FRANKFORT, Ky. — Andy Beshear was sworn in as the 63rd Governor of Kentucky Dec. 10.
"At midnight, I was truly honored to be surrounded by my family and friends as I was sworn in as the 63rd Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky," Beshear tweeted. "I intend to lead by example and I will strive to build an administration that does the same."
The former attorney general defeated Matt Bevin in November's election. While Bevin ordered a recanvass, he conceded after the findings showed no real changes in the result.
Bevin said thank you to Kentucky in his final tweet as governor Dec. 9.
"Thank you, from the bottom of my heart," Bevin tweeted. "Kentucky is truly the most spectacular state in America...our best days are still ahead, because #WeAreKY."
The swearing-in of Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacquline Coleman marks the start of the gubernatorial inauguration. An inaugural breakfast reception started at 7:30 a.m. and country ham, biscuits and white cake were brought to the Beshear family at 8 a.m.
The exchange is a tradition believed to have started when an outgoing first lady left ham, cake and biscuits for the incoming first family.
Worship service at First Christian Church began at 8:30 a.m., with messages from different religious leaders in Kentucky.
The parade began at 10 a.m., with teachers as the grand marshals.Teachers from every district in the state showed up to support the new governor.
Beshear and Coleman were publicly sworn-in at the Capitol's front steps at 2 p.m. Kentuckians toured the Capitol during an open house after the ceremony.
A Grand March presenting the governor, lieutenant governor and other officers who will be sworn in Jan. 6 will start at Capitol Rotunda at 8 p.m. before the inaugural balls begin at 9 p.m.
Beshear sworn in as Kentucky governor
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