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Anthony Weiner’s Seating Arrangement Sparks Buzz at Star-Studded Inner Circle Dinner
In the high-stakes world of New York politics, perceived status can loom large, even at celebratory events. Anthony Weiner, the former congressman, became the subject of whispers and speculation at the 101st Inner Circle dinner held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom, after observers noted his placement at what appeared to be a smaller, less prominent table. The annual Inner Circle dinner is a significant event on the New York political circuit, known for bringing together media personalities and political figures.
Initial Placement and Relocation
According to an attendee at the annual event, Weiner was initially seated at a larger table but was subsequently moved. The source, speaking to Page Six, described the smaller table as a “kid’s table” or “small Weiner table,” suggesting it was due to a lack of space at the main tables. “First off,” the source recounted, “Weiner was sitting at a big table then someone tapped him on the shoulder, and he had to sit at the baby table which was right in front of the stage.”
Early Departure and Reactions
Ultimately, Weiner reportedly left the event early, departing at the first intermission. The attendee noted that his seating situation became a topic of amusement among those present: “Everyone in the room was laughing about it.”
Photographs obtained by Page Six depicted a small table for three, situated near a side exit.
Weiner Dismisses Seating Speculation
Denies Table Issue Prompted Early Exit
However, Weiner, who recently launched a campaign for New York City Council, downplayed the seating incident. He denied leaving due to any perceived slight related to his table assignment and claimed to be unaware of any issue. Via email, Weiner stated, “I have no idea what happened with the table… I think a couple of staffers for elected officials sat there or something.”
Guest of Attorney Arthur Aidala
Weiner clarified that he attended the dinner as a guest of his longtime friend and attorney, Arthur Aidala. Aidala’s client list includes high-profile figures such as Ghislaine Maxwell, Harvey Weinstein, Rudy Giuliani, and Steve Bannon. Addressing his early departure, Weiner stated via email, “As for why I left, I never stay for the whole show.”
Aidala Explains Seating Error
Table Mix-Up Attributed to Venue Mistake
Aidala provided a straightforward explanation for the seating issue. Contacted for comment, Aidala asserted, “They just screwed up… they only set this table for eight when if you looked at the table chart they had 12 names.” He attributed the situation to an honest error in table planning. Aidala explained that he initially gave his seat to Weiner and was standing with New York City Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry when event organizers recognized the issue. “They know me… and I’m standing with the deputy mayor watching the show, and they said, ‘This is unacceptable for us, we’re going to set you up,’ and they gave us this nice little table.”
Venue Resolves Issue with New Table
Another source corroborated Aidala’s account, stating that the venue addressed the seating problem by creating “their own table for three with Anthony, Kaz and Arthur.”
Aidala’s Longstanding Inner Circle Ties and Support for Weiner
Decades of Connection to the Inner Circle
Aidala emphasized his deep-rooted connection to the Inner Circle, noting that “my grandfather wrote for the Daily Mirror, he was with the Inner Circle since 1941… I’ve been going to this thing since I’m 15.”
Supporting Weiner’s Political Aspirations
Aidala also expressed his support for Weiner’s current political endeavors. “Before he was a client he was a friend,” Aidala stated, recalling their long-term relationship extending back to the 1990s. “We met on the campaign trail 1990s. I find him intriguing, he’s a great conversationalist, he’s really smart.” Aidala, who also represented Weiner during past controversies, added, “I’ve been through thick and thin with him, and we’ve had a pretty cool friendship.” He reiterated that Weiner’s early departure was to spend time with his son.
Past Attendance and Event Overview
Weiner’s Previous Gala Appearances
In 2023, reports indicated that Weiner attended the same gala with his then-estranged wife, Huma Abedin, which sparked speculation about a possible reconciliation. However, subsequent reports confirmed Abedin’s engagement to Democratic donor Alex Soros, with their wedding anticipated in June.
Inner Circle Dinner: A Political and Media Tradition
The annual Inner Circle charity event is known for bringing together members of the media and political spheres for an evening of comedic performances and satire. The Inner Circle dinner tradition provides a unique intersection of New York’s media and political elites.
2024 Event Highlights and Attendees
This year’s Inner Circle show featured comedic skits targeting Mayor Eric Adams, mayoral hopeful Andrew Cuomo, Governor Kathy Hochul, and MTA CEO Janno Lieber, among other public figures. Notable attendees included NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, former Mayor Bill de Blasio, and NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. The event continues to be a fixture in the New York political and media landscape.