Suthers Sworn in as Colorado Springs’ Newest Mayor

Andrea ChalfinAndrea Chalfin
By Andrea Chalfin
June 2, 2015
A large American flag is suspended between two fire trucks on the south side of the Pioneers Museum for John Suthers' mayoral swearing-in ceremony.A large American flag is suspended between two fire trucks on the south side of the Pioneers Museum for John Suthers' mayoral swearing-in ceremony. Andrea Chalfin / KRCC
A large American flag is suspended between two fire trucks on the south side of the Pioneers Museum for John Suthers' mayoral swearing-in ceremony.

Colorado Springs' newest mayor was sworn into office Tuesday with a ceremony outside the Pioneers Museum.  

Former state Attorney General John Suthers took the oath of office as city council, employees, residents and military representatives watched.  

John Suthers prepares to answer questions from the media prior to taking the oath of office.Credit Andrea Chalfin / KRCC
John Suthers prepares to answer questions from the media prior to taking the oath of office.

"I have no illusions about the fact that this is going to be a tough job," said Suthers before the ceremony. He told the gathered media he was both excited and apprehensive.  "Colorado Springs has some real major challenges, infrastructure in particular, new job creation, and when I look at a lot of the tough jobs I've had in the past, I'm convinced this is probably going to be the toughest."

To that end, Suthers says moving the city forward means working collaboratively.

"For those that voted for me, thank you for the vote of confidence. For those that didn't vote for me, I need your support also," Suthers said.  "My guess is that when the council and I talk about how to address these infrastructure problems, it will probably result in us going to the voters in November with some sort of proposal."

Outgoing Mayor Steve Bach speaks to those gathered for the oath of office.
Outgoing Mayor Steve Bach speaks to those gathered for the oath of office.

In his remarks, the new mayor thanked outgoing mayor Steve Bach, calling him an agent of change, and invoked the city's founders, and former U.S. presidents. 

Suthers said over the next several weeks, he plans to immerse himself in city government, beginning with a management meeting and eventually meeting all the city's employees.

Here is the audio of Suthers' full remarks during the ceremony:  

Listen - My Recording

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