Mike Parson sworn in as 57th Governor of Missouri

Mike Parson is now the former lieutenant governor and has officially taken on the office of governor.

“We have an opportunity beginning today to have a fresh start in state government,” he said in his comments after he was sworn in at 5:30 p.m. Friday.

Parson is a man that former Gov. Eric Greitens would refer to as a “career politician” because of his years in the Missouri Legislature. The new governor cited his experience as a way to help bring people together and build relationships.

“I think, anytime you’re in a leadership position, it’s about relationships,” he said. “I’ve got some history here in this building with the Legislature in both the House and Senate, and both sides of the aisle. I think we need to build those relationships.”

Legislators praised the new governor, who held a prayer service at a Jefferson City church before being sworn in.

“He is a man of integrity,” said Rep. Sara Walsh, a Boone County Republican delegate. “I truly believe that he’ll do a wonderful job.”

Parson only took three questions after his comments. One centered on building relationships, and the other two highlighted specific issues. One reporter asked what will become of the state Board of Education. It has been unable to meet for months because it lacks quorum.

“We are very aware of the school board,” said Parson. “We aim to get that board up and running as soon as we can.”

Questions about who will take Parson’s place as lieutenant governor still remain. The second reporter noted the importance of the role and asked who would fill it. Parson lamented the fact that legislation dealing with the position didn’t make it through the state Legislature, but said it was a high priority for him.

“I do believe there is some validity in appointing a new lieutenant governor,” he said. “I think it is important for the state to have a lieutenant governor, especially at a time like this, to be able to help with the governor’s office and be able to work together for the betterment of the state of Missouri.”

Walsh acknowledged it has been a difficult time for Missourians, but made clear that, in the end, it’s not about who the leader but about what they do for the people, and how they can make Missouri great.

“We don’t really have a name,” said Walsh. “At the end of the day, we bear that torch and carry it forward for the next person, who then takes the seat. Public service isn’t about us. It’s about the people.”