Palin takes oath

Dec. 5, 2006

By MARK KELSEY

Frontiersman

FAIRBANKS - Leaning heavily on themes of hope, courage and opportunity, Sarah Palin was sworn in as Alaska's 11th governor Monday in

Fairbanks.

Before a cheering crowd of close to 5,000 in the Carlson Center, Palin took the oath of office from Superior Court Judge Niesje J. Steinkruger as her husband, Todd, held the Bible on which she placed her left hand. Joined on stage by her parents, Chuck and Sally Heath of Wasilla, and daughters Bristol, Willow and Piper, Palin became the first woman and youngest Alaskan, as well as the first from Mat-Su, to ascend to the state's highest elected office.

Echoing the message of her unlikely and ultimately unstoppable populist campaign, Palin said in her inauguration address that her role as governor will be shaped by Alaska's Constitution, which states in Article 1, section 2, that &#8220all political power is inherent in the people.”

&#8220I will unambiguously and steadfastly guard the interests of this state,” she said. &#8220Our state, our future is in our hands.”

Palin noted the presence of four delegates to Alaska's constitutional

convention and thanked them for their part in forging the historic document that was adopted 50 years ago in Fairbanks. The constitution, she said, &#8220helps me to keep my compass pointed to true north.”

Evoking the campaign slogan that she and her running mate, Sean Parnell, used, Palin talked at length about new energy for Alaska, saying the state has the potential to guide the nation to energy independence. Whether through developing untapped petroleum reserves in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge or developing a source of inexhaustible alternative energy, the new governor said Alaskans are well-positioned to make a significant contribution to the country's well-being.

&#8220This is a time to be courageous, not fearful,” she said. &#8220Why not Alaska leading the world?”

Palin also emphasized her belief in public education and its primacy as a function of state government.

The state's 40 percent high school graduation rate is unacceptable,

she said.

&#8220Kids are our greatest resource,” Palin said. &#8220Our task is great, but so worthy.”

In his address, Lt. Gov. Parnell

also talked of the state's boundless potential.

&#8220Alaska attracts people who are courageous, visionary and eager to explore new opportunities,” he said. &#8220We want to replace fear and despair with hope and opportunity.”

Former Gov. Wally Hickel was among a host of dignitaries on hand for the event. A Palin supporter and adviser throughout the campaign, Hickel followed former Juneau Mayor Dennis Egan, son of Alaska's first governor - Bill Egan - in addressing the assembled crowd.

Acknowledging the inclusive and nonpartisan nature of the inauguration ceremony, Hickel said Alaskans should remember what they have in common, rather than what makes them different.

&#8220Alaskans are one people,” he said. &#8220Let's put our differences aside, rally behind this leadership team and put Alaskans first.”

He called the new governor and her team &#8220leaders rooted in principle,” who are guided by a compass that steers them on a righteous course.

&#8220Sarah Palin is the perfect person for the job,” he said. &#8220She understands the obligation of leadership.”

Palin and Parnell greeted attendees at a reception following the inauguration ceremony before heading to Juneau, where they are expected to begin gas line negotiations today.

Contact Mark Kelsey at 352-2268 or mark.kelsey@frontiersman.com.