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I doubt that internet gambling had anything to do with it. Even still, I couldn't help but smile when I read that Iowan Republican Representative Jim Leach, the schmuck who originated the idea of the financial ban for online gambling, was voted out of office early this morning. According to the Cedar Rapids Gazette Online "With 336 of 338 precincts reporting, Democratic challenger Dave Loebsack led with 107,097 votes to 101,386 for Leach. Only two precincts in Lee County remained to be counted early this morning, not enough to change the outcome." Loebsack, who I know nothing about but have pity for due to his unfortunate last name, couldn't have been more pleased with winning. "First thing I have to say is they said it couldn't happen, but there were some of us that knew it could happen. It's great for all of us here, and it's great for all of the 2nd District.'' Loebsack, who was joined by his family, many of whom were in tears, also thanked Leach. Stopping short of conceding, Leach said ``it is pretty clear'' the final tally in Tuesday's election will end his 30-year tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives. "For three decades I have been privileged to represent Iowa in Congress. Whatever the outcome, I am respectful of the strong effort of my opponent and the desire of the public for change in Congress,'' Leach said to about 30 supporters at the Longbranch Hotel in Marion. The irony of the situation is how Loebsack won. Loebsack based his campaign as an alternative to the ``failed policies of the Bush administration'' and sought to make the election a referendum on the president. This is ironic because Leach was one of the few Republicans in office who voted against the Iraq war. Voters couldn't be bothered to learn that much about him before voting, however, and he was kicked out of office anyhow. Loebsack explained that this year, more than ever, the party label mattered. I'm not going to complain about that, considering that Leach is the guy that started the ball rolling which resulted in me losing my job. It's funny how I have absolutely no pity for him losing his. As a matter of fact, if he had an open wound I wouldn't mind pouring some salt or lemon juice on it. Not that it will do me an ounce of good, but the Democrats took control of the House Tuesday night for the first time in more than 10 years. Leach, 64, served 30 years in Congress since first elected as 1st District representative in 1976. In 2001 he moved to Iowa City, which is in the 2nd District. During his re-election campaign, Leach said that the Internet gambling legislation, which made it illegal for banks or credit card companies or agents such as PayPal to settle an online wager, one of his proudest accomplishments. Gee, how nice for him. How can he be proud of making off-shore internet gambling illegal when online lotteries, pari-mutuel wagering, and "Play Away" games online are still legal? What type of moronic hypocrite is he? The voters didn't dive that deep into their psyche to decide who to vote for. The Gazette Online gave a few exit poll opinions: From Washington High School polling place: Jack Roth, 72 From Czech and Slovak Museum polling place: Mike Mahoney, 45, and Cindy Mahoney, 47 Mike said he agreed with everything Cindy said. Rick Rissio, 48 What needs a change? Everything from Social Security, Republicans want to tamper with Medicare medication. "Just need a chance for people who make less money to go somewhere. More of a democracy than a dictatorship." About the war: "After being a former soldier, I know the job. It's not being a police officer." Charlene Schneider, 54 Democrats have better views. E.g. Culver -- like his voting for the veterans (she works in a job that deals with vets), more for family and raising minimum wage. Related Links: Posted on: November 8, 2006
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