Judge who donated to Hastert to remain on case

Associated Press

CHICAGO

The federal judge assigned to the case against Dennis Hastert will continue to preside over it after disclosing connections to the former U.S. House Speaker and several attorneys, including contributions he made to the Illinois Republican’s campaign.

U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Durkin said during Hastert’s Tuesday arraignment that he believed he can be impartial but lawyers could decide whether he should be replaced. On Thursday, prosecutors and lawyers for Hastert filed paperwork that they are willing to have Durkin remain on the case.

Durkin donated $500 in 2002 and $1,000 in 2004 to Hastert’s campaign, though he said to the best of his knowledge the two men have never met.

Durkin also acknowledged that before he became a judge he worked in private practice with Hastert’s son, Ethan. He described their relationship as “friendly business colleagues” and said he doesn’t consider the younger Hastert a personal friend.

Hastert is accused of agreeing to pay $3.5 million to keep past misconduct secret.