Ed Murray is the new state senator for Senate District 4. Governor Kathleen Blanco and Civil District Court Judge Paulette Irons administered a ceremonial oath of office to Senator Murray (D-New Orleans) Tuesday in City Park. Senator Murray won a special election to replace Judge Irons as senator for District 4, which includes much of central New Orleans between Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River, as well as the French Quarter.

Senator Murray is no stranger to the Louisiana Legislature. He represented District 96 in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1991 until his election to the Senate. During his tenure in the House he served on the Appropriations, House and Governmental Affairs, and Labor and Industrial Relations committees. He also served on the State Bond Commission, and chaired the Legislative Audit Advisory Council.

"I’m pleased that the people in District 4 chose me to represent them in the Senate, but there is still much work to be done. We’re facing revenue shortfalls that will require some hard work on the budget. Governor Blanco has done an excellent job with economic development, but we still have room to improve in that area. Education, also, is a great equalizer, and I will work to make educational opportunities available to students throughout the state."

A 44-year old attorney, Senator Murray has received numerous legislative leadership awards. He is very active in workforce development in New Orleans, especially among the city’s youth. He holds the rank of captain in the United States Army Reserve.

"The Senate is very fortunate to have such an experienced member join its ranks. Senator Murray has the institutional knowledge and a unique familiarization with the governmental process," Senate President Don Hines said. "I look forward to working with Senator Murray to help promote the governor’s plan for Louisiana."

Senator Murray graduated from John F. Kennedy High School, and obtained his undergraduate and law degrees from Loyola. He is the father of one son, 12-year old Edwin T. Murray.