Martinez takes office as gov as new year starts

Posted: 12.31.2010 at 3:01 PM

Republican Susana Martinez to be sworn in as New Mexico's first female governor

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Republican Susana Martinez makes history as New Mexico's first female governor when she assumes office with the start of the new year.

Martinez, 51, becomes governor during a private swearing-in ceremony shortly after midnight in the Capitol Rotunda.

Public activities follow throughout Saturday, including an outdoor inauguration at the Santa Fe Plaza where Martinez recites the oath of office for a second time.

After delivering an inaugural speech, Martinez will greet the public at a reception. The festivities end with an inaugural ball Saturday night.

Because an outgoing governor's term expires at the end of December, tradition calls for the new governor to take office at midnight to ensure there's no question about the transfer of power.