[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 23 (Monday, February 6, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S2209]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RONALD REAGAN'S BIRTHDAY
  Mr. DOLE. Mr. President, 14 years ago, America was flat on her back. 
Our economy was a disaster, with inflation, interest rates, and 
unemployment all in or near double digits.
  Abroad, respect for American leadership was at an all-time low, as 
our resolve was questioned by allies and adversaries alike.
  Many in this town surveyed the situation, wrung their hands, shook 
their heads, and pronounced that America was in decline, and that our 
best days were far behind us.
  But Ronald Reagan knew better.
  Ronald Reagan knew that power belonged to the people, not with the 
Federal Government.
  Ronald Reagan knew that the best solutions to our problems came not 
from bureaucracies on the Potomac, but from men and women on the 
Mississippi, the Colorado, and the Columbia.
  Ronald Reagan knew that economic recovery could be achieved not 
through rules and regulations, but by allowing the magic of the 
marketplace to work its wonders.
  Ronald Reagan knew that America was right far more often than she was 
wrong.
  Ronald Reagan knew that military strength was not the means to war, 
but the key to peace.
  And Ronald Reagan knew that the price of American leadership was a 
price worth paying.
  It was this vision that Ronald Reagan brought to this town in January 
1981. And it was this vision that revitalized America, and brought hope 
and freedom to millions across the world.
  And it is that vision that America endorsed last November when they 
gave Republicans control of Congress.
  Today is Ronald Reagan's 84th birthday. And along with those of 
countless Americans, my thoughts and prayers are with President and 
Mrs. Reagan today and will remain with them in days to come.
  Mr. HATCH addressed the Chair.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Utah.

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