(WEAA)—Ivan Bates was sworn in Tuesday as Baltimore's new State's Attorney.
WEAA's award-winning talk show host Dr. Karsonya "Kaye" Wise Whitehead served as emcee for the inauguration ceremony.
During an emotional speech, Dr. Kaye spoke on Bates' commitment to Baltimore City and shared encouraging words of support.
"Yesterday I had the absolute pleasure and honor to both MC the Swearing In Ceremony for Baltimore City State’s Attorney and introduce him!"
Post-Inauguration Reflections: yesterday I had the absolute pleasure and honor to both MC the Swearing In Ceremony for Baltimore City State’s Attorney @ivanjbates and introduce him! Major bonus: both of my sons were able to join me! part One: clip of my intro speech pic.twitter.com/UDbUsbvcPW
— Black Mommy Activist, PhD🎙 (@kayewhitehead) January 4, 2023
The swearing-in was held at the War Memorial in Baltimore followed by an evening celebration at M&T Bank Stadium.
Bates defeated incumbent City State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby and Attorney Thiru Vignarajah in the 2022 primary and was unopposed in the general election.
After taking the oath of office, Bates didn't waste any time implementing changes.
He immediately recalled Marilyn Mosby's non-prosecution policy on low-level offenses.
Congratulations @ivanjbates! I look forward to working with you on your new role as Baltimore City State’s Attorney! Shout out to @kayewhitehead for an awesome job as MC for the event and your inspirational words!! It was an honor to be there today. pic.twitter.com/bEukTGfJbA
— Odette Ramos (@odetteramos) January 3, 2023
Congratulations to Baltimore City State’s Attorney @ivanjbates on being sworn into office today. Looking forward to working in partnership to bring forth positive changes for a safer, stronger Baltimore! pic.twitter.com/XFj3S7vmk6
— Cory McCray (@SenatorMcCray) January 3, 2023