KC Buzz Blog

Post looking dicey for Tiahrt?

   The Hill reports that a "major fight is brewing among conservatives" over who will chair the Republican Study Committee. Reps. Jeb Hensarling of Texas and Todd Tiahrt of Kansas have been seeking support. Rep. Steve King of Iowa is also in the mix.

   Remaining RSC founders were expected to nominate Tiahrt, but that seems less certain this week. Many staffers consider Tiahrt as the leadership-backed candidate who "would mute the influence of conservative agitators."

Posted by Keith Chrostowski

Tiahrt?

   On the Foley scandal, The Political Hotline online newsletter just reported:

   Ex-leadership aide: "I was surprised when (House Speaker Dennis Hastert) said two months ago that he would stick it out til the end of Bush's term, but I think this changes even that. I think that neither party will have a governing majority after election day, no matter who wins. That means folks like (Illinois GOP Rep. Ray) LaHood and (Kansas GOP Rep. Todd Tiahrt) will all be coming out of the woodwork to run for office (everyone but (Majority Leader John Boehner is in play in my mind). I also don't think the elections will be held that first week back. I think leadership will take the temp of the Conference, and postpone leadership elections until" December. "Then I think Denny announces he will step down. But keep in mind he's a coach, and coaches like to go out on a good note, so that's the only x-factor that I can't work in the equation right now."

Posted by Keith Chrostowski