WITH MEMBERS OF CONGRESS CLAIMING that they’re exempt from searches in bribery cases, it’s probably worth noting this new Zogby poll, which shows that the American public holds all its leaders — but especially Congress — in low esteem.

No doubt Congress will want to respond by putting criticism off limits, too.

UPDATE: Hastert is creating more anger from the base: “I no longer wish to be counted as a Republican. The Speaker has been a weak voice for cutting spending and for immigration reform but a loud voice when his own privilege is at stake.”