A look at Minnesota’s 7th congressional district

The 7th congressional district stretches some 400 miles from the Canadian border down the western side of Minnesota almost to Iowa.

Its 38 counties are conservative and rural.

"It is the fourth most productive U.S. House district for agriculture in the country," said political expert Steven Schier.

Rep. Collin Peterson has held the district for 30 years. A conservative Democrat, he’s a champion for farmers and has strong support from them.

"He is chair of the house agriculture committee, he is the main mover and shaper of farm legislation in the United States House of Representatives," Schier said.

But for the first time in a long time, Republicans feel they can take that seat with former Lt. Governor and 20-year state Senator Michelle Fischbach.

"I think her main appeal is that she is a Republican and a (President Donald) Trump supporter in a heavily Trump area, who argues that she will be a voice for agriculture as well," Schier said.

The two candidates have spent more than $3 million in the race, but that’s nothing compared to the big money that’s been pouring in from national groups.

"The big story here is outside money by special interest, $9 million has been spent so far, almost three times with the candidates have spent, and a lot of that is farm interest groups supporting Collin Peterson," Schier said.

Republicans have launched large get out the vote efforts hoping to capture more support.

"One thing we’ve noticed in the campaign so far this year is lower educated voters tend to be supporting Trump and republicans, and this is a less educated district," Schier added.

The Trump campaign has pulled back on the time and money spent in Minnesota, which Schier says could impact Fischbach, but it’s still anyone’s guess who will come out on top Nov. 3.

"If this race has a lopsided result, I think it might be for Fischbach; if it’s a close race, Collin Peterson may prevail," Schier said.