Tom Foley (1929-2013)

They don't make 'em like Speaker Foley (see also) anymore. Some of us think that's a damned shame. • Eagle Scout back when being an Eagle Scout meant something more than parroting right-wing slogans (not to mention toppling ancient rock formations); • later an adult Scout leader for many years. • Prosecuting attorney. • Speaker of the House for 30 years. • Swept out of office in the great Republican purge of 1994; his successor as Speaker could only wish Foley's memory would go away... but it didn't. • As far as I could ever tell, deeply decent guy who cared a lot about our country.

R.I.P., Mr. Foley. All of us owe you a lot... even the liars who refuse to admit it.