Chris Van Hollen sworn in

Democrat Chris Van Hollen, the freshman Congressman from Maryland's eighth district, was sworn into office on January 7.

Van Hollen represents Montgomery County and parts of Prince George's County. The swearing-in party was originally planned to run from 12-2 but actually extended until 2:45. The party was held in a large room at the Rayburn building on Capitol Hill. Several Blair students and alumni were in attendance.

Chris Van Hollen defeated incumbent Republican Connie Morella in the November election. The party included both volunteers and contributors including young students and a large number of senior citizens. There were so many people that some had to stand in the hallway.

Everyone watched as all of the Representatives were sworn in and then after Dennis Hastert was done speaking, Van Hollen came over to the party. He spoke to the crowd about how he couldn't have won without their support and how he was going to try and serve as best he could. Van Hollen ran a very Grassroots campaign, and he thanked all the people who helped him win.

Many prominent Democrats were in attendence to show their support including Senator Paul Sarbanes, Senator Barbara Mikulski, Head of the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee Karen Britto, and D.C Mayor Anthony Williams.