One of President Obama’s more striking criticisms of Republicans during his visit to the GOP retreat Friday was the accusation of hypocrisy about stimulus spending. “Let’s face it, some of you have been at the ribbon-cuttings for some of these important projects in your communities,” Obama said. Later, he emphasized the point, adding, “As I said, a lot of you have gone to appear at ribbon-cuttings for the same projects that you voted against.”

Iowa Republican Rep. Steve King attended the session. Later, via e-mail, I asked him about the president’s remark. “On its face, it’s offensive to me,” King answered. “I have been attacked for getting the least of the Iowa Delegation out of the stimulus, and I don’t want to be lumped in with those who may have, and probably did, cut the ribbons or turn a shovel of dirt.”