John Garamendi sworn in as congressman

Nov. 5, 2009 | Kitty Felde | KPCC

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California’s newest member of Congress, former lieutenant governor John Garamendi, took the oath of office the floor of the U.S. House today.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi delivered the oath to the freshman Democrat.

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"Do you solemnly swear or affirm that you will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic?"

John Garamendi wore a bright purple tie as he swore to faithfully discharge his duties.

"Congratulations, you are now a member of the House of Representatives," said Pelosi.

Garamendi easily won Tuesday’s special election to replace Ellen Tauscher. She left Congress to work in the State Department. Garamendi thanked Walnut Creek voters for their support.

"Giving me this opportunity to extend what has been the most important thing that I think any of us could ever do, and that is to spend our life in public policy, addressing the issues that confront out fellow citizens and the world beyond," said Garamendi.

Capitol insiders expect Garamendi to join the House Transportation Committee. It’s gearing up to debate a major funding bill for roads and transit.

sylvia milberg
3 months ago

CONGRATULATIONS. CALIFORNIA IS LUCK TO HAVE YOU REPRESENTING OUR STATE. I KNOW YOU WILL DO A GREAT JOB.

Johnathan Brooks
3 months ago

I read an article online about Stan Statham being nominated for lieutenant governor to replace John Garamendi who was just left for congress. It quoted some high-level government sources but I haven't seen much else about this in the local media. Has anyone else seen this? Why is this being kept so hush hush?

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