For former DFL Sen. Jim Carlson, it was a matter of a little reflection and time to “lick my wounds” before he knew he was ready to run again for the state Senate. Carlson, who served one term in the chamber, was ousted last fall by Republican newcomer Ted Daley as part of a massive GOP wave that saw the party take control of both the House and Senate for the first time in nearly four decades.

For five months DFL Gov. Mark Dayton and the GOP-controlled Legislature sparred at the Capitol over how to eliminate the state’s $5 billion budget deficit. But with the legislative session concluded and no end to the budget impasse in sight, the debate will now move beyond St. Paul as legislators face constituents in their home districts.

Rep. Dean Urdahl wants to spend $550,000 in dedicated proceeds from the 2008 Legacy sales tax amendment to create a State Capitol Preservation Commission. The 16-member panel would be charged with selecting an architectural firm to draw up plans for a comprehensive, multiyear renovation of the century-old building.

DFL incumbent Rep. David Bly has officially lost in a recount by 37 votes to his Republican challenger in one of the most politically unpredictable legislative districts in the state.