Gov. Gretchen Whitmer preaches unity during inauguration speech

LANSING (FOX 2) - Thousands of people packed the capital to see our 49th governor get sworn in. 

They're excited to see Gretchen Whitmer become official but more excited to see what she can do the next four years. 

"It is an incredible honor to be here with you today as the 49th Governor of the great state of Michigan," Whitmer said.

WATCH: See Whitmer's full speech here.

Michigan's second female Governor Gretchen Whitmer sworn into office Monday. 
 
"To me Michigan is more than just a place Michigan is a way of life," she said.

With her now well-known slogans like - Fix the Damn Roads - those campaign promises will now be put to the test. 

"Now is the time to confront our problems head-on in one voice and say let's get it done," she said.

As Lt. Governor, 36-year-old Detroiter Garlin Gilchrest made history as the first African American to hold the position.

"Let us chose to lock arms and walk forward together in the spirit of peace and love," he said.

The crowd filled with supporters who appreciate the diversity.

"We couldn't wait." said Gwendelyn Criss, of Clinton Township. "This is a first in history and we are just so excited to be here."

Campaign volunteer Beth Bowen brought her 5-year old daughter to see a woman now hold the state's highest title. 

"I was just telling her on the way over that she can be anything she wants to be and I want to keep hitting that over and over," said Bowen.

It was a female sweep of Michigan's high office with the swearing in of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Attorney General Dana Nessel.

Whitmer's motto of "Building Bridges Together" even drew supporters from the other side of the aisle. 

"I'm trying to keep an open mind and I want to hear other people ideas I want to hear their ideas their ideas as well," said Gavin Seybert.

The Blue Wave headed by Whitmer will face challenges with a Republican majority in the House and Senate.

"We may belong to different parties but we are all here today for the same reason today we are proud Michiganders first and foremost," Whitmer said.

Whitmer will round out inauguration day with a big celebration at Cobo. It's open to the public but tickets cost $150.