CQ Politics: Bachmann, Paulsen face competitive contests in 2010

Only two of Minnesota’s House contests are likely to be competitive in 2010, according to the latest analysis from CQ Politics. Republican Reps. Michele Bachmann and Erik Paulsen potentially face the most challenging races in this election cycle.

Bachmann represents the most conservative district in the state, but remains at risk owing to her flamboyant personality and controversial media appearances. She won a second term last year by just three percentage points and is likely to face at least three challengers for her post in 2010. CQ Politics lists the races as leaning Republican and states that the CD6 fight is likely to be one of the nation’s most expensive in 2010, with “plenty of out-of-state money flowing into the district” on both sides.

Paulsen represents a swing district, but won his first term by a surprisingly comfortable eight-point margin in 2008. No challengers have yet emerged for 2010. CQ Politics also rates this contest as favoring the Republican incumbent.

Only two other Minnesota representatives are viewed as marginally at risk in 2010: Democratic Rep. Tim Walz and Republican Rep. John Kline. CQ Politics lists both contests as favoring the incumbent party. Minnesota’s other four congressional districts are deemed safely in the hands of the Democrats.