Democrats are extending their gain of 26 House of Representatives seats over Republicans, giving them control of the 110th Congress.

Democrats only needed to pick up 15 seats to take control of the House from the Republicans and Speaker Dennis Hastert.

At present, Democrats are projected to take 198 seats, compared to 159 for Republicans. Still, 90 seats are outstanding.

The open district formerly governed by Tom Delay, Texas 22, is projected to change into Democratic hands as Nick Lampson defeated Republican Sekula Gibbs 54 to 40 percent.

Anne Northup lost to Democratic challenger John Yarmuth in Kentucky's 3rd Congressional District, which includes Louisville.

Former NFL player and UT Volunteer Heath Shuler, D-N.C., is likely to unseat Rep. Charles Taylor.

Democratic challenger Brad Ellsworth expected to beat incumbent John Hostettler, R-Ind.

The Republicans also are projected to lose another seat in Indiana, in the 8th District, where Brad Ellsworth defeated Republican Rep. John Hostettler.

Democratic challenger Paul Hodes is projected to defeat incumbent Rep. Charles Bass, a six-term Republican representing New Hampshire's 2nd Congressional District.

Yarmuth garnered 51 percent of the vote, compared to Northup's 48 percent with 98 percent of precincts reporting.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., current House minority leader, is poised to become the first female speaker.