"You can't jam change down the American people's throat. "

Low Profile Leader of the House

Dennis Hastert is a Republican U.S. congressman representing the 14th district of Illinois. He has been Speaker of the House of Representatives since 1999.

His early career began as a teacher and athletic coach. Before entering the House he was also a business owner and member of the Illinois House of Representatives (1980-86).

When first elected to the House of Representatives, Hastert served on criminal justice, international affairs, and national security committees. Hastert was a key player in the Medicare overhaul legislation of 2003. He maintains tight Republican control over the House legislative process.

Hastert is an advocate of the Fairtax proposal to replace the income tax with a national sales tax. He has been an unwavering supporter of all Bush administration foreign and domestic policies.

The House Republicans chose Hastert as Speaker to replace Newt Gingrich in 1999. Prior to this appointment he had been a low-profile member of Congress. In contrast to Newt Gingrich in his theatrical and highly public leadership, Hastert has a more subdued working style. He has been criticized for his low-profile leadership style, which has stood in marked contrast to former House majority leader Tom "the hammer" Delay.