I think congressional Republicans will have to do a lot better than this to make up for the facts they face over the next year. But let's note, at least in passing, some not-ready-for-primetime planning. Speaker Hastert held a press conference today to announce his reform package. Sen. Santorum did the same over on the senate side.

Larry Margasak on the AP wire notes: "Democrats, who have begun a "culture of corruption" theme against Republicans in an election year, were to unveil their ethics reform package Wednesday."

Who does what first isn't the biggest deal in the world. But I think the Dems just got caught off guard on this.

Better planning please?