Richard Blumenthal Sworn in as Connecticut's Newest Senator

Press Release

In New Role, Blumenthal Will Continue to Stand Up for People of Connecticut

Vowing to use his position to fight for the people of Connecticut, Richard Blumenthal was sworn in today as a United States Senator for the 112th Congress. As Connecticut's newest Senator, Blumenthal promised to help make Washington work for middle class families and small businesses, and to stand up to the toughest special interests.

"It is a tremendous honor to be sworn in as a United States Senator," Blumenthal said. "I am looking forward to continuing to fight for the people of Connecticut, and making sure that our middle class families and our small businesses have a real voice in Washington -- and that Washington works for Connecticut."

Blumenthal laid out several of his priorities for the upcoming legislative session, including:

* Creating more jobs in Connecticut and helping small businesses
* Standing up for middle class families
* Advocating for veterans and making sure our nation honors its promises to them
* Fighting to protect consumers
* Working to increase renewable energy and green jobs

Blumenthal, who won a decisive victory last November, was sworn in on the Senate floor. Vice President Joe Biden administered the Oath of Office.

Also present at the swearing-in were several supporters of Senator Blumenthal, including:

* Skyler and Laura Austin of Burlington. As an infant, Skyler's health insurance company refused to cover the cost of the only baby formula that wouldn't make him sick. Laura called then-Attorney General Blumenthal's office and he immediately reacted, taking on that fight and getting Skyler the formula he needed to survive. Because of Blumenthal's actions, Skyler is now a healthy 10-year-old boy.

* In 2007, Sarah and Neil Gaer lost their home in a devastating fire. The cost to clean up the debris from the fire was deducted from what they were eligible for to rebuild their home, leaving them with nothing. They called then-Attorney General Blumenthal and he acted swiftly to help them rebuild their lives.

These stories, and thousands of others, point to Blumenthal's long record of fighting for the people of Connecticut.

"I am committed to listening to the people of our great state and working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help create jobs and stand up for the people of Connecticut. Today is about moving Connecticut, and our nation, forward, and I'm excited to get to work," said Blumenthal.

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