New state senator sworn in

Tallahassee, Florida -- Florida just got a new state lawmaker, though he's no stranger to the process.

State Senator John Thrasher took the oath of office at the capitol Wednesday morning. He represents 5 northeast counties including Duval, Flagler, Nassau, St. Johns and Volusia.

Thrasher is a former House Speaker, County Commissioner, School Board member, and Army veteran.

He is filling the seat that was prematurely vacated by the late Senator Jim King. He died from cancer last summer. King's wife, Linda, attended Thrasher's ceremony.

"You all who knew Senator King so well know that he can't be replaced...and I would never ever intend to do that, but I do promise you this, you Linda...and the Senators, that I will do everything I can to uphold the great tradition Senator King had in this chamber as a Senator, as a man, as a statesman...and as a politician, he was the best," said Thrasher.

State Senator John Thrasher hopes to focus on education, civil justice and economic issues.

"What can we do to you know support the resiliency of all of our citizens in the state of Florida who are ya know in pretty tough times right now and we recognize that so where can government do something that either stay out of the way or create something that supports our economy," said Thrasher.

He jumped right into action, immediately after his swearing in ceremony. Thrasher currently serves on a dozen different committees.