MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - For the first time in two decades, U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson finds himself having to fight hard to keep his job and to avert a loss that could cost Minnesota one of Congress' most influential voices on farm matters.
Peterson is the ranking minority member and former chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. He has represented western Minnesota's 7th District for nearly 24 years and says it benefits from his clout.
Republicans saw an opportunity because it's one of nine held by Democrats that Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney carried two years ago.
His Republican challenger, state Sen. Torrey Westrom, says he'd be a strong voice for agriculture, too and discounts the value of Peterson's seniority.
Nearly $8.6 million in outside money from both sides has poured into the race.