GOP Gets Minn. Focus Now, Uphill Fall Fight Awaits

ST. PAUL, MN - Minnesota Republicans are basking in the attention of the political world, with caucuses Tuesday night that matter for a change.

The nomination fight is usually wrapped up well before Minnesota gets its turn, or else the state is lumped in with much bigger prizes.

This year, all four GOP presidential hopefuls have dropped by in the final week. Mitt Romney is hoping for a repeat of his 2008 victory, but the traditionally small turnout could give an opening
to Rick Santorum or Ron Paul.

Republican caucus attendees tend toward the conservative, especially those most concerned with social issues. Tea party members could play a role in the outcome.

The caucuses start at 8 p.m. EST and nearly complete results are typically known within a few hours.