Kitzhaber Planning Low-Key Inauguration

Capitol Currents:

There are several reasons why John Kitzhaber might not be planning an over-the-top inauguration. First, there's a "been there, done that" factor. I wasn't around the capitol on January 9, 1995, the first time John Kitzhaber was sworn in as governor, but I suspect there was an air of excitement then that simply won't exist this time around.

Second, there's the grim economic outlook for the state. Who wants to party it up when there's a $3.5 billion deficit staring you in the face? (Or, who wants to be seen partying it up in those circumstances?)

And third, well, there's a football game to watch. Kitzhaber spokeswoman Amy <span>Wojcicki says after taking the oath of office, Kitzhaber will attend a brief reception in the capitol rotunda, then retire to the governor's mansion with a small group of friends and family to watch the Oregon Ducks play in the BCS championship game. </span>
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<span>So what is happening on Monday? Kitzhaber's website, as of this writing, yields no details. But here's what's on tap:  The House and the Senate will have separate organizational sessions first thing in the morning. (It's unclear how organized the House will be at that point, but that's a separate issue altogether.) Then, the House and the Senate will convene a joint session at 10:45. It's expected to last about 90 minutes and will include Kitzhaber's swearing in and his inaugural address. And other than the aforementioned reception, that's it. </span><span>Wojcicki says Kitzhaber is planning an "informal" event this summer that will take the place of any inaugural ball this time around. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width="1" height="1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3320471128493510714-6823034328627797021?l=www.capitolcurrents.com" alt=""/></div>

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