Carlo Leone was sworn in as state senator for the 27^th District at 4 p.m. Friday. Leone, a Democrat, was elected to the post Tuesday by voters in parts of Stamford and Darien. The district consists of parts of both municipalities.

“I am honored to have been chosen by the people of Stamford and Darien to represent their interests here in Hartford,” Leone said in a statement. “Our state faces a number of tough problems, including a substantial budget deficit and a pressing need to grow jobs and get our economy back on track. I am eager to get to work.” He replaced Andrew McDonald, who joined the Malloy administration.

Leone formerly was state representative for the 148^th District in Stamford. He left that post an hour before taking the oath as senator, submitting a letter of resignation to Secretary of the State Denise Merrill.

The swearing-in ceremony took place in the Senate chamber.

What issues should new state Sen. Carlo Leone make a priority? Leave a comment below.