Raimondo Sworn In For Second Term As RI Governor

Gov. Gina Raimondo was sworn in Tuesday for her second term as Rhode Island governor, using her inaugural address to credit her administration for the state's economic revival and to promise renewed efforts to lift up those who have yet to benefit from it.

"Over four short years, we have made the choices that spurred our economy to grow by leaps and bounds," Raimondo said in the publicly released text of her address. "We've changed the way we do economic development, infrastructure investing, and job training. As a result, we've been able to put tens of thousands of people back to work and ensure that they can provide for their families and take pride in the work they do.

"We've created job training opportunities for the young adult at the start of her career and the middle-aged dad looking for a way out of his low-paying job," she continued. "We've launched a once-in-a-generation investment to make sure that all children will go to schools that are warm, safe, and dry-schools that any parent would be proud to send their kids to. And we've made a promise to all of our young adults that they can attend community college tuition-free. There is no question we have stopped our decline and this new approach is working.

"Now, let's commit ourselves to sustaining the comeback until every Rhode Islander is included, and to making choices that will position our state for success for the long haul.

"Our work is not done until we lift up those who are struggling the most. Our work is not done until we end the opioid crisis and ensure that those in recovery are included in our economic comeback. Our work's not done until we make sure every Rhode Islander willing to work hard can get a good job. Our work's not done until women and men have the same economic opportunities and can thrive in workplaces free from harassment. And, let's take a moment to recognize the record numbers of women who have run for office and are taking on positions of leadership in all walks of life here in Rhode Island and around the country. We're all counting on you to stay at the table long enough to make real change."

Raimondo, 47, was first in elected in 2014, narrowly winning a three-way race, and was easily reelected in a two-way race in November. She is the state's first female governor and its 75th overall.

The state's other general officials were also inaugurated Tuesday, which was also the first day of the new legislative session.

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