SPRINGFIELD — The new state general assembly has been sworn in, and one area district has a new state senator. Republican Jason Plummer of Edwardsville was sworn in to represent the 54th state senate district, which includes Clinton, Marion, and part of Washington County.

Plummer, who is a businessman and has served in the armed forces, says he is honored to represent his district and southern Illinois.

Plummer replaces Sen. Kyle McCarter, who did not run for re-election. He defeated Democrat Brian Stout of Vandalia in the November election.