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DeWine sets agenda for second term in office during inauguration ceremony

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COLUMBUS, Ohio (Statehouse News Bureau) — Gov. Mike DeWine, during his inaugural address for his second term in office, said his plans for the next four years as governor will be centered on public health, mental health, and extending opportunities for Ohioans.

Gov. Mike DeWine waves to the crowd while he stand on a stage that is the Ohio seal during his second inauguration ceremony
Gov. Mike DeWine (R-Ohio) delivers his second inauguration address during a ceremony at the Ohio Statehouse on January 9, 2023. [Brooke LaValley | The Columbus Dispatch]
DeWine’s inauguration ceremony was at the Ohio Statehouse Monday. He was surrounded by family, friends, cabinet members, political allies, and other public officials in the statehouse rotunda.

“Thank you for the trust and responsibility that you have given me. Thank you for giving us the most precious thing there is and that is time. Time for us to continue to work for you as we tackle our state’s unfinished business,” DeWine told the crowd after taking the ceremonial oath of office.

The official oath of office was administered by Supreme Court Justice Pat DeWine, Mike DeWine’s son, on Sunday. Pat DeWine also administered the ceremonial oath.

DeWine took a moment during the ceremony to thank the health care professionals, first responders, teachers, grocery story workers, restaurant employees, and national guard members who “stepped up” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his address, DeWine said his administration will continue to work on issues he sees as vital for the state. That included mental health services, infrastructure, high-speed internet in rural counties, public safety, and early childhood programs.

DeWine delivered a call to action for people who live in other states by laying out Ohio’s attributes and repeating the phrase “come to Ohio.”

“If you just want a chance for a better life and a brighter future — come to Ohio.” DeWine said.

He continued, “We need to start telling the world what we have always known, that Ohio is the state of opportunity.”

DeWine said he is optimistic about Ohio’s future adding, “This truly is Ohio’s moment in history.”

DeWine signed five executive orders on Sunday. One executive order prohibited the use of TikTok or other foreign-owned platforms, apps, or websites on state electronic devices.

Other orders added “nursing mother” to the state’s policy on anti-discrimination, and created an office in the Ohio Department of Insurance to help with access to mental health and addiction services.