Ranking Member Morelle Delivers Floor Remarks on H.R. 250

WASHINGTON - Rep. Joe Morelle (NY-25), the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, delivered a floor speech in support of H.R. 250. The following remarks are as prepared for delivery:

"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I yield myself such time as I may consume.

"Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 250.

"This bipartisan legislation would direct the Joint Committee on the Library to procure a statue of Benjamin Franklin for placement in the Capitol.

"As my colleague from Pennsylvania and sponsor of this bill, Representative Chrissy Houlahan, observed: while there are some references to Benjamin Franklin across the Capitol, and a statue tucked away in a back hallway, there is no statue of one of our most important Founding Fathers accessible to the millions of visitors who tour the Capitol each year.

"This legislation would change that, honoring one of the greatest minds and patriots in American history.

"Benjamin Franklin was a statesman, diplomat, scientist, inventor, political philosopher, and businessman. His groundbreaking experiments pushed forward scientific understanding, his role as the first Postmaster General created the foundation of our modern mail system, and he was resolutely committed to freeing the colonies from British rule. 

"He helped draft both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, and he negotiated the treaty that ended the Revolutionary War. His genius has shaped our nation in innumerable ways, and he deserves to be displayed and honored prominently in the Capitol.

"I look forward to working with the Joint Committee on the Library to obtain a new statue of Benjamin Franklin and urge my colleagues to support this measure.

"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I reserve the balance of my time."

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