OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Democrat J.J. Dossett has been sworn in as the newest member of the Oklahoma state Senate.
Dossett was sworn in Thursday at the state Capitol in Oklahoma City with friends, family and supporters in the audience.
Dossett defeated Republican David McLain in a special election earlier this month in District 34 in the Tulsa suburb of Owasso. He replaces Republican former Sen. Rick Brinkley, who pleaded guilty to embezzlement and resigned.
Dossett said he's grateful for the support and acknowledged that a state budget shortfall of $900 million that may increase will present a challenge.
The legislative session begins Feb. 1st.
