Memorializing Ronald Reagan ("Dutch" is going to be on the Ten Dollar bill.)

The Hill ^ | By Alexander Bolton

[jerod]

Admirers push to put GOP founding father’s face on $10 bill, replacing Alexander Hamilton

Ardent admirers of Ronald Reagan intend to seize on the former president’s death as their chance to memorialize him on the $10 bill.

Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), the assistant majority leader, has said he wants to take the lead on the necessary legislation to displace the image of Alexander Hamilton, first secretary of the Treasury.

In the House, a Republican member of the California delegation likely would be the lead sponsor of companion legislation. Rep. Chris Cox (R-Calif), chairman of the Republican Policy Committee and a former Reagan aide, has expressed interest in leading the charge.

In the meantime, the House will consider a bereavement resolution commemorating Reagan today or tomorrow, and the Senate will do the same this week.

The campaign to transform the $10 bill is the brainchild of Grover Norquist, president of the Ronald Reagan Legacy Project. Norquist, a prominent conservative activist who also is president of Americans for Tax Reform, would be aided in his quest by his strong ties with the Bush White House.

Supporters recognize that now is a unique moment for them to achieve their goal, with the nation in general and lawmakers in particular, coming together in praise of Reagan and seeking a dignified way to memorialize him.

With Sens. John Kerry (Mass.) the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Tom Daschle (D-S.D.), the minority leader, Edward Kennedy (Mass.) and Charles Schumer (N.Y.) among many Democrats praising Reagan, a filibuster of the change — the only realistic way to beat it — is seen as unlikely......

[Bob J]

Please vote in FR's front page poll on this issue! Grover Norquist, who is heading up this effort, asked for our feedback!