In another race in eastern Iowa, a Democratic challenger raised more than the Republican incumbent during the fall. David Loebsack of Mount Vernon filed reports showing he raised $42,000 during the quarter and has $86,000 cash on hand. He raised $95,000 in 2005.

But Rep. Jim Leach of Iowa City, the Republican incumbent in the Second District, raised less than $22,000 during the period, though he has $122,000 cash on hand. Leach raised $186,000 in 2005.

Of course, Leach can write himself a check if he needs to. But this race is a sleeper, and it's the most Democratic district held by a Republican in the nation. If the Dems of Eastern Iowa simply recognize that a vote for Leach is a vote for GOP control, we can win.