JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
As he raised his right hand inside the House chamber, many who wanted to see it happen were flooded out into the Capitol rotunda, watching as Phil Bryant became the 64th Governor of Mississippi.
"It's a lifetime opportunity to come see him sworn in," said Cherry Tucker of Clinton.
Tucker's eyes were focused in on television screens as Bryant delivered his speech.
"He's just a very down to earth person. He came from the same beginnings as everybody else," said Tucker.
Tucker says she grew up knowing Bryant and is excited to see him now in office. Most everyone else across the state has watched his political career from a distance, but are still mindful what Bryant means for the state.
"We just wanted to make sure we were here to witness this historic moment," said Royal Hill.
Watching from above, Hill and Lamar Braxton made the trip from Natchez to be a part of that moment. Braxton has been to every inauguration since Governor Cliff Finch took office in 1976.
"It's history for me to see history in the making and each one of them comes in with optimism and I'm optimistic about what they'll do and I just watch them go," said Braxton.
With Bryant taking office, Braxton says it's important for all Mississippians to get behind the man who's leading the state, to begin taking on the challenges ahead.
"He took an oath a few minutes ago. He is now everybody's governor," said Braxton.
As everybody's governor, Braxton says the ceremony's theme needs to spread across the state.
"The governor's theme, rising together, I have to believe that he means that," said Braxton.
Lifting the state and the passion for it is something even state lawmakers say Bryant is a natural at, shining through in his speech and actions while in office as lieutenant governor, auditor and state representative.
"He's a leader and people naturally gravitate towards leaders, he's very inclusive, he's very well liked, he's very well respected," said Sen. Chris McDaniel of Ellisville.
With the formalities now over with, the work really begins and these Mississippians have high expectations.
"He's our main cheerleader and he should have the leadership and focus to go forward and lead the people and also to ensure that our future is bright," said Hill.
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