Recognizing Speaker Hastert

RECOGNIZING SPEAKER HASTERT -- (House of Representatives - June 06, 2006)

Ms. PELOSI. Madam Speaker, I rise this evening to salute Speaker Hastert for becoming the longest serving Republican Speaker in history. Long may his record stand.

This milestone is a testament to his leadership within the Republican Conference and within the Halls of Congress. DENNIS HASTERT spent 16 years as a teacher and coach at Yorkville High School in Illinois. He has put the skills he learned there to good use in this body.

After 6 years in the Illinois State House, he came to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986. In 1999, DENNY HASTERT's colleagues elected him Speaker of the House, the third highest Government official in the United States.

While we often disagree on issues, we agree on the importance of public service. That kind of public service has been the hallmark of Speaker Hastert's career whether in the classroom or in the House of Representatives.

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Today I also salute the Speaker's wife, Jean, and his two children, Ethan and Joshua, for this milestone.

Through the trying moments and the moments like this, one of great triumph, they have stood by his side. They are watching you on television now.

In Congress we all hold the title ``honorable'' by virtue of our office. Dennis Hastert holds it by virtue of his character. I salute him for his service to our Nation and look forward to many future opportunities to work together.

Congratulations, Mr. Speaker.

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