Which Distro to use?

["James McIlhargey" <jmci1@REMOVEME.umbc.edu>]

I want to switch to a unix/linux developing environment and am unsure as to which Distro would be best for me.  I understand it will come down to personal preference but if I could get feedback as to the benefits of various distributions (progs available, ease of use, amount of configuration involved, etc.), and not just debian over red hat over mandrake arguments, I feel I could make the right decision on the switch over. 

            Your input would be greatly appreciated.

---James McI.