OHIO HAS a new governor. John Kasich officially took office during a special ceremony that began at 12:01 a.m. today.

The transition of power over the weekend saw the exit of Democratic Gov. Ted Strickland and the arrival of Republican Gov. John Kasich. While we wish him the best of luck and would encourage all Ohioans to give the new governor the benefit of the doubt as he begins his first day on the job, the days leading to the inauguration were far from smooth. In fact, it was somewhat of a rocky start.

Kasich has received criticism for a number of issues right off the bat before even taking the oath of office.

Last week, the incoming governor had to reverse a plan to ban the media and the public from his inauguration ceremony. Kasich had planned to hold a private ceremony at a residence with no media allowed, a gaffe that drew national attention. After urgings from his supporters and a wave of public criticism, plans for the swearing-in ceremony were changed with the event taking place at the Statehouse and reporters invited.

Late last month, Kasich announced that he and his family decided to live in their Westerville home, located outside of Columbus, instead of living in the governor’s mansion in the Bexley suburb, adding that he planned to still utilize the state-owned residence for social functions and occasional stays. This raised questions over potential added costs for security at the Kasich home. The state will also reportedly have to continue providing around-the clock security at the governor’s residence in Bexley, even when vacant. Kasich’s spokesman has refused to comment on any issue related to security or its related costs.

In recent weeks, Kasich began announcing his hand-picked cabinet and staff, opening the velvet rope to the governmental gravy train and showering top staffers with triple-digit salaries. This generated public outrage, as some of Kasich’s top staff members will reportedly be bringing home tens of thousands of dollars more than their predecessors in the same positions under the Strickland administration.

During Kasich’s campaign, he preached about budget cuts and fiscal responsibility during these tough economic times. Kasich has said the overall budget for his staff will be less than the previous administration’s.

Everyone, regardless of party affiliation, should hope the new governor does well and succeeds in his efforts to guide Ohio to a brighter future. Yet with such an ungraceful entrance, he takes office today under the microscope, with eyes of Ohioans and America now closely watching his every move.

It’s got to be tough to come out of the gate with so many “Come On, Man!” reels airing even before the first full day in office.