Kuster, Shea-Porter Sworn In to Congress

New Hampshire Congresswomen Ann McLane Kuster and Carol Shea-Porter were sworn in Thursday in Washington, D.C.

The Democrats are now part of the first all-female federal delegation in United States history. They join Republican Sen. Kelly Ayotte and Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen.

Kuster, of Hopkinton, defeated Republican Charlie Bass. Shea-Porter, of Rochester, defeated Republican Frank Guinta in the November election.

Kuster, who was appointed to the House Agriculture Committee, released the following statement:

“It’s a great honor to join the U.S. House of Representatives and to serve the hardworking people of New Hampshire’s Second District. We face many challenges as a state and country, but there is so much we can achieve if we’re willing to put politics aside and do what’s right for middle class families. From creating jobs and reducing the deficit, to strengthening our education system and protecting the environment, we have a chance to come together to move our state and country forward. I’m eager to get to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do just that.”

New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley released the following statement Thursday:

"Congresswoman Shea-Porter, of course, is returning to the body in which she served two terms. During that time she was a tireless fighter for veterans, a strong proponent of health care reform, and a fierce advocate of the middle class. More than anything else, Congresswoman Shea-Porter has always put the citizens of her district first, never caving to special interests or outside influences."

"As an adoption attorney and advocate for nonprofits, Ann McLane Kuster has always stood up for the disadvantaged and underprivileged. When she gets to Washington she will use that lifetime of experience to fight for education, health care, and middle class families. I know that with Congresswoman Kuster representing them, the people of District Two, and indeed all of the citizens of New Hampshire will be in good hands."

Editor's Note: This story was originally published with a photo of female lawmakers provided to us by Nancy Pelosi's office. We removed the photo when it came to our attention that the photo had been doctored to include four lawmakers who were late to the photo shoot.