New York's Michael Bloomberg Sworn In To Third Mayoral Term

"I recognize, I understand, that this term is a special opportunity, one that comes with extraordinary responsibilities," said Bloomberg. "I realize, too, that the building behind me [City Hall] is yours, and the job in front of me is to listen and to lead. I will not shirk from the hard decisions that lie ahead."

He called upon the city to support President Barack Obama's efforts at immigration reform this year.

“With leaders from across the country, we will assemble a bi-partisan coalition to support President Obama’s call for comprehensive immigration reform that honors our history, upholds our values, and promotes our economy," said the mayor. “No city on Earth – no city – should hold these principles higher aloft than this city of immigrants. Because no city on earth has been more rewarded by immigrant labor, more renewed by immigrant ideas, more revitalized by immigrant culture, than the City of New York."

(...) The mayor also promised in his inaugural speech to help prevent crime, aid small businesses, stir local volunteerism and equally serve all the city's residents.

"I want to make a personal commitment to you, and to every New Yorker. No matter where you live and work, no matter what your race or roots, no matter who you love, who you worship, or who you voted for, I pledge to be your mayor," said Bloomberg.