Angela Alsobrooks takes historic oath of office as new Maryland lawmakers begin session

Key Takeaways:

• Angela Alsobrooks is the first Black woman to serve as U.S. Senator from Maryland.
• The swearing-in ceremony included prominent figures like Vice President Kamala Harris and former Senator Barbara Mikulski.
• Republicans have taken control of the U.S. Senate for the first time in four years.
• Alsobrooks will serve on four key Senate committees.
• Her induction signifies increased representation of Black women in the Senate.

A Historic Oath: Angela Alsobrooks Joins the U.S. Senate

Washington — Angela Alsobrooks, adorned in an all-white suit, stood poised at the front of the ornate Senate chamber. On Friday, she took the oath of office, becoming Maryland’s first Black female U.S. Senator and only the second woman ever to hold the role. With a handshake from her mentor and friend, Vice President Kamala Harris, Alsobrooks marked the beginning of a new chapter in Maryland’s political history.

A Ceremony of Firsts

Alsobrooks was the first newly elected senator to be sworn in, as the proceedings moved alphabetically. She was flanked by a distinguished group: U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, her predecessor U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, and former U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski. As they approached, Harris smiled warmly. “The gang’s all here,” she remarked, encapsulating the camaraderie of the moment.

The significance of the occasion was palpable. Alsobrooks’ oath not only signified her personal achievement but also a milestone for representation in the Senate. In the gallery, family and friends watched with pride, some forming hearts with their hands, as she embraced her new role.

Connections and Celebrations

Following the formalities, Alsobrooks shared a poignant moment with Barbara Mikulski. The retired senator pinned Alsobrooks’ new congressional pin on her lapel, a symbolic passing of the torch. Seated beside U.S. Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey and fellow freshman U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, Alsobrooks eagerly pointed out her family in the crowd, her excitement infectious.

Earlier that day, she had danced into a Congressional Black Caucus event, greeted by a standing ovation from many of the 61 members present. The celebration underscored the optimism surrounding her tenure and the growing influence of Black women in national politics.

Shifts in Congressional Leadership

Alsobrooks’ induction comes at a time of significant change in Congress. Republicans have taken control of the U.S. Senate for the first time in four years, with South Dakota’s John Thune succeeding Mitch McConnell as the majority leader. The House remains under Republican control but with a razor-thin margin, evident as House Speaker Mike Johnson reclaimed his position only after some GOP holdouts shifted their votes.

Despite the partisan shifts, Alsobrooks’ entrance into the Senate was marked by unity and shared purpose. Unlike the contentious atmosphere in the House, the Senate proceedings were smooth, with colleagues extending warm welcomes.

Looking Ahead: Committee Assignments

As she begins her tenure, Alsobrooks is set to serve on four influential Senate committees: Banking; Environment and Public Works; Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; and Aging. These assignments position her to play a critical role in shaping policies in key areas affecting both Maryland and the nation.

A New Era for Maryland

Alsobrooks’ journey from Prince George’s County to the halls of the U.S. Senate resonates as an inspiring narrative of dedication and public service. Her historic swearing-in not only reflects her personal accomplishments but also heralds a broader advancement for diversity and representation in government.

As she takes her seat in the Senate, Alsobrooks embodies both the progress made and the possibilities ahead. Her presence signals a commitment to inclusion, and she stands ready to make her mark on Capitol Hill.