TRENTON – Sniffing the air for something approximating hope, reporters caught sight of Kevin Drennan, executive director of the Senate Democrats, emerge from the bowels of 225 West State Street, an address that will live in inanity.

But alas, if indeed he wore a white suit, there was no sign of white smoke.

Drennan went to the sport utility vehicle parked at the curb, withdrew what looked like a backpack, then made again for the door.

Queried, the Team Sweeney lieutenant just smiled, bantered harmlessly, and disappeared inside.

It was the waiting.