'I swear:' Dayton, other officials to take oaths of office Monday
Before state politicians get back to work this week, they will pause for a bit of pomp and circumstance Monday when DFL Gov. Mark Dayton, Lt. Gov.-elect Tina Smith and other statewide office holders are sworn in during a noontime ceremony that's open to the public.
The inauguration committee website notes that the ceremony will occur at the Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul. No tickets are required to attend, but seating for the event is limited.
The other officials to be sworn in are Attorney General Lori Swanson, State Auditor Rebecca Otto and Secretary of State Steve Simon, all of whom are DFLers.
The next day, Tuesday, is when newly elected members of the Minnesota House will be sworn in to office and the new legislative session will begin.
Low-key party
Dayton will celebrate his inauguration in low-key style, with a party on Saturday Jan. 10 that's open to the public.
The "North Star Ball" runs from 7 p.m.-midnight Saturday at the Union Depot in St. Paul, and the dress code is strictly come-as-you-are, according to the online invitation:
"Blue jeans to black tie...and flannel too!
Dress up, dress down, come as you are so long as you feel comfortable."
Tickets for the event are $15 for students, $25 for advance purchase and $35 at the door. You can buy them online ahead of time.
The celebration is more muted than Dayton's first inaugural four years ago, which included a statewide tour and other smaller events, according to MPR News.
Governors in neighboring states are going more glitzy with their inaugural celebrations, according to the Associated Press.
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker will celebrate his second term with a dressy gala on Madison’s lakefront. He is also hosting an event in Milwaukee and an ice-skating party.
Iowa’s Terry Branstad has a black tie-optional ball on his calandar. The Associated Press says a portion of proceeds will go to a scholarship fund bearing Branstad's name.
Illinois' new Gov. Bruce Rauner will hold a $1,000-per-person dinner and reception at that state’s Capitol, according to the AP. His celebration also includes a concert featuring country star Toby Keith and blues artist Buddy Guy.
