After considerable lobbying efforts, the sought-after Des Moines Register endorsement was announced tonight, and paper backed Hillary Clinton.

The editorial emphasized the same points the senator's campaign has pressed, touting "her knowledge and her competence."

The times demand results. We believe as president she'll do what she's always done in her life: Throw herself into the job and work hard. We believe Hillary Rodham Clinton can do great things for our country.

The Register's backing is certainly welcome at the Clinton campaign, thought it's probably worth noting that the paper's endorsement has not always translated to caucus victory -- the Register also backed Edwards in '04, Bradley in '00, and Simon in '88.

Among Republicans, the paper endorsed John McCain.

McCain has his flaws, too, of course. He can be hot-tempered, a trait that's not helpful in conducting diplomacy. At 71, his age is a concern. The editorial board disagrees with him on a host of issues, especially his opposition to abortion rights and gay marriage. McCain foresees a "long, hard and difficult" deployment of troops in Iraq. The Register's board has called for withdrawal as soon as it's safely possible.

But with McCain, Americans would know what they're getting. He doesn't parse words. And on tough calls, he usually lands on the side of goodness -- of compassion for illegal immigrants, of concern for the environment for future generations.

It's not exactly glowing praise, but one assumes McCain will take it.