Critics Blast Schwarzenegger's Million-dollar Inauguration Party

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is planning to celebrate his re-election with a two-day Hollywood-style party that will cost over a million dollars, drawing criticism from advocates for consumer and taxpayer rights.

The centrepiece of the extravaganza will be the former action movie star's swearing-in Friday in front of about 3,000 guests at Sacramento's historic Memorial Auditorium, where guitarist and singer Jose Feliciano will perform the national anthem.

The official event will be preceded by a swanky private dinner for big political donors the night before. It will be followed by a spate of luncheons and a gala ball featuring singers Donna Summer and Paul Anka entertaining guests who will pay at least 500 dollars each to attend.

The entire event is being organized by Carl Bendix, who is also responsible for such lavish events as the Academy Awards Governor's Ball which is regarded as the most prestigious party following the Oscars each year.

Schwarzenegger is not allowing his broken thigh to interfere with the festivities. He said in a recent statement that he is looking forward to the event, "even if it means I have to walk into my swearing-in ceremony on Crutches."

But with the cost of the parties being met by donors, critics claim that the events will leave the governor indebted to organizations that will be affected by his administration. The Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights said the parties were being funded by an "inauguration slush fund" that offered "secret access to the governor and legislators."

The governor's staff insists however that he will not be swayed by the donations, which save taxpayers expense.

Schwarzenegger "acts in what he believes to be the best interests of the people of California," spokeswoman Julie Soderlund said. "Those who contribute do so because they believe in his vision for the future of the state."