1.   But in a twist, Republicans re-elected a pair of Texans in the second and third place leadership slots.

2.   But the state convention gave the delegation leadership slot to then-state party Chairman Tom Pauken.

3.   Craig, for example, is a likely candidate for Policy Committee, the fourth-ranking leadership slot, if Nickles vacates it for a Majority Leader run.

4.   Democrats also promoted several senators, Patty Murray of Washington, Barbara Mikulski of Maryland and Barbara Boxer of California, to visible leadership slots.

5.   Nonetheless, he is also a former House member and an acknowledged contender who currently holds the third ranking Senate leadership slot.

6.   While Rep. Robert Livingston, R-La., quickly rounded up the votes to succeed Gingrich, the outcome for three other leadership slots was less certain.

7.   Watts, a charismatic former football player, defeated Rep. John Boehner of Ohio for the conference chairmanship, the fourth-ranking leadership slot.