DeKALB | The 14th congressional district race is evolving each day as Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert responds to criticism based on his reaction to Rep. Mark Foley’s inappropriate computer messages to teenage male pages.

In light of the Foley scandal, speculation has arisen as to what effect the events will have on the November 7 election.

The Associated Press reported Wednesday that a congressional aide warned Hastert’s office more than three years ago that Foley’s behavior was troubling — long before GOP leaders acknowledged learning of the problem.

John Laesch, Hastert’s opponent, is critical of the speaker’s actions.

“Hastert cares more about protecting his political power than protecting kids,” Laesch said after condemning Hastert’s actions on MSNBC’s Hardball with Chris Matthews. “I thought this election was going to be about a referendum on Iraq. I didn’t think a sex scandal would be involved.”

Ron Bonjean, Hastert’s spokesman, told The Associated Press that the entire matter had been referred to the House ethics committee. Hastert, an NIU alumnus, has served in the House since 1986 and became speaker in 1999.

“We fully expect that the bipartisan panel will do what it needs to do to investigate this matter and protect the integrity of the House,” Bonjean said.

Calls for Hastert’s resignation began after Foley, a Florida Republican, resigned last Friday.

One NIU political scientist speculates it’s premature to expect a resignation.

“Right now, I doubt it,” said Matthew Streb, assistant political science professor. “He said he has no intention of stepping down. It’s still too early to tell.”

Although it may be too soon to predict Hastert’s decision, Streb’s opinion of the upcoming election is a bit clearer.

“It might make the election a little closer,” Streb said.

Alan Edrinn is the Energy Beat Reporter and Michael Swiontek is the Assistant City Editor for the Northern Star.

Contributing: The Associated Press.