Iowa Democratic Party Chair Mark Smith released the following statement after President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took the oath of office to become the 46th President and Vice President of the United States:

“Today marks a day of unity and the return of compassionate leadership to the highest office in the land. After 4 years of divisive politics, Iowans are ready for new leaders in Washington who will work to make people’s lives better. COVID-19 has killed more than 400,000 Americans and left 10 million jobless through no fault of their own. The Biden-Harris administration is focused on tackling the pandemic and rebuilding our economy. They have plans, like the American Rescue Plan to get Americans vaccinated, provide direct relief and raise the wage, support small businesses and schools.

“In his speech, President Biden promised, ‘the dream of justice for all will be deferred no longer.’ Now more than ever, our country needs unity and healing. As we turn the page, Iowa Democrats will always lead with our values to help fulfill the promise of justice and equality for all. Today, I’m proud and excited to join together with fellow Democrats to celebrate this historic moment and move forward and build back better.”