UPDATED: McKee Sworn in as Rhode Island’s 76th Governor

UPDATED: McKee Sworn in as Rhode Island’s 76th Governor

It’s official — Rhode Island Lt. Governor Dan McKee is now Rhode Island Governor McKee.

In a ceremony on Tuesday, McKee was sworn in as Rhode Island’s 76th Governor, after Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo was confirmed at U.S. Secretary of Commerce under the Biden Administration. 

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On Tuesday afternoon, McKee congratulated Raimondo. 

“Rhode Islanders should be proud of Governor Raimondo’s confirmation as Commerce Secretary. It is an honor to have one of our own serving the country as a member of the Presidential Cabinet,” said McKee. 

“Our country will benefit from her leadership on important issues like a fair and accurate Census, promoting American businesses large and small, and making sure American companies are able to compete fairly overseas. I wish Governor Raimondo the best of luck in her new position and thank her for her years of service to Rhode Island,” he added. 

McKee and his wife Susan McKee were joined by their daughter Kara McKee and their son Matthew McKee and his fiancée Laura Clifford.

Senate President Dominick Ruggerio and House Majority Leader Christopher Blazejewski, on behalf of House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, were also present.

“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve the people of Rhode Island at this crucial time for our state,” said Governor McKee. “I will work hard, day in and day out, on behalf of Rhode Islanders in all 39 cities and towns to ensure we come out of this pandemic stronger than we went in.” 

Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea administered the oath of office using the McKee family Bible. A public inauguration ceremony will be held on Sunday, March 7th at 12:00 p.m. on the south steps of the State House, details to be advised.