Missouri's new Attorney General Andrew Bailey takes office

(AP) — Missouri's new Attorney General Andrew Bailey has officially taken office. An appellate judge swore Bailey in during a Tuesday ceremony at the state Supreme Court. 

Republican Gov. Mike Parson appointed Bailey to replace Eric Schmitt, who won election to the U.S. Senate last year. 

Missouri's attorney general is responsible for defending state laws against court challenges and handling some criminal cases. 

The office also enforces laws on consumer protection and government transparency. 

Bailey previously worked as the attorney for the Governor's Office under Parson.