Washington, DC (WBEN) As Joe Biden takes the oath of office at noon to become the nation's 46th president, the Western New York congressional contingent plans to be in attendance with two of them telling WBEN they feel secure in the nation's capital.
Congressman Tom Reed says it's vital for him to attend. "I will be attending. I think it's very important to send a message to the country and the world that Republicans can join together with President Biden as he takes the oath to show we have completed the transition of power in America in the way we do it best," says Reed. He says that's an inauguration where Democrats and Republicans stand united to celebrate democracy and come together on the world stage to show America's democracy continues to function.
Reed says he's relayed to Biden's team about the Problem Solvers caucus and Republicans' message. "We stand ready to debate the issues of the day as proud Republicans and proud Democrats and committed to staying in the room to find common ground and make sure the people are kept in mind moving forward.
Reed says the country needs to heal, and he wants to address election integrity to help do that. "What can we do at the federal level to encourage at the state level election integrity is secured," notes Reed.
After the uprising two weeks ago at the Capitol, Reed says he feels safe in Washington. "I have no concerns about my personal safety," says Reed. "I see the security here and the men and women of law enforcement and the National Guard. They are the best of the best." Reed says he will stand by them.
Congressman Chris Jacobs says count him in for Wednesday's inauguration. "I'm honored to go and represent the 27th congressional district to see the swearing-in of Joe Biden," says Jacobs, who says he's also looking forward to working with Biden to face the challenges the nation has.
Jacobs says he'd like to hear BIden's vision during the inaugural address. "We certainly read some things about that, but we'll look forward to hearing that, and bringing our nation together after a very contentious time to work to unify," adds Jacobs. He says he stand committed to working with Biden.
Jacobs says he feels safe in Washington as well. "There's a significant presence. There are 1,400 National Guard members from New York making sacrifices to ensure our safety," says Jacobs, who adds every precaution is being taken. "I feel comfortable and this will be a day that will be safe and part of an important peaceful transfer of power," adds Jacobs.
Rep. Brian Higgins of Buffalo is expected to attend the ceremony. WBEN was unable to reach him for comment for this story.
The swearing-in is set for noon Wednesday.
