Maine Man to be Inaugural Poet

A Mainer has been selected as the inaugural poet for the president's swearing in ceremony.

A writen statement from Obama says:

'I'm honored that Richard Blanco will join me and Vice President Biden at our second Inaugural. His contributions to the fields of poetry and the arts have already paved a path forward for future generations of writers. Richard’s writing will be wonderfully fitting for an Inaugural that will celebrate the strength of the American people and our nation’s great diversity.'

Blanco is from Bethel and will compose and read an original poem at the ceremonial swearing-in of the president. Blanco said that he relates to Obama's writings about 'his  search for his multicultural family history as well as his personal identity.'

Blanco is the son of Cuban exiles and will be the first Hispanic person to recite a poem at the ceremony. The 44 year old will also be the youngest poet given the honor.

The ceremony takes place on the Capitol steps January 21st.