Conservative columnist Robert Novak died this morning, a little more than a year after being diagnosed with brain cancer. His wife made the announcement Monday. The veteran Washington journalist for the Chicago Sun Times was 78 years old. Here's a sampling of what conservative leaders had to say about his death.
"Bob made remarkable contributions in the field of journalism and to the American political landscape. He gave us a lifetime of dedication to the work he loved, and it is hard to imagine Washington without him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time."
-Rep. John Boehner, Minority Leader
U.S. House of Representatives
"For more than half a century, Robert Novak explained the politics and the personalities of Washington to readers across the country through a mix of tireless shoe leather reporting and the kind of keen insight that can only be gained through years and years of dedication to a craft. He was a Washington institution who could turn an idea into the most discussed story around kitchen tables, Congressional offices, the White House, and everywhere in between. Elaine and I extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Novak family."
-Sen. Mitch McConnell, Minority Leader
U.S. Senate
We've all heard the term "movers and shakers." Washington, D.C. certainly has its fair share of them, but Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX) is about to put an entirely new twist to the original meaning. DeLay announced, by Twitter, that he will be one of 16 celebrities vying for the coveted yet slightly chintzy-looking "Mirror Ball" trophy in the upcoming season of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars." The "Hammer," as he was known on Capitol Hill, has some pretty stiff competition - going up against the likes of Michael Irvin, Donny Osmond, Macy Gray, Kathy Ireland and Kelly Osbourne, to name a few. Think he doesn't stand a chance? Think again. The former Texas Congressman has a long list of factors working in his favor. First, he's a natural competitor who worked his way up from a successful Texas exterminator to the second highest ranking position in the U.S. House of Representatives. His take no prisoners political style may serve him equally as well in competitive ballroom. A savvy entrepreneur, he already launched a website cleverly dubbed, "Dancing with DeLay," which will no doubt drum up some grassroots support. Finally, DeLay says he loves dancing and claims he was quite the dancer growing up in Venezuela. DeLay will bust a move with his dancing debut Monday, September 21st.
By the way, his fist Tweet Monday morning showed some apprehension. It read, "Headed to studio for my first rehearsal and hope to meet my partner. Hoping it's not Nancy Pelosi :)"
Pretty sure he has nothing to worry about there - at least not this season.