Democrats Try To Hang On To 2 Close U.S. House Races

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Tuesday's election could dramatically change the complexion of the state's congressional delegation.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan tried to hang on to his northeastern Minnesota district in an expensive race against political newcomer Stewart Mills.

And after nearly two decades of easy re-elections in his conservative northwestern Minnesota district, Rep. Collin Peterson faced a stiff challenge from Republican state Sen. Torrey Westrom.

Millions of dollars of outside spending has flowed in as these two House races are among the more competitive ones nationally.

Minnesota's only vacant seat was in care of retiring Rep. Michele Bachmann. Republican Tom Emmer is heavily favored for that central Minnesota district spot.