Representative T. W. Shannon of Lawton was officially sworn-in as Speaker of the House during ceremonies at the State Capitol, on Tuesday.

The 34-year-old Shannon is the first black elected House Speaker.

"Today we live in a country with an out-of-control federal government that is bankrupt both financially and morally. Let me say this. The state of Oklahoma will not go down the path of Washington D.C. Not on my watch," Shannon told House lawmakers.

Shannon said what he cares about most is making sure our children inherit a more prosperous and civilized Oklahoma.

Representative Mike Jackson of Enid was elected speaker pro tem.