Houston now nation's largest city with gay mayor

HOUSTON — Annise Parker has been sworn in as Houston mayor, officially making her city the nation's largest to be led by an openly gay person.

Parker took the oath of office in a private ceremony at City Hall on Saturday, two days before a public inauguration during which she will be sworn in again.

The 53-year-old Parker took the oath before state District Judge Steven Kirkland and alongside her partner, Kathy Hubbard.

The charter in the nation's fourth-largest city required a mayoral transfer of power on Saturday.

Inauguration celebrations for the former City Council member and city controller are planned throughout the day Monday.