A big–time former congressman came to town Friday night with hopes of paving the way for a young, local Republican to take a seat in Congress.

And he says as long–standing congressmen step down, it makes way for a revolution in Washington.

First, it was last July when Congressman Ray LaHood announced his retirement after 30 years in public service.

Then, in September, 11th District Congressman Jerry Weller announced, after serving seven terms, he was stepping down to spend more time with family.

And in November, Dennis Hastert stepped down from his spot as the longest serving house speaker in the nation's history.

Hastert came to Peoria Friday to endorse Aaron Schock for the 18th congressional seat. He says now it's literally out with the old, in with the new, marking a changing face for Congress.

"We have some great young leaders...we have a younger face and I think they appeal to the broader array of young folks and I think that's a good thing," said Hastert at a reception for Schock.

Hastert says Congress needs vigor and fresh ideas that can be brought on by younger candidates. Looking back on his younger years as a legislator, Hastert says a new Congress could take notes from former leaders like Bob Michael, who chose Ray LaHood as is successor in 1984.

"Bob Michael was a great person. He was a person who could encompass a lot of different ideas, bring people to the table, and get things done," remembered Hastert.

Hastert says the hope now is that voters make the right decision by choosing a new congressman to bring in some fresh ideas and old values to make Washington work for the people.

Hastert says if he were still in Congress he would support the stimulus package.
He says he stands by the philosophy that if people kept money in their pockets, it would later become money better spent.