Janice Hahn: “Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker, Leader Pelosi, and honored Members. It is wonderful to be here today representing the 36th…”

“Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker, Leader Pelosi, and honored Members. It is wonderful to be here today representing the 36th Congressional District in California. I am honored and thankful for this incredible opportunity to serve here in the United States House of Representatives. I am humbled to be the first Los Angeles City councilmember elected to Congress since Ed Roybal almost 50 years ago. I was born into public service. My dad, Kenny, represented the people of Los Angeles for 46 years. My brother, Jim, served as mayor, and is now a superior court judge. Our dad taught us that serving others is more than a job--it's a calling. It requires honesty, hard work and, most of all, the courage to do the right thing. In 1961, a young and controversial civil rights leader named Martin Luther King, Jr. came to Los Angeles for his very first visit, and not a single elected official wanted to greet or welcome him except for one--my father. That's where I got my political courage. We know that Americans are counting on us now more than ever to solve their problems, and working together with courage and in good faith, I believe we can and we will. This past week, I experienced a wonderful victory but also a profound loss. My dear, sweet mother passed away unexpectedly the day before the election. She was the driving force behind our family, and this is the first accomplishment I've ever had and not been able to share with her.…”