I'm currently "attending" Texas Democratic state convention. Texas sends 11 members to the DNC, 3 of those by rule will come from my senatorial district (we are heavily democratic) we would have been able to elect all three from the progressive caucus had we met in person. Most of us in the progressive caucus are older, and each has their own connections within the party. In normal years we would have each pigeonholed a single interest delegate and swapped a vote on their issue for one on ours. Without meeting other delegates, you have very little idea who anyone is. We may elect one progressive since he is a well known party regular, but the other two will probably go to the party establishment.

There are several advantages to the virtual meet up. More resolutions can be considered over the 2 full week convention rather than the 2 and a half day in person meet up. It is not as expensive to attend. You can attend all of the caucuses you are interested in. I am normally limited to progressive, veterans and labor since they tend to schedule widely enough apart that I can attend at least some of all three.

The huge disadvantages are not actually meeting the people you have correspondence with. Not building relationships and helping people advance their projects. Not being able to vet candidates for office and positions in person. There is a huge difference in what you can learn in person versus over Zopm or email.

For me at least, it looks like it will be two more years before we can reform the DNC. It can only happen if we get involved and don't get discouraged. Right now I will have to be satisfied with the hand we have been dealt, play it out, and get back in the game.