"Working together:" Scott Walker sworn in for second term as Wisconsin’s governor

MADISON (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker used his inaugural address to tout his record in Wisconsin, and draw a contrast with the federal government, as he considers a run for president. He was sworn in for his second term on Monday morning, January 5th.

Governor Walker began his second term with a promise to transform the structure of the state.

"Since I last stood at this podium, our state has become more free and prosperous. We took the power away from big government special interests and put it back in the hands of the hardworking taxpayers," Governor Walker said in his inaugural address at the Capitol Monday.

Governor Walker laid out a conservative vision for his second term -- promising to scale back the bureaucracy.

"We will reduce the size and scope government to match the will of the people. State agencies will be merged to make them more accountable to the public," Governor Walker said.

Walker will have expanded majorities in both the Senate and Assembly.

His agenda includes tax cuts, voucher school expansion and a new school accountability system -- but he faces a projected budget shortfall.

"Budgets will be be set on the taxpayers' ability to pay and not on the government's ability to spend," Governor Walker said.

Governor Walker was critical of Washington gridlock.

"In contrast to the politicians along the Potomac, we get things done here in the Badger State. There is a clear contrast between Washington and Wisconsin," Governor Walker said.

Any mention of Washington inevitably leads to speculation about a potential presidential run. Walker says any decision on that won't come until after the budget is signed.

Below are Governor Walker’s complete remarks: