'A New Chapter:' County Dems React To Biden-Harris Inauguration

ROCKVILLE, MD — Montgomery County Democrats on Wednesday congratulated the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, calling the historic event "a new chapter" for American politics.

Biden succeeded former President Donald Trump as the 46th president of the United States with the declaration: "We'll press forward with speed and urgency, for we have much to do in this winter of peril and significant possibilities, much to repair, much to restore, much to heal, much to build, and much to gain."

Harris — a former U.S. Senator from California — became the first female, first black, and first Asian-American vice president.

Here's what Democrats in Maryland's most populous jurisdiction said about the inauguration:

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich

"Today, America starts a new chapter as we welcome our 46th President Joe Biden and 49th Vice President Kamala Harris," Elrich said in a statement released shortly after the inauguration ceremony. "They take office facing enormous challenges. Rebuilding our economy, winning the battle against COVID-19, saving our climate, and building a more equitable society are all in our nation's best interest, and I look forward to working with President Biden and his administration to take on these critical issues. I wish him and his administration the best and look to a brighter tomorrow for us all."

Montgomery County Councilmember Nancy Navarro

As a woman, WOC, immigrant and mom of 2 Afro-Latina young women. I am proud of our country for standing up for Democracy, & being true to our ideals by electing VP @KamalaHarris Today that glass ceiling was shattered into tiny shiny pieces Cheers! #BidenHarrisInauguration pic.twitter.com/OgQj7mD2vg
— Nancy Navarro (@nancy_navarro) January 20, 2021

Montgomery County Council Vice President Gabe Albornoz

Yes, United We Stand. Feeling hopeful and ready to work together to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. pic.twitter.com/eAO8QWOqkV
— Gabe Albornoz (@albornoz_gabe) January 20, 2021

U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin

Congratulations to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on this extraordinary moment of such great promise. I look forward to working closely with you to see America through this deadly pandemic and to get back on the road to progress and well-being for all.
— Rep. Jamie Raskin (@RepRaskin) January 20, 2021

U.S. Rep. David Trone

Today begins a new era of leadership and progress with the Inauguration of President Biden and Vice President Harris. I couldn’t be more excited to work with them to bring the country back together.
— David Trone (@davidjtrone) January 20, 2021

U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen

Democracy prevailed. #Inauguration2021 was a historic and hopeful moment to share with our daughter Anna. As inaugural poet @TheAmandaGorman said, “Somehow we weathered and witnessed a nation that isn't broken, but simply unfinished.” The work begins anew today. #BuildBackBetter pic.twitter.com/Pp3ly4E9g6
— Senator Chris Van Hollen (@ChrisVanHollen) January 20, 2021

State Sen. Craig Zucker

With the swearing in of @JoeBiden at 12pm, we can once again be a guiding light for the world. Reflected in the greatness, kindness and compassion of every American. It’s not too late to build a newer, more inclusive world.
— Craig Zucker (@SenatorZucker) January 20, 2021