Rachel Talbot Ross sworn in as Maine House Speaker

AUGUSTA, Maine (WABI) - It’s a historic day at the state house.

The House of Representatives elected Rachel Talbot Ross as speaker, the first African American to serve in that position.

She was sworn in Wednesday afternoon in the 131st Maine State Legislature.

A total of 82 Democrats, 67 Republicans, and 2 Independents were sworn-in for their two-year terms by Governor Mills.

Ross is a Portland lawmaker whose father was the first Black member of the Maine Legislature, 50 years ago.

Ross is the fourth woman to become speaker.

”As a proud 9th generation Mainer, standing before you today - I want any child to know that this, this today, is possible,” said Ross.

“I know that this is hard work, and yet it is work that encourages us all to find our common goals and come together to get important work done.”

“We have a history to write together. Thank you for giving me the privilege of standing here and being a part of this body with you.”

In the Senate, 22 Democrats and 13 Republicans took their oaths of office.

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