WASHINGTON, July 19 (UPI) -- Republicans will retain control of the House of Representatives, despite U.S. President George Bush's low approval ratings, a congressional GOP leader says.
U.S. Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds, R-N.Y., chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, tells The Hill newspaper he will "have a few sleepless nights," but expects the party to stay in control, adding to its six consecutive terms in power.
He estimates the House will have 36 tight races this year and does not say the GOP will gain seats in November.
On the other side of the aisle, the Democrats see the number of tight House races at "more than 40," a Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee spokesman tells The Hill.
Reynolds' committee is devoted to increasing the 231-member Republican caucus in the House.
