As I reported earlier, columnist Robert Novak visited the Heritage Foundation today to talk to conservative bloggers about a variety of issues related to politics and media. He’ll be dropping by again on Thursday for a public lecture related to his new book, “The Prince of Darkness.”

After listening to Novak’s pessimistic view about the state of the Republican Party, I now have a better understanding why he earned that nickname. I’ve posted some video clips for your viewing pleasure. They include his answers to questions about rising stars in conservative politics, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s performance, the role of journalism and blogging in today’s world, and an analysis of the 2008 presidential contest.

For more coverage of Novak’s visit, I hope you’ll check out reports by Joe Mansour, Eric Pfieffer and Matt Sheffield. We had 55 bloggers at today’s meeting, so I certainly hope there are others.