Officials In New York React To Biden Inauguration

Many officials in the Hudson Valley issued statements about the inauguration of the 46th president and vice-president of the United States and the transfer of power in the U.S. Senate.

In response to the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney said, "Americans – from every corner of this country – are ready for that change, and we stand ready to deliver For The People. Together — we will tackle the noble ideals of freedom and justice. Together — we will get this country back to work, and back on track."

U.S. Sen Kirsten Gillibrand called the events of the day a demonstration of the American people’s resolve and optimism. "While our nation continues to face an unprecedented public health and economic crisis, the inauguration was a moment of hope, and the start of a journey to not only recover from the pandemic, but to rebuild and strengthen our nation. To see my friend Kamala Harris, a daughter of immigrants, be sworn in as our nation’s first woman vice president and first Black and South Asian vice president, was a truly historic and unforgettable moment. President Biden will be a president for all Americans and I’m ready to work with him to lay the foundation for a brighter future."

Peter M. Iwanowicz, Executive Director of Environmental Advocates NY, said "We wish the new administration well and look forward to once again working with a federal government that prioritizes science and values the environment."

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said the transfer of power is a celebration of what makes America so extraordinary. "We cherish this moment," he said. "There is much to be done as we respond to this pandemic, rebuild our economy, restore our communities and seek to heal our country."

Chip Rogers, president and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, urged the Biden Administration and Congress to create a longer-term stimulus package. "As an industry, we continue to face historically low occupancy rates, massive job loss, and record hotel closures. Our industry needs help to retain and rehire our associates, revive our local communities, and restart our economy."

Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison also made the connection to the transfer of political power in the U.S. Senate. "I also want to extend my best wishes to U.S. Senator Charles Schumer of New York in his new position as Senate Majority Leader. Senator Schumer is acutely aware of the challenges faced in small cities like Poughkeepsie, and he has extensive knowledge of our area. I greatly look forward to working with him and believe he will be in a strong position to help our great city, state and nation as we confront the COVID-19 crisis and ultimately enter into a post-pandemic chapter of our history."

Rep. Antonio Delgado saw things from both macro and micro levels.

"With all the pain, suffering, and loss we find ourselves in the midst of as a nation, I pray we can also find hope and inspiration in the new day brought forth with the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris," Delgado said in a statement. "Today, little girls and children of color in America watched an Inauguration Ceremony and saw themselves being sworn in to lead our great nation into the future. Vice President Harris' swearing-in is a testament to the promise of our nation and the ongoing perfection of our union.

"I congratulate President Biden and Vice President Harris on their historic swearing-in and look forward to working with their administration to end the coronavirus pandemic and build America back better. Residents of New York's 19th district are counting on the Biden Administration to deliver federal COVID-19 relief to local governments, create good-paying jobs, provide affordable health care, rebuild our crumbling infrastructure, and protect our planet."

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