Governor and top state officials take oath of office

Gov. Eric Greitens started his term after being sworn in at a noon ceremony in Jefferson City Monday. The ceremony was held in near-freezing temperatures and with unprecedented high security.

The Republican took the oath in the same ceremony as other top-elected and Republican officials including Lt. Gov. Mike Parson, Attorney General Josh Hawley, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and Treasurer Eric Schmitt.

Moments after being sworn in, Greitens said, “We will go to work with humble hearts and we will extend our hand in friendship to all those who will take it. But to those who would commit violence to a fellow citizen, to those who would abuse a child, to those who would assault a member of law enforcement, to those who would steal from the needy, I assure them this: They will feel the might, strength and resolution of the firm fist of justice.”

Greitens got to work shortly after the ceremony as he signed an executive order banning lobbyist gifts to executive branch office holders.

Jay Ashcroft told ABC 17 News that being sworn in on the steps of the Capitol brings into focus the enormity of the responsibilities ahead.

“What a privilege it is to serve the people of this state and the responsibility and to make sure that we’re making this a better state,” Ashcroft said. He said he wants to prove the trust of the people in him as secretary of state is well-placed.

Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Ron Richard called the 99 th General Assembly into a rare joint session during the inaugural ceremonies.