Campaign cash covers Louisiana officials tabs at Washington Mardi Gras
Each year, thousands of Louisiana residents kick off carnival season at one of the state’s premiere annual political events, Washington Mardi Gras.
The rolling, four-day festival features a formal ball, industry group luncheons, panel discussions, fundraisers and plenty of parties thrown by the politically connected. Private businesses the government regulates are among the most visible sponsors of the event.
Washington Mardi Gras costs thousands of dollars for an individual to attend, and people in public office dip into their campaign funds to help cover the cost. Their expenses include plane tickets, hotel stays, krewe dues, event tickets and formal attire.
Louisiana elected officials and candidates spent a total of $605,000 from their campaign accounts and political action committees (PACs) on the 2023 celebration of D.C. Mardi Gras, according to a review of state and federal campaign finance reports by the Louisiana Illuminator. The documents include spending from July 2022 through June 2023.
https://lailluminator.com/2024/02/05/campaign-cash-covers-louisiana-officials-tabs-at-washington-mardi-gras/