Missouri’s inauguration day has arrived, as Governor Jay Nixon (D) and several other state office holders prepare to be sworn in.
It’ll be the second term for most of those taking the oath of office, including Democrats Nixon, Attorney General Chris Koster, and State Treasurer Clint Zweifel. Fellow Democrat Jason Kander, the incoming Secretary of State, will be the only statewide office newcomer. Republican Lt. Governor Peter Kinder will be taking the oath of office for the third time, and his third term may prove to be very short if his bid to replace southeast Missouri Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson (R) succeeds.
It’ll be a cold event, with temperatures expected to be in the mid to upper 20’s in Jefferson City during the late morning and midday hours, and thousands of people are expected to turn out. Today’s events kick off at 8:30 a.m. with a worship service at First Baptist Church, Jefferson City, followed at 10:00 a.m. by a parade in downtown Jefferson City, followed by the inauguration ceremony at 11:15 on the South Lawn of the Capitol. The afternoon features a first-ever inaugural barbecue showcase, and tonight – the Grand March and inaugural ball at the State Capitol.
Follow Marshall Griffin on Twitter: @MarshallGReport
