Turmoil in Albany Continues

An appeals judge is issuing a temporary restraining order in connection with the battle for the control of the New York Senate, but GOP leaders are calling the ruling a "victory."

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That leaves an ongoing leadership crisis in the New York Senate. Thursday was a day of legal maneuvering and confusion in the Capitol.

Republicans and two dissident Democrats briefly reopened the chamber, but their Democratic opponents locked up bills and withheld the stenographer. The insurgents quickly adjourned after one of the dissident Democrats said he wouldn't vote for any bill.

Meanwhile, a state Supreme Court justice refused to restore Democrats to power. Democrats appealed and won a favorable temporary restraining order. No Senate session is scheduled for Friday, but two more court hearings are.

Republican leader Dean Skelos issued a statement saying the appeals judge's ruling allows the GOP to continue working.

"The only ramifications of the court ruling today relates to restraining Temporary Senate President Espada from performing the duties of Governor should the Governor leave the state tonight, an issue that will be heard in court tomorrow," the statement read.

The coalition seized control of the Senate on Monday in surprise legislation, leaving shocked Democrats to walk out in protest.