A L S O +T O D A Y Newt to U.S.: You won't have me to kick around any more Jerry Brown, Christopher Hitchens, Maxine Waters, Dan Schnur, David Horowitz and Mark Hertsgaard react to Newt Gingrich's stunning announcement that he will not stand for reelection as Speaker Newtron bomb By Bruce Shapiro Will Gingrich's self-purge save the Republican Party? Law professors tell Congress that impeachment is unwarranted Over 430 legal scholars sign statement, fearing impeachment process will "dangerously weaken" presidency   T A B L E+T A L K Life in suburbia: Discuss the benefits and setbacks in Table Talk's Social Issues area - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Browse the Newsreal Archives - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - S A L O N E M P O R I U M FREE! 12-ounce bag of Salon Blend with a purchase of $30 or more. While supplies last.
		Newt speaks The text of a statement released Friday night by Newt Gingrich: Today I have reached a difficult personal decision. I will not be a candidate for speaker of the 106th Congress. The Republican conference needs to be unified and it is time for me to move forward, where I believe I still have a significant role to play for our country and our party. My party will have my full support and I will do all I can to help us win in 2000. I urge my colleagues to pick leaders who can both reconcile and discipline, who can work together and communicate effectively. They have my prayers and my thoughts as they undertake this task. I want to thank everyone whose friendship and support has made these years enjoyable. Marianne and I are grateful to the citizens of Georgia, who gave us the wonderful opportunity to represent them, and to my Republican colleagues, who became our extended family. Thank you and God bless you. SALON | Nov. 6, 1998