WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Scott Peters (CA-52) released the following statement upon the inauguration of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and Vice President Kamala D. Harris:

“Four years ago, I fulfilled my role as a Representative and bore witness to the inauguration of a new leader. I did the same today, this time with hope for a better future and a return to decency.

“I have the greatest confidence that President Biden and Vice President Harris will guide our country forward with courage, respect and conviction. They will navigate our country out of this pandemic, tackle the climate crisis and restore American leadership abroad. Now is the time for unity, and I look forward to working with the White House and anyone, regardless of political party or title, to solve problems and create a more equitable and prosperous future for all Americans.

“It’s a really sad thing that Americans weren’t able to experience, in-person, the transition of power – a cornerstone of our democracy – as has been done for hundreds of years, due to COVID as well as threats from insurrectionists. But this moment marks a turning point as we work to repair the damage that has been brought by this dark chapter in our nation’s history. We should all be inspired to meet the challenge issued by Amanda Gorman: ‘there is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it – if only we’re brave enough to be it.’ With this new beginning, let’s put her words into action and do our part to build back better.”