First Minority Sworn In As Calif. Chief Justice

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) -- Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has sworn in California's next chief justice, who will be the first minority and second woman to lead the state's high court.

Schwarzenegger administered the oath of office Friday for appellate court judge Tani Cantil-Sakauye during a swearing-in ceremony in the rotunda of the state Capitol.

Cantil-Sakauye thanked her family, friends and colleagues afterward. She says she's prepared for the "vertical climb" ahead of her when she assumes office Jan. 3.

Schwarzenegger nominated Cantil-Sakauye in July and she was confirmed by the three-member Commission on Judicial Appointments. California voters confirmed her appointment last month.

She replaces retiring Chief Justice Ronald George.

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