Webb Savors Every Minute of His Moment

Webb was followed by a bubble of children, grandchildren and stepchildren throughout the day. At one point, 9-year-old Emily Nguyen, his stepdaughter, somehow went missing. Staff and family scrambled around the Capitol. She was soon found with friends of the family.

During his swearing-in ceremony, Cardin used a family bible that his parents gave as a gift to his in-laws as a 30th anniversary gift, spokeswoman Susan Sullam said.

Cardin defeated outgoing Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele (R) in a campaign that was at times dominated by discussions of race. Several prominent Democrats in Prince George's County endorsed the black Republican, accusing the Democratic party of taking black voters for granted. In the end African Americans overwhelmingly supported Cardin.

"It's not about what you look like or where you pray," said Cardin, who is Jewish. "It's about who you are and what you stand for."

But as it was for Webb, the day was largely reserved for family, friends and longtime followers, as Cardin cycled through the room, hugging supporters.

Joe Heaps, who has played poker with Cardin for the last 20 years, stopped by to wish his friend well -- and provide a little insider's tip to Cardin's new Senate colleagues.

Heaps said Cardin is the "best" of their poker group, some of whom have played together for 40 years. "He's able to read people," he said. "That why he's so good at politics."

Cardin's wife, Myrna, a familiar presence on the campaign trail, moved easily through the crowd, tearing up as she greeted friends.

"It's wonderful," she gushed after one conversation. "My little Benji!"