Ronald Reagan was inaugurated as the 33rd Governor of California on January 2, 1967, during a formal ceremony at the California State Capitol in Sacramento. This marked a notable shift in his career from being a Hollywood actor to embracing a role in public service and politics. Reagan won the election for governor in 1966, defeating the incumbent Democrat Pat Brown amid rising concerns about crime and the state's economic challenges. His campaign resonated with a growing constituency that sought a more conservative governance approach.

The inaugural ceremony was notable not only for its political implications but also for its symbolic significance as Reagan sought to position himself as a leader who could address the pressing social issues of the time, including student protests and racial tensions. Surrounded by various dignitaries, Reagan's swearing-in ceremony underscored the support he garnered from the Republican establishment and the general populace. As he took the oath of office, his vision for California began to take shape, focusing on limited government, economic growth, and a tough stance on crime.

Reagan's leadership style and policies during his governorship would lay the groundwork for his future political ambitions, including his successful bid for the presidency in 1980. His time as governor also served to galvanize the conservative movement in America, as economic and social challenges during the 1960s motivated voters to seek new political solutions. Reagan's administration would eventually see significant reforms and an unprecedented challenge to the status quo in state government, further endorsing his legacy as a prominent political figure.