It happened in 96 when the democrats lost.  Power is a powerful narcotic, and once out of power, yea, these people lose a lot of steam.

But as for your "teflon" comment, I would think you would cast an eye north.  To a senator that has been around a lot longer, and has a much greater history of racism (extending even into the 21st century) and how he is still around, powerful, and the media plays him down like last years fish.

Of course I am referring to the Grand Kleagle himself, who has a "use the N word free card" from the likes of Sharpton and Jackson.

Now, of course, it's becomming obvious Lott is leaving before the end of this session so he falls into the old lobbying rules: only waiting one year instead of two.

I dunno, he's pretty Teflon. Maybe it's because I've covered him so much and he always seems to be just a bit of a stereotype. The thought of him pulling a million a year to run an association is pretty obvious.

Hastert, former speaker of the house (and the republicans longest serving speaker of the house), is bailing today. Another rat fleeing the ship? Or, just a bruised ego? I remember during the last state of the union when they had him stuffed way, way in the back. While most people wouldn't think it would matter, I've covered enough politicians to know it's Washington's way of saying "you're yesterday's news."

it's Washington's way of saying "you're yesterday's news."

Or maybe you are a loser?  The reason why most leaders of the House and senate resign after their party loses power?  Gilmore did for the RNC, but McAuliffe hung on long past his prime.  But those are symbolic roles, where Speaker and Senate majority leader are probably more heady.

I cover tons of cocktail parties where politicians show up, swoop in, gobble up the food and booze, shake hands, and exit out. And, no matter who they are, the average joe (sometimes not so average in this case) in the party gets goggle eyed and this stupid smile on their face that says, "YOU ARE GOD I AM NOT WORTHY". It is sickening. Of course, I make my living by taking the photos of wide-eyed, bewitched people with the politician of the month. However, I can say this: It must be intoxicating to be "the man of the hour" all the time. No wonder power corrupts. Lott's role will now change. He'll make $30,000 a pop "honorariums" for speaking engagements, or run a trade association for a cool million a year. Perhaps he'll write a book or two. But, eventually, he becomes like the Secretary of Agriculture under Ronald Reagan -- And who was the Secretary of Agriculture under Ronald Reagan? Hint: John Block. And he's still around Washington, behind the scenes, collecting money, and affiliated with a trade group. (He is, by the way, a very nice guy. But you see my point).

Damn! Got me! I was going to say James Watt (and I only remember him from his Hoof in Mouth problem).

And oh, yea, the SNL skit with Watt, Yassir and Hue.