SACRAMENTO (AP) — Two state senators elected in Tuesday’s special election have been sworn in, filling the last two vacancies in the 40-member chamber.

Democrat Ted Lieu of Torrance is now representing Los Angeles County’s 28th Senate District. He replaces Jenny Oropeza, a Democrat who died last year.

Republican Sharon Runner of Lancaster replaces her husband, George Runner, in the 17th Senate District. He was elected to the state Board of Equalization in November

The 17th district includes parts of Kern, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Ventura counties.

Both handily defeated their opponents, avoiding the need for runoff elections.

They took office Friday, giving Democrats 25 votes in the Senate and Republicans 15. Democrats remain two seats short of the two-thirds majority needed to raise taxes and fees.

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