Lampson has surgery

Nick Lampson, the Democrat who won the race for congress in Tom DeLay's former House district, has undergone baloon angioplasty. He had a partially-blocked blood vessel in his heart.

Lampson was "conscious, alert and in good spirits throughout the procedure," spokeswoman Carrie Chess said in a statement. He was expected to be discharged Saturday.

Republicans, who love it when Democratic lawmakers have experience experience health trouble, are no doubt hoping he croaks.

We, on the other hand, wish him a speedy recovery and a Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to all of you, as well. Posting will likely be nonexistent until after the holiday. Enjoy yourselves, and I'll see you on the other side.