Both Lynn Sweet and Illinois Public Radio are reporting Hastert considering retiring...

LINK

It's hard to knock a guy who dedicated much of his adult life to public service (teach, coach, politician), but on balance, Denny's service has resulted in a political environment that allowed rampant and never-before-seen-levels of corruption and a run-away Presidency.  It didn't have to be this way...but Denny Hastert was a Party man first and foremost.  Even in the midst of the outrageous Page Scandal, he couldn't do the honorable thing, admit his failure and resign as so many Republicans called on him to do. 

He stated loudly and frequently until November 2006 that the Republicans would maintain a majority in both houses.  His optimism was roundly and correctly mocked and ultimately his leadership lead to a historical downfall of his Party.  And as a former history teacher, he must be fully aware of just how harshly his peers in that field will likely judge him.  A sad ending to what could have been a proud time in Illinois history.

I will applaude the day that Denny Hastert retires to his estate in Wisconsin. 

Now, we just have to prevent the even more right-wing and fringe candidate Chris Lauzen from getting Denny's post.

I think we have a great opportunity here.  We havbe to keep our eye on the ball.  If we Democrats in the 14th District start acting like Madigan, Blago, and Jones - we'll be in deep trouble.  I'm sure we'll all have opinions and preferences as to who would make the best cadidate in this district.  The challenge will be to keep the Democrats united - unlike Madigan, Blago, and Jones.

This should prove to be a very interesting primary.  I think we should let the republicans do all of the in-fighting.  It may be a fun show to watch!