After Gov. Walker took the oath of office late Monday morning, he praised Wisconsin for getting things done.
“We’ve been good stewards of the taxpayers’ money and lowered their tax burden as well. We’ve shown why the founders of this great nation looked to the states and not the federal government as the source of hope for this exceptional country. We will not let them down,” Walker said.
The governor drew several comparisons between the federal government and Wisconsin, under his leadership.
“In Wisconsin, we understand that true freedom and prosperity do not come from the might hand of the government. They come from empowering people to control their own lives and their own destinies through the dignity born from work,” Walker said.
He went on to say that Wisconsin leaders understand that the best way to improve lives and strengthen families - and raise wages, is to enable people people to get a good education and job skills.
"This is how we grow household incomes, while putting people to work,” Walker said.
The governor outlined broad goals for Wisconsin. They include allowing parents to choose which schools their children attend – public or private.
“We will ensure every child, regardless of background or birth right, has access to a quality education. For many, like my sons and me, it is in a traditional public school. For others, it may be in a charter, a private, a virtual or even a home school environment. Regardless, we will empower families to make the choice that is right for their sons and daughters,” Walker said.
Walker promised to reduce the scope of government, so that it aligns with taxpayers' ability to pay, and to strengthen the state's infrastructure in terms of transportation and internet access, as well as make sure Wisconsin has an affordable, reliable source of power.