NY Senate majority still unclear as session nears

The historic New York Senate majority that Democrats thought they won in the November elections is still eluding the party.

A closed-door conference was planned for Tuesday night, when Senate Democratic leader Malcolm Smith would see if he could hold the 32-30 majority he thought he won Nov. 4. The power of the majority hinges on three Democrats who have threatened to side with Republicans if they didn't get their demands for lucrative leadership posts and greater attention to Hispanic causes and conservative issues.

The Senate will open its 2009 session Wednesday at noon.

Traditionally, a majority leader is chosen then, but for the first time in decades the outcome is unknown.

Democrats plan to vote for Smith, Republicans for GOP Sen. Dean Skelos of Long Island. 

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)