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

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

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.

But always I was a private citizen whose activities in government or political party were appointive.

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

When there were fears about the future of this nation's older cities... when a few of the cities teetered on the brink of bankruptcy, all eyes were focused on Chicago for contrast.

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