GOP meeting in Moorhead to pick Peterson challenger

Seventh Congressional District Republicans gather in Moorhead this weekend to choose a candidate to challenge Democrat incumbent Congressman Collin Peterson. Peterson has held the seat since 1990.

Seventh District party chairman Craig Bishop says four Republican candidates are seeking endorsement to run for congress. He says it's the most interest the race has generated in a decade.

"Overall it's the direction of the federal government. It's way too invasive, way too over-reaching into our lives. I think there's a concern out there that we're turning away from our founders principles and going in a totally new direction," Bishop said.

Bishop said Republicans believe Peterson should be held accountable for supporting liberal leaders like House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Peterson said he voted for Pelosi, but he often votes against his own party. He says his constituents favor independence more than party loyalty.

"They don't like people that just go along the party line, on either side. and we have polling that shows i'm more popular than ever. So we'll see what happens," Peterson said.

A former Minnesota State Senator, Gene Waldorf, says he's running as an independent in the 7th district.