Sean Parnell was sworn in as Alaska’s 10th governor on Sunday before a Fairbanks crowd estimated at more than 5,000. Parnell will complete the term of Governor Sarah Palin, who stepped down on Sunday.
With the Riverboat Nenana as a backdrop, Parnell told the crowd that he won’t be constrained by a short-term vision, but instead will focus on Alaska’s future for this generation and the next.
Governor Parnell said, “Alaska has much to offer its people and our nation, and given today’s economic climate, the stakes are high, time is of the essence and you have my commitment to work with you and for you to position our economy for growth and our children and families for opportunity.”
Lieutenant General Craig Campbell was sworn in as temporary substitute lieutenant governor. Campbell is expected to be confirmed by the legislature during a special session August 10.
The oaths of office were administered by Supreme Court Justice Daniel Winfree.
Governor Palin offered a farewell address. “There’s much good in store for Alaska further down the road,” she said. “But to reach it we must value and live the optimistic pioneering spirit that made this state proud and free.”
The swearing-in ceremony took place at Pioneer Park in Fairbanks.
Governor Parnell will remain in Fairbanks Monday to meet with local officials, community leaders and the media. He will meet with his cabinet on Wednesday in Juneau.