Washington is currently facing some tough challenges. Federal employees often find themselves uncertain about their job security. Reporters are skeptical about support from editors when it comes to covering the realities surrounding President Trump. Lobbyists are carefully analyzing their clients to avoid being blackballed. Meanwhile, Republican politicians are anxious about potential pushbacks, while Democrats fear becoming irrelevant.
Amidst all this anxiety, a recent study highlighted in The New York Times indicates that the stress of these issues is minor compared to the greater existential concerns impacting young political and socially ambitious individuals in Washington.
To be frank, the options available can feel rather limited. Take, for example, the Metropolitan Club, arguably one of the most prestigious private venues in the area. It’s located in a rather nondescript high-rise near the White House. The place has a long list of notable members—once I had a conversation with Dick Cheney there—but if you’re seeking some real energy, Congressional Cemetery might be a better spot.
Then there’s the Cosmos Club, which is in an attractive old building on Massachusetts Avenue near Dupont Circle. Similar to the Bohemian Club in San Francisco, it attracts artists, writers, and intellectuals, adorned with photos of its Nobel and Pulitzer winners. But, yes, it can feel pretty quiet and a bit stale.
Recently, two new clubs opened their doors. Ned’s Club kicked off in late January, positioned across from the Ministry of Finance. With an initial fee of $5,000 and an annual membership of the same amount, it’s trying to draw in young professionals from both sides of the aisle. They’ve reportedly managed to attract 1,500 high-profile individuals from various administrations and notable journalists. If that sounds appealing, one anonymous member quipped to The Times that “half of the town’s lobbyists are always there.”
Another new spot is the Executive Division, established by a group led by Donald Trump Jr. This club, located in a basement beneath a Georgetown mall, boasts a steep membership fee of $500,000. Here, high-profile figures can mingle more freely, possibly even without worrying about encountering someone less prominent.
If you’re uncertain about joining any of these clubs, there’s a clear solution: skip them altogether. Making it in Washington doesn’t necessitate club memberships. There are numerous power hubs accessible just with the cost of a meal.
Take Palm Restaurants, for example. It’s a well-known gathering spot for political elites, with the walls adorned by portraits of influential figures throughout history. Even former Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe has been seen dining there on a recent Friday.
Then there’s Joe’s Seafood, a favorite for both Republican and Democrat strategists, located in a refurbished bank near Lafayette Park. Dining at the Capitol Grill feels almost like attending a GOP caucus—very informal yet political. Or, simply drop by Butterworth Capitol Hill, a known haunt of Steve Bannon.
Toratrio Alberto, once a hideaway for former House Speaker John Boehner, has hosted nightly gatherings for members of Congress from both sides. The Tune Inn is a classic no-frills bar, while Cafe Milan in Georgetown is a popular spot for people to observe Washington’s political movers and shakers.
In essence, there are ample free options for navigating the political and social ladders in Washington, making private clubs unnecessary.
In fact, regarding club memberships, the insightful Groucho Marx comes to mind. He once applied to join the Friars Club in Los Angeles but declined membership, citing a busy schedule. When the club manager pressed for another reason, Groucho humorously retorted that he simply didn’t want to belong to a club that would accept him.
This philosophy of shunning clubs has served Groucho well among the competitive circles in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Washington. It’s certainly worth considering.
