By Erich Ebel
Today former Rep. Steve O’Ban was sworn into office as senator for the 28th Legislative District. His unanimous appointment Tuesday had been fast-tracked by the Pierce County Council to fill the Senate seat left vacant by the May 29 death of Sen. Mike Carrell.
“This is a bittersweet time for me,” said O’Ban, R-Pierce County. “I am honored to have been chosen to succeed Mike in representing the people of the 28th District in the Senate and I will do my best to uphold the legacy and work ethic that are synonymous with his name.
“I am proud to join the Majority Coalition Caucus as we make crucial budget negotiations and wrap up the special session. I look forward to continuing my work in support of a strong educational system, a strengthened economy, solid transportation systems, and up-to-date public-safety laws.”
O’Ban had been elected to the House of Representatives in November.