Senate Dems Could Overthrow Smith For Klein Soon

The U.S. Senate still has some kinks to work out, with three Senators still undetermined in Minnesota, Illinois and here in New York. Up in Albany however, the status of the State Senate makes the federal version look like a solid rock. There have been rumors of Smith not being able to hold on to power with the Democrats winning the Senate, even before Foley and Addabbo won their races. Now, after a month of chaos due to Espada, Kruger and Diaz's actions and the irritation of the rest of the caucus for Smith making a ridiculous deal with the Gang of Three, things aren't looking good for the current Minority Leader.

From The NY Daily News:

ALBANY - State Senate Democrats plan to meet privately Friday amid talk of a possible coup attempt against leader Malcolm Smith.

Sources said Bronx Sen. Jeff Klein, Smith's deputy, has been working the phone in hopes of winning support to become Senate majority leader next month.

There again, Jeff Klein's name comes up. It had been on the minds of politicos wondering who would take the reins from Smith's hands and it seems Klein is set on making it a reality. Some Senators are trying to make it look as if their meeting is not about a coup, but Savino's non-answer concerning Smith's future speaks volumes.

Sen. Diane Savino, a Staten Island Democrat close to Klein, denied there was a coup attempt, saying, "Don't mistake members consulting with each about their frustration with head counting."

When asked if Smith would remain leader, she said only, "Malcolm Smith is the leader right now."

Right now as in 10:15 in the morning. That could change by 10:15 at night.