Richmond, Va. – (Wednesday, January 10, 2024) – History was made in Virginia today. Don L. Scott was sworn-in as the first African American to serve as Virginia’s Speaker of the House. The Portsmouth Democrat took the oath of office shortly before 12 p.m. in front of a packed chamber of persons who wanted to be on had to witness the historic occasion.

Wiping away tears, Scott made his way through a crowd of well-wishers, including his mother and other family members. He was elected to the position by a vote of 99 to 0. “The historic nature of my speakership is not lost on me. Think of all the people who never got their rights heard by people right here in this chamber. Thank God the Commonwealth has turned the page. Thank God.”

Scott’s swearing him came as Virginia’s General Assembly, with both the House and Senate controlled by Democrats, convenes for its 60-day legislative session. Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin will go before both Chambers at 4 p.m. as he delivers his State of the Commonwealth speech.