Party Report: Weekly Standard's Tenth Anniversary
The most impressive aspect of the Weekly Standard's 10th anniversary party last night was what they didn't do. There were no speeches, no awards, no toasts. The magazine's founders --Bill Kristol,Jon Podhoretz, andFred Barnes-- didn't need to remind themselves (or their guests) of the magazine's accomplishments: We're living them. Nothing says "Republicans control all three branches of government!" like Here, have some lobster! I think the mini-brownies represented self-congratulations over invading Iraq. And the postcard-perfect view of the Capitol from the party's rooftop locale? "Fuck you, Nancy Pelosi."
Continued after the jump.
It would be easier to point readers to the magazine's masthead than to list all the conservative luminaries that made the scene, so before we tire, a quick list of the non-neo-cons in attendance: Mr. Wonkette finished his first drink talking toBill Powersof the National Journal and Reason editorNick Gillespieand got his second before chatting withHowie Kurtz.Ron Brownsteinblessed the event with his must-read presence and smiled beatifically throughout. "Hardball's"Tammy Haddadairkissed her way through the room andJoe Liebermanleft with his copy of the magazine rolled up like pornography.
Now, the conservatives. Deep breath.John McCainwandered through at one point and if you beg we'll post the picture Atlantic editorJosh Greentook of a tipsyKatherine Harriswith her arm draped around a yet-to-be-tipsy Wonkette.John Ashcroftposed with admirers, as didP.J. O'Rourke.Bob NovakandBill Fristtraded pet euthanasia tips whileJon Podhoretzplayed-guess-the-blurbers for "Dog Days." (Frist was actually quite charming and promised to read the book, too. My cats will never speak to me again.) A slightly dazedDavid Brooks("35 hours of hearings..." he mumbled) offered guesses for John Roberts' other favorite movies ("Advise and Consent," he said, while we offered "Wizard of Oz"). National Review'sByron Yorkthrew "business attire" to the wind and showed up very blue-state-looking in a blazer and jeans.Rupert Murdochwas elfin and gracious, short for a billionaire. And, towards the end of the evening, the Standard's ownMatt Labash(set to bear the gonzo mantle for our generation) promised to introduce me to Kristol. Not only did Kristol hear out my subscription complaint, he agreed to pose with the Wonkettes. Gillespie was on hand to snap the shot and before he clicked the shutter he urged: "Smile and say 'quagmire'!"
I countered with "Go war!", and in the aftermath of the flash Kristol patted my back and smiled: "Thank you -- that was insincere, but I appreciate it."