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Last year, after attending my first BlogHer conference, I was a little put out when I discovered that most of the Democratic presidential candidates were making appearances at The Yearly Kos conference just one week later (now called Netroots Nation) and not BlogHer.
Having heard more times than I care to count that women voters are the key demographic to winning elections -- especially this election -- it just didn't make sense. Of course, I was thrilled that Elizabeth Edwards was hanging out with us BlogHer chicks, but it's a different message to send a spouse rather than the candidate him- or herself.
I hoped that would change this year, especially with the general election just four months away.
But I haven't heard anything about either Barack Obama or John McCain speaking to us "powerful blogger ladies" at next week's BlogHer conference. I suppose it's possible they could make a surprise appearance, but I'm guessing their calendars for next week are pretty much set and I haven't heard that either one of them will have time for the women who have been named the Number One most influential women bloggers in America.
Can you say short-sighted?
So here are a few reasons I think the candidates should consider whether they can make a quick stop in San Francisco next week -- hey, we'll be there for a few days, so we're flexible:
1. Your women's agendas. Barack, come on -- we're about a thousand women with blogs all in one place and we're not afraid to use them. Didn't you hear Katie Couric talking about how many others are out there? 36 million?? Dude, that's a lot of free publicity you're turning your back on. You're supposedly the 'new media' candidate, so come on by next week -- we'll fit you into the schedule.
John, you're a little light on women's content at your place. I know you've got Carly Fiorina out there on the stump for you -- and she was pretty straightforward about talking with insurance companies covering birth control pills as well as Viagra, but you seemed pretty uncomfortable with that one, so maybe you can just chat with us about that.
2. Women who aren't yet convinced. I'm sad to say I'm one of them. I'd love for Obama to swing by San Fran and convince those of us (and I know there will be others there who are in the same boat I am) to seal the deal with us. After all, we are "powerful blogger ladies" ... at least according to WE TV. And I know that while I'm not the kind of girl to consider voting for McCain, there are plenty of BlogHer attendees who would and McCain could probably use some shoring up of his women's support.
3. Do it for Malia and Sasha. I know you have said you regret letting your daughters have a few minutes of air time on a recent interview (for the record, I think you are mistaken and that it was a fabulous opportunity). But wouldn't it be a good thing to let them know that you think a women's conference is a good place to spend your time looking for votes? I know that PunditGirl would think it was a good use of your campaign time, and she's a shrewd one.
4. Do it for Meghan and Bridget. McCain, you've got daughters, too. and while they're older than Malia and Sasha, I'm sure they'd love to see you reaching out to women with blogs. Hey -- Meghan has one, so I know you can relate.
5. We are the majority. It's not like women voters are a special interest group. Women make up the majority of America. Really. I have this on very good authority. And in this day and age of $4.50 a gallon gas, global warming and food crises, there is no group that is more political than mothers. Just ask your wives -- they'll vouch for that.
So Barack and John, I know I'm not one of your paid consultants. But if I was, I would tell you to do some schedule juggling and
