D.C. MAYOR VOWS EXPANDED SELF-GOVERNANCE FOR NATION'S CAPITAL

WASHINGTON -- Local politics in the nation's capital entered a new era
Saturday as Anthony Williams, a Harvard-educated lawyer credited with
taking control of the city's finances, was inaugurated the District of
Columbia's fourth elected mayor.

"Our citizens deserve the best city in America," Williams said. Strong
schools, safe streets, clean communities, affordable housing and reliable
transportation were among the goals he outlined in his 15-minute inaugural
address.

Williams, 47, also appealed to residents for greater commitment to the
district's youth. "We have watched the sons of the district die in pools of
blood on their front porches," said Williams, noting further that too many
young people are winding up in prison or becoming parents at a time when
they still need parents themselves.

And Williams, who was dubbed the "federal" candidate by critics during the
election, pledged to work for greater self-governance in D.C.

Under the Constitution, Congress exercises oversight of district affairs,
and can prohibit the use of district resources for policies such as needle
exchange programs, abortions and a ballot referendum on the medical use of
marijuana. The city elects a nonvoting delegate to the House of
Representatives.

Williams says he plans to be integrally involved in the day-to-day running
of the city, meeting weekly with department heads and senior- level staff
members as he attempts to deliver on his promises.