If he never goes to jail…

…I think I can live with this.

Embattled Rep. Tom DeLay on Saturday abandoned his bid to remain as House majority leader, clearing the way for leadership elections among Republicans eager to shed the taint of scandal.

Inherent in liberalism, I think, is a certain amount of optimism, reflected in the belief that in the end, a constitutional government of laws can survive the predations of those who would betray the common good for personal wealth and power. It's always nice to see that optimism justified.

Tom DeLay is gone from the Republican leadership because the ruling principle in the Republican caucus is fear. Fear of continued disclosures. Fear of embarrassing connections. Fear of lost elections. Every one of them entangled with the Bug Man is hearing footsteps and looking for a way out, and every one of them is entangled with the Bug Man in one way or another.

Tom's done, and they're all on the run. Time to turn out the hounds!