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MEDIA RELEASE
Wednesday, Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27) attended the inauguration of Joseph R. Biden Jr. and Kamala D. Harris as President and Vice President of the United States of America.
This event occurred on the same spot where, just two weeks ago, a mob of rioters and insurrectionists stormed the Capitol Building at the urging of then-President Trump.
Rep. Chu joined with a crowd that was limited in size due to the public health considerations of the coronavirus pandemic. Rep. Chu released the following statement:
“Today marks the beginning of a new era for our country. As I made my way to my seat for the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris this morning, I kept thinking about what a triumph of democracy it was to have this historic and moving ceremony right at the same site where rioters attacked the capitol only two weeks before.
A mere 14 days ago, I was hiding in my office for hours, terrified to open the door because I did not know if rioters who might attack, kidnap or murder me were on the other side. The rioters wanted to halt our democratic process, but today we saw the inauguration of a President who won in a free and fair election. And despite the violent threats, we came together and held a beautiful and moving inauguration ceremony that commemorated this consequential moment,” Rep. Chu said.
I was filled with awe watching California’s very own Kamala Harris shatter one of the highest glass ceilings of all and officially be sworn in as the first woman, first Asian American, and first Black Vice President.
And finally, with his speech Joe Biden made clear that he is the right leader to get our country through these trying times. We are a nation reeling from 400,000 deaths due to the coronavirus. We are a nation divided by Trump who perpetuated the lie that the election was stolen. Joe Biden met the moment by delivering a speech that was unifying, sincere and empathetic. He upheld the strength of our democracy, implying that despite this attack, democracy has prevailed.
But he also appealed to unity. He said his whole soul is in this effort to bring America together and finally unite our nation. He acknowledged those that supported him but also made a point to speak to those who did not vote for him, asking them to give him a chance, to hear him out.
He proclaimed that he will be a president for all Americans, and that was powerful. With the leadership of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in the White House, I know that we will finally rebuild a more equitable, more just, and more compassionate America. And I look forward to joining them in that fight.”
