BOSTON - John Keenan was officially inaugurated as Salem's new State Representative in a ceremony at the State House in Boston this morning. Keenan was joined by his wife Kara McLaughlin, his father John, his father- and mother-in-law Bruce and Jeanette McLaughlin, his former campaign manager and now legislative aide Dominick Pangallo, and his campaign's field director Marcos Ortiz.

At 9:30am, Keenan and his colleagues met in a caucus of the Democratic Members-elect of the House of Representatives in order to elect a Speaker, Clerk, and Sergeant-at-Arms. Keenan joined his fellow Democratic Representatives-elect in voting for Rep. Salvatore DiMasi for Speaker.

Following the caucus, the House convened in formal session at 11:00am in the House Chamber. Keenan stood with the twelve other members of the Class of 2005 and took the official oath and affirmation of office. After being sworn in, Keenan took his first vote as State Representative, voting to elect Rep. DiMasi as Speaker of the House.

"It was an honor and a privilege to participate in today's ceremonies," said Keenan, "I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work as Salem's representative on Beacon Hill. We have so many great opportunities and challenges ahead, I'm looking forward to each and every one."

"I am extremely proud of John today," said the Representative's father, John Keenan Sr., "He cares so deeply about Salem, I know he will do our city well."

Pangallo agreed, "John worked incredibly hard for this job. On the campaign trail he talked about his love for Salem and his desire to serve the people, and now the people are giving him that chance. It's a great day for Salem and for Massachusetts."

Keenan replaces the retiring J. Michael Ruane, who served the people of Salem for three decades as their State Representative. Although the inauguration ceremony marks the official beginning of his legislative term, Keenan began meeting with his colleagues, reviewing and co-sponsoring legislation, and planning constituent outreach almost immediately after his election on November 2nd. "The people of Salem deserve an accessible and energetic representative," said Keenan, "I am honored to have their support and will stand up for them each and every day as their legislator."