Noted teetotaler and Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney was in the Bay Area for what one of his volunteers called "a low key" fundraiser yesterday. But the strong-jawed former missionary didn't make it up to the city to convert the liberal tribes of San Francisco. Romney's event consisted of a downhome backyard barbecue and game of whiffle ball at the Portola Valley home of Sun Microsystem's CEO Scott McNealy.

According to a tweet from McNealy, some 200 supporters showed up for the opportunity to rub elbows with the former governor of Massachusetts and spill BBQ sauce on their good ties. (For what it's worth, KTVU says Mr. Romney "quickly dressed down".) According to campaign fliers, supporters were expected to pony up anywhere from $1,000 to ten grand for the event.

Fellow Republican and a Californian of dubious distinction Meg Whitman, who was recently palling around with Team Romney in Boston, reportedly dropped in to partake in grilled meats and plastic bats as well. Other attendees who were able to behold his Romness told the press that, "he looks likes he's the next president of the United States." So, in other words: a tall white guy with nice hair.

[KTVU]