Delay Doesn't Delay

Trying to sneak through without notice in the news cycle, Delay sent out his resignation letter:

From his press office:

WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Tom DeLay (R-Texas) sent the following letter to members of the House Republican Conference, explaining his decision to permanently step down as majority leader:
Dear Colleague,

Today, I have asked Speaker Hastert to convene our conference for the purpose of electing a new majority leader, the position I have been honored to fill these past three years through the trust and confidence of our colleagues.

During my time in Congress, I have always acted in an ethical manner within the rules of our body and the laws of our land. I am fully confident time will bear this out.

However, we live in serious times and the United States House of Representatives must be focused on the job of protecting our nation and meeting the daily challenges facing the American people. History has proven that when House Republicans are united and focused, success follows.

While we wage these important battles, I cannot allow our adversaries to divide and distract our attention. I will continue to stand up for the issues I care so deeply about and work with you all on these priorities. I am constantly thankful for the support of my constituents in recent days as well as over the years they have allowed me to serve them. I will continue to work every day to fulfill their trust, and yours.

Regards,

Tom DeLay

Update: If it was up to me, Congressman Bill Thomas (R-Bakersfield) would be the next Majority Leader. He's just as tough as Delay, but much smarter. Blunt was the nice guy who was supposed to soften the edge of Delay -- I don't think he's shown that he's tough enough to be the leader. Boehner is known to be lots of fun, but is he smart enough? Congressman Thomas is the one who has successfully carried the very toughest and most important legislation -- Tax Cuts - Tax Cuts - Tax Cuts! And if you care about Social Security reform (which you ought to care about) he's the only one who will tackle it.