Tag u s vice president mike pence delivers remarks before swearing in education secretary betsy devos at the eisenhower executive office building at the white house in washington

Here are the remarks delivered by Vice President Mike Pence before swearing in Education Secretary Betsy DeVos at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building at the White House in Washington:

Vice President Mike Pence's Remarks

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow Americans, it is my great honor to stand before you today to welcome a new member to the President's Cabinet. Please join me in welcoming the 11th Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos.

Betsy, I want to start by saying how proud I am to call you a colleague and a friend. Your dedication to the cause of education and your commitment to the principles of freedom and opportunity are truly inspiring.

As we gather here today, we are reminded of the importance of education in our society. It is the foundation upon which our great nation is built, and it is the key to unlocking the full potential of every American child.

As Secretary of Education, Betsy will be responsible for leading the Department of Education in its mission to ensure that every student in America has access to a quality education that prepares them for success. And I have no doubt that she will do just that.

Betsy, your background in education and your experience as a philanthropist and advocate for education reform make you uniquely qualified for this role. Your commitment to empowering parents and giving them more choices in education is a critical part of our effort to make America's education system the best in the world.

As we move forward, we will face challenges, no doubt. But I have every confidence that Betsy will work tirelessly to ensure that every student in America has access to a quality education that prepares them for success.

So, Betsy, I want to welcome you to the Cabinet and to this important role. I know that you will serve with distinction and with the highest level of integrity. And I am honored to stand alongside you as we work to make America's education system the best in the world.

Now, without further ado, it is my pleasure to administer the oath of office to Betsy DeVos as the 11th Secretary of Education. Betsy, please raise your right hand.

[Administers the oath of office]

Congratulations, Secretary DeVos!