Perhaps this is a little premature. The
Republicans need to focus on electing a minority leader since we Democrats plan on changing the make-up of the House in 2008.

wow. if i was a new member in 08 id be more than a little unhappy in having no say as to my leadership.

Well, Ben its not like the GOPers in charge in Jeff City have alot of regard for democratic practices...just look at some the legislation that has been passed over the past few terms...

Brian, Brian...that's almost laughable.

First off, it will be highly unlikely for the GOP not to be in control of the State Legislature when 2008 comes along.
Second, they realize the importance for them to put together a team to lead them into 2008 and avoid internal backstabbing and power plays during the campaign. They need to be on the same page going into the election. It is no different than what Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats did this year.

if you think the republicans are going to lose 11 seats in 2008 you are so sadly mistaken. The MO Demo Party is in such disarray they couldn't even capitalize on the huge democratic national movement.

Honestly 2008 will remain republican. Next year there are only about 20ish seats open. ANd many are in very very safe republican districts and democratic districts. The best chance for Dems is 2010 when the next big round of term limits hit and something around 75 members seats are then open seats.

One question to ask is, since this is going to be a fairly large term-limited class, Which of the leading candidates already has his hand in recruiting people to run in the races with no incumbent? This is the last election before the big first term-limted class of '02 is term-limited themselves. Perhaps they are looking for someone that can give them 4 years instead of 2 as Speaker.