On Feb. 12, 1989, Roll Call published a photo page recounting the Washington Press Club Foundation’s party to welcome the 101st Congress. The club hosted a “circus,” hiring the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to entertain new and returning members.  

Rep. Patricia Schroeder, D-Ore., seemed a bit apprehensive about being “dusted” by a clown.  

Sens. Barbara A. Mikulski, D-Md., and Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., were photobombed by a clown sporting an afro.  

Sen. Alan K. Simpson, R-Wyo., stole the show with his own circus tricks, such as juggling. Apparently, clown Aaron Tudor was not appreciative of the added entertainment.  

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