Now that Governor John Bel Edwards is officially in office, many Louisianans say they are looking forward to the change in leadership.

The state of Louisiana has begun a new chapter following Monday’s inauguration of newly elected Governor John Bel Edwards.

As we move from a conservative Republican to a more moderate Democrat, I caught up with some folks here in the Hub City to find out exactly how they feel about the change in leadership.

“I’m hoping for some changes. I think it’s about time we had a democrat in office,” Said Tujuana Chambers.

“I’m looking forward to it. we can’t go nowhere but up,” Said Charles Garrett.

“I don’t think it was the best decision for our state but… what is done is done,” Said Vergie Albarado.

Edwards received a round of applause after announcing he would accept federal funding to expand Medicaid within his first 24 hours in office.

Vergie Albarado lives in Lafayette, she says she was disappointed in what she calls the dirty politics of the November race– but agrees that it’s important to put the health of all Louisianans first.

“Medicaid for our children, those that need it and Medicaid for those that need it,” Said Albarado.

Education was also at the fore front of the governor’s inauguration speech.

Edwards says he’d like to make college more affordable.

Preston Welcome says he agrees.

“Our universities and our colleges are suffering and I’d like to see something done, Said Welcome.

Voters say putting aside the differences of the two parties is critical.

“Everybody needs to come together as one and stop all this nonsense, trying to criticize each other and work as a team,” Said Janet Sapia.