Fourth District U.S. Congressman Scott DesJarlais was sworn into office Thursday morning, a day after State Senator Jim Tracy announced that he sought to gain that seat in two-years when this term ends.

Dr. DesJarlais took the oath of office from the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives from Washington. It was administered by House Speaker John Boehner.

Congressman DesJarlais said, “I am humbled that the people of Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District have given me the honor to once again represent them in the United States House of Representatives. I will continue to fulfill the promises that I made to Tennesseans when I first ran for office and legislate in an independent, conservative manner."

“While we made a lot of progress during the 112th Congress, we must build upon these accomplishments and address the monumental challenges we face as a nation. First and foremost, it is critical that Washington finally gets serious about addressing its reckless spending addiction that is bankrupting our country."

“While the road ahead will certainly be difficult, I take solace in the fact that we understand the necessary solutions needed for a more prosperous future. If we have the courage to cut our spending, eliminate stifling bureaucracy and return our government to its constitutional role, I am certain that America’s best days are still to come.”