Steve Beshear has been sworn in as Kentucky governor in a midnight ceremony in the Executive Mansion.

The private swearing-in completes an unlikely political comeback 20 years after he last held an elective office.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Kentuckians as Governor of this great Commonwealth," said Beshear. "I look forward to the days and years ahead as we work together to make this the best, most prosperous state it can be."

Beshear was sworn in as the state's 61st governor by Supreme Court Justice Bill Cunningham.

Daniel Mongiardo was then sworn in as Lieutenant Governor. The oath of office was administered by Chief Court of Appeals Judge Sara Walter Combs.

Preparations had been underway all day Monday for the inauguration events.

The events celebrating Steve Beshear's arrival in office start at 10 a.m. on Capitol Avenue with the Inaugural Parade.

A Governor's Ball will end the night.

Other highlights include the swearing in ceremony at the Capitol at 2 p.m. and the Grand March at the Capitol Rotunda at 8 p.m.

We'll have continuing coverage on WBKO and WBKO.com