State Treasurer Wooden Celebrates Presidential Inauguration

Press release from the Treasurer's Office:

Jan. 21, 2021

Please see the following statement from Treasurer Shawn T. Wooden in celebration of the inaugural swearing-in ceremony of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

“Today’s inaugural ceremony of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris is an important step on our country’s path towards healing. While they are taking office amidst a global pandemic, economic downturn, and racial reckoning, I am fully confident in their ability to get our country back on track. President Biden’s leadership and history of resilience, humility and hope are uniquely suited for him to meet the greatest challenges of our time with grace.

The Biden Administration’s commitment to uniting our nation and prioritizing the health, safety and economic security of all Americans will help us end this public health crisis and quicken the economic recovery. President Biden’s plans to accelerate the vaccine rollout will not only save American lives but also continue to give the financial markets confidence that a stabilizing economic forecast and economic recovery is in sight.

This administration has also shown a commitment to stabilizing state and local finances by proposing $350 billion in aid as part of their new stimulus relief bill. This critical funding would offset the probability of state and local governments being forced to make cuts to their workforces, including some of our most essential workers here in Connecticut such as firefighters, teachers, and public works employees who have stepped up and answered the call to protect their communities throughout this crisis.

With multiple, overlapping crises, President Biden also understands that the pandemic and economic crisis have impacted Black and Brown communities especially hard. His racial equity agenda seeks to prioritize building an inclusive economy by addressing racial economic disparities and making a long-term investment in our nation’s economy. This commitment to racial equity is critical to America reaching its promise.

Among historic achievements today includes the numerous glass ceilings Vice President Kamala Harris has broken as the first Black woman, Asian American — and first HBCU alum Vice President. Vice President Harris brings a wealth of intellect, tenacity, and resolve to the White House. Her uniquely American story is an inspiring one. In her new leadership role, girls and women of all races and ethnicities can envision themselves serving at the highest levels of government; overcoming the many obstacles that women and color continue to face in America. Just as she did as Attorney General of California and U.S. Senator, Vice President Harris will quickly rise to the occasion, excel in her role, and make our country very proud.”

This press release was produced by the Treasurer's Office. The views expressed here are the author's own.