CBS News conducted an undercover camera investigation at a recent GOP fundraiser for freshmen congressmen at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Fla., organized by the National Republican Congressional Committee, which lobbyists and campaign donors attended. The video offers a rarely-seen window into the world of fundraising, which is crucial to campaigns.
On the invite list were Reps. Sandy Adams (R-Fla.), Quico Canseco (R-Texas), Rick Crawford (R-Ark.), Bob Dold (R-Ill.), Sean Duffy (R-Wis.), Stephen Fincher (R-Tenn.), Mike Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Daniel Webster (R-Fla.), Mike Grimm (R-N.Y.), Nan Hayworth (R-N.Y.), Jim Renacci (R-Ohio) and Cory Gardner (R-Colo.).
Politico recently reported that Republican donors, dismayed by their chances in the 2012 presidential race, have focused more on holding onto House seats and taking control of the Senate.
Democrats, of course, hold fundraisers too. President Barack Obama is going to Chicago and Atlanta for five fundraisers Friday, including one at film producer Tyler Perry's home, which will raise $35,800 per guest.
Money can be crucial enough to put a hold on campaigning. GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney was forced to spend two days this week in New York to hold fundraisers. He raised about $3 million.
CBS News investigative correspondent Sharryl Attkisson conducted the report.