Democratic U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota has been chosen as one of two featured speakers for the National Press Club's 103rd presidential black-tie inaugural gala in Washington on Jan. 30.
Klobuchar's reputation for biting wit took off last winter at the Washington Press Club Foundation's dinner.
"I raised $17,000 from ex-boyfriends -- true story!" was one of her setup lines. "I know that is the record in the Senate, but in the House it's held by Barney Frank." Roars of laughter, even from Frank, the openly gay House member from Massachusetts.
Incoming National Press Club president Alan Bjerga, 36, of Bloomberg News begins his one-year term Friday.
Bjerga, who covers agricultural policy for Bloomberg News in Washington, is a Minnesota native. He began his career with the St. Paul Pioneer Press and also reported for the Sioux Falls Argus Leader.
Entertainment for the evening gala will be provided by Honky Tonk Confidential, the band led by Bob Schieffer, host of CBS' "Face the Nation."
PAUL WALSH
