Among those who took the reports at face value, the reaction echoed the blunt assessment of one top Russian legislator.

But several top legislators said in interviews that their intent was clear: no more private televisions or other electronic equipment in prison.

At the end of his second session, he was noted as a "comer" and potential top legislator.

"Some top legislators have had to leave because they can't afford to stay, and good people are deterred from running because of the money."

So were half the Cabinet and most of the top legislators.

But in June, the state's top legislators refused to approve the project.

Officials said tonight that top legislators were considering amendments to the plan approved by both houses last week for redrawing legislative districts.

It was mostly worked out by top legislators without his cooperation.

In 2007, Business Weekly magazine named him one of the top legislators.

Even before the meeting, top legislators said they would not agree to giving the Mayor formal control.