120 bloggers get access to DNC

DENVER - Four years ago, around 30 online writers were given access to the Democratic National Convention in Boston. This time around, that number quadrupled.

120 bloggers have been credentialed to cover the DNC in Denver.

That group leans primarily to the left politically and includes at least one blogger from each state and a large contingent from Colorado.

The strong showing demonstrates the influence the blogosphere has picked up over the years.

"Our goal has always been to bring down the walls of the convention, bringing as many people into the process as possible," said Aaron Myers, director of online communications for the DNC. "These blogs help us do that."

Jeralyn Merritt, creator of TalkLeft.com, is one of the Colorado bloggers planning to report from inside the Pepsi Center and Mle High at INVESCO Field.

"We bring a certain enthusiasm to the coverage that the independent media can't," she said.

Merritt says she and the rest of the bloggers are going to employ the latest technology to deliver video and written observations instantaneously.

Also, expect hundreds, if not thousands, of political bloggers who aren't credentialed to post their thoughts about the convention.

In fact, an enormous tent will stand next to the Alliance Center downtown in order to house around 500 left-wing bloggers.

Right-wing bloggers plan to jump into the fray as well.

Brad Jones, managing editor of the conservative, Denver-based Web site FaceTheState.com, plans to offer up blogs that scream originality.

"The best stories here are going to be outside of the Pepsi Center. They're going to be on the streets of Denver," he said.

And if he gets lucky, he jokes, he'll get an exclusive interview with Nancy Pelosi.