Nowhere has the change of power in St. Paul been more evident than in the tunnel between the Capitol and the State Office Building across the street.
At the Capitol, the controlling party in the Senate gets offices in the iconic building while the minority party sets up shop in the more cramped, drab space across the street.
For the last week, state workers and contract movers have schlepped furniture, Sarah Palin pictures and fish mounts in the tunnels as they have moved more than 120 legislators and staffers back and forth between the two buildings.
Republicans, who won control of the Senate for the first time in 40 years, are unpacking boxes and hanging paintings in their stately, new offices – a tangible reward for their thumping win in the November election. Senate DFLers – those who won re-election – must get used to their smaller offices and long walks to the Capitol.
"It's long been a dream," said Senate Minority Leader David Senjem, R-Rochester. "It finally came true."
Senjem's new office is in the corner of the Capitol, with high ceilings, large windows and a quick exit.
DFLers were trying to make the most of their new work space and the long walks that come with it.
"At least I am getting my exercise," said state Sen. David Tomassoni, DFL-Chisholm.
