It's the time of year again. That's right, it's time for the annual Netroots Nation Spring Grassroots Fundraiser in Washington, DC. A time where we can gather for laughs and drinks (and hear from some of our favorite members of Congress!)
So who will be there this year, you ask?
This year we're welcoming....
Sen. Jeff Merkley
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand
Rep. Brad Miller
Rep. Earl Blumenauer
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And as anyone who has been to one of these knows, there are always some GREAT surprise guests.
The first year we did this event, in 2007, the surprise was Sen. Jon Tester. And what a surprise it was! Even though I was coordinating the event, and I knew we'd invited Sen. Tester, I never got confirmation that he'd be there so I literally learned about his attendance when he walked in the door! In addition to Sen. Tester we heard from Sen. Russ Feingold and Reps. Brad Miller and John Hall.
Last year, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand wanted so badly to come (despite an unavoidable scheduling conflict) that she came by early and the only people there were some volunteers setting up (I actually missed her because I was out buying ice). But her schedule is more cooperative this year and we're excited she can attend when there will actually be people there for her to chat with!
In fact, Rep. Brad Miller and Sen. Feingold have been at EVERY one of these events. Unfortunately, Sen. Feingold can't make it this year, but Rep. Miller will keep his streak alive and join us again.
Over the years we've been lucky to be joined by many great Members of Congress. Rep. Earl Blumenauer is a 2-time guest who will be there again this year!
I heard Rep. Raul Grijalva speak for the first time last year at this event and I was really impressed with him. He is a Congressmen who flew under the radar until recently ascending to co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. And he is a guy who clearly is still very close to his organizing roots. You can hear it in his voice when he talks, you can tell he isn't just listing talking points but really fighting to help those who need it most.
Throughout the last three years we've also be graced with the presence of Rep. Lloyd Dogget, Rep. Paul Hodes, Rep. Steve Cohen, Rep. Jerry McNerney and Rep. Rush Holt just to name a few.
Who will be the surprise guests this year? Make your guesses in the comments and come next Wednesday to see for yourself!
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I should probably state for the record that we'd prefer to announce everyone beforehand but some members schedules are so tight that they don't know if they're able to attend until just before the event.
I also can't let this post go without mentioning our DFA Scholarship Program for NN10. Apply now and get folks to vote you up and you can go to NN on a DFA Scholarship!DFA Scholarship Program to NN10