President Obama talked about changing the culture of politics and government in Washington, D.C. Now, like other presidents before him, he has realized that it's a tough, perhaps impossible, thing to do.

For instance, how do you deal with people who have made large contributions to your election campaign? You try to please them and show your gratitude. President Obama is doing exactly what other presidents have done. If you give a large contribution to a president when he was a candidate, and continue to do so for his re-election campaign, you may get an appointment to an ambassadorship. Other paybacks include appointments to boards, invitations to policy briefings, holiday parties and even overnight stays at the White House. Another perk is an invitation to play golf or perhaps a game of basketball with the president.

White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said a contribution doesn't guarantee a visit to the White House but it doesn't preclude it. As expected, Republicans have called for an investigation into the Obama perks. Gibbs said the administraton has tough rules in place that "every name of every person that comes to this White House will be released."

It's the same old story. The Obama administration is continuing a practice that probably began with George Washington. There's no change!