Pryce Reveals Election Day Details
House GOP Conf. chair Rep. Deborah Pryce (R-OH) sent a letter to colleagues today detailing the schedule of events next Thursday, when the party is set to choose a replacement for Rep. Tom DeLay.
Pryce writes that the conference will meet on 2/1 to "entertain any motion or resolution pertaining to the leadership election." Translation: motions to vacate other posts -- such as Pryce's -- would be considered at that time. Then, Rules Cmte Chairman David Dreier "will lead a discussion on lobbying and ethics reform." Pryce warns her colleagues that the session will be "lengthy."
On 2/2, the conference will meet to vote. After nominating and seconding speeches, voting begins. Candidates need a majority of the 232 voting members -- at least 117 votes -- to win. If the first ballot doesn't produce a winner, the candidate with the least number of votes is removed and balloting continues until a majority is cobbled together.
UPDATE: While on the topic of the Gentlelady from Columbus, we thought we'd note that another Pryce email came across our desk (er, screen) earlier today. This missive, also under her leadership letterhead, took a shot at the House Dems' "hypocrisy" over lobbying reform. It unearthed some oppo on Min Leader Nancy Pelosi, pointing out a '95 vote where they say she voted against a provision "to prohibit registered lobbyists from giving gifts to members, officers, or employees of the House and Senate."
A coincidence that the Conference p.r. machine would crank up a day after two other GOPers made their interest known in the gig?
how do you guys get this stuff so quickly? must be damn good reporters working at Hotline.
I hear the candidates are campaigning:
http://www.publicampaign.org/leadership