Derek Kilmer was officially sworn in Thursday as a member of the 113th Congress and Washington’s new representative from the 6th District.

Rep. Kilmer, a Democrat and former state senator from Gig Harbor, was joined at his ceremonial swearing-in by his wife Jennifer, their two daughters Sophie and Tess, and his parents J.C. and Marietta.

“I am humbled and honored to be the voice in Congress for so many hardworking families in our community,” Kilmer said. “I promise to get to work right away to represent their values and make a difference on the issues that matter to them most.”

“We face many serious challenges, which is why it’s so important that Congress gets its act together from day one. I look forward to working with my colleagues from both parties on ways to create jobs, grow the economy and get results for our region,” he said.

Kilmer, who was named to the House Armed Services Committee last month, has also picked up another new title in recent days. He has been chosen by Democratic Leader Steny Hoyer to serve as an Assistant Whip.

“I am pleased to announce that I have appointed Rep. Derek Kilmer to serve as an Assistant Whip in the 113th Congress,” Hoyer said. “As a new member of Congress, Rep. Kilmer brings a new and valued perspective to the Whip team, and I look forward to working with him as we promote an agenda of job creation and strengthening the middle class this Congress.”