Almost a full 182 days after the 111th Congress was convened, Al Franken officially became Minneosta’s second senator today when Vice President Joe Biden administered the oath of office.

Watch it below:

While the wait for Minnesota’s second Senator is now over, the real work is just beginning. As Denise mentioned last week, we’re going to be facing some tough challenges in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

The special interests are already trying to buy their way into these important debates by spending record amounts on lobbying and political activities. And while corporate lobbyists may have deep pockets, Alliance for a Better Minnesota will continue to remind politicians that they’re accountable first and foremost to the people of Minnesota.

It looks like Senator Al Franken understands just that:

Franken said his first order of business would be preparing for the confirmation hearings of Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor. He said he was meeting with "the best legal minds" in Minnesota to prepare for his role in the hearings.

Franken also said he is looking forward to getting involved in health care legislation and wants to play a role in crafting legislation that contains costs.