A record number of blogs will receive credentials for the 2008 Democratic National Convention -- connecting audiences around the world with the sights and sounds of this historic event. Never before have blogs been included in such strong numbers and provided with resources that will enable them to be the eyes and ears of so many at the Convention.

The following blogs have been credentialed: 

Over the last 24 hours, we have seen some great posts from bloggers selected to be part of the Democratic National Convention’s first ever State Blogger Corps.  We have been particularly impressed with the response from bloggers in the Western region. Just a few of our favorites are listed below. And as part of the announcement, DNC Chairman Gov. Howard Dean gave an exclusive interview to Aaron Silverstein of SquareState.net, the blog selected to represent Colorado. To read Aaron’s complete interview, click here:

http://squarestate.net

Gov. Dean also recorded videos to congratulate the state blogs – you can watch two of them here:
http://www.democracyfornewmexico.com
http://hummingbirdminds.blogspot.com

Months ago, we began the process of credentialing bloggers who cover state and local politics, as part of the DemConvention State Blogger Corps.  More than 400 blogs applied for the program.  And they’re incredible.  Some blogs are the work of dedicated groups of activists, a few are full-time professional endeavors, and many others are the products of busy individuals blogging about local politics in their free time.  Those selected to be part of our State Blogger Corps were announced today.  And in every case, these bloggers have become experts on the political happenings in their states.

You’ll see a list below of the 55 blogs that will comprise the State Blogger Corps.  They’ll be seated with their respective delegations at the Convention.  These bloggers will have some of the best seats in the house and they’ll be the eyes and ears of local audiences online around the country.  DNC Chairman Howard Dean recorded a message to introduce the program – so I’ll let him explain the rest.

Is one of your favorite blogs missing from the list?  We had hundreds of great applicants and only a few spots.  The Convention staff will work hard to be sure bloggers can cover the Convention from Denver or wherever they may be – with unprecedented access.  And wait a few weeks.  We’ll soon announce the Convention’s General Blogger Pool, an additional list of diverse blogs covering national politics, niche issues, and more state and local topics.

Congratulations to each blog selected for the State Blogger Corps.  I’ll see you in Denver!

With media credential deadlines approaching, we made a major announcement today about access for state bloggers at the Democratic National Convention. Watch the video below and read our press release for full details.