Former Speaker Dennis Hastert (R) continues to raise money for his 2008 re-election, despite the belief held by most pols, and many of his colleagues, that he will retire at the end of the 110th Congress.

Hastert’s “spring reception” is from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Capitol Hill Club.

The cost is $500 for individuals or $1,000 for political action committees.

The man who was second in line for the presidency just six months ago swears he wants a 12th term even though he is back to being just one of 435 Members.

Most political watchers assumed he would retire last year when Democrats won control of the House, thereby leaving Hastert without a leadership position. But he raised more than $280,000 in the first three months of 2007 and is continuing to fundraise.

— Nicole Duran