Texas came this close to ridding themselves of Tom DeLay forever, and now, thanks to some activist GOP-appointed judge, they’ll be stuck with him again. Not only will DeLay’s name remain on the ballot in the 22nd District, but Tom is strongly considering running for reelection again. MORE »

At long last, after much fanfare and hype, here it is: Wonkette’s exclusive interview with Tom Malin, the gay escort turned Texas state legislature candidate!

We apologize for the delay in bringing this to you. We meant to publish it yesterday, when it took place. But as you can see, we were otherwise occupied into the afternoon and evening on Thursday — covering the breaking news of Jessica Simpson’s visit to the Capitol, among other things. (Rumor has it that she was at the Point last night; can anyone confirm?)

Here are a few highlights from the interview — Tom Malin’s views on selected subjects:

* Rep. Katherine Harris: “Oh my GOSH. Did you see her TITS? She is a total BABE!”
* Republicans: “Republicans would have gays and lesbians in concentration camps if they could. I think they would close down public education. I think women and minorities would be so marginalized.”
* Condoleeza Rice: “She is balanced and fair. I believe she is compassionate. I wouldn’t want to meet her in a dark alley though. She is tough!”
* Jeff Gannon: “Everyone has seen my naked ass. Would love to see his.”

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg; there’s much, much more, after the jump. Not to be missed: professional make-up tips from Malin, a former Mary Kay Cosmetics salesman, to Hillary!

MORE »

• Reliable Source: People magazine puts Patrick Fitzgerald under “Smart Guys” in their “Sexiest Man” issue. . . Ted Koppel can do strong impressions of Henry Kissinger and Barbara Walters. [WP]
• Under the Dome: Dean Barkley, who was tapped to serve out Paul Wellstone’s term, now manages Kinky Friedman’s campaign for governor of Texas. . . Eight people show up for Rep. David Hobson’s (R-Ohio) pheasant-hunting fundraiser. . . The Kennedys, Kerry, Hillary, and Scarborough honor Robert F. Kennedy on his 80th birthday. . . Spokesmen for DeLay and Hillary are awarded “Flak Jacket” honors. [The Hill]
• Lloyd Grove’s Lowdown: Rove’s attorney may have purchased an “I Love Karl Rove” shirt. [NYDN]

The Daily Briefing is on vacation. MORE »