BREAKING NEWS: Republicans grab control of NYS Senate

Local News

June 8, 2009

Anonymous The Tonawanda News Mon Jun 08, 2009, 05:09 PM EDT

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Republicans appear to have retaken control of New York’s Senate after two dissident Democrats jumped the aisle in a parliamentary coup.

The flip of senators Pedro Espada Jr. of the Bronx and Hiram Monserrate of Queens gives Republicans a 32-30 edge in the chamber.

Within an hour of the overthrow, Republicans named Espada temporary president of the Senate Dean Skelos of Nassau County vice president and majority leader. Skelos is the former majority leader.

Those are the most powerful positions in the chamber. With them, the bipartisan coalition can direct legislation and reassign committee and leadership posts.

Democrats tried to leave the chamber, even turning off the lights briefly. They are expected to challenge Monday’s action in court.

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