In 2001 his change of political affiliation tipped the balance of power in the Senate
[DOC] [TLE] Yale Bulletin and Calendar - Archives [PAR] November 16, 2001 Volume 30, Number 11 Two-Week Issue ... His break with 
the party he had been affiliated with his entire political life, ... Jeffords' 
commitment to public education was also a major factor in his decision to switch 
party affiliations, ... even split in the Senate -- the first since the 1880s-- to change 
the balance.