Danbury state Senator Mike McLachlan was sworn in for 5th term yesterday.  The Republican says opening day saw moments of optimism, even during Democratic Governor Malloy's address.  McLachlan says it will be a busy session for all legislators because of close vote is in the House and the tie in the Senate.  He noted that it will impact the outcome of votes if a lawmaker misses a meeting.  McLachlan says every vote counts now. 

The state Senate lost two members right before the Oath of Office was to be administered. 

Rob Kane is applying to be a Republican state auditor while Democrat Eric Coleman is seeking appointment as a judge.  The each resigned because a sitting legislator is not allowed to move into a state job while holding an elected position.  This still leaves a tie in the state Senate, with 17 Republicans and 17 Democrats. 

The vacancies would be filled through special elections. 

Kane's 32nd state Senate District includes Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Oxford, Roxbury, Seymour, Southbury, Washington, and Watertown and Woodbury.