Contact: White House, Office of the Press Secretary, 202-456-2580

CRAWFORD, Tx., Aug. 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is a statement by the President:

It has been a great pleasure forging a close friendship and working relationship with Denny Hastert.  He is a good and decent man, and he was a strong and effective Speaker.  After teaching government and history at Yorkville High School in Illinois, Denny began making history serving in the Illinois House of Representatives and the United States House of Representatives.  During his two decades in Congress, Denny rose through the ranks as a hard-working Member whom colleagues on both sides came to admire, trust, and respect – and became the longest-serving Republican Speaker in history.  Drawing on lessons he learned as a coach, he successfully guided Members of Congress to work together to enact legislation that has improved the lives of Americans.  He led Congress to reduce taxes, improve education, strengthen Medicare, bolster our national defense, and support our troops.  Our Nation is stronger because of his service.  

I am indebted to Denny for his candid advice and strong support, and I look forward to working with him throughout the remainder of the 110th Congress.  As my good friend prepares to move on to the next phase of his life, he has my gratitude for his distinguished service.  Laura and I wish Denny, Jean, and their entire family all the best.