According to CBS 2 News (Chicago), Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill) won’t seek re-election in 2008. He’s scheduled a news conference in Kendall County to announce his decision on Friday, according to sources for Political Editor Mike Flannery.

There has formerly been speculation of his departure, but his office has shot down that speculation. However, this past year has been a big year personally for the Congressman, having welcomed his first grandchild, Jack. Of course, there’s also the fact that Democrats took control of Congress, and he’s no longer speaker.

Other signs have already pointed to this course, according to CBS2. His political website is no longer operational, and his top campaign members have signed on to help other Republicans.

Whatever Hastert’s decision, his career has been very much a success. He was the longest-serving Republican speaker. In that role, Congress passed two of the largest tax cuts in American history, winning victories over alternative fuel sources, bringing projects to his home constituency, and leading the House after 9/11.