to see President-elect Obama make history crammed onto buses and trains, slept on floors and fought crowds and cold. But the wealthiest Americans coming to see the event are enjoying all the perks their money and power ever warranted.
For CEOs and stars arriving by private jet, local airports have shut down entire runways to serve as parking lots for their planes. Officials are prepared to handle hundreds of private aircraft for the long weekend.
Limousine companies have been busily shuttling the somebodies around town in style. Shirlington Limousine's Chris Baker says he has seen a spike in business for this inauguration, as he has for the past five. (Democrats seem to be more last-minute than Republicans, he said. "The GOP has much more advance, prior planning.")
Watch live coverage of the Inauguration all day Tuesday beginning with "Good Morning America" at 7 a.m. ET and go to the Inauguration Guide for all of ABC News' coverage details.
Despite the recession, the big money's sleeping easy in D.C. While many other visitors feel lucky to have a room in a suburban budget hotel or a spot on a friend's floor, the wealthy snapped up rooms in the capital's best downtown hotels weeks in advance. The Four Seasons Georgetown (up to $75,000 for a minimum five-night stay), the Ritz-Carlton (up to $60,000 for a minimum five-night stay) and other top hotels say they have been booked for weeks, even months.
The Four Seasons is using the inauguration to introduce its new Royal Suite – a 4,000-square-foot, "bullet-resistant" suite featuring a landscaped terrace, exercise room, library and dining room. A hotel spokeswoman confirmed a guest had booked the suite for the inauguration, but declined to share the guest's name.
The Ritz-Carlton sold a "Politically Correct" package for $50,000, which includes four nights in one of the hotel's suites; two hard-to-come-by seats at the inaugural parade; two tickets to an inaugural ball; a luxury hybrid vehicle with chauffeur on call 24 hours a day; a ball gown and tuxedo from Saks Fifth Avenue; a private in-suite dinner for two at the hotel's restaurant, and more, including a special, inauguration-themed pendant of gold, diamonds, rubies and sapphires valued at $8,000.
