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Posted at: 06/30/2009 10:35 AM Senators argue over validity of session
ALBANY- On Tuesday night, both sides talked about a session held by the Senate Democrats. "Obviously, the question that has been raised by many thus far today is: was the session valid? The answer to that question is yes," said Democratic Senator Malcolm Smith. "In my opinion, that is probably the most fraudulent, obnoxious, arrogant display of partisanship," said Republican Senator Dean Skelos. Democrats said they noticed Republican Senator Frank Padavan in the Chamber, and marked him as present. They claim they then had a quorum, and began passing legislation. Senator Padavan said he was only on his way to the Senate lounge to grab a soda. "I was not in the chamber when they gaveled in. I was in the lounge," Padavan said. "I will take his word for that. Therefore I will not sign any legislation passed in the regular session today," said Governor David Paterson. But Democrats said Padavan has been doing this long enough to know the rules. "We have a coalition! 31 democrats and one republican Frank Padavan. The gridlock has been vacated," said Democratic Senator John Sampson. But Republicans called it a charade of a session, and said they have to have a longterm leadership plan in place, as critical issues will continue to come up. "So do we want to go through this again? Or do we want to have a total operating agreement so that we don't have to do it again," Skelos said. Republicans invited Democrats to an open meeting to negotiate leadership Wednesday morning at 10 AM. The Governor will convene another Special Session at 3 PM.
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