closer than what some might think...

Loud cheers erupted in the banquet room when it was learned that Rob Simmons took both Groton and Ledyard - neither of which should have come as a surprise since both are heavily military towns where the Groton sub base is located.

But district wide reports are calling this a much closer race. With 9 percent of the total district vote tally in, Simmons holds a less than 100 vote lead over Courtney, 51-49.

In other races, Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell is coasting to easy win.

Incumbent U.S. Sen. Joseph Lieberman is holding a 7-point lead over Democratic nominee Ned Lamont.

U.S. Rep. Chris Shays is a bit of surprising early lead in his battle against Democrat Diane Farrell, 55-44...

While U.S. Rep. Nancy Johnson is trailing in her contest against Democratic challenger Chris Murphy. Murphy is leading 56-46.

Again...these are early results, and with the exception of the Rell/DeStefano race - none of these are yet at a point where anyone can call the outcome.

Speaking of outcomes, I need to put the blog on hold for a bit. I still have several stories to write for the newspaper this evening...and that first deadline is approaching in an hour. I shall return to the blog later this evening...in the meantime, I invite to stay with www.norwichbulletin.com where the latest information will be posted as soon as we get it.