Politician Accepts New Weekend Job--to Govern Florida for Three Days

Lt. Gov. John Wayne Mixson, sworn in Saturday as Florida’s 39th governor, entered office with a brief agenda. But, after all, he knew he would be in office only for the weekend.

Mixson, a 64-year-old cattle rancher, accepted the reins of power from Gov. Bob Graham, a Democrat, who resigned three days early to become the state’s junior U.S. senator at noon Saturday.

“It’s the shortest time, but it’s just as high,” Mixson said.

Mixson recited the oath of office, administered by state Supreme Court Chief Justice Parker Lee McDonald, in the House chamber filled with about 300 well-wishers.

After shaking hands and accepting congratulations, Mixson led the group to the Old Capitol, where he received guests in a receiving line.

No inaugural ball was planned, but several receptions were scheduled through Monday. About $15,000 had been raised privately for inaugural events, although the budget might run less, according to spokesman Chris Harris.

Mixson’s three-day Administration will mark the pinnacle as well as the end of his political career. Mixson, a former state representative, plans to retire after 20 years of elective office when Republican Gov.-elect Bob Martinez is sworn in at noon Tuesday as Florida’s 40th governor.