Jeffrey Butland

MINNEAPOLIS -- If the Republicans manage to take the state Senate this year, then with a Democratic governor and a Democratic House the state will be forced to change the way it does business, said Republican National Committeeman Richard Bennett.

Bennett was the last Republican to serve as Senate President. In 2001 and 2002, the body stood with 17 Democrats, 17 Republicans and one independent. State officials formed a power-sharing agreement, with each party taking one year in power. Bennett was president in 2002. Independent Angus King was governor.