Be assured that I did not become the Mayor of Chicago to preside over its decline.

Chicago kept industry, attracted new business, became the center for convention trade and transportation.

For my part, I plan to work out a fair and adequate redistribution of city services to all city neighborhoods.

The people of Chicago are a proud people - and for good reason.

Tonight - by taking this solemn oath - I am no longer a private citizen but the Mayor of the City of Chicago.

I am a Democrat. I have been one all of my life.

As I visited the various neighborhoods in the campaign, I learned fast that it's a mistake to think that all of the wisdom and possible solutions to our problems are available only in this building.