71st Governor of Virginia Inauguration

It was a great day for the Commonwealth of Virginia. At noon today, under sunny skies, on the steps of the historic seat of government of the oldest legislative body in the United States, Robert Francis McDonnell took the oath of office and was inaugurated the 71st Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Preceding him, similar solemn oaths were administered to Kenneth Thomas Cuccinelli, II as Attorney-General and William Troy Bolling as Lieutenant Governor.

Gov. McDonnell in his inaugural speech promised the assembled citizens to build a Commonwealth of Opportunity for all Virginians:

- creating jobs and economic opportunities
- providing opportunities for innovation
- ensuring world class educational opportunities
- making Virginia the Energy Capital of the East Coast
- maximizing recreational opportunities for further generations

Governor McDonnell signed two executive orders before leaving the dais. The first executive order is titled: "Establishing the Chief Job Creation Officer and the Governor’s Economic Development and Job Creation Commission" with the Lieutenant Governor appointed as the Chief job Creation Officer.

The second executive order establishes Governor’s Commission on Government Reform and Restructuring to:

Identify opportunities for creating efficiencies in state government, including streamlining, consolidating, or eliminating redundant and unnecessary agency services, governing bodies, regulations and programs;

Explore innovative ways to deliver state services at the lowest cost and best value to Virginia taxpayers;

Seek out means to more effectively and efficiently perform core state functions, including potential privatization of government operations where appropriate, and restore focus on core mission oriented service; and

Examine ways for state government to be more transparent, user friendly and accountable to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

The Virginian Federalist extends our fullest commendation to Governor McDonnell at the inauguration of his Administration.