Presidents may place restrictions on the festivities, as Obama did in 2009. That year, his inaugural committee banned contributions from corporations, labor unions, and federally registered lobbyists, among others. It also capped individual contributions at $50,000.
But subsequent presidential inaugurations have become increasingly accepting of big-dollar contributions from corporate entities, many of which routinely attempt to win government contracts, influence government policy, and otherwise woo politicians.
In 2013, Obama loosened many restrictions and decided to
accept corporate cash to help fund a
multi-day roster of events, in which Biden participated as vice president.
Dozens of companies and trade groups eagerly obliged. AT&T, Microsoft, aerospace giant Boeing, and oil company Chevron each gave at least $1 million, with many more giving six-figure amounts.