The Devil You Know

I've been slow to support any of the Democrats planning to run against Sherwood Boehlert (R-NY 24th district). I was thinking of directing my attention to another district - say the 29th - where defeat of a Republican is much more important. In my mind Boehlert has been a reminder of the possiblity of bipartisan progress. His good environmental voting record and leadership of the Science and Technology Committee in the face of incredible opposition have set important standards for moderate Republicans. On Friday, at the same time Boehlert announced his decision not to run again, The Hill wrote: "GOP insiders were not surprised by his announcement given that ... House GOP leaders are considering a plan to abolish the Science Committee..." (Thanks to PM Bryant at B and B for that lead.)

A March 2005 report from Congressional Research Service summarizes efforts to reorganize congressional committees to reflect Homeland Security reorganizaiton in the Executive Branch.

So, now I'm going to have to pay attention to the 24th district race. Thanks to Simon at Living in Dryden for pointing me to Take Back NY's 24th for all you need to know about the race in this district.