CPAC would be incomplete without the parties. Whether an exclusive meet and greet with elected officials or the launch of a new media publication, attending a high-profile event will add to the experience at the preeminent conservative conference.
One of the most anticipated annual events during the CPAC weekend is Blog Bash. The invite-only event attracts the likes of many prominent conservative bloggers and opinion makers. Past guests have included S.E. Cupp, Andrew Breitbart, Michelle Malkin, James O’Keefe, and Dana Loesch, Additionally, elected officials and other higher profile guests drop by to give thanks to the hard working attendees.
This year’s soiree was held Thursday evening at Microsoft’s headquarters. Over 200 seasoned and rookie bloggers attended and were happy to be among the crème de la crème of the conservative blogosphere.
The atmosphere was hip, upbeat, and happening.Nominee for Best Investigative Award Christine Rousselle of Providence College, thoroughly enjoyed her time at the gathering. “I liked Blog Bash because of the variety of people there, and it was fun to mingle with everyone there.”
Investigative journalist James O’Keefe won Blog Bash’s Sun Award, given to the blogger that exposed government waste or helped increase transparency and accountability in the federal, state, or local government. Upon accepting his award, he quoted Helen Keller: “Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.”
Overall, Blog Bash lived up to expectations, despite some shortcomings. It was difficult for most paid bloggers, journalists & political consultants to land invitations, causing controversy and tension on the twittosphere. However, the actually event ran smoothly, and I’d recommend all bloggers—veteran or aspiring—to apply for credentials to attend this event in the upcoming years.
