The problem is the Republican party is currently devoid of strong public leadership. Both Boehner and McConnell are incapable of the role. Both, however, have done well as political tacticians and leading their caucuses (as distinct from the public). In my opinion, they would doubtless be competent as Speaker and Majority Leader, respectively.
If we win majorities, though, one of these two would risk being thrust into the position of public leadership (as Newt was) -- being "the highest-ranking Republican".
Thus, it is important that, by the time the 2010 election is over, another personality emerges who can speak for the party and its principles...
Agree. I always thought Newt was wasted in the Speaker's job, they needed an ace parliamentarian and horse-trader in the Speaker's chair, and someone like Newt should have been busy 25/8 articulating coherent, positive Republican positions and agenda -- cheerleading, in effect, and leading the message.