EXHIBIT 23.1
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             CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

   We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration
   Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the Newell Rubbermaid Inc. 2003
   Stock Plan of our report dated January 27, 2003, with respect to the
   consolidated financial statements and schedule of Newell Rubbermaid
   Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
   December 31, 2002, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


                                           /s/Ernst & Young, LLP
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