Lott, Hastert Out by Year-End; It's the Money, Honey

The Captain tells us that Trent Lott will retire before year-end, as will Denny Hastert.

What he doesn't mention is the reason for the "before-year-end" timing.

Simple.

After 1/1/08, Senators and Reps who retire must spend two years on the sidelines before joining a lobbying business. In order for these guys to parlay their elected experience into REAL money, they have to get out now.

Neither is much of a loss for Conservatives.