SANTA ANA - Representative Mr Robert Dornan, a fierce anti gay, ultra conservative nicknamed "B-I Bob" because of his advocacy of military power, appeared to have lost his House seat, according to unofficial returns in the tight race.
Mr Dornan, a Republican who made an unsuccessful bid for the presidency earlier this year, trailed Democrat Ms Loretta Sanchez by 765 votes in votes counted on Wednesday.
Mr Dornan has not conceded, however, claiming massive voter fraud. His loss in traditionally Republican Orange County would be a major blow to conservatives and his party.