Mario Gallegos is sworn in as Governor for the Day by his friend Harris County Commissioner Sylvia Garcia.

STATE HONORS GALLEGOS AS GOVERNOR FOR THE DAY

(AUSTIN) — The state continued its 50 year tradition of honoring Presidents Pro Tem of the Senate with the swearing in of Houston Senator Mario Gallegos, Jr. as Governor for a Day. The President Pro Tem is elected by his peers at the beginning of each session, and stands third in line for the Office of Governor. Once a session, the Governor and Lt. Governor leave the state for one day, officially making the President Pro Tem Governor of Texas. This serves as an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments and public service of the President Pro Tem, as well as celebrating his or her district. "I can't think of a better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than by swearing in Mario Gallegos as Governor of the state of Texas," said Houston Senator John Whitmire, who served as Master of Ceremonies for today's events.

Governor Gallegos, his wife Theresa, and mother exit the Chamber following the inaugural ceremony.

Gallegos has served in the Senate since 1995, after serving three years in the House. A former Houston firefighter, Gallegos is renowned for his representation of police officers and firefighters, as well as seniors, children and the needy.

Gallegos received a liver transplant at the beginning of the 80th session, which has kept him in Houston for most of the year on doctor's orders. Gallegos returned to the Senate, beginning with the critical vote on the state budget, in order to ensure the passage legislation passes that benefits his constituents.

Governor Mario Gallegos delivers his Inaugural Address before a Chamber packed with friends, family and well wishers.

During his inaugural address, Gallegos reflected on the challenges of the past few months. "I am proud to be able to stand before you as your Governor today, but I am more proud, to be able to stand before you at all." Gallegos then urged those in attendance to become organ donors, and bestow the gift of life to another, as he had it bestowed to him. "Perhaps it is the nature of this state, to offer us a second opportunity to make one's mark," he said.

Guests from Senate District 6 and around the state were treated to entertainment, food and celebration all day as part of the Governor for a Day festivities.

Photo Gallery

Governor Gallegos and his wife Theresa stand with Gallegos' transplant doctor, Dr. Joseph Galati and his son, after the traditional breakfast at the Governor's Mansion.	Governor for the Day Mario Gallegos, Jr, and First Lady Teresa Gallegos stand with friends and family on the front steps of the Governor's mansion in downtown Austin.	Houston Fire Department Honor Guard precedes the First Family into the Senate Chamber at the start of the inauguration ceremony.

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