Republicans renew grip in the Representatives

Republicans extended their decade-long hold on the House of Representatives for another two years, knocking off four veteran Texas Democrats along the way.

Among their few setbacks was the defeat of the longest-serving Republican member, Phil Crane.

By winning their 218th seat - with several more likely to come - Republicans were set to control the House for a dozen consecutive years, the first time they have achieved the feat since the Thirties.

Republicans also renewed their majority in the Senate, giving them reign over Congress, though narrow margins should allow Democrats to slow and even derail some initiatives.

Even so, Republican leaders were jubilant. "We are going to be the majority party in the 109th Congress. I've got 218 booked and there's a lot more around the country that has not been decided yet," said Thomas Reynolds, of the campaign operation.