Free Republic

<p>WASHINGTON - Democratic Sen. John Breaux of Louisiana will not retire for another year, but colleagues, friends and political observers already feel the upcoming loss.</p> <p>And, perhaps, Democrats feel it more.</p> <p>"With Sen. Breaux's retirement, the Senate loses one of (its) most respected legislators, and I lose one of my most valued colleagues," said Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle, D-S.D. "I've come to rely on his counsel and cherish his friendship."</p>