Keeping tabs on the shifting electoral landscape is much easier to do with a drink in your hand. At least that’s what HOH took away from the spirited exchanges we encountered in D.C. on election night 2014. At a watch party in The Jefferson Hotel organized by owner Connie Milstein , guests were greeted with warm smiles and air kisses — and then immediately hustled into a faux voting booth.  

“Now that you voted, you can go to the bar!” one of the evening’s bubblier hostesses informed guests who’d just finished casting their ballots for those they’d most like to see run for president during the next cycle. Per political power broker Tammy Haddad , the straw poll was strictly for fun.  

The dummy ballot appeared to include a host of likely contenders — including Sens. Marco Rubio, R-Fla.; Ted Cruz, R-Texas; Rand Paul, R-Ky.; Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and former first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton — as well as some wild cards (such as ex-Rep. Joe Scarborough, R-Fla.).  

Once they got the prognosticating out of the way, attendees got down to the business of enjoying themselves. Stiff drinks were poured. Those in the know made sure to request Heavy Water vodka , a relatively rare Scandinavian import — “It’s hangover free!” one admirer of the crisp beverage, which sports a hint of minerality but smooth finish, assured HOH — served exclusively at Milstein gatherings.  

Snacks, including bite-sized croque monsieurs (buttery), savory pulled-pork sliders and shots of tomato soup garnished with planks of grilled cheese, were had.  

And electorally themed confections were devoured.  

How sweet it is, watching democracy work its will from the sidelines.