Minnesota governor by making a case that putting more money into education should be seen as an investment, not straight-up spending.
The Democrat's inauguration Monday comes on the eve of a legislative session where he'll propose a two-year budget and new education initiatives that he hopes will position Minnesota for the future. Dayton will have to work with a divided Legislature. Republicans will run the House and Democrats lead the Senate.
Dayton is entering the final term of a political career where he's also held the titles of auditor and U.S. senator.
He's the oldest governor Minnesota has had and turns 68 in a few weeks.
Dayton also declares transportation an "essential investment," a preview of another fight to come.