by Ken Quintanilla

Guam - While she was officially sworn in last week in our nation's capitol, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo took the oath of office where it counts most, here at home.

Bordallo says it's good to be home, telling KUAM News, "The inauguration and the oath of office we take in Washington is nothing like it is today, you are the people that put me into office." Before family, friends and island leaders, Bordallo took the oath of office during a ceremonial swearing-in ceremony hosted by the District Court of Guam at the Latte of Freedom. "This will be my seventh term as Guam's Delegate to the House of Representatives 0522 and I'm deeply humbled by the support and the confidence that the people of Guam have provided to me."

Bordallo says with the support of the people of Guam, she's been able to achieve much in the last 12 years, but there's still more to be done. "This includes continuing the progress we have made in the military buildup, extending visa free travel for Chinese visitors to come to Guam, promoting educational and workforce development opportunities and advancing to services to veterans and seniors in our community. This is the most important program especially to our thousands and thousands of wounded veterans that are returning," she added.

For the 114th Congress, Bordallo says she is committed to working on issues that promote jobs and improve the relationship between the federal government and our island community. "I will also work to address long standing issues affecting our community and identify practical solutions to issues such as compact impact, self-determination and recognizing Guam's greatest generation who endured the enemy population during World War II," she said.

She adds with the increasing partisanship in Washington, DC and the divided government between the president and Congress, many of her goals can only be achieved if Guam sticks together. "However, we will only be successful on moving these issues forward if we are united as one Guam, this is so important and able to speak with one voice when dealing with the federal government," she said.

The former first lady, senator and lt. governor says as long as she's blessed with good health and strength, she'll continue to serve the people. "In the meantime, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo will head back to our nation's capitol on Monday and she's already introduced her first measure HR-44, the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act.