Bob Dole: “14 years ago, America was flat on her back. Our economy was a disaster, with inflation, interest rates, and unemployment…”

“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.”