Cindy Hyde-Smith Sworn Into U.S. Senate

MISSISSIPPI (WCBI)- History in the making. Cindy Hyde-Smith is the first woman to represent Mississippi in the United States Senate.

Vice President Mike Pence administered the oath of office Monday morning in the Senate chamber of the US Capitol.

“I’m just so glad that I can be that person, hopefully be a mentor to females across the state and throughout the country. It’s a very good feeling,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

It’s not the only first for Hyde-Smith. She was also the states first female Ag Commissioner.

“I wasn’t sure if Mississippi was quite ready for that, but it was no problem at all, won overwhelmingly both times,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

And yet again, another record. She marks the 23rd woman to hold a seat in the U.S. Senate.

“Women are normally hard workers. I think anybody can tell you that, especially republican women. They get so much done,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

Gender roles aside, Senator Hyde-Smith says there’s a lot of work ahead. Jobs and healthcare are two topics she’s fighting for, for Mississippians.

“All of those things that Mississippians care about, just a true conservative, get in here, work really hard to promote this and to capitalize on the successes we’ve had, but to realize there’s a lot of opportunity out there,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

The new tax reliefs and recent appointments from President Trump, Senator Hyde-Smith says are benefits for our state.

“I think there are so many things we can capitalize on with this administration, with President Trump, I’m very, very optimistic about that,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

She also spoke about increasing our military presence and expressed how important that was.

Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant named the former state agriculture commissioner to the post.

Cochran retired April 1st, citing health reasons.

She will serve in the seat until the November 6th special election.