ALBANY - Gov. Andrew Cuomo has opted for a major dose of symbolism for his third inauguration, choosing to be sworn in on Ellis Island on Jan. 1.
Cuomo on Tuesday announced his decision to deliver his inaugural address on the island that served as a major immigration hub in the late 19th century and first half of the 20th century, calling it an "enduring symbol of who we are as a nation."
More than 12 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island from its opening in 1892 to its closure in 1954.
Cuomo, a Democrat, easily won a third term on Election Day, picking up nearly 60 percent of the vote en route to a convincing victory over his Republican opponent, Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro.
The Democratic governor made his opposition to President Donald Trump a major part of his campaign, repeatedly railing against the Republican's immigration and tax policies.
In a statement, Cuomo didn't shy away from the symbolism of Ellis Island.
"This historic gateway to America reminds us of the core values that built our state and our country, and it will serve as a fitting location to launch a new term fighting for New Yorkers and for the soul of this nation," Cuomo said.
The decision to hold the inaugural events on Ellis Island comes as Cuomo continues to bat down speculation that he may be interested in running for president.
Last week, Cuomo said he was ruling a run in 2020 during a radio interview on WAMC-FM. In an October debate with Molinaro, Cuomo said he would serve his full four-year term as governor "unless God strikes me dead."
Cuomo will be inaugurated in Ellis Island's Main Building, which houses the island's National Museum of Immigration.
That building is entirely within the boundary of New York state, according to the National Park Service.
In 1998, the U.S. Supreme Court found much of the rest of the island belongs to New Jersey.
Cuomo opted for a bare-bones inauguration when he first took office in 2011, when he was sworn in at the Capitol with the state battling a recession-era budget crunch.
In 2014, he held two separate inaugural events — one in Manhattan, the other in Buffalo.
His second inauguration was overshadowed by the death of his father, former Gov. Mario Cuomo, who died not long after Cuomo wrapped up his Buffalo speech.
Jon Campbell is a correspondent for the USA TODAY Network's Albany Bureau.
