Denny Rehberg: “I remember working in Washington during Ronald Reagan's transition in 1980. It was heartening to see the change in…”

“I remember working in Washington during Ronald Reagan's transition in 1980. It was heartening to see the change in attitude and renewed patriotism among the public and in Washington. You see, in those days so many Americans felt discouraged about their government and their future. And then the sheriff rode into town. He brought with him a wholesome, Western perspective. His optimism was contagious, and he had a love for this country and its people as big and as colorful as the Montana sky. His was a kind of hope that people hadn't seen in our Nation since well before Vietnam, Watergate, and the tough economic times that he came to vanquish. ``Sheriff'' Reagan's determination and infectious charm disarmed this town of its grip on the American taxpayer, in favor of limited government, free enterprise, and a renewed faith in the power of the American Dream. Abroad, our President's unwavering stand for liberty brought down the Iron Curtain, ended the Cold War, and helped restore freedom to millions of people around the world. He made us--made me-- proud to be an American. Several years ago, that sense of pride motivated me to successfully lead the effort in Montana to change the name of our annual Republican Lincoln Day Dinners to Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinners, in honor of the two greatest Republicans, Abraham Lincoln and, of course, Ronald Reagan.”