Commentary: The Tragedy of Tom Delay?

Tom Delay was once known as "The Hammer," pushing bills through Congress, gerrymandering states to keep Republicans in control of the government, and circumventing fundraising rules to keep his political party a well-oiled, well-funded machine capable of spreading its glorious message across the nation. But then he decided to retire from Congress (some would say he was forced out). One would think that after such a long and distinguished career, he'd be busy doing something great -- maybe not as an elected official, but at least as a behind-the-scenes force (a lobbyist, perhaps). But apparently he's been reduced to lobbying for contestants on the show "Dancing With the Stars." This has brought him great ridicule, and at first glance, I too was struck by the certain tragedy that has befallen this once great leader. Since then, however, I've had an epiphany and come to realize that Delay's interest in the show is a work of shear genius we've come to expect from the man. See, it occurred to me that the Republicans have been successful because they've been so thorough in monopolizing nearly every informational avenue with which to get their superior message across. Churches, for example, are conservative strong-holds. The media -- while often accused of liberal bias -- is also conservative, for Fox News, as we all know, is not only conservative, but is also the only truthful news outlet besides talk radio. And most real Americans know this, because Republicans, led by Delay, have been so aggressive in discrediting organizations like the New York Times and Washington Post. Now most Americans are also watching Reality TV, tuning into shows like "American Idol" and "Dancing With the Stars." And Tom Delay recognizes the changing tastes of Americans and has found a new avenue with which to advance the Republican agenda. So while liberals ridicule him and some think this a tragic turn in the life of a once-great leader, all the viewers of "Dancing With Stars" will be focused on the conservative Republican contestant on the show supported by Mr. Delay. This will surely open viewers' minds to conservative messages. And when the lady wins the show, she too can help spread the faith. So tragedy? I think not...