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| BREAKING--MURTHA V. HOYER: |
| 2006-06-09 |
| HT Frank G Major news from the House: Pennyslvania Congressman John Murtha has begun delivering a letter to his Democratic House colleagues announcing plans, should Democrats retake the House this fall, to seek the number-two job of House Majority Leader. This would almost certainly entail a showdown with the current House Minority Whip, Steny Hoyer. I just called Murtha's press secretary, who confirmed the letter and read me the following statement from Murtha: Our goal is to win the House back and if there is an open seat I'm the candidate. As readers will probably know, Murtha is a close ally of Nancy Pelosi who favors a fast withdrawal from Iraq. Hoyer is more inclined to tough it out in Iraq, and has a long history of friction with Pelosi. Update: Steny Hoyer's office has given me its own statement in response: Mr. Hoyer has worked extraordinarily hard to unify the caucus and take back the House for Democrats and that is his first focus. As a result of that unity he is confident that we will be successful in November and intends to run for Majority Leader. He believes his work as whip, caucus chair, and with the DCCC has earned the support of the overwhelming majority of House Democrats. Adds a senior Democratic aide: "A lot of members are very angry that Jack Murtha has decided to blow up the caucus and declare a leadership race when we are the most unified we've been in years. We're really focused on taking back the house and should not be distracted with a leadership race. It's going to be a huge diversion." This could get ugly. More soon. Lots more, I hope. |
| Posted by:Nimble Spemble |
| #3 This is a DREAM action for the Republicans. Gives them terror ammo for fall election. |
| Posted by: 3dc 2006-06-09 23:03 |
| #2 thx for the HT NS! |
| Posted by: Frank G 2006-06-09 20:55 |
| #1 His P/R has gone to his head. When's he up for re-election? |
| Posted by: anonymous2u 2006-06-09 20:21 |