CNN

CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts (CNN) - Just a few days after Jeanne Shaheen stepped down as head of Harvard University’s Institute of Politics, the university announced Monday that former Rep. Jim Leach, R-Iowa, has accepted an offer to be the institute's new director.

Leach takes over for Shaheen, a former New Hampshire governor, who will challenge Sen. John Sununu, R-New Hampshire, in 2008. Leach has agreed to lead the institute for the next year until a permanent director is identified. The Iowa Republican was defeated in 2006 by Democratic challenger Dave Loebsack.

– CNN New Hampshire Producer Sareena Dalla