SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Republican Bruce Rauner is set to take office as Illinois’ 42nd governor.

This morning there will be a prayer service followed by the swearing in of constitutional officers. Rauner will be the first Republican Governor since George Ryan left in 2003.

Later, there will be an open house at the Old State Capitol and a dinner, capped off by a concert featuring country star Toby Keith. Rauner says attendees should enjoy the festivities because once he takes office there’s a lot of work to do.

He says the state is on the verge of a major transformation.

 

 

 

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