In an interview on CNN, outgoing Social Secretary Desiree Rogers, expressed openness in having average people attend White House functions. When asked back in February 2009 about having average people, such as having Joe the Plumber “mixing it up” with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown or French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Rogers responded “Why not?”
Roughly nine months after this interview, Michaele and Tareq Salahi, “crashed” an official state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Desiree Rogers, as the chief coordinator of White House social engagements, was held accountable by many for allowing uninvited guests to gain access to the event.