Elizabeth Esty was sworn in as the new U.S. Representative for Connecticut’s 5th Congressional District on Thursday and has been named vice chair of the Congressional Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.
As Esty took the office, just weeks after the rampage at Sandy Hook Elementary School, thoughts of the community were at the forefront of her mind.
“The recent tragedy in Newtown has irrevocably changed the lives of people in that community, and it’s been felt across the state and across the country. I’m committed to ensuring that the community of Newtown has the support it needs to heal, and that, moving forward, we take comprehensive action to help keep families safe in every community and to prevent such horrific tragedies from occurring in the future,” Esty said in a statement.
Esty joins 60 other women serving in the House and is filling the seat that now-U.S. Senator Chris Murphy held for three terms until becoming the state’s junior Senator.
“I’m honored that the people of the 5th District have given me the opportunity to serve them as their Representative in Congress, and I’m humbled by the responsibility they’ve entrusted me with, particularly during this challenging time,” Esty said.
She said she will work to promote economic growth throughout the district and plans to do so by “reinvigorating manufacturing, helping small businesses, improving education, and making investments in our transportation and infrastructure.”
Congresswoman Esty lives in Cheshire and was elected to office on November 6, 2012. She succeeds three-term Congressman Chris Murphy who took office today as Connecticut’s junior Senator. She will serve on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee.
Photo Credit: NBC Connecticut