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In his retirement speech on the floor Thursday afternoon, Rep. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) said his heart will always be in the House and called for greater civility in the lower chamber. The former Speaker thanked his wife, Jean, who was in the chamber, and also recognized the dean of the House, Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich.). After Hastert was introduced by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), members rose and applauded him for several minutes. Senate GOP leaders Mitch McConnell (Ky.) and Trent Lott (Miss.) attended the speech and House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) wiped away tears as Hastert spoke. Hastert appeared to indirectly address the Rep. Mark Foley (R-Fla.) page scandal by raising the question of mistakes he may have made during his tenure as Speaker, the longest ever for a Republican. The Illinois lawmaker took the gavel as Speaker at the beginning of 1999 and held the position until the beginning of this year. He did not detail his errors, saying that is “best left to others.” But he added that there has been a breakdown in civility in the House and acknowledged that his efforts to improve the relationship between the parties fell short. Hastert was upbeat about the Republican prospects of taking back the House, saying the minority is the largest since 1955. He added that Republicans “will lead this House someday,” triggering applause from GOP lawmakers and murmuring from Democrats. Addressing the institution in which he served for over two decades, Hastert said, “My heart is still here and always will be.” After Hastert finished his speech, an emotional Rep. Don Manzullo (R-Ill.) embraced the ex-wrestling coach. |
