Architect of Anti-Gambling Bill a Loser

Representative Jim Leach of Iowa, right, who spearheaded the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, has been voted out of office. He lost his 2nd District race to challenger Dave Loebsack. Leach's measure, which was tucked into a bill aimed at enhancing port security, was signed into law last month by President Bush. It made it illegal for banks or credit card companies to process transactions involving Internet gambling. In short, you can't play online poker or put a few simoleons down on your team to cover the spread. Two other political developments of note. Lynn Swann, the former USC receiver and ABC sideline reporter, was routed by incumbent Ed Rendell in his attempt to become governor of Pennsylvania. Heath Shuler, the former Tennessee and NFL quarterback, is headed back to Washington. He defeated Representative Charles Taylor in North Carolina's 11th District.