The state Senate is heading into unfamiliar territory as it will not have a party majority for the first time in 100 years. 

Republicans and Democrats each hold 18 seats in the Senate.

State officials say because of the 18-18 split, there is now more pressure than ever for them to work together and make progress.

They say it echoes the feelings of many residents throughout the state who yearn for bipartisan leadership.

State Sen. Tony Hwang told News 12 he was not surprised by Republicans gaining three seats.

"The idea that we now have an unusual circumstance of an 18-18 state Senate tie is a clear message that majorities don't work, that we have to work together," says Sen. Hwang.

State Senate Majority leader Bob Duff says Republicans must step up and come up with solutions.

"Republicans have that seat on the table as they have requested, which by the way we've given them many times. But now, they really do have to produce. They can no longer stay on the sidelines and throw stones. They have to be part of the solution," says Sen. Duff.

Officials say the pressure does increase for Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman, who is a Democrat, and is capable of breaking a tie in the Senate.

Still, Gov. Dannel Malloy and Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney say Democrats are committed to working with Republicans to come up with bipartisan solutions.