Democrats to Stage Pricey Fund-Raiser

Struggling to reduce its $15-million debt, the Democratic Party has invited donors to pay $50,000 for a Florida weekend retreat featuring President Clinton, Vice President Al Gore, a sprinkling of senators, House members and administration officials, and perhaps a Cabinet secretary or two. Political party committees often sponsor luxurious getaways as part of the package of perks they provide their biggest contributors. But the Democratic National Committee “autumn retreat” is unusual in that the price of admission for the weekend alone is so steep. The retreat, planned for Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, is also believed to be the first such event involving a sitting president and vice president.