"With so many people out of work, and so many families losing their homes to foreclosure, it's not surprising that voters tell us they're worried and believe that California is on the wrong track," said Brown. "Yet, in the face of huge budget deficits, year after year, and the worst credit rating among the 50 states, are two political parties that can't come close to agreeing on what the right path forward is. They remain in their respective comfort zones, rehearsing and rehashing old political positions."
While this was Brown's third inauguration as governor, the 72-year-old is returning to the state capital to lead a much different California than the one he oversaw from 1975 to 1983.
Brown is only the second person to serve three terms as California governor.
A $28 billion budget shortfall, term limits and political polarization are just some of the issues the governor will have to tackle.
Brown has been working hard since the November election to gather all points of view and has been a frequent visitor to the state capital.
He has met with lawmakers from both parties and waded deep into policymaking. Both steps mark a sharp change in style from outgoing /*Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger*/, who relied on charm and his larger-than-life personality to win deals behind closed doors with a small group of top lawmakers.
The incoming governor must present his first budget plan for the coming fiscal year just a week after his inauguration. Brown's staff said he will start going to work immediately. He might even stop by the office on Monday afternoon to make some appointments.
After the inauguration, Brown went to several receptions, including his main one at the California Railroad Museum.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
