It’s the early afternoon, it’s hot in here, and things have devolved into something those of us in the conference-infiltrating profession refer to as a shitshow. After a massive line formed for Gov. Romney’s appearance, the hordes of star-struck conservatives, of every age and (not really) color have been unable to return to normal panel-attending mode. Ann Coulter, who either has not appeared yet or is already doing book signings, has apparently caused a similarly massive line to form. Because of this, I’m missing out on the conservative journalism and blogger awards, sure to be a simultaneously disheartening and hilarious exercise in irony. (Yesterday, Michelle Malkin received an “accuracy in media” award). While I wait to get some idea of the updated schedule, I figure it’s as good a time for some general reflections.

The straw poll: They take this really seriously, each campaign choosing it’s most attractive and bubbly female operatives to hand out stickers, posters, and while flirting, suggest you attend their speech and vote for them. Also, there is one person shrilly screaming something about “John Cox for President.” Nobody knows what to make of it. Similarly, they seem to be inconsolably offended by John McCain’s snub of CPAC.

The Attendees: It seems to be an even split between old folks and students, or maybe a 60/40 split. The students are often found meandering through the halls, the exhibition booths, and the lobby, but are less well-represented in actual panel discussion audiences. In fact, yesterday’s Grover Norquist-headlined flat-tax-fiesta seemed entirely populated by men who could be Dick Cheney’s body doubles.  

Random observations: In a completely packed room full of tables, the Tom DeLay exhibit was sadly desolate and ignored. That girl yelling something about someone named John Cox will be the death of me. It is really difficult to come up with good reasons why one can't sumbit his email address to your crazy list. Mitt Romney is being accused of flip-floppery in increasingly creative ways, first with actual Romney “flip-flops” being handed out, later with a man in a full-body dolphin suit with “Flip Romney” written on it.

Also, while I may mock some of these kids for being star-struck, I have to admit, I’m not above it either. Stay tuned for more photos, but for now, here's a peak (after the jump) at the hip-crowd at the Young Republican's table.