Updated 07/05/2009 04:33 PM
Special Session Caps Holiday Weekend In Albany
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State senators are set to gather for another special session in Albany Sunday evening with little movement toward solving their leadership dispute.
Lawmakers gaveled in for a special session Saturday, even on the holiday, under Governor David Paterson's orders. Minutes later, they gaveled out after saying the pledge of allegiance.
Lawmakers on both sides say they are hopeful about moving beyond the impasse that's nearly a month old.
Over the past week, leaders have met privately with Paterson, who is trying to mediate the power dispute.
"We're gonna try to get those who are feuding to remember that on Independence Day a lot of people put down their differences and built a great country and if they can put down their differences and get back to work," said Paterson. "Because if they don't, as far as I'm concerned, they're gonna be in a lot of trouble."
The State Senate has been locked in its leadership battle since June 8th, when Democrats Pedro Espada Jr. and Hiram Monserrate voted with Republicans to give the GOP a two-vote majority.
Monserrate has since gone back to the Democrats, creating a 31-31 stalemate in the Senate.