Missouri News

Kansas And Missouri Politicians From Both Parties Echo Biden's Call For Unity

KCUR | By Lukas Kenney

Published January 20, 2021 at 4:27 PM CST

President Joe Biden hugs first lady Jill Biden, his son Hunter Biden and daughter Ashley Biden after being sworn-in during the 59th Presidential Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Several local leaders attended the 59th Presidential Inauguration Wednesday and afterward shared their reactions online.

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, D-Mo., offered his congratulations to President Biden and Vice President Harris.

So did Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., and Missouri Senate Majority Leader Caleb Rowden.

Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kan., said she’s looking forward to working with the new administration and echoed President Biden’s message of unity.

Missouri Republican Sen. Roy Blunt, chair of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, also focused on unity when he spoke at the event.

“This is not a moment of division. It’s a moment of unification,” Blunt said. “A determined democracy will continue to be essential in pursuit of a more perfect union and a better future for all Americans.”

Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., tweeted pictures of himself and his wife at the inauguration and said he hopes to work with the new administration on coronavirus-related issues.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas also attended the ceremony.

In a statement, Rep. Vicky Hartzler, R-Mo., praised former President Donald Trump before congratulating President Biden.

“President Trump achieved much during his term in office, including a booming economy with record-low unemployment, the rebuilding of our military, and an unprecedented vaccine development program in Operation Warp Speed — all completed in only four years. While we recognize him for his many accomplishments, it is now time to move forward under our 46th commander in chief and come together just as Americans have since the birth of our nation.”