Salon.com News | The most secure ceremony in U.S. history: "Democrats have called the celebrations a tasteless display of excess, saying tradition dictates that wartime inaugurations are restrained affairs. Republicans reply that the whole event is dedicated to U.S. soldiers serving abroad: It is subtitled 'Celebrating Freedom and Honoring Service.' They also point out that the bill will be paid entirely by private contributions. Direct campaign donations to candidates for office are not allowed and there are strict limits on individual contributions, but these do not apply to inaugurations and corporations have lined up to demonstrate their support. Their limit is $250,000.

Some companies, such as Marriott Hotels, have got around that by arranging donations from subsidiaries. Other big givers include Ford, ExxonMobil and defense contractor Northrop Grumman. In return, company executives will get tickets to the ceremony and balls. Political watchdogs are asking what else they will receive once the administration gets down to making policy."

(Via Salon.)