Congressman Derek Kilmer, D-Gig Harbor, was officially sworn in Thursday as a member of the 113^th Congress and already working on issues important to Washington state's 6th District, growing the economy, supporting military families, and improving the quality of life in his region.

The former member of the Washington State Senate is also taking on important roles to help impact Washington State.  Last month, he was named to the House Armed Services Committee to help strengthen the military and support  servicemen and women as well as their families.  Kilmer has also been named by Democratic Leader Steny Hoyer to serve as an assistant whip.

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

Hoyer said, “I am pleased to announce that I have appointed Rep. Derek Kilmer to serve as an assistant whip in the 113th Congress. 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.”

Kilmer was joined at his ceremonial swearing-in by his wife Jennifer, their two daughters Sophie and Tess, and his parents J.C. and Marietta.