Local Political Leaders React To Biden Inauguration

BIRMINGHAM, AL — When Pres. Joe Biden was sworn in at noon Wednesday as the 46th U.S. President, a new era in politics began nationally, but locally, in a state that voted overwhelmingly for former President Donald Trump, many political leaders made statements on Biden's inauguration.

Gov. Kay Ivey pledged to work with Biden moving forward. "Congratulations to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on their historic inauguration," Ivey said via social media. "On behalf of the people of AL, I’m committed to working with the new @POTUS & @VP administration for the good of our country. May God unify this great nation."

"With today's inauguration of President Joseph R. Biden, our country reclaims its legacy of hope, decency, opportunity and progress for her citizens," Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said. "Birmingham understands the power of reconciliation for a city and for a country. We have lived it. We are the epitome of what hope can do."

Woodfin added, "I couldn't be prouder to support President Biden as he takes on the monumental effort of leading this country into the future. And, you can count on me to use my position as Mayor to advocate for our city and residents throughout President Biden's administration."

"Congratulations to our 46th @POTUS, Joe Biden, and @VP, Kamala Harris," Sen. Richard Shelby said on Twitter. "I wish them all the best as they lead our country over the next four years. Thank you to the @USNationalGuard and other law enforcement for securing and protecting our Capitol for this important ceremony."

Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth issued a statement via his office Monday congratulating Biden, but maintaining that Alabama is a conservative state.

"As we mark the orderly transfer of power that serves as the foundation of our country, I wish Joe Biden the best and pray that he will lead wisely while always putting America's interests first," Ainsworth said. "But now that Democrats control both chambers of Congress, elected leaders and legislatures in conservative states like Alabama must stand ready to protect our citizens' religious freedoms, gun rights and other God-given liberties whenever necessary.

"I will always defend the traditional values that make Alabama such a special place to live, work, worship and raise a family."

"I of course did not support Joe Biden, but he is now the President of the United States. And I echo President Trump in that I will be praying for him and his family in these coming years," Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-AL) said. "I will look for ways to work with his Administration but I will also work to make sure that conservative ideals and principles are not swept aside either."

Rep. Barry Moore (R-AL) said via Twitter, "Today, our nation embraces the peaceful transition of power & what unites us as Americans. For the good of the country & the Alabamians I proudly represent, I joined several of my colleagues in agreeing to find common ground, where possible, with the Biden Administration."

Moore added, "As there are clear ideological differences between us, I remain vigilant for the years ahead. Defending conservative values continues to be my top priority during my time in Congress."