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Measuring the Odd Couples of the Senate

What happens when a state sends one Democrat and one Republican to the chamber?

Pennsylvania Sens. Patrick J. Toomey, left, a Republican, and Bob Casey, a Democrat,are the second most likely pair of same-state senators to cancel out each others votes. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call File Photo)
Pennsylvania Sens. Patrick J. Toomey, left, a Republican, and Bob Casey, a Democrat,are the second most likely pair of same-state senators to cancel out each others votes. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call File Photo)

Several states have, by virtue of electing senators of opposite parties, virtually nullified their power in the Senate.

 

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Photos of the week | July 24-30, 2026