If Republicans lose the majority, the scheduled Nov. 15 leadership elections will definitely be put off. And a race for minority leader will begin in earnest. If Republicans lose narrowly, I’m hearing that it will probably be a two- or three-person race. If they get blown out, it could be a four- or five-candidate free-for-all. Boehner is still popular in the conference and will be able to argue that he bears no responsibility for a loss because he came in after things were already fouled up. So he might be strong, depending on the exact constellation of forces. People seem to think Pence will definitely run. They don’t know about Shadegg. Republicans are still hoping to draw an inside straight (that’s in honor of cliche day, folks! although I also used it the other day, alas), and avoid all this. But the wheels are already turning…