There was a call for unity, a call for speed and urgency, and praise for democracy's day.
Joe Biden's inauguration was held Jan. 20 with a country fractured after false claims of voter fraud and election theft. But according to Assistant House Speaker Katherine Clark, who represents the 5th District of Massachusetts, there's still time to build back the bonds of democracy.
“Today is a new beginning for America," she said in a statement. "President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris represent the strength of our democracy and an opportunity to repair and rebuild our nation."
Biden takes the White House after four years of "conflict, corruption and chaos," Clark said, noting voters opted for a new path with the November election.
"The new administration, in partnership with a Democratic House and Senate, will bring solutions and an end to the great suffering afflicting our nation, from the devastation wrought by the pandemic to the deep pains of injustice," she said. "Our work begins to rebuild a stronger, more just America where every family has a fair shot and where every person is treated with dignity and respect."
Biden entered Congress 48 years ago as the junior senator from Delaware. On Jan. 20, Biden stood on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, where a two weeks prior an attempted coup took place and failed. He recited the oath of office enshrined in the Constitution, first spoken by President George Washington.
Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office.
Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama sat behind him.
In Biden's speech, he vowed to work for all Americans, including those who didn't vote for him, but acknowledged the challenging work ahead of him.
“While there are obstacles ahead of us, we will unite around progress," Clark said. "We will unite in action for climate justice, gender justice, and racial justice. We will unite in bringing to life America’s great promise: freedom for all.
“Let today stand as a clear message that if we honor truth and justice, democracy will always prevail.”
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