July 9, 2009

Albany --- A central figure in the power grab has rejoined the Democratic Conference.
     Senator Pedro Espada flips his support, again, and now Democrats have retaken the majority.
     The deal makes Espada Senate Majority Leader.
     The state Senator from the Bronx came back to his party after helping lead the Republican-dominated coup that shut down New York's Senate for more than a month.
     The surprising move comes the day after Governor Paterson appointed Richard Ravitch Lieutenant Governor.
     Republicans went to court to temporarily suspend that appointment.
     Democrats have re-gained their 32-30 majority, and say they can now get back to the work of the people.
     That includes passing dozens of crucial bills that are costing local municipalities more money each day they spend in limbo.