Democrats to take control of state Senate

Lehman sworn in Monday following recall election

Democrats are scheduled to take control of the Wisconsin state Senate on Tuesday.

John Lehman of Racine was sworn in Monday following his victory in a June recall over Republican incumbent Van Wanggaard. That gives Democrats a 17-16 majority through the end of this year.

But the November elections will determine which party will have control starting in 2013. With new legislative districts favoring Republicans going into effect, it will be difficult for Democrats to maintain control of the chamber into next year.

MADISON, Wis. — Democrats on Tuesday plan to elect Democratic Sen. Fred Risser of Madison as Senate president and Sen. Tim Carpenter of Milwaukee as president pro tempore. Beyond that, little of substance is expected to occur.