When the sun dipped below the Washington skyline on Friday night, a glittering crowd gathered outside a downtown venue for a party that would set the tone for the week’s most watched political event: the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The host? Grindr, the popular LGBTQ+ dating app that has been quietly lobbying for HIV therapies and LGBTQ+ rights for years. The night was a mix of high‑energy dance, celebrity sightings, and a touch of political intrigue.
A Night of Glitter and Politics
The event was billed as a pre‑party for the Saturday Correspondents’ Dinner, a tradition that attracts journalists, politicians, and entertainment moguls alike. While the dinner itself is a formal affair, the Grindr bash was anything but. The venue’s entrance was lined with a queue that stretched down the block, reminiscent of the legendary Studio 54, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation.
The Crowd and the Line
Inside, the party was a mosaic of personalities. Among the most photographed were Jacob Wasserman, Charlie Cotton, and Jakson Buhaj—three friends who danced solo, together, and even with none other than former CNN anchor Don Lemon, who reportedly showed off some impressive moves. The lineup also included Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer, CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, and Joe Hack, Grindr’s head of global government affairs. These figures added a layer of gravitas to what otherwise felt like a wild night of revelry.
Food, Fashion, and Fun
Grindr’s culinary offerings were as extravagant as the crowd. Attendees sampled caviar, gummies, and truffle‑infused ice cream—a dessert that, according to Charlie, remains an acquired taste. The night’s entertainment wasn’t limited to the dance floor; Charlie Cotton took on the role of judge for a Best‑Dressed competition, awarding the title to a surprise winner who turned heads with a daring ensemble.
In addition to the food and fashion, the party featured a series of shindigs hosted by companies that also run Hollywood Oscar parties, such as CAA. While these events were plentiful, the Grindr bash stood out as the epicenter of the weekend’s social scene.
Behind the Scenes: Grindr’s Advocacy
While the party’s glittering surface was undeniable, Grindr’s presence in D.C. carried a deeper purpose. The app has long been involved in lobbying efforts for HIV therapies and LGBTQ+ rights, positioning itself as a platform that not only connects people but also champions their causes. The party was the first Grindr event during the Correspondents’ Dinner weekend, but it was far from a one‑off; the company has been active in Washington for years.
Joe Hack, Grindr’s global government affairs chief, highlighted the company’s interest in engaging with Trump administration officials, a move that underscores the app’s commitment to influencing policy on behalf of its community. The party’s timing—just before the dinner—was strategic, allowing Grindr to mingle with journalists and policymakers in a relaxed setting.
The Bigger Picture: Media and Politics
The Grindr bash was more than a party; it was a microcosm of the intersection between media, politics, and the LGBTQ+ community. With the Correspondents’ Dinner looming, journalists were eager to network, and the party offered a unique venue for informal conversations. The presence of
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