Bill Walker sworn in as Alaska's new governor

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) – Bill Walker was sworn in Monday as the first Alaska governor to not be affiliated with a political party.

Walker took the oath in during a ceremony in downtown Juneau, using a Bible that spokeswoman Grace Jang said has been in his family since the 1800s. He was sworn in by Alaska Supreme Court Justice Daniel Winfree.

Walker succeeds Republican Sean Parnell, who he upset in last month's election.

An attorney perhaps best known for his support of an all-Alaska natural gas pipeline, Walker finished second to Parnell in the 2010 gubernatorial primary. He ran this time as an independent, initially with Craig Fleener as his running mate.

But after the primary, in an effort to mount a stronger challenge to Parnell, Walker joined with the Democratic gubernatorial candidate, Byron Mallott, to create a “unity” ticket. As part of the package, Walker changed his political affiliation from Republican to undeclared and Mallott became his running mate.

Fleener, who willingly stepped aside for Mallott on the ticket, was the master of ceremonies at the inauguration.

Walker and Mallott had found themselves agreeing on a number of issues during primary debates. Walker has said he intends to reach out to Mallott as part of his decision-making process.

Walker faces a number of challenges, including budget deficits amid lower revenues. He also will have to decide how to proceed on a major liquefied natural gas project that the state is currently pursuing with oil and gas and pipeline companies.

Walker has said he plans to expand Medicaid coverage, something Parnell resisted despite broad-based support.

Walker, 63, was born and raised in Alaska. He and his wife, Donna, plan to live in the governor's mansion in Juneau, the capital city, as Parnell and his wife did.

Alaska Airlines added an additional flight to Juneau, which is accessible only by air or water, for the inauguration.