DeLay invokes faith upon his exit

The phrase “This could be the day” holds spiritual meaning for former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, but it also can be seen as a metaphor for the Texas Republican’s legacy as he exits Congress tomorrow.

Mr. DeLay found the Bible study phrase so profound that he had it carved in wood so he could reflect on it from his Capitol Hill office.

“This could be the day that the Lord could return, or this could be the day that you die, and so you had better have your act together,” the 22-year House veteran told The Washington Times. “I just couldn’t get it out of my mind.”

Majority Whip Roy Blunt of Missouri said his friend will be remembered for his governing style and dedication to personal faith.

“He felt life is short, and you have an obligation to God to get things done,” Mr. Blunt said.

Mr. DeLay, 59, ceded his leadership post in September, when he was indicted by a Texas grand jury on money-laundering charges. In April, he announced that he wouldn’t seek re-election to his House seat after a long legislative career marked with both success and scandal.

Among his crowning achievements were welfare reform, a deal on a balanced budget and “the impeachment of Clinton,” Mr. DeLay said, smiling.

Rep. Pete Sessions, Texas Republican, said Mr. DeLay was more than just the majority leader — he led the conservative movement.

But Mr. DeLay, nicknamed the “Hammer” for his aggressive tactics, also became the poster boy for the Democrats, who this year are running against what they call a “culture of corruption” in Washington.

“Tom DeLay leaves as probably one of the most corrupt leaders in the history of the Congress,” said House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California.

The Texas probe is just one challenge facing Mr. DeLay. Officials also are examining his ties to convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Mr. DeLay’s former deputy chief of staff has pleaded guilty as part of the Abramoff corruption investigation.

The House ethics panel announced last month that it would have investigated Mr. DeLay had he not stepped down.

As he prepares to leave, Mr. DeLay’s colleagues praised his leadership methods and called him a reasonable, compassionate and dynamic gentleman.

“The zeal of the Democratic Party in going after him really is a compliment to his effectiveness as a leader,” said Rep. Louie Gohmert, Texas Republican.

Mr. DeLay said this week that Republicans will keep their majority in November so long as they remember their conservatism. Still, he is “a little bit” worried because it is “one of the toughest” years he has seen.

Story Continues →