DeLay Wannabes Work the Crowd at GOP Convention

Tom DeLay did not attend the Republican Convention in San Antonio last week, and no one knows whether the soon to be ex-Congressman has put in a plug for one of the eight candidates seeking to replace him. But the contenders were all out in full force, working the precinct chairs who will choose four representatives ultimately responsible for selecting DeLay's successor.

The candidates at this point are:

State Reps. Charlie Howard of Sugar Land and Robert Talton of Pasadena, state Sen. Mike Jackson of La Porte, Houston City Councilwoman Shelley Sekula-Gibbs, Sugar Land Mayor David Wallace, lawyer Tom Campbell, former state executive committee member Tim Turner and retired Air Force major Don Richardson.

The Houston Chronicle has some select quotes from the contenders.

In printed campaign materials he handed out, Talton, a former precinct chairman and convention delegate, touted his A+ rating from the National Rifle Association and his standing as one of the most conservative members of the House. ''This is about relationships built up over many years," Talton said.

''I know the precinct chairs and delegates because I've been among them. Some people change their position on issues for political opportunity."

Shocking, I know. My faith in politicians has just taken a huge hit.

But Talton has some competition for the conservatives from Councilwoman Shelley Sekula-Gibbs.

Sekula-Gibbs gave the Republicans red meat to chew on — telling them she is anti-abortion, pro-business, for limited government, immigration reform without amnesty and lowering crime, ''since Katrina evacuees came into our life [emphasis mine]."

While we're at it, why don't we just build a wall between Texas and Louisiana?

Ms. Sekula-Gibbs seemingly has come from left field to become a major contender in this race. Apparently, her campaign mailings claim support from money-bags Bob Perry, which makes her definitely one to watch.