Leach to UI?

Leach to UI?

Press-Citizen writes at length on the persistent rumor that Jim Leach is being considered or may consider the UI presidency:

"I know there's been some speculation out there, but he has nothing really to add to or subtract to -- we basically don't wish to make any comments on this," said Gregory Wierzynski, Leach's chief of staff. "He's obviously flattered by the rumors, but he's not sought this job and he's proud and pleased and happy to be representing those people of the 2nd District."

Leach, 63, who has served in Congress since 1976, lives in Iowa City and is up for re-election this fall. Wierzynski said of the possibility of the search committee approaching Leach, "I think we'll cross that bridge when we come to it."

Regent Amir Arbisser of Davenport said that he has heard the same rumors and that Leach has talked with some officials close to the situation. Arbisser called Leach a good friend, but he said he has not talked with him about the UI opening.

Arbisser said although he thought Leach has many skills that would make him a good president, not having a background in academic or hospital administration would be too much to overcome.

Ultimately this won't happen for the same reason ambassadorships and the World Bank post haven't happened: the GOP knows he's the only Republican who can win this district and they don't want to lose the seat. (Of course, they may lose it anyway; David Loebsack has plenty to say on that subject...) They know an open seat primary will nominate a Steve King style winger, and that kind of candidate is unelectable in this district.