JACKSON, MS (WLBT) -
Organizers are still trying to find out how many people attended the Inaugural Ball Tuesday night.
There was barely elbow room at the Jackson Convention Complex as political leaders, friends, family and supporters celebrated the Inauguration of Mississippi's 64th governor.
Even before Governor Phil Bryant arrived with his wife Deborah the crowd began to swell.
The theme, "Rising Together", has hit a high note with many Mississippians.
"We've been neighbors for 16 years and I just love them to death", said Evelyn Silas.
"Governor Bryant selected a wonderful theme as you all know it takes all of us moving in one direction together and if we move together, the strongest of us and the least of us will rise together," said Robin Robinson of Laurel.
When Governor Bryant arrived with the First Lady; who was wearing a blue gown, he was immediately engulfed in hugs, handshakes and enthusiasm.
"People are hungry for us to be able to come together to work as we have the last four years, Governor Barbour and I have, towards making sure we all have jobs, a better educational system, and I'm just delighted," Governor Bryant said. "Everybody's dressed up and having fun."
Governor Bryant says he wanted to spend most of the evening talking with and thanking those who put him in office.
"They have to believe that we can do great things and I think everyone in this room is ready to rise together," Governor Bryant said.
Republican leaders including Congressman Greg Harper, and former Senate Majority Leader, Trent Lott who also served as Master of Ceremonies came to show their support.
Philip Gunn who is set to be the next House Speaker says there is a lot of work ahead.
"Creating jobs hopefully, a lot of jobs," Rep. Gunn said. "That seems to be the number one issue for most Mississippians. And that helps them help themselves."
Governor Bryant says there is one special thing he is looking forward too and that is the first dance with the First Lady.
"We've got a little song that they will play a little later called, Wind Beneath My Wings, and that's Deborah, and we're gonna dance to that, and that's gonna be my very special moment tonight," Gov. Bryant said.
Governor Bryant says Wednesday the party is over and one of the first things on his agenda is appointing or asking the Republican Party to appoint a new chairman.
We hoped to talk with outgoing Governor Haley Barbour but we did not see him at the Inaugural Ball Tuesday night.
Copyright 2012 WLBT. All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2012 WorldNow and WLOX, a Raycom Media Station. 