On Thursday, Jan. 8, Republican Charlie Baker will be sworn in as the 72nd Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Baker eked out a victory over Democratic candidate Martha Coakley back in November, securing his position on Beacon Hill in the closest gubernatorial race since 1964. The inauguration schedule dictates he will officially succeed Deval Patrick as governor at 12 p.m. in the House Chamber.
New Jersey Governor and potential 2016 Republican candidate for president Chris Christie will be in attendance.
On Wednesday afternoon at 4:45 p.m., Governor Patrick will take the ceremonial “Long Walk” through the State House, signifying the passing of the torch to Governor-elect Baker.
It will take place after the customary gift exchange during which the incumbent presents the governor-elect the original pewter key to the Governor’s office, a Bible copy left by Governor Benjamin Butler to his successors in 1884, the Governor’s Gavel crafted from the white oak frame of the original U.S.S. Constitution, and the Massachusetts General Statutes consisting of two volumes dating back to 1860. (The outgoing Governor traditionally inscribes a message to his or her successor in this text.)
The “Lone Walk” consists of the incumbent leaving the State House central doors, which are only used on two other occasions: a visit from the President of the United State and a visit by a head of state.
Inauguration day
11 a.m.: At the State House entrance, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment National Guard will kick off inauguration day with a 19-gun salute. While 21-gun salutes are typically reserved for the president or other chiefs of state, the 19-gun variety are usually received by governors.
In attendance will be members of Massachusetts National Guard, State Police and the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Unit.
11:15 a.m.: Governor-elect Baker and Lieutenant Governor-elect Karyn Polito will greet citizens in front of Doric Hall, which is the section of the building the Grand Staircase leads to. He’ll then make his way to Nurses Hall, the next chamber of the State House, and Memorial Hall.
12:00 p.m.: At high noon, Baker and Polito will make their way to the third floor of the State House where they’ll both be sworn into office inside the House Chamber.
1:15 p.m.: Following the official swearing in ceremony, Baker and Polito will make their way back outside to the Grand Staircase where they will greet the Massachusetts public for the first time as Governor and Lieutenant Governor.
1:45 p.m.: The governor’s citizen address will be followed up by the swearing-in of his own cabinet in the State House Library.
3:00 p.m.: Continuing the ‘Spotlights on Excellence’ events tour will take him to Roxbury, where he will be shown around the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative. There he’ll also meet with community leaders, residents and elected officials in recognition of their efforts to revitalize Roxbury and North Dorchester.
8:00 p.m.: Once the evening rolls around, it’s party time for the Baker administration. At the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in the Innovation District, Baker will kick off his “Let’s Be Great, Massachusetts” celebration featuring local bands, artists, and groups to highlight Massachusetts’ diverse culture and talents. Tickets to the celebration are available here at $50 each.
