BOSTON -- Therese Murray was unanimously re-elected as state Senate president on Wednesday, the first day of the 186th session of the General Court.

The election is Murray's first for a full two-year term. The Plymouth Democrat first took over the presidency in March of 2007.

"It's hard to believe nearly two years have passed since I first accepted the nomination of my colleagues to lead this esteemed body," Murray said in her prepared remarks. "I remain honored and humbled to be chosen by my peers, but it was never about me, and it never will be."

Murray also addressed the perception that she is not outspoken enough.

"There are some observers who want me to talk more and grab the headlines," she said. "They wonder why I don't step into the glare of the spotlight or put myself at the mercy of the microphone. Well, if they haven't gotten the message yet, let me be clear: That's not how I choose to lead. There are 39 other talented, capable individuals in this Senate, and I choose to stand with them, not have them stand in my shadow...I choose to work, to work with my colleagues and let the fruits of our labor be our message and our reward."