Washington Mardi Gras: A Saga of Politics, Festivities, and Influence
In the heart of Washington, D.C., a unique spectacle unfolds annually—the Washington Mardi Gras. This four-day extravaganza, steeped in political undertones and vibrant festivities, draws throngs of Louisianians for a heady mix of revelry, politicking, and business networking. The 75-year-old tradition culminates in a grand ball, indoor parade, and costumed revelers, while dozens of political fundraisers and industry-sponsored parties add to its allure.
An Overly Political Carnival
Unlike conventional Mardi Gras celebrations, the Washington iteration is overtly political. Attendees and benefactors are often deeply entrenched in Louisiana’s political landscape, ranging from donors and government officials to lobbyists and their associates. This distinctive feature sets it apart from the traditional carnival spirit, infusing the event with a sense of political intrigue and influence.
A Rotating Chairmanship
The chairmanship of Washington Mardi Gras is a rotating honor, with each member of Louisiana’s congressional delegation taking turns. This year, U.S. Senator John Kennedy holds the honorary leadership position, signifying the event’s significance within Louisiana’s political circles.
Sponsors and Benefactors
The event’s sponsors reflect the symbiotic relationship between politics, business, and healthcare in Louisiana. Prominent sponsors include Ochsner Health, the state’s largest hospital system; The Magnolia Companies, owned by former state Senator Gary Smith’s family; and Jones Walker, a law firm with strong lobbying ties to Louisiana politicians. Additionally, People Who Think, a marketing firm closely aligned with Governor Jeff Landry and former President Donald Trump, plays a significant role.
A Royal Court Steeped in Politics
The royal court of Washington Mardi Gras often mirrors the political realm, with selections reflecting the event’s political undertones. This year, former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, a modern-day folk hero in Louisiana, was chosen as king. Brees, known for his apolitical stance, serves as a bridge between sports and politics. The queen, Camille Morrison, daughter of prominent commercial real estate developer and political donor Shane Morrison, further underscores the intertwined nature of politics and the event.
Official Festivities and Off-Site Gatherings
The official festivities of Washington Mardi Gras take place primarily at the Washington Hilton, renowned for its spacious ballroom. These include a Louisiana food festival, a black-tie dinner, and a traditional ball. However, numerous off-site political fundraisers and industry-related parties simultaneously occur, adding to the event’s multifaceted nature.
A Night of Fundraisers and Lobbying
Wednesday night witnessed a flurry of political fundraisers and industry-sponsored events. Four prominent fundraisers for Congresswoman Julia Letlow, Governor Jeff Landry, Attorney General Liz Murrill, and others took place, showcasing the event’s role as a platform for political fundraising. Concurrently, three industry-sponsored welcome receptions provided opportunities for business networking. Notably, these events were concentrated in a single luxury hotel near the U.S. Capitol, highlighting the proximity of politics and business interests.
Lobbyist Alton Ashy’s Lavish Events
Lobbyist Alton Ashy, known for his flamboyant style, hosted two back-to-back political fundraisers for Governor Landry, one a smaller dinner and the other a larger cocktail party. These events took place in private rooms at the Waldorf Astoria, renowned for its luxurious ambiance. Ashy’s clientele includes various entities, ranging from healthcare providers to politically influential organizations, further emphasizing the intersection of politics and business.
A Gathering of Louisiana’s Elite
The Waldorf Astoria, with its opulent setting, became a central hub for political and business leaders. Prominent figures spotted at the events included U.S. Representatives Troy Carter and Clay Higgins, former U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu, and former Governor Bobby Jindal’s former commissioners of administration. The presence of these individuals underscores the event’s significance as a gathering place for Louisiana’s political and business elite.
A Coincidence of Events and a Popular Venue
The Waldorf Astoria’s popularity among Republican D.C. Mardi Gras events stems from its ownership by former President Trump until 2022. The proximity of the hotel to the National Portrait Gallery, where natural gas company Cheniere Energy hosted a kickoff event, added to its appeal. The simultaneous occurrence of events, from fundraisers to industry gatherings, created a vibrant atmosphere and underscored the event’s multi-faceted nature.
A Unique Blend of Festivities and Politics
The Washington Mardi Gras is a unique spectacle that blends traditional carnival festivities with political maneuvering and business networking. The event’s four-day extravaganza provides a platform for political fundraisers, industry-sponsored parties, and gatherings of Louisiana’s political and business elite. Its distinctive fusion of revelry and influence underscores the complex interplay between politics, business, and social life in Louisiana.