|
Washington, DC -- Yesterday afternoon John Sarbanes was sworn into the 110th Congress by the newly elected Speaker, Rep. Nancy Pelosi. He was joined by 52 other freshman Members of Congress as they entered a new era of Democratic majority in the House of Representatives. Sarbanes represents Maryland’s Third Congressional District which includes portions of Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County and Howard County.
More than 250 supporters traveled from Maryland to celebrate the occasion with the newly elected Congressman and his family. Returning to the reception after his official swearing in on the House floor with his wife Dina and three children, Sarbanes said “Your message has been heard. The new Congress is going to focus on passing meaningful legislation to improve the daily lives of ordinary Americans. I am continually thankful for your outpouring of support and humbled by your dedication to advancing our community.”
The opening of the 110th Congress marked the kick-off of the “100 Hours” agenda, led by Speaker Pelosi and the Democratic leadership. Ethics reform is the first topic being considered by the new Congress and the first topic Congressman Sarbanes addressed on the House floor. Speaking just minutes before a section of the reform package was to be voted on, Sarbanes said “…the number one issue…which the voters cast their vote in the election of 2006 was concern about ethics and reforming ethics. It is a privilege and an honor for me to stand in support of this package and in support of the ethics reforms being called for by the American people.” Other reforms expected to pass during the first 100 hours involve implementing the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, raising the minimum wage, lowering the cost of prescription drugs, cutting interest rates on student loans, promoting stem-cell research and investing in renewable fuels.
When asked about his first term priorities, Sarbanes said “I have a lot to learn about how best to serve the people of Maryland. I expect to continue exploring the needs and opportunities of the communities that I represent and being proud to cast my vote in support of a new direction in America.” | 
