Dems back in charge in NYS Senate

ALBANY, N.Y. (WIVB) - The huge dysfunctional family also known as the State Senate, could make a good reality show, except no one would believe it. 

Democrats are back in control in the State Senate, surviving the coup back in June that gave temporary power to Republicans.
 
The full Senate met into the morning hours to pass critical bills and Governor David Paterson appointed as Lt. Governor shared his views with reporters. 

"Obviously I understand why the public is outraged," Richard Ravitch, Lt. Governor Appointee said.

Ravitch, still waiting for a judge to decide if his appointment is constitutional, said despite taxpayer frustration with State Senators, he would work with them to try and lift the state out of a worsening economic crisis. "I'm going to work with them as best as I possibly can because the only thing that matters is that citizens of New York having an effective government dealing with this unbelievably, profoundly complicated economic downturn."

The Senate session went into the early morning hours with Pedro Espada now serving as Majority Leader, claiming his role in the June 8 coup when he sided with Republicans, helped create a new era of reform.

"A new environment, a new State Senate," said Senator Espada.

Democrats refer to the month of chaos as "the bumpy road" but not bumpy enough that they will suffer any penalties.  Their paychecks, travel expenses and per diem expenses will all now be paid by the State Comptroller. The Senate stalemate had cost New York up to $150 million.

"The Senate has a new deal. I hope the people have a new deal," said the Governor.

Lt. Governor Appointee Richard Ravitch will soon know if the courts consider his appointment constitutional. A judge is hearing arguments Friday.
 
Coming up on News 4 at 5 and 6, what has been the impact of all the chaos in the Senate on Western New York?