For the better part of a century, Texans have been in leadership posts. Now, no more. I think the article is exactly right in laying the blame at the foot of Delay and those that went along with the redistricting scheme. Given W's approval rating across the country, it will be a long time before a national leader comes out of Texas again.
As much as I have despised Texas politics since moving here 22 years ago, I admire how members of congress in this state worked together across party lines to get things done. Unfortunately, the corrupt zealot known as Tom DeLay blew much of that up during his reign of destruction.
It was nice to have a powerful delegation bringing earmarks to Texas, but I also despise pork barrel spending.