On Capitol Hill, House Republicans have elected Ohio Congressmember John Boehner to replace Tom DeLay as House Majority Leader. In a surprise victory, Boehner beat out Delay’s protégé Congressman Roy Blunt for the leadership position. Although he ran as a reform candidate, Boehner has a history of questionable ties to lobbyists. In June 1995, Boehner walked around the floor of the House and personally handed out $500 checks from tobacco lobbyists to at least six of his colleagues. Two years ago he accepted donations, parties and trips from the student loan company Sallie Mae, at a time the company was lobbying the House Education and the Workforce Committee, which he chaired. Just last month Boehner refused to return donations he received from Native American tribes represented by disgraced Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Boehner may also face criticism for his membership in an exclusive Maryland golf club that bars women from joining. Three years ago Boehener joined Burning Tree Club. He paid a $75,000 initiation fee and still pays $500 in monthly dues. In 2002, the Washington Post reported women are banned from stepping foot in the club except during the annual spring cocktail party and for holiday shopping in the pro shop.