Daniels takes second oath of office
INDIANAPOLIS -- Using the metaphor of early spring, Gov. Mitch Daniels devoted his second inaugural address to promising Hoosiers that he is ready to lead the state to success during the current economic times.
“All are aware that the days immediately before us will not be traversed without much difficulty,” Daniels said. “But we must believe, and resolve to see, that these present troubles troubles are but a frost in April.”
During the 6-minute speech, Daniels promised that the state is in good condition and will be on the forefront of leading the country back to prosperity. He pointed to Indiana’s turnaround in the numbers of international investment dollars, health insurance and last year’s property tax reforms.
“We not only accept change but are prepared to lead it and invite the rest of America to follow us,” Daniels said.
Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman took her second oath of office Monday, as well. Newly-elected state officers Attorney General Greg Zoeller and Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Bennett also were sworn in by Indiana Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard.
The inauguration ceremony comes one day before the governor’s annual State of the State Address. Friday, Daniels said many of his specific plans will be focused on in Tuesday’s longer speech.
John Schorg, a spokesperson for the House Democrats, declined to comment about Daniels' Monday remarks, but both House Speaker B. Patrick Bauer, D-South Bend, and Senate Minority Leader Vi Simpson, D-Bloomington, will respond after Daniels’ address Tuesday.
All 800 chairs set up for the event in and around the Statehouse rotunda were filled. The governor’s office estimated a crowd of 1,200 spectators including state and national lawmakers, invited guests and the Newton-Jasper Community Band, which played at the governor’s first inauguration, as well as at Daniels’ re-election launch.
Dee Young, a Indianapolis resident, came to the Statehouse atrium to hear Daniels’ address. Young said Daniels has taken the state in the right direction.
“I love the courage that he’s shown in coming up with new ideas for us and not being afraid to take the heat to try something new in spite of the fact that Hoosiers have proven for so many years we really don’t like to change all that much," Young said.
U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar served as the event’s master of ceremonies. Daniels served as Lugar’s chief of staff from 1977 to 1982.
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Franklin College Statehouse Bureau reporter Julie Crothers contributed to this report.
