Environmental and industry groups clashed at the state Capitol on Tuesday in the first large-scale airing of the emerging policy issues that surround frac sand mining.

Of the 38 seats won by DFLers in reclaiming control of the Minnesota Senate on Nov. 6, no fewer than 14 will be filled by members who were not part of the caucus in 2011-12. But in several cases, the newcomers will hardly be strangers.

Democrats had an outstanding night on Tuesday. They won back control of the Minnesota House and Senate, picked up a congressional seat, and defeated two contentious amendments that most political observers expected to prevail.

When it comes to spending by Minnesota’s political parties, the state DFL has emerged as the No. 1 player in the 2012 battle for control of Legislature.

Matt Schmit has filed to run in Red Wing's Senate District 28. Jack Krage will run in Winona's Senate District 31.