FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Doug McGinn
January 18, 1999 (202) 225-3031

RYAN TAKES OATH OF OFFICE BEFORE FIRST DISTRICT RESIDENTS

"This occasion is not about me -- it is about us."

JANESVILLE -- Congressman Paul Ryan Saturday took the Congressional oath of office before family, friends, and First District residents at a ceremony held at the Olde Towne Mall in Janesville. Wisconsin's former Democratic Senate Majority Leader Tim Cullen provided the keynote address and was followed by Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice N. Patrick Crooks who administered the oath of office. Ryan placed great importance upon taking the oath of office before the people he represents.

"I stand with you today both humbled and inspired," said Ryan. "Some have asked me 'Why are you having this ceremony? - you were officially sworn into office in Washington last week.' To that I say, nothing is official until it is done here at home with my family, friends and among my 550,000 new employers here in Wisconsin's First Congressional District. This occasion is not about me -- it is about us.

"There are two kinds of people in Washington, those who want to be somebody, and those who want to do something. I want to do something. To do that, one must have a vision to guide them. Well, that vision now stands before me -- for the vision is you, your children, and the next generation of Wisconsinites.

"It is a vision that our talents and abilities are only limited by ourselves and what God has given us. This vision tells me that there is a limit to government. There is a fine balance that must be struck between individual freedoms and community needs. While government is necessary and proper, it can go too far and that can diminish the spirit that is uniquely American.

"I am here today because of the hard work and trust all of you have placed in me. It is now time for me to earn that trust. Again, thank you for sharing this day with me."

For additional information, or to schedule an interview with Congressman Ryan, please contact Doug McGinn at (202) 225-3031.