Dennis Hastert, Former Republican House Speaker, Dies at 84
Dennis Hastert, the longest-serving Republican House speaker who later faced molestation allegations and served prison time, has died at the age of 84.
Raleigh Durham, NC, October 5, 2026 — Dennis Hastert, who served as the longest-serving Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives, has died at the age of 84.
Hastert’s tenure as Speaker began in 1999 and concluded in 2007, making him the longest-serving Republican to hold the position in the House. During his time in leadership, he was a prominent figure in national politics.
Later in his life, Hastert faced allegations of sexual molestation. These allegations led to legal proceedings and ultimately resulted in a prison sentence.
The details surrounding the circumstances of his death were not immediately provided. Hastert was 84 years old at the time of his passing.
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