Democrats Poised to Lead Senate for First Time in 40 Years ALBANY, NEW YORK (WXXI) - With less than 24 hours to go before the official start of the legislative session, Senate Democrats finally coalesced around Leader Malcolm Smith, and are poised to take over the Senate for the first time in over 40 years when the session convenes on Wednesday.

A down to the wire deal with three renegade Senators clinched Senator Malcolm Smith's ascension to the Majority Leader's post.

"This clearly is an historic day for all of us," said Smith, who predicted an "exciting period for the people of the state."

Smith says the first order of business is dealing with the state's $15 billion dollar budget deficit.

Democrats achieved the majority by giving key assignments to the so-called gang of three Senators. Senator Karl Kruger will be Finance Chair, Senator Ruben Diaz will Chair the Aging Committee, and Senator Pedro Espada will lead a new initiative on urban policy and be vice chair of the powerful Rules Committee.


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