SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — With the election less than three weeks away, the first-of-its-kind central Washington U.S. House race between two Republicans remains a hard-fought intramural contest.

Dan Newhouse, from the establishment wing of the GOP, is battling tea party favorite Clint Didier to succeed retiring Republican U.S. Rep. Doc Hastings.

The House seat covers Yakima, the Tri-Cities and much of the central portion of the state.

This is the first time in state history that two members of the same party advanced to the general election for a House seat, which is a result of Washington's Top Two primary election system.

While external polling has been scarce, fundraising numbers show Newhouse with a decisive money advantage.

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