Kevin Rudd Hosts $20,000 Pride Party in DC

Australia's US Ambassador Kevin Rudd hosted an extravagant LGBTQI+ Pride party at his Washington DC residence last June, costing around $20,000, as revealed by a Freedom of Information request. The expenses included $4,500 for balloon decorations, $10,000 for catering, and over $5,000 for entertainment, featuring Australian drag queen Kitty Glitter, who was paid approximately $3,000 plus travel costs. The guest list included notable diplomats and media figures, as well as bipartisan representatives from Congress. Rudd's tenure as ambassador has seen him embrace a lively social calendar, including a previous tennis-themed event. Kitty Glitter expressed pride in performing at the event, highlighting the supportive atmosphere for the LGBTQI+ community fostered by Rudd's government. The party exemplified a blend of political engagement and celebration of diversity in Washington's social scene.