Holcomb Calls For ‘Hammer Down’ Moving Forward

Eric Holcomb has officially taken office as Indiana’s 51st governor. During a swearing in ceremony Monday morning at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Holcomb said "we must hammer down and maintain that pioneer spirit" of Hoosiers from the last 200 years. He was a guest Inside INdiana Business Television last month and discussed his vision for the state, which included his outlook for the state’s economy.

Holcomb took his oath of office Monday morning along with State Auditor Tera Klutz, Superintendent of Public Instruction Jennifer McCormick, Attorney General Curtis Hill and Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch.

Holcomb’s inauguration speech detailed a list of the state’s accomplishments in recent years, saying "we’re not just competing any more; we’re winning." He added "but, as any champion will tell you, winning one year does not guarantee repeating the next. Despite our standing, despite our ongoing momentum, we can’t afford to get complacent or take our eyes off the ball."

He says challenges exist in keeping talent in-state, training the next generation work force and fighting drug abuse throughout the state. "He says his administration’s focus will be "to make Indiana a place where people thrive. Where they can get a good, fulfilling, well-paid job and a world-class education. Where our kids are well-taken care of. Where we have growing opportunities and the freedom to take advantage of them."

Read Holcomb’s speech as prepared: