They noted that NBC has challenged Murdoch's ownership of Fox Television, saying it violates U.S. communications laws prohibiting foreign corporations from owning more than 25 percent of any U.S. broadcasting outlet. Add to this that there is legislation in the House that would repeal the ownership restrictions, which many see as antiquated. While the bill was introduced after the book flap began, it was expected. Finally, add to this that House speakers can influence bills. Some might argue Gingrich has a strong motive for punching Chris Dodd in the nose, but as yet the senator's face remains unscathed.
Timing is everything.
Win a major war and suddenly you're hot property. Some would say Gingrich won a major war. Yet his timing was much better than just that. Numerous conservative bestsellers lately have shown that the Rush Limbaugh books were no fluke and publishers are willing to pay big bucks for books likely to bring in big bucks. Gingrich's agency, Writers' Representatives, claims that several publishers were prepared to pay millions for a single Gingrich book, much less the package of two.