It was, Sen. Hillary Clinton’s supporters say, a normal fundraising luncheon.

In 90 minutes Monday at a Country Club Plaza-area home, she took in at least $40,000 for her Senate re-election campaign.

But when you’re a former first lady and potential presidential candidate, nothing is normal.

Clinton did not announce the fundraising event in advance, and on Tuesday, politicians in both parties called that unusual.

Republicans say she tried to hide her visit because she’s too liberal for Missouri.

And some Democrats grumbled about the potential financial loss for statewide candidates, like Senate hopeful Claire McCaskill.

Those critics did not attend the fundraiser at the home of Herb Kohn, a lawyer and adviser to Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes. Those who were there raved about her performance.

“Hillary is a breath of fresh air, which I think we need,” said Democrat Karen Herman. “We need some counterpoint to the Republican administration, not only the executive branch, but also the legislative branch.”

But the Missouri GOP claimed Democrats kept the visit secret on purpose because Clinton is out of step with Missourians.

“It makes perfect sense,” said GOP spokesman Paul Sloca. “The Democrats know and Hillary Clinton knows that she does not represent Missouri values in any way, shape or form. It makes sense for her to sneak in and then zip right out.”

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