SPRINGFIELD —Gov. Bruce Rauner officially took the reins of power on Monday, calling for sacrifices from all as he pledged to fix the state’s economy, provide better education for kids and instill ethics in government.
“I’m nobody that nobody sent,” the state’s new governor said moments after taking the oath of office as Illinois’ 42nd governor.
“And I’ve come to work for you. I will send a clear signal to everyone in our state … that business as usual is over. It stops now.”
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The state’s newly minted chief executive didn’t sugarcoat his message, beginning his inaugural address by painting a dismal picture of Illinois and calling on everyone to share in the sacrifice required to paint a new future for the state.
“We must accept the challenge and the sacrifice, knowing it will lead us to something greater,” he said.
Rauner said he is ordering state agencies to freeze non-essential spending and he pledged to instill ethics in government in an executive order aimed at the executive branch.
He said the state suffered from a “moral crisis” and “ethical crisis” on top of its economic woes.
Rauner said his first official act as governor is to take “immediate, decisive action” on the state’s budget problems.
“I’m ready to get to work for you,” he said. “I’m ready to fight for you.”
The Winnetka businessman also says he’s asking state agencies to review all contracts signed since Nov. 1. And the wealthy businessman is cutting his own salary to $1 and declining any benefits.
Rauner is the first Republican governor to lead Illinois in more than a decade. He faces a Democratic-controlled Legislature and a multibillion-dollar budget hole.
He also pledged to fix the state’s education system.
“A high quality education is essential,” he said. “It’s the key to bringing back the American Dream for every family in Illinois.”
Contributing: Associated Press
Source:
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news-chicago/7/71/285186/rauner-takes-oath-pledges-fix-states-problems-im-ready-fight