While tradition dictates that the chief justice of the United States swears in the president during inauguration ceremonies, the vice president gets to choose the person who administers his oath.
And Vice President Joe Biden’s choice is Justice Sonia M. Sotomayor.
In a statement, Biden called it “one of the greatest pleasures of my career to be involved in her selection to the court.”
“From the first time I met her, I was impressed by Justice Sotomayor’s commitment to justice and opportunity for all Americans, and she continues to exemplify those values today. Above all, I’m happy for the chance to be sworn in by a friend – and someone I know will continue to do great things,” Biden said.
The BLT Blog’s Tony Mauro points out that female Supreme Court justices have been a popular choice among vice presidents on inauguration day. Sandra Day O’Connor swore in Dan Quayle, and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg administered the oath to Al Gore.
