Obama met with conservative “Blue Dog” congressional Democrats today. For readers outside the US: A “Blue Dog” is someone who is affiliated with the  democratic party – but votes conservative.

I know that sounds odd – but we don’t have 3rd parties here. Many argue we don’t have two – but that’s a discussion for another day.

The meeting went twice as long as scheduled, and Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, D-S.D., says the chance to articulate the positions of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition of House Democrats directly to President Barack Obama is important as Congress makes vital decisions about the economy.

Forty-three of the 49 coalition members met with Obama for an hour Tuesday evening in the White House. Herseth Sandlin, the group’s co-chair for administration, set up the meeting the group asked for a couple of weeks ago. She said she sat directly to the president’s right and kicked off the session.

Story on Siox City Journal (via AP)

What’s particularly interesting is that the “Progressive” congressional Democrats (eg: The folks who actually are going to support Obama’s agenda.) have yet to hear back from the President.

The next link is a good snapshot on how liberals consider the meeting a personal snub against them.

Almost a month ago the Progressive Caucus sent a letter to the White House requesting access. They have not gotten an answer yet.

Today the Blue Dogs are meeting with the president.

Story on DemocraticUnderground