US Congress convenes; Parties will share power
By LAURIE KELLMAN, Associated Press
Jan 5, 2011 11:21 AM CST

The U.S. Congress has been called to order, launching a new era of divided government as Republicans take over the House and share power with Democrats and President Barack Obama.

Just after noon Wednesday, the clerk called the House to order as the Senate was convening. House lawmakers were poised to elevate Republican Rep. John Boehner to leader and Democratic Rep. Nancy Pelosi was ready to hand him the gavel.