Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15), issued the following statement for the record on H.Con.Res. 27, which authorizes a Gerald R. Ford statue from the people of Michigan be placed in the U.S. Capitol: 

“Mr. Speaker: I rise in support of H.Con.Res. 27, a resolution providing for the acceptance of a statue of Gerald R. Ford from the people of Michigan for placement in the United States Capitol.  It is a great honor to be the lead cosponsor of this resolution with my friend and colleague across the aisle, Mr. Upton.  In a fitting tribute to the bipartisanship that Gerald Ford espoused as a Congressman for 25 years and then as President of the United States that the resolution has the support of the entire Michigan delegation.

The people of Michigan chose a superb president, wise legislator, and extraordinary man to serve as one of two statues representing Michigan in the U.S. Capitol.  Millions of people each year will have the privilege of viewing the statue and will be reminded of the thoughtfulness, courage, and sincerity with which he led the Nation during his presidency. Indeed, much like today, Ford took office at time of divisiveness and uncertainty and helped heal our nation.

I was fortunate to serve with Ford in the House of Representatives. Though we disagreed on many issues, I respected Ford for his ability and desire to bring his party to the table and forge consensus across the aisle.  When Ford became President, the Congress enacted with his help several bipartisan laws, such as the Privacy Act, the Federal Elections Campaign Act, and the Housing and Community Development Act which established the Community Development Block Grant program. 

Gerald Ford and I worked particularly closely during his presidency on energy matters.  During his Administration we passed the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (EPCA), which established the nation’s first fuel economy standards. 

At a time when our country is deeply divided, I am pleased to have this moment to reflect on Gerald Ford’s legacy.  He never abandoned his beliefs and based his decisions on the best interests of the nation rather than political merit.  Ford once said that “our great republic is a government of laws, not of men.”  Let us remember these wise words and pay tribute to Gerald R. Ford by accepting his statue into the halls of this great institution.

I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for this resolution; I yield back.”

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