Hastert confirms he won't finish his term

WASHINGTON -- Rep. J. Dennis Hastert, who served as House speaker longer than any other Republican, bade farewell to his colleagues Thursday, confirming that he will not complete his 11th term.

Hastert, 65, did not give an exact resignation date, but said the speech would be his last from the House floor and told reporters, "I think I'll be gone by the first of the year."

The 110th Congress ends in January 2009.

In his 16-minute address, Hastert recounted his career's high points, concluding: "It's time for this legislator to return to being a private citizen."

The speech marked a rare moment of bipartisan warmth in the House. Most members attended and gave Hastert a long ovation. Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a California Democrat, introduced him by his old title, calling him "the distinguished speaker of the House."

Hastert told his colleagues: "My heart is still here, and always will be."

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He had announced in August that he would not seek re-election in 2008 and hinted that he had little interest in staying through the end of the current Congress.

His resignation will trigger a special election in his Fox Valley district, which includes Aurora and Elgin. The winner will face re-election next November.

Four Democrats have filed to seek Hastert's seat in a district known for its Republican leanings.

Hastert became speaker in January 1999 after two better-known party members were forced aside by scandals and intraparty rivalries.

He lost the post when Democrats regained control of the House after the 2006 elections.