Democratic lawmakers picked Denver Rep. Mark Ferrandino on Thursday to lead the House, which they re-took in this week's election. His election won't be official until lawmakers reconvene next session and Republicans ratify the pick.

Democrats kept control of the Senate. They chose Sen. John Morse of El Paso County to be the new president. Morse was Democratic Leader under the last president, who is retiring because of term limits.

Democrats hope to pass civil unions legislation next year to grant same-sex couples rights similar to marriage. In-state tuition for illegal immigrants could also be on the legislative menu with Democrats firmly in charge.

The session begins in January.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)