On Wednesday, I joined with conservative bloggers from throughout the Commonwealth in Richmond for Bloggers Day, which was hosted by Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling and his staff. Upon arriving, we were briefed by Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling, his Chief of Staff, Randy Marcus, and Tucker Martin, Director of Communications for Governor Bob McDonnell. Transportation and Economic Development legislation were the main topics discussed during the morning session.
We also heard from Bob Holsworth, Managing Partner of DecideSmart and Founder of VirginiaTomorrow.com, who talked about the 2012 U.S. Senate Race. Boyd Marcus, Partner of Marcus & Allen Consulting talked about the impact of redistricting in the 2011 elections. Del. Bill Janis (R-Goochland) and Sen. Ryan McDougle (R-Mechanicsville) talked about the issues being addressed during this General Assembly session.
The Bloggers Day festivities ended with a reception at the Governor’s Mansion. It was great talking with Governor McDonnell. The Governor’s Mansion was beautiful and well preserved.
Thanks again to the Lieutenant Governor and his staff for hosting us.
Did anyone ask Holsworth about his involvement in the VCU “One course degree program” for police chiefs?
Did anyone discuss how blog administrators (like Bearing Drift. Blue Virginia) have begun blocking opposing posts, or all posts from some contributors, rendering their blogs nothing but mouthpieces for their respective political parties?
Take a look at comments on Virginia blogs over the last year. With few exceptions, the comments are way down, and those that appear are usually sycophantic.pap, delivered via tweets..
Then there is the Norfolk based blog, that, in the face of no participation, the administrator invented a Potemkin village with a cast of fake characters, who simulate dialog on local topics.