WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Assistant Speaker Katherine Clark, Congresswoman from the 5th District of Massachusetts, released the below statement following the swearing-in of the 117th Congress:
“Today is the start of a new Congress and as Representatives, new and returning, we take the oath of office and commit ourselves to the Constitution and to the American people. Never in my 7 years as a U.S. Representative has this oath held so much meaning, gravity, and promise. We start the new year and new session with great challenges. While the country has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic crisis, it is our charge to transform this historic pain into historic progress.
“This is our moment to reject the status quo and recreate an America that is more just and more free, where our nation's pledge of equality and opportunity for all is realized and every child, family, and worker has the tools they need to build their American dream.
“In just 17 days, the House will have new partners in this mission, President-elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris. Washington will once again be guided by truth, integrity, science, and hope, and we will denounce and deny any attempt to undermine our democracy or undermine our work toward rebuilding and revitalizing what's possible for America. Progress is our promise. Today is the start of a new day and a brighter future for all of us.”