U.S. Congresswoman Norma Torres Joins Presidential Delegation for Inauguration of Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) joined a United States Presidential Delegation to Guatemala City, Guatemala for the inauguration of President Bernardo Arévalo.
Following the inauguration, Congresswoman Torres released this statement:
“Today is a triumph for democracy and the peaceful transfer of power. Free and fair elections are the bedrock of a healthy democratic society, and the Guatemalan people made their voices heard, despite the efforts of the corrupt few to subvert their will.
“I congratulate the people of Guatemala and President Arévalo on his inauguration and applaud his pledge to root out corruption at every level of the Guatemalan government. I hope to partner with his administration to strengthen democracy, increase the rule of law, and build a more prosperous future for all Guatemalans.
“This peaceful transfer of power marks the start of a new chapter for Guatemala and the building of an even stronger relationship between Guatemala and the United States of America. While there is much work ahead, today we celebrate the people of Guatemala’s unwavering commitment to democracy and a life without corrupt actors. Their future is in their own hands.”
As a leader on the House Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, Congresswoman Torres, the only Member of Congress to be born in Central America, has fought against corruption and to fund democracy-building efforts in Central America. The congresswoman is also chair of the bipartisan Central America Caucus, which brings together Members of Congress to strengthen the relationship between the United States and the region.