Robert Novak's Retirement

Robert Novak is ending his 45-year career as a syndicated columnist after he was given a dire prognosis for a brain tumor.

One of the most enduring figures and pundits associated with conservative principles ---  made famous for his partnership with Rowland Evans --- Novak himself riffed on his biting commentary by titling his memoir "Prince of Darkness." His involvement in the Valerie Plame scandal and the Swift Boating of John Kerry perhaps obscured his opposition to the Iraq war and the fact that he was more of a champion of libertarianism. He expressed support for Ron Paul.

"The details are being worked out with the doctors this week, but the tentative plan is for radiation and chemotherapy," Novak said.