Amata Takes Oath of Office As 118th Congress Underway
Washington, D.C. –Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amatawas officially sworn in to serve the people of American Samoa for a fifth term in Congress as the new 118th Congress convened this week on January 3rd, then held the lengthiest election for Speaker of the House in well over 150 years at 15 ballots.
“I am pleased that the House is back to work,” said Aumua Amata. “I am humbled once again to have the opportunity to represent our people in Washington, D.C., and look forward to hearing from you for the next two years about what is important to you.”
House Photo Opening Day Amata with Granddaughter
Congresswoman Amata took the solemn oath to protect and defend the Constitution. Two years ago, due to Covid precautions, honored guests and family were not invited to the U.S. Capitol. This year, Amata was able to have her daughter present from American Samoa and her granddaughter with her on the House floor on opening day, although the swearing-in awaited four days of voting, and was completed very early on Saturday morning following a late Friday night of balloting.
“Congress is once again narrowly divided, and different parties control the Senate and House,” said Amata. “The only bills that can be passed into law will be a result of compromise or bipartisan effort. I will be focused on American Samoa, making the needs of our islands known in Washington, and working for fair federal support.”
View of the House Floor Amata Center - House Photo
As part of the opening procedures, the House of Representatives elected the new Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, a Congressman from California, who already served as Republican Leader. The Speaker was sworn in by the Dean of the House, Congressman Hal Rogers of Kentucky, then the Speaker led the swearing-in of the Members of Congress.
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