(I updated/changed the video of Franken's speech below.)
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas to attend Netroots Nation 2010, the largest gathering of progressive activists and bloggers ever - around 2100 registered! I had a great time and met lots of passionate, progressive folks from across the country. I also had the chance to catch up with several friends that I've met and worked with through my involvement with New Leaders Council, the Truman National Security Project, and the National Democratic Law Students Council.
While I was there, I represented the Daily Kingfish as the leader of the Southern Caucus discussion, and we were honored to be joined in our roundtable talk by Arkansas Lt. Gov. Bill Halter. For more on my personal experience, check out my tweets @MattBailey and @DailyKingfish.
The conference included dozens of fantastic panels, trainings, and speeches. President Obama even recorded a message for the occasion:
If you are involved in progressive politics or activism, I would encourage you to consider attending next year's Netroots Nation in Minneapolis - June 16-19. While I wasn't sure what to expect, I found out that it is not just for bloggers. Indeed, it is a very valuable experience for anyone interested in being a leader in the progressive movement.
Finally, check out some great outtakes from the closing keynote by Senator Al Franken in which he called this year's convention "the most exciting political gathering of the year without guns." It was serious yet comical, engaging, and motivational. Enjoy:
