The American Democracy Institute held it's first leadership forum in 2008 at the Mountain View, Googleplex this weekend. This conference was chalked full of young, hip, and influential activists from all over the United States. The event began with a small pre-party at Circa in San Francisco's Marina District on Friday. Champagne, Lotus Vodka, and some of the best Hors' d'oeuvres I have had in a while (were talking Lobster Corn Dogs). A short speech from Garrett Graff the author of "The First Campaign: Globalization, The Web and the Race of the White House" , started the weekend off with commentary on the surprising success of viral marketing, social networks, email which has led presidential candidates like Barack Obama to raise millions of dollars in just weeks. Not from deep pocketed lobbyists but from concerned and excited individuals and families from all across the country. Garrett planted the idea that we are the change, and our knowledge and use of technology and the internet will greatly change politics forever. Below is a couple video of the guest speakers.
