Boehner Grants Lungren's Forum Request

House Republican Leader John A. Boehner, who has always given his colleagues plenty of chances to blow off steam, has agreed to convene a leadership forum Wednesday morning that will give rank-and-file lawmakers the chance to grill leadership candidates before the elections to fill those positions.

In scheduling the hour-plus session, Boehner is agreeing to a demand by the man challenging him for the leadership of the GOP, California Rep. Dan Lungren.

The two Republicans sent colleagues a letter Tuesday morning inviting them to the forum. The leadership votes will occur immediately afterward.

"It's clear Republicans must find new ways to reconnect with the American people and address their priorities," Boehner and Lungren wrote in the letter. "We hope you will join us Wednesday morning and take part in this important dialogue as House Republicans prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead."