Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett headline private White House post-Inauguration bash

Gaga impressed in elaborate white gown. Obama used occasion to thank campaign staff — honored Chicago staffer Alex Okrent who died during campaign.

Lady Gaga was joined by Tony Bennett for a performance of “The Lady Is a Tramp" at the post-Inauguration Staff Ball.

President Obama may have saved his best Inauguration party for last.
Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett were the headliners of a private post-Inauguration bash for White House, campaign and inauguration staffers to blow off steam after a grueling election season.

Obama then got serious.
“My main job here tonight,” he said, “is really simple: It’s just to say thank you. All of you have come to represent for me and Michelle our deepest hopes for America.”
“The average age here is probably around 20 something. And that’s only because I’m here, which brings the average age up, quite a bit,” he joked.
He said the skill and idealism of those in the room “makes me know that America’s future is in good hands.”
“As long as all of you understand the immense and incredible power that you possess when you work together, when you join voices,” he added.

The president ended the speech on an upbeat note – leading the crowd in his campaign chant, “Fired up! Ready to go!”
“I think Lady Gaga’s fired up, too,” Obama said.
The hottest ticket in town may also have been the cheapest. Tickets were sold to staffer for just $10. All proceeds were donated to the Alex Okrent Memorial Fund.