advertisement

Toby Keith plays as GOP Gov. Rauner, wife Diana dance

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - New Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner (ROW'-nur) and his wife, Diana, have danced to a song performed by country artist Toby Keith at their inaugural celebration.

The governor and first lady chose Keith's "You Shouldn't Kiss me Like This" as they were introduced to a roaring crowd at a Springfield convention center Monday night.

Rauner eschewed a traditional inaugural ball for more casual festivities. Both he and the first lady wore jeans. Attendees ate barbecue and ice cream and could drink beer and cocktails for $125 a ticket.

Keith was preceded by blues artist Buddy Guy and a band of Illinois lawmakers called the Boat Drink Caucus.

Rauner's swearing-in took place at the same facility earlier in the day.

He is Illinois' first Republican governor in more than a decade.

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.