Byrd, of West Virginia, presided over the chamber as the new Senate president pro tempore, replacing Strom Thurmond, R-South Carolina.

CNN: In the Senate, it's the day of the Democrats

Daschle, in turn, moved to appoint Byrd the new Senate president pro tempore, replacing 98-year-old Strom Thurmond of South Carolina.

CNN: Democrats settle into power in the Senate

They were joined yesterday morning by North Carolina, where the Senate President Pro Tempore, Phil Berger, confirmed the legislature and the Governor, Pat McCrory, would pursue serious tax reform this session.

FORBES: Why All U.S. States Should Eliminate The Income Tax

McCrory, House Speaker Thom Tillis and Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger apparently intend to be the new George Wallaces, adopting the same Southern Strategy of blocking the vote and dividing our state further into haves and have-nots.

CNN: North Carolina lawmakers shame state