Replacing him will be recently retired State Senator Murray Clark, with whom I've long been impressed as suave and wonkish. He claims to be surprised at his appointment to the position, but I find that to be dubious. For one, it follows rather closely upon his departure from the legislature. For another, Kittle's resignation has been rumoured for months. Indeed, one could have expected Kittle's tenure to end based upon his promises while running for the chairmanship: getting the Party's finances in order, regaining the Statehouse, and getting a Republican governor.

These were big accomplishments, especially for a state party that was sadly disorganized four years ago. Kittle was extremely useful and effective, and the party owes him much gratitude. But it was predictable that there is now little left for him to do.

Clark, on the other hand, seems set to use his skills to maintain a pleasant status quo with national and state politics and to make inroads in local politics.

One thing I would like to see him change, though, is the party's cash flow. Profligate fundraising under Kittle was also matched with profligate spending. A little more discipline may help us get a little more bang for our buck.