State Senate leaders say the lack of a clear majority by either party will protect Missourians against radical new laws this year. Special elections later this month could determine whether one of the parties will achieve a majority in the senate. Deadlock is possible, but senate leaders prefer to think positively. Two presidents pro-tem have been elected. Democrat pro tem Ed Quick of Liberty says there has to be cooperation. Republican Peter Kinder of Cape Girardeau says the system means any new laws this year will have to the product of bipartisanship
