The Batman sequel The Dark Knight made it's midnight debut last night, and if it's release is as successful as some expect, Vermont's senior U.S. Senator can take some of the credit.

That's because U.S. Sen. Pat Leahy (D-Middlesex) -- a lifelong Batman comic book fan -- has a cameo appearance in a scene with the Joker, played by Heath Ledger.

Leahy may be a veteran legislator, but he's no newbie when it comes to Batman movies, either. He also had a non-speaking cameo in Batman and Robin (1997).

Look for Leahy's appearance in the clip below around 0:39.