Hastert backs Tiahrt in Senate run

After holding a fundraiser for him last month, former House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) formally endorsed Rep. Todd Tiahrt’s (R-Kan.) Senate run on Monday.

Tiahrt is currently locked in what is expected to be a close primary with fellow Congressman Jerry Moran (R-Kan.). The two are vying for retiring Sen. Sam Brownback’s (R) seat.

“Todd is a man of his word, and you can be sure he will be there for you when the job gets difficult,” Hastert said in a statement. “Todd does not run and hide when faced with difficult decisions. When the pressure is on, he faces the challenge and does the right thing with his constituents’ best interests in mind.”

The BBR reported in early April that Hastert was scheduled to headline a fundraiser for Tiahrt. We also noted at that time that Hastert’s support of Tiahrt appears to coincide with his distasted for Moran (check it out at here).

Tiahrt welcomed the support of the former speaker.

“I am proud of my work with Speaker Hastert to pass the Bush tax cuts, invest in national security, protect our Second Amendment rights, and provide a voice for the unborn,” he said in a statement. “I am humbled by his support.”

jeremy.jacobs@digital-stage.thehill.com