Fargo Sen. Tim Mathern intends to challenge incumbent Sen. David O'Connell, D-Lansford, for the job of minority leader when Democrats pick their legislative leaders next week.

"I'm talking with the Democratic senators about leadership, and about what issues they want to take forward," Mathern said Wednesday. "Sen. O'Connell is doing the same, and we'll let the caucus decide how they want to proceed."

O'Connell, who has been the Senate Democrats' floor leader for the last two legislative sessions, said he had expected Mathern would run against him. O'Connell represents District 6 in rural north-central North Dakota, which includes Bottineau and Renville counties and part of Ward County.

Mathern was the Senate Democratic leader during the 1997 and 1999 sessions. He stepped down shortly before the 1999 Legislature adjourned, and was replaced by Regent Sen. Aaron Krauter.

Mathern and O'Connell roomed together during the 2005 Legislature. "Regardless of how this goes, we're going to be friends and work together during this next legislative session," Mathern said.

Senate Democrats picked up six seats in the Nov. 7 elections, and are going into the 2007 Legislature with 21 seats, compared to 26 for majority Republicans. In the House, Republicans still hold a 61-33 edge, despite a Democratic gain of seven House seats.

Senate Democrats have eight new members, including two newly elected Fargo senators, Tom Fiebiger and Jim Pomeroy.

Senate and House Democrats are meeting separately on Sunday to elect their floor leaders. Rep. Merle Boucher, D-Rolette, is seeking another term as House Democratic leader, and has no announced challengers.

Newly elected lawmakers take office Friday. The Legislature's three-day organizational session begins Monday.