AUSTIN -- Netroots Nation is reportedly forcing
Fox News reporters to wear badges that say “Opinion Media.” That’s funny,
because my credential just says “Media.” And Slate IS opinion media.

Anyway, a convention ID speaks a thousand words. Some
bloggers have crossed out their names and written in their blog handles. Others
have affixed colored ribbons marking them as a “Speaker” or “Sponsor.” Still others
have fashioned their own ribbons, saying “Embedded MSM Reporter,” FBI agent,
and CIA operative.

And oh, the swag. Convention
participants receive, among other things, a bright orange tote bag, free copies
of Mother Jones and The Nation, a bottle opener, a
mini-Constitution, a bag of salsa chips, a fortune cookie from 236.com, and a
condom that says “protect your constitution.” Needless to say, some of these items will get more use than others.