November 19, 2007
Netroots Nation 2008 Coming to Austin
Formerly known as Yearly Kos, Netroots Nation is expected to draw more than 2,500 participants for the July 17-20 event. At their 2006 meeting, about 2,100 bloggers and reporters attended, along with several Democratic presidential candidates.
"There are many reasons that we chose Austin," organizers said in their announcement. "I was most compelled because the hotel rate was $25 better than the other city. But it also gives me piece (sic) of mind to know the venue can handle our technical needs because they host South by Southwest every year."
The group also mentioned the large number of local volunteers, easy access to the convention center, and the many food options among the items that drew them to Austin.
Another attraction almost certainly was the opportunity to influence several Texas campaigns where a Democratic candidate might successfully challenge a Republican incumbent. Rep. Rick Noriega of Houston, for example, appeared at the group's 2007 meeting and is expected to return. Noriega, who is challenging John Cornyn for a U.S. Senate seat, has become a favorite candidate of the Netroots Nation.
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