CAROL ALVARADO SWORN IN AS SENATOR

(AUSTIN) — The Texas Senate welcomed its newest member Friday when Carol Alvarado took the oath of office as Senator for Houston's District 6. Alvarado won the special election to replace out-going Senator Sylvia Garcia, who was elected to the US Congress in November. Only 55 votes put her above the threshold to avoid a run-off. "I will remember that number as long as I live," she said to laughter during her acceptance speech. Alvarado was praised by current, former and future colleagues as hard-working, dedicated and visionary. "You, my friend, will be in this body, I predict, for a very long time and make a significant difference," said Rodney Ellis, former Houston Senator and current Harris County Commissioner.

Alvarado has been a lifelong public servant, running for county precinct judge in her native Houston while still a student at the University of Houston. Master of Ceremonies and Dean of the Senate John Whitmire recalled meeting the campaigning Alvarado while running his own campaign in 1992. "She not only was elected precinct judge, she started organizing the community," he said. "It is no surprise to John Whitmire why she was successful in this election. She's been preparing for it all of her life." After working for local and federal officials, Alvarado herself won election to the Houston City Council in 2002 and served there until 2007, when she was elected to represent House District 145 in Houston's East End.

In her acceptance speech, Alvarado said she is ready to roll up her sleeves and get to work on major issues facing Texas when the Senate convenes in January. Alvarado highlighted the need for improved education, healthcare for the sick and elderly and creating opportunities for high paying jobs. She also said she will work with members to find bipartisan solutions to make the city of Houston whole again following the devastation of Hurricane Harvey. "Our basic function as a Senate, elected by the people, is to take care of the people," said Alvarado. "I will work day and night, regardless of who you voted for, what country you came from, who you pray to, who you love, and what team you cheer for. As long as it's the Astros."

With the SD 6 seat filled, the full membership of the Senate heading into the 2019 Legislative Session has been established. Alvarado will be one of six freshman Senators joining the body when the session begins on January 8th.

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