Mitch McConnell knows enthusiasm isn't free!

It was one of the great unanswered questions of the 2014 campaign: How in the world would the uninspiring Mitch McConnell build "enthusiastic" crowds to bring his campaign across the finish line?

Now we know the answer—with a checkbook.

McConnell will pay expenses in return for 'enthusiasm' at events

The Kentucky Republican Party is offering volunteers all-expenses-paid trips to join Sen. Mitch McConnell's (R-Ky.) campaign bus tour and "contribute to an enthusiastic atmosphere" at his events.

In exchange for transportation, meals, and lodging, the state GOP expects the lucky few chosen for the ride to "join local supporters in contributing to an enthusiastic atmosphere at each of his events."

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I can't say that I'm surprised that McConnell has to resort to such tactics to get people to show up at his campaign events—after all, other than Barack Obama, McConnell is the most unpopular politician in Kentucky. Still, it's pretty embarrassing, so much so that The Hill couldn't get anyone from Team McConnell to talk with them about the story:

Neither the Kentucky GOP nor McConnell's campaign responded to request for comment.

Can't blame them for not wanting to talk about this. Plus, they were probably busy trying to figure out how much cash to set aside for Election Day "enthusiasm." 12:45 PM PT:

Grimes camp on McConnell's paid volunteers: "On the plus side, these might be the only jobs he’s actually helped create in 30 years.” #kysen
— @joesonka