It wasn't possible for the Register to muster an endorsement for him anyway. The best argument for sending the 4th District congressman back to Washington for a ninth term is seniority. There is something to be said for keeping lawmakers in office, as they gain power and are able to do more for the people they represent. But Latham has failed to accumulate a strong record of accomplishments, and his rhetoric is misleading.

For example, he said the new health law hurts Medicare's solvency. The opposite is true. Just a few months ago, Medicare trustees said the program's fiscal future will be “substantially improved” by health reform. He said no one knows what the health reform bill is going to do yet – but he apparently knows enough to claim it's going to jeopardize doctor-patient relationships and hurt the country.

Latham said Iowans are fearful about the future – then proceeded to gin up that fear. The Republican from Alexander deserves credit for spearheading the drive to fund the National Animal Disease Center in Ames through 2005. But it's time for the people of the 4th District to have a more engaged member of Congress who sticks to the facts.

That means making a change – and choosing Bill Maske.

Maske is a native Iowan who has spent the past 34 years in education. He's been a teacher, coach, administrator and worked at a school in Iran. He wants to continue his public service in Congress. “Public officials have lost sight of being a public servant,” he said in a recent meeting at the Register.

Whenever voters elect a newcomer, they're taking a risk. But Maske seems to have a good understanding of the complex issues facing the country rather than blindly toeing the party line when answering questions.

He recognized the new health reform law was imperfect and needs work. He talked about why the No Child Left Behind law should be rescinded. He was specific about ideas for making Social Security solvent, including removing the cap on income limits for payroll contributions.

If Iowans send him to Washington, Maske said he would focus on the economy and getting Americans decent-paying jobs. He laid out a plan to invest in business, emphasize renewable energy and create a program to rebuild this country's crumbling infrastructure.

It is difficult for candidates to unseat incumbents in any election. In a year when Republicans appear to have an upper hand, this Democrat from Truro has an especially difficult challenge. Latham has not delivered enough to deserve re-election, and Maske is worthy of Iowans' support.