Longtime Democratic Rep. Ike Skelton has congratulated Republican challenger Vicky Hartzler, saying she appears to be the winner in their Missouri congressional race.
Hartzler was ahead of Skelton 50 percent to 46 percent, with about 85 percent of precincts reporting results Tuesday. The Associated Press declared Hartzler the winner, based on results counted so far.
Skelton is a 34-year incumbent who is chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. He has been one of the top targets nationally for Republicans as they seek to win control of the House.
Hartzler has linked Skelton to President Barack Obama and Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi while suggesting he has lost touch with the conservative views of his constituents.
Skelton campaigned for re-election by emphasizing his commitment to military troops and veterans.