But on Sunday, Paxon again insisted that, despite his resignation, he was not part of the coup plot.

CNN: GOP Power Couple Tumbles Off A-List

There were reports that some of those who wanted the speaker to fall wanted Paxon to take his place.

CNN: GOP Power Couple Tumbles Off A-List

And last week, Paxon resigned as chairman of the Republican leadership in the wake of a failed attempt to topple Gingrich.

CNN: GOP Power Couple Tumbles Off A-List

"There is no question the race for majority leader has been dealt a curve ball, an unexpected one, the reluctant candidacy of Dennis Hastert, " Paxon said.

CNN: GOP set to pick its leadership team

Sponsored by Representatives Steve Largent (ROklahoma) and Bill Paxon (RNew York), the Tax Code Termination Act will scrap the entire federal income tax code (except for Medicare and Social Security) on Dec. 31, 2002.

FORBES: Fact and Comment

But outgoing New York Rep. Bill Paxon, a veteran of the Gingrich's team who left the leadership in the wake of an aborted coup, says the game may have a new player, Deputy Whip Dennis Hastert of Illinois.

CNN: GOP set to pick its leadership team