WASHINGTON, D.C. — Benjamin Franklin, a towering figure in American history and ingenuity, may soon take a more prominent place in the U.S. Capitol, thanks to a bipartisan effort led by Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and John Boozman (R-AR). The recent re-introduction of the Benjamin Franklin Statue Placement Act aims to place a statue of the celebrated Founding Father along the Capitol Tour route before the United States marks its 250th anniversary in 2026.
“Benjamin Franklin is an integral part of the American story,” declared Rep. Houlahan. “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.”
This sentiment is shared by lawmakers across party lines, marking the bill as a rare and inspiring example of bipartisan unity in honoring one of the country’s most legendary figures.
Why Franklin?
Few individuals in history can match the breadth of Franklin’s achievements. He was a visionary who shaped the nation in countless ways—a signer of the Declaration of Independence, a diplomat who helped secure French support during the Revolution, an inventor of groundbreaking technologies like the lightning rod, and a philosopher who helped define the principles of American democracy. Franklin’s contributions laid the foundation upon which the United States was built.
“Franklin’s work to unify the colonies and his contributions to our Constitution played a major role in shaping the ideals we continue to strive toward today,” emphasized Senator Coons. “It’s only fitting that this statue to his memory finally comes to reside in a place of prominence in our nation’s Capitol.”
Though Franklin’s legacy has an undeniable impact on both Pennsylvania and the nation at large, visitors to the Capitol are likely unaware of his full historical significance. Current references to Franklin are scattered, tucked into decorative carvings or hidden in hallways far from the main visitor route. This glaring oversight is what sparked Rep. Houlahan to take legislative action after discovering the lack of a dedicated tribute to Franklin during a tour of the Capitol.
A Statue for the People
The Benjamin Franklin Statue Placement Act aims to correct this omission by ensuring that Franklin’s statue takes center stage in a location easily accessible to visitors from across the globe. The timing of this honor is especially symbolic as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th year of independence—a milestone that highlights the values and vision Franklin helped establish.
“Benjamin Franklin is a figure of paramount importance to the history of Philadelphia and this nation,” noted Rep. Fitzpatrick. “This effort ensures Franklin’s unique contributions are celebrated by the millions of people who visit the Capitol every year.”
Bipartisan Support, Shared Legacy
The bill’s re-introduction demonstrates a rare and hopeful example of unity in Congress, with lawmakers from different political affiliations joining forces to celebrate a shared national heritage. The bipartisan nature of the act speaks to Franklin’s universal resonance as a symbol of innovation, diplomacy, and the enduring pursuit of knowledge.
“Benjamin Franklin’s unique role in our nation’s founding deserves special acknowledgment,” added Senator Boozman. “This statue will ensure visitors to the U.S. Capitol have an opportunity to celebrate his many important contributions.”
The act is poised not only to honor Franklin as a historical figure but also to inspire future generations. Highlighting his contributions—from inventing bifocal glasses to promoting civic institutions such as public libraries—the statue will remind Americans young and old that progress relies on curiosity, courage, and collaboration.
The Importance of Representation
Positioning Franklin’s statue along the Capitol’s main tour route is about more than acknowledging his legacy. It’s an effort to ensure that visitors understand the integral role historical figures played in shaping the nation we know today. Statues within the Capitol stand as reflections of what Americans value and honor, sending a powerful message to those who visit.
By placing Franklin prominently in this iconic space, lawmakers are not only celebrating his contributions but also embedding his ideals into the fabric of the Capitol itself. It’s a reminder that the stirring words and revolutionary concepts of visionaries like Franklin remain as relevant today as they were centuries ago.
Looking Ahead
Rep. Houlahan, Sen. Coons, and their bipartisan colleagues are confident this act will pass before the 2026 deadline set to coincide with the nation’s 250th birthday celebrations. Once enacted, the statue will become part of the enduring legacy Franklin left behind—standing tall as a testament to his remarkable contributions to America’s formation and growth.
This effort goes beyond merely casting a figure in stone. It honors the spirit of ingenuity, resilience, and unity that Franklin championed. For the millions of visitors who will one day walk the Capitol halls, it ensures that they will meet Franklin, not as a distant icon, but as an enduring symbol of the American story.
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