I was just chatting with a high-ranking congressional source. A potential Electoral College mess is developing.

As you know, John Conyers and other members of the congressional black caucus have been continuing to fuss about Ohio. On Thursday, Congress is supposed to certify the election. Technically, I gather, only one house has to certify for the election to be final. (They start out in a joint session, but if someone objects, they break up.)

Which brings us to the problem. With some libs still barking about Ohio, it is possible that, in a nutshell, as it was just explained to me: Tom DeLay’s House certifies but the Senate doesn’t. (Just predicting how the MSM will report it for you there.)

(Quick aside: A majority is needed to certify. Now presumably a majority will happen—since the GOP is theoretically in the majority. But…)

The “but” is, high-ranking types–especially ones thinking strategically in the House–are vocally voicing concerns. And, at least to them, some Senate leadership seems to be shrugging–one house will cover it, what’s the big deal?, is the attitude, I’m told, behind closed doors.

This seems a little more than shrug worthy. This is all worst-case talk, but that serious Hill vets are worried is more than enough reason to keep the Majority Leader of the Senate in town for the certification of the election. But Bill Frist is about to head to south Asia. As in TONIGHT.

(Expected 2008 Presidential Contender) Bill Frist, from all I’ve heard over the years, is a great doctor. But he’s the Senate Majority Leader now, and there are some worried troops on the Hill. It seems like a crucial time for him to stick around town. Preventing four more years of “illegitimate President Bush” rhetoric is an excellent reason to delay his trip. Actually, it probably rises to the level of obligation. (Oh, and what about that little Gonzales nomination fight…?)

In other words, Senator Frist, do not leave Barbara Boxer in charge of the Senate–to, say, filibuster certification of the election. (Think about it, what’s she got to lose?)

SENATOR Frist should stay in Washington. That’s where his current job is.