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Oregon Democratic lawmakers, local GOP official urge unity and accountability as President Trump returns to White House

(Update: Adding video, comments from Janelle Bynum and Connie Welchel)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Bipartisanship and accountability: that's what Oregon Democratic lawmakers say will be their focus, as Monday marked the first day of President Donald Trump's second term. A Republican party official also is calling for unity moving forward.

Freshman District 5 U.S. Rep. Janelle Bynum said, "As a business owner, I can agree with President Trump on being disruptive. And I think the American people said that the status quo wasn't working for them."

She says her focus will be on fulfilling Oregonians' needs across the aisle. 

"We don't walk away from the table," she said. "We don't engage in shenanigans. We don't play little political games. We actually work for the American people and for Oregonians."

Democrat Senator Jeff Merkley posted on X, vowing to hold the new president accountable. 

Deschutes County Republicans say Monday was a turning point for Americans.

County GOP Vice-Chair Connie Welchel said, "Biden had his so-called Inflation Reduction Act. He's had four years to prove that. At this point in time, I don't know what he has to show for his presidency, except that Americans are worse off. So that changes, starting today."

On Day 1, as promised, President Trump signed numerous executive orders.

"With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense. It's all about common sense," the returning president said during his inauguration speech.

Trump also declared a national state of emergency at the southern border, fulfilling his campaign promise of immigration reform.

Welchel is now urging Americans to unify: "I would say to the people who didn't vote for President Trump to please keep an open mind, and I believe that they are going to enjoy the Trump presidency."

President Trump ended his speech with a message, "From this moment on, America's decline is over."

Article Topic Follows: Government-politics

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Isabella Warren

Isabella Warren is a multimedia journalist for NewsChannel 21. Learn more about Isabellahere.

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