That's former New York City Mayor Ed Koch, a lifelong Democrat, signing up as "Chairman of Democrats for Pete King." Mr. King, a Republican, is campaigning for a ninth term in the House.

"I am proud to be a Democrat, and I am proud to support Congressman Pete King for re-election," said Mr. Koch, explaining that Mr. King is "independent and never afraid to take a tough stand. Like me, he denounces Islamic terrorism and supports offshore oil drilling and energy independence."

The Republican lawmaker, ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee, has authored legislation on illegal immigration, port security and chemical-plant security.

LETTER OF THE WEEK

Inside the Beltway reader Steve A. Brown of Springfield, Va., recently visited the official Web site of the U.S. Senate, which points out that on Aug. 18, 1856, legislation took effect that paid members of Congress an annual salary of $3,000.

"To make sure lawmakers did not collect their $3,000 without showing up for work, lawmakers would not be paid for unexcused absences," Mr. Brown notes. "The story on the Senate's Web site prompted me to inquire if senators campaigning for president are paid for days on the campaign trail? The answer from the Senate Historical Office was 'yes.'

"I wonder if there are other jobs in the United States that would pay employees for missed time while the employees are out seeking to fulfill personal ambition?"

Columnist note: If Benjamin Franklin had his way, elected members of Congress would not be paid a dime for their service to the nation. His suggestion, brought up during the Constitutional Convention, had few if any supporters. As a result, rank-and-file members of both the House and Senate are currently paid $169,300 annually. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi will be paid $217,400 in 2008.