Murray becomes first woman president pro tem of the Senate

U.S. Sen. Patty Murray said she is looking forward to her new duties as the first woman president pro tem of the chamber.

"It is a responsibility that I'm very honored to take on for my country and for Washington state," Murray said. "I hope that when young women now see me in this position, they see that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to."

Normally, the president pro tem is third in line to the presidency, but Sen. Murray is now temporarily second in line behind Vice President Kamala Harris, because the House has yet to elect a new speaker. Murray says she will be ready in the unlikely event that she becomes president.

Duties also include presiding over the Senate when the vice president is not available.

This is Murray's sixth term in the U.S. Senate.

Upon her confirmation, President Biden tweeted, "We’re witnessing history on Capitol Hill — by unanimous consent. The first woman to be elected President Pro Tempore of the Senate. Congrats to you, Patty. I look forward to continuing our work together."

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee also weighed in, tweeting, "Historic and well deserved! Washington state is fortunate to be represented and served by such an effective and dedicated leader as Patty Murray."