GOPer wins as expected in suburban New Orleans House race

Republicans have retained at least one House seat in two special elections being held in Louisiana.

State Sen. Steve Scalise beat Democrat Gilda Reed 71 percent to 27 percent with 35 percent of precincts reporting.

Scalise takes over the 1st Congressional District in suburban New Orleans. It was formerly held by fellow Republican Bobby Jindal. He resigned in January before being sworn in as governor.

In the other race, Republican Woody Jenkins held an early lead over Democratic state Rep. Don Cazayoux in a contest to represent the 6th District.

Jenkins had 49 percent to Cazayoux's 46 percent with nearly 60 percent of precincts reporting.