"Former Rep. Jim Leach's endorsement last week of presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama prompted anger and amazement in some quarters. But why? It's as though amnesia has struck.

Yes, Leach is a longtime Iowa Republican, and yes, it is understandable that Republicans not too well acquainted with him might feel a sense of betrayal. Democrats would react the same way if former Rep. Neal Smith were to suddenly endorse presumptive Republican nominee John McCain." (Des Moines Register)