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

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

The people ask much, often more than any government can give. We must resist the temptation to promise solutions to all problems.

In the housing projects, people talked of ways to reduce crime, relieve overcrowding, and they were good ideas that we plan to study, and possibly implement.

I accept that responsibility and ask only that I be judged by my performance as its chief executive.

Chicago’s neighborhoods have always been the city’s greatest strength.

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