11. There is also the potential for the creation of a giant patronage mill, with ministers using jobs to reward friends or to build a power base. 12. They reward their friends and punish their enemies. 13. White House ceremonies are inexhaustible political currency for presidents, who can use the grandeur of the White House to soften up foes and reward friends. 14. Yet officials concede that the inaugural must serve as a way for the Getty to acknowledge longtime supporters and reward steadfast friends from over the years. |