WASHINGTON—Democrat Michael Bennet became Colorado’s newest senator Thursday, and was quickly offered some insight from one of the august institution’s veterans.
Becoming a U.S. senator is the “single greatest honor” you can receive—better than becoming vice president or president, Vice President Joe Biden told Bennet, clasping his arm.
“I hope you love the Senate as much as I do,” said Biden, who was a Delaware senator for 36 years. “It’s a great, great place.”
Biden administered the oath of office to Bennet, 44, using a red leather Bible the Coloradan brought with him. Bennet was flanked by newly confirmed Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, the senator he replaces, and newly elected Sen. Mark Udall, who becomes Colorado’s senior senator after less than a month in office.
Bennet, a former Denver public schools chief who hasn’t held elected office before, was warmly congratulated by senators from both parties. Biden joined Bennet, his wife and three young daughters afterward for the traditional photo-taking in the old Senate chamber, now used mainly for ceremonial purposes and special events.
The vice president fussed over the Bennet girls, complimenting them on their party dresses and pearls, and eliciting giggles by asking the youngest, age 4, if she was 13.
“They worked hard for you,” Bennet told Biden, nodding at the girls.
“Anything I can do,” Biden offered. “I mean it. I was so excited you got picked.”
Bennet was Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter’s surprise choice to replace Salazar after he was selected by President Barack Obama for Interior. Better-known Democrats, including two members of Congress, had expressed interest in the position.
Bennet said earlier he plans to make the state’s agriculture a top priority and has requested a seat on the Agriculture committee. There is usually a Colorado member on the panel, most recently Salazar.
Udall is on the Armed Services and Energy committees.
“It looks pretty good,” Bennet said of his prospects for appointment to the committee. He said he plans to visit the state’s farming communities.
Bennet said his most immediate concern is the massive economic stimulus plan the White House and congressional Democrats are fashioning.
“It’s critical the people in Colorado have their voices heard on how that money is spent,” Bennet said.
Udall, a former congressman, says Coloradans shouldn’t worry that he and Bennet won’t have much influence because they are both freshmen.
“Getting things done in Washington is primarily a function of personal relationships, of keeping your word…. I know many of the senators already on both sides of the aisle,” Udall said.
