House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Illinois) accused the Department of Justice of leaking allegations about his involvement with Jack Abramoff because he has been sharply critical of the FBI's raid of a Congressman's office.

Hastert said the FBI stepped over the line when it raided the offices of Rep. William Jefferson, a Democrat. A day or so later, "law enforcement" sources told ABC News that Hastert is under scrutiny for his dealings with Abramoff.

Hastert flatly denied the story and demanded a retraction. DOJ issued a rare press statement that also said Hastert is not under investigation. ABC News is standing by the story.

Hastert was one of several top Republican leaders who urged former Interior Secretary Gale Norton to reject an off-reservation casino that was opposed by one of Abramoff's clients.[PDF]. The letter came after Hastert and the other Republicans received campaign contributions from Abramoff or held fundraisers at his former Washington restaurant.

Get the Story:
Hastert accuses DOJ of intimidation (The Hill 5/25)
Hastert, Justice Dept. Dispute Inquiry Story (The Washington Post 5/26)
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Relevant Links:
Rep. Dennis Hastert - http://www.house.gov/hastert

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