Minneapolis DFLer Sworn In As Newest House Member
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — State Rep. Susan Allen has been sworn in as the newest member of the House of Representatives and the Legislature's first-ever American Indian woman member.
Allen took the oath Thursday to the beat of a drum circle in the House chamber. House Minority Leader Paul Thissen says it's a historic day that will better reflect Minnesota diversity in the lawmaking process.
Allen represents a diverse south Minneapolis district with a high poverty rate. Allen says she is eager to begin work, and plans to make job creation a top priority. She says she also plans to focus on environmental protection.
Allen fills the House seat of newly elected Sen. Jeff Hayden. He recently won a special election to replace longtime Sen. Linda Berglin.
(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
