Senators Coons, Boozman introduce bipartisan Benjamin Franklin Statue Placement Act

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.) introduced the Benjamin Franklin Statue Placement Act, a bipartisan effort to honor Benjamin Franklin's contributions to the founding of the United States by placing a statue of him along the U.S. Capitol tour route. The bill calls for the installation of a statue of Franklin before 2026, which will be the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding.

"Benjamin Franklin's legacy as a statesman and politician, printer and publisher, philosopher and patriot, and inventor and scientist shaped the principles of American democracy and the ideals we continue to strive toward today," said Senator Coons. "His work to unify the colonies and his contributions to our Constitution played a major role in Delaware declaring its independence and becoming the nation's first state. As we approach America's 250th birthday, it's only fitting that this statue to his memory finally comes to reside in a place of prominence in our nation's Capitol."

"Benjamin Franklin's unique role in our nation's founding, including as our first diplomat to France, deserves special acknowledgement," said Senator Boozman. "As a Co-Chair of the Senate French Caucus, I'm proud to help ensure visitors to the U.S. Capitol have an opportunity to celebrate that special connection and his many important contributions."

"Benjamin Franklin is an integral part of the American story," said Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.). "As the only signer of all three documents separating us from the British, his contributions to American history are the foundation for our great nation. I am thrilled that Senators Coons and Boozman are joining Representative Fitzpatrick and me in our effort to honor Mr. Franklin and his legacy in our nation's Capitol. With America's 250th birthday approaching, it is imperative that we bestow this honor on Mr. Franklin quickly. Two-hundred-and-fifty years is a long time to wait, and I appreciate the bipartisan group of representatives and senators who have supported us in our endeavor."

"As proud Pennsylvanians, Representative Houlahan and I are honored to lead this bipartisan effort to enshrine Benjamin Franklin's legacy in the heart of our nation's Capitol," said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.). "Franklin's visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to liberty were instrumental in the birth of our republic, and as we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding, it is only fitting that we honor his lasting influence. This statue will stand not only as a tribute to Franklin's monumental contributions but as a testament to Pennsylvania's vital role in shaping the course of American history and securing the promise of freedom for future generations."

As one of the most noteworthy Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin strived to improve civic life in America. He played a key role in the Second Continental Congress, serving as a main editor of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Franklin was the only Founding Father to sign all three documents that led to America's separation from Great Britain: the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War.

Despite his impactful role in shaping America, Franklin currently lacks significant representation within the U.S. Capitol. While there are references to Franklin throughout the Capitol - such as in paintings, carvings on the bases of other statues, and other small references - there is no statue of Franklin that is accessible to visitors. This bill would establish a statue of Franklin that is prominently displayed along the Capitol's tour route, providing visitors with a tangible way to honor his enduring legacy.

In addition to Senators Coons and Boozman, the bill is cosponsored by Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and James Lankford (R-Okla.). Representatives Houlahan and Fitzpatrick introduced a companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this year.

The full text of the bill is available here.