Here's the Bay Weekly's take on the Bush/Gilchrest/Menhaden issue:

"Cynics might say that Gilchrest came up with his plan now because he has once again drawn primary opposition from a segment of his Republican Party that views him as too moderate. His district includes Maryland’s Eastern Shore as well as parts of Anne Arundel, Baltimore and Harford counties.

We understand the need to please constituents, particularly at re-election time, though we doubt that is Gilchrest’s main motivation.

We’re also aware of a hugely crowded calendar in Congress due to the usual foot-dragging and gridlock. In short, it’s unlikely that Gilchrest’s bill can pass through the normal progression of committees and public hearings.

That’s why we’re encouraging the Congressman to seek openings to amend his proposal onto spending legislation or another existing bill bound for passage.

It will take an extraordinary effort to combat Omega Protein’s threat to Chesapeake Bay. Now that he’s leapt into this high-stakes fray, we’re hoping that Gilchrest, a former Marine, comes out on top."