April 28, 2015
Top News Today
Lynch was confirmed by the U.S. Senate late last week and was sworn-in on Monday at a Justice Department ceremony. Speaking before an audience of family members, Justice Department lawyers and supporters, Lynch said her confirmation as attorney general showed that “we can do anything” and pledged that the agency would “use justice as our compass” in confronting terrorism, cyberattacks and other threats facing the country.
“We can imbue our criminal justice system with both strength and fairness, for the protection of both the needs of victims and the rights of all. We can restore trust and faith both in our laws and in those of us who enforce them,” Lynch said in apparent reference to ongoing efforts to repair relations between police departments and the minority communities that they serve. Her swearing-in ceremony came just as riots were breaking out in Baltimore to avenge the death of Freddie Gray, who died while in police custody.
Vice President Joe Biden administered the oath of office to Lynch, calling her an “incredibly qualified” selection. He added that Lynch has shown infinite grace during the months-long confirmation process.
“Ladies and gentlemen, it’s about time — it’s about time this woman is being sworn in,” Biden said to applause.
The 55-year-old Lynch previously served as the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York. She replaces Eric Holder, who left the position Friday after serving as attorney general for 6 years.
