Some interesting things happening in the world of political blogging in Canada:

1. Liblogs founder Jason Cherniak publishes his Draft blog report to the Liberal Renewal Commission (and then removes it), not sure exactly why, other than it seemed, at times, a somewhat simplistic and, in some areas, flawed analysis. In a nutshell, however, the report (which admittedly was draft) provides some interesting pointers and considerations, as well as insider perspectives, on the use of blogs and outreach to the political blogging community by the Liberal party.
   
   In addition to highlighting those bloggers who he believed to be the most influential, Cherniak's comments on blogs, the media and the federal Liberal leadership race were particularly interesting, and confirms a trend that is already underway, particularly in the United States:
   
   "Almost all leadership campaigns have blog campaigns and the media has been paying attention. Bloggers have been interviewing candidates, reporting on speeches, providing analysis and organizing on the ground. Without blogs, many Canadians – journalists included – would have much less information about the different candidates."
   
   Among his proposals, Cherniak suggests that Liberals pre-announce to bloggers that a new policy direction (in a specific area) will be coming down, in order to spark discussion and buzz prior to announcing the policy in the media. He also suggests that more Senators and MP's should consider blogging, and that the Party host regular conference calls with key political bloggers. Will his suggestions be accepted? I would be curious to see any future drafts.
   
   
2. In trying to (re-)locate Mr. Cherniak's post, I came across this interesting blurb which, in my view, is even more interesting - and encouraging. It appears that Mr. Cherniak - a Liberal and co-chair of the Stephane Dion leadership campaign - had brokered an interview between Mr. Dion and a Blogging Tory. Given the tendency for politicians and political bloggers to stick to their own (and often eat their own), this effort to step outside the traditional partisan comfort zone is encouraging and deserves applause. I hope more of our politicians follow this example, and that bloggers don't waste the opportunity to spur a meaningful dialog by resorting to the usual partisan sniping, bluster, and apoplexy.