Dennis Hastert Dies at 84

Dennis Hastert died at his Illinois home at 84; the county coroner said he died of natural causes. Hastert served as House speaker from 1999 to 2007, the longest run by a Republican speaker. He helped pass major George W. Bush priorities, including tax cuts and Medicare drug benefits. Hastert later pleaded guilty to structuring bank withdrawals to evade reporting rules while paying hush money to a former student. He was not charged with sexual abuse because the statute of limitations had expired. Prosecutors said he abused at least four teenage wrestlers. At sentencing, Hastert apologized for mistreating athletes; his lawyer cited his public service and changed life. He served about 13 months and was fined $250,000.