In early results, Dayton was leading Republican Tom Emmer and Independence Party candidate Tom Horner.

At about 10 p.m., news media declared incumbent Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann the winner over labor-endorsed Tarryl Clark in the 6th District, disappointing many unions that had backed Clark in the race.

Bachmann will be part of a new Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives that is expected to challenge the policies of Democratic President Barack Obama.

In another key U.S. House race in Minnesota, 8th District Congressman Jim Oberstar – long endorsed by labor – was facing a surprisingly strong challenge from Republican Chip Cravaack.

Unions were optimistic about retaining DFL majorities in the House and Senate of the Minnesota Legislature.

For updates on election results, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State\'s website.