It don't matter. The damage is done. In today's column, Molly Ivans (no photo, please) is talking about how hard it is to get a conviction in a conspiracy case. That is to set up the Democrat base for DeLay's acquittal. But in the Court of Public Opinion, DeLay is tarnished. This definitely ends his leadership role in the House and probably finishes his political career. Earle did is job and brought down the House Majority Leader, clearing the way for the Democrats to take over the majority in '08 or '10. Now watch Earle get his rewards. Governor? Don't think so. Senate? Not likely. House seat? Probably.
I don't know about this tarnished business. It wasn't until this came out that I even knew Earle had indicted Hutchinson three times! That really tarnished her...sarcasm. Somehow I don't think the tarnish thing is going to happen this time...except to tarnish Earle and the Dims.
Political future, he will retire, God willing.
I wouldn't say he was done in the court of public opinion. A poll today, on an earlier thread, had 39 percent of the people thought he was innocent and, I think, about 34 percent thought he was guilty. So I would say he hasn't been hurt too badly and what really matters is what happens in court of before court as the case may be.