NASHVILLE - Bill Haslam was sworn in today as the state's 49th governor, promising Tennesseans that as the state recovers from tough economic times, their government will be "going on a diet of efficiency and effectiveness."
Haslam warned that while there are "opportunities before us, we cannot do or be everything. We have to exercise good judgment as we set our priorities. The path we travel will not be smooth and there will be a few bumps along the way."
The 52-year-old Republican and former Knoxville mayor's comments came moments after being administered the oath of office around noon (CST) by Tennessee Supreme Court Justice Cornelia A. Clark. Haslam used his personal Bible.
Proceedings took place on Legislative Plaza with the state Capitol serving as backdrop. At least 3,000 people attended. There were partly sunny skies and temperatures reached into the 40s. Haslam's wife, Crissy, and children accompanied him on the stage.
While setting a tone of austerity in terms of spending and services, Haslam urged Tennesseans to "aspire to be more. As Tennesseans we often aim too low when it comes to our education, our health and our economy. It's time to raise our sights."
He said the state must continue its path toward education reform and warned "shame on us if we let this moment escape without meaningful action."
Departing Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen, who is leaving after eight years, made a brief address.
Haslam's becoming governor completed Republican's historic November sweep that has put the GOP in the governor's mansion and in control of both the state House and Senate for the first time since 1869.
Earlier today, the governor, his wife Crissy and other family members attended a packed prayer service at the Ryman Auditorium. Former Tennessee Supreme Court Chief Justice Mickey Barker of Signal Mountain read from Proverbs and Micah.
Read more in tomorrow's Times Free Press.