Gov. Holcomb, Lt. Gov. Crouch Look To Future In Inaugural Addresses

Gov. Eric Holcomb and Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch were sworn in for their second terms Monday at a ceremony that – because of COVID-19 – lacked the crowd and much of the pomp and circumstance from four years ago.

Holcomb’s inaugural address acknowledged the hardships of the past year as the state continues to struggle through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I will not ever minimize the challenges that we still face, emerging from this pandemic: sustaining our recovery, continuing to strengthen our state and extending opportunity to all Hoosiers,” Holcomb said.

And Holcomb said the most important reason he believes “the future is now” is Hoosiers themselves.

“We are certainly not where we need to be," Holcomb said. "But we are steadily clawing our way back.”

READ MORE: Governor Holcomb Passionately Defends First Term, With Second About To Begin

Holcomb specifically cited Indiana’s strong business climate as a reason for hope.

Crouch’s second inaugural address spoke about “dynamic change” that she said the state will face with a “pioneering spirit.”

Crouch said no one can ignore changes across so many parts of society – in finance, technology and the workforce.

“But as we change, we must continue to ensure fairness and accessibility for all who seek to participate in our state’s economy,” Crouch said.

And Crouch said doing that is a job she and Holcomb will pursue in their second terms.

“In the coming years, Governor Holcomb and I will continue to focus on empowering individuals and removing obstacles for Hoosier families and businesses so that they can pursue their own version of the American dream,” Crouch said.

Crouch also urged Hoosiers not to waste any time as they work “to build a better Indiana.”

Contact reporter Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5.