I very much hope that Mr. Gingrich’s story of personal maturation and redemption is true. I rejoice that he is now a fellow convert to the Catholic faith, and pray that he shall benefit from limitless graces.

I recognize that Mr. Gingrich is a brilliant man, and hope that his ever-bubbling cauldron of fresh ideas and unique insights will always be readily available to Republicans as they deliberate over their governing agenda.

All this notwithstanding, I still believe that the former Speaker has forever forfeited his right to be considered for high office (and not merely on moral grounds), and find it perplexing that anyone is seriously considering running him for President next year. Even in the uninspired 2012 field as it now stands, we can do much better.

You’ve had your chance, and your time has come and gone. Kindly stand aside, sir.