[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 120 (Thursday, July 13, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H3482]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE LEGACY OF MARGARET THATCHER

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Texas (Mr. Self) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. SELF. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the contributions to 
western civilization by the Iron Lady of the U.K., Margaret Thatcher.
  In an era characterized by rapid social and economic change, America 
finds itself at a crossroads. The principles that once made our Nation 
a beacon of freedom and prosperity are under attack on multiple fronts.
  In the midst of these consequential times, our attention should turn 
to one of history's most influential leaders, Great Britain's Prime 
Minister Margaret Thatcher. Her unwavering commitment to fiscally 
responsible principles and resolute leadership skills provide 
invaluable lessons for an America pushing back against a growing tide 
of socialism.
  Margaret Thatcher understood that the engine of a thriving economy 
lies in the power of free markets. Her resolute vision of limiting the 
size and scope of government, disassembling monopolies, and lowering 
taxes revitalized the British economy.
  Similarly, America needs a decisive leader, steadfast and determined 
to thwart the death spiral of out-of-control spending and woke cultural 
influences that have migrated from academia to boardrooms, and now into 
public policy.
  While President Ronald Reagan's policies helped subdue the threat of 
communism abroad, different qualities are needed to decapitate the 
snake emerging from within our current culture. Prime Minister Thatcher 
inherited a kingdom in decay, struggling with much of what ails America 
today. From her lonely perch at number 10 Downing Street, through what 
seemed to be sheer will and determination, from the ash heap of 
history, a United Kingdom rose on her shoulders.
  Thatcher's unapologetic patriotism and emphasis on national 
sovereignty resonated with people from all walks of life all over the 
world. In an era of globalization, America must safeguard its financial 
interests, values, and identity. A leader cut from the same cloth as 
Margaret Thatcher would prioritize secure borders, promote American 
jobs, and ensure that our national interests are not compromised by 
supranational organizations.
  By reaffirming our commitment to sovereignty, we can forge a future 
where America's interests are always at the forefront of our 
decisionmaking process.
  Prime Minister Thatcher's vision of a free society extended beyond 
economics. She was a staunch defender of individual liberty, 
recognizing that government should serve as a protector, not as a nanny 
state. She understood the immorality of socialism. She trusted 
individuals to make their own choices, championed personal 
responsibility, and promoted self-reliance.
  America needs a leader who upholds these timeless virtues, resists 
the encroachment of woke ideologies, and recognizes the pitfalls of 
out-of-control spending that bloats the bureaucracy that seems to 
dictate every aspect of our lives.
  As socialism gains traction in America's political discourse, it is 
crucial to remember the destructive consequences of such policies in 
the past. Thatcher recognized the pitfalls of collectivism, firmly 
rejecting the notion of big government's corrosive effect on individual 
liberty and economic growth.
  She recognized the critical aspect that socialism is not only 
economically inefficient, but is immoral. By advocating for free-market 
principles and resisting the deceptive allure of socialism, America can 
maintain its foundation as the land of opportunity and avoid the 
pitfalls that led to the demise of other republics such as the Greek 
and Roman Empires.
  Margaret Thatcher's leadership provides an inspiring template for 
America to follow. Her legacy reminds us that the preservation of 
individual freedom and fiduciary trust are paramount for the survival 
of prosperous economies.
  As our challenges mount, we need a leader who embraces the principles 
of economic freedom, national sovereignty, individual liberty, and 
personal responsibility. Thatcher's unwavering resolve, steadfast 
values, and commitment to commonsense policies serve as a powerful 
reminder of the transformative impact a leader can make.
  America needs a bold leader whose focus is riveted on reviving our 
Nation's spirit, restoring our economy, and defending the principles 
that have made us exceptional. Adhering to Maggie Thatcher's legacy 
will guide us toward a brighter future that ensures America remains a 
shining example of freedom, prosperity, and opportunity for generations 
to come.

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