Gavin Newsom becomes lieutenant governor

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Former San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom took the oath of office as California’s lieutenant governor Monday, having postponed the ceremony for a week as he worked to influence the selection of his successor at City Hall.

Newsom was administered the oath of office in the State Senate Chambers by his father, William A. Newsom, a former associate justice of the California Court of Appeal.

The new lieutenant governor said his priorities include new business and job creation, and providing leadership on environmental issues.

“At a time of great challenge, we must transform our crises into opportunities, replace old arguments with bold solutions, and reject timidity and incrementalism for risk-taking and innovation,’’ Newsom said.

Newsom was elected Nov. 2 as lieutenant governor, a post that will have him fill in as governor when the chief executive is out of the state or if he is incapacitated. The No. 2 administrator also serves on some boards and commissions.

He postponed taking the oath of office as he pushed for his favored candidate to fill the remainder of his term as mayor.

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors is expected to vote Tuesday to appoint City Administrator Ed Lee, whom Newsom supports, as interim mayor.

-- Patrick McGreevy