Kweisi Mfume Sworn In To House Of Representatives

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume was sworn into office by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Tuesday morning, again giving District 7 a voice in Congress. Mfume was voted in through a special election to fill the seat left vacant by Congressman Elijah Cummings, who died in October.

Mfume's term runs through Jan. 3, and his name will be on the ballot in the June primary.

Due to the new coronavirus pandemic, ballots will primarily be sent in by mail and were mainly mailed in for April's special election as well, to promote social distancing.

"Congratulations to Rep. Mfume on being sworn in to Congress today," County Executive Johnny Olszewski said Tuesday after Mfume took the oath of office to represent District 7, which includes parts of Howard and Baltimore counties as well as Baltimore City.. "During this crisis, we need experienced leaders to advocate for our residents and our needs. I look forward to working with you to weather this storm and build a better Baltimore County."

Mfume returns to Congress after more than two decades. From 1987 to 1996, he held the post as the District 7 representative and left to become chairman of the NAACP.

"Congratulations to Congressman Kweisi Mfume, who was sworn in today to the U.S. House of Representatives," Gov. Larry Hogan said in a statement Tuesday. "I have great respect for him, and look forward to working together as we continue to navigate this crisis."

Pelosi conducted the swearing-in ceremony at 10:45 a.m. at the U.S. House of Representatives.