GOP Lashes Out at Craig Over Decision to Stay

The GOP is an uproar after Larry Craig announced yesterday that he will serve out his term, CNN reports. Some are criticizing the Idaho senator's decision because it will be a distraction from more pressing issues; others denounce Craig's behavior outright. "It's embarrassing for the Senate. It's embarrassing for our party," said John Ensign.

With four Republicans retiring and four others headed for tough races, Senate Democrats hoping to make inroads in 2008 are optimistic. Craig's lawyer said today he is considering an appeal and is ready to face the Ethics Committee. Idaho's governor, meanwhile, announced that he had settled on a replacement for Craig but declined to give the person's name. (More Larry Craig stories.)