KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is promising to “preserve the American dream” as he begins a new term in office.
The Republican governor took the oath of office at midday Monday on the grounds of the newly refurbished Capitol.
In his prepared remarks, Parson said he will care for everyone from the “unborn to the elderly” and “the rich to the poor, regardless of the color of your skin."
The inaugural ceremony, which also marked the start of Missouri's bicentennial celebration, was subdued due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19.
There will be no inaugural parade, no hand-shaking reception line for the general public and no inaugural ball.
Those traditional activities have been canceled or postponed because of concerns about spreading the coronavirus.
Parson hopes to hold a larger celebration in August to allow time for more people to get vaccinated against the virus.
Several other state officials were sworn into office Monday, too.
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