After taking the oath of office, Charlie Baker signs a book, the final act to become Governor of Massachusetts
WPRO News and The Associated Press
Charles Duane “Charlie” Baker has taken the oath of office as governor, becoming Massachusetts’ 72nd chief executive.
Baker was sworn in at noon Thursday during a ceremony in the Massachusetts House of Representatives chamber before dignitaries, including former governors William Weld and Mitt Romney, members of the state Supreme Judicial Court, House and Senate lawmakers, and other top elected officials.
Earlier, Baker walked up the steps of the Statehouse accompanied by his wife, Lauren, and the couple’s three children. He shook hands with well-wishers and paused for a 19-gun salute.
He said he was nervous but excited to get started.
Baker succeeds former Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick, who exited the Statehouse on Wednesday evening, taking the traditional “lone walk” out of the building, representing his return to private life.
