White House press secretary Jay Carney earlier today refuted the accusation that Organizing for Action, the non-profit descendent of the president’s campaign apparatus, is developing an inappropriate relationship with the White House, comparing the organization to the Democratic National Committee, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. “The president goes and speaks about his policy agenda to a variety of groups that support [his] agenda,” Carney said.
Pressed by NBC News White House correspondent Chuck Todd — “This is a group that’s planning on coordinating with the White House, is it not?” — Carney argued that OFA is merely a group that reflects the views of “ordinary Americans” and, as a result, advocates policies that will benefit ordinary Americans.
Carney’s remarks came amid news that President Obama will address OFA’s “founders summit” dinner on Wednesday. An admission ticket to the event comes at a price of $50,000, according to the New York Times.
The group came under fire shortly after its formation when it was accused of selling access to the president; critics have also expressed displeasure that, in its effort to hit a $50 million fundraising goal, OFA will accept unlimited donations from unions and individuals.