Blake Moore, Burgess Owens sworn into 117th Congress

WASHINGTON, DC — Blake Moore, one of Utah’s newest members of Congress, was sworn into office Sunday evening officially taking on the role of representing the state’s 1st Congressional District. Moore will join the 117th Congress beginning Monday. 

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve the people of the First District of Utah in the 117th Congress,” Moore said in a statement. “This is a crucial time in our nation’s history, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to represent northern and northeastern Utah.

 

Today, with my wife & eldest son by my side, I was sworn in as a Member of the 117th Congress to represent the 1st District of Utah in the U.S. House of Representatives. I’m grateful for all who got us here, & I look forward to bringing the values of UT-01 to DC. #utpol pic.twitter.com/o6WUDvel3m

— Rep. Blake Moore (@RepBlakeMoore) January 3, 2021

Moore defeated his opponent Darren Parry to fill Utah’s only open congressional seat in the 2020 election, replacing Rep. Rob Bishop. Bishop announced in 2019 he would not run for re-election.

Before being elected to Congress, Moore worked in foreign service as well as for small businesses — noting that this experience guides his positions on domestic and foreign policy. 

“I look forward to championing aspirational, inclusive, and pro-growth ideals, and I will bring the First District’s values of family, community, and sacrificial service to the U.S. House of Representatives.”

Moore ran on a platform that championed the economy, education, and national security. The new Congressman was joined by his wife Jane and his son, Max, as he took oath Sunday. 

Burgess Owens, former NFL player and frequent Fox News commentator, was also sworn into Congress Sunday. Although he did not release details from his swearing-in, the newest 4th Congressional District representative posted a photo alongside House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and 10 others. 

“Today, I took an oath to defend the constitution; an oath I do not take lightly,” Owens tweeted. “I’m honored #UT04 has chosen me to represent them in Washington. I promise to serve you to the best of my ability. From Juab & Sanpete to Utah & Salt Lake counties, thank you. I will make you proud.”

 

I was proud to vote for @GOPLeader as Speaker of the House today. I share his vision that govt should get out of the way and let our families thrive, and that The American Dream was built on the promise that hard work and freedom can open the doors to success for anyone. pic.twitter.com/UUPxlaAQGE

— Rep. Burgess Owens (@RepBurgessOwens) January 3, 2021

Owens defeated then-Rep. Ben McAdams, who only served one term after upsetting Mia Love in 2018. The new Congressmember is part of the GOP-lead group planning to object the Electoral College certification next week, rejecting President-elect Joe Biden’s victory.