51.   But recent polls have shown a close race there.

52.   But polls taken by both candidates show a race too close to call.

53.   But television analysts and pollsters were quick to point out that neither reaction was entirely appropriate with the race so close and the numbers mere projections.

54.   But the Democrats picked up only six seats in the House, with three close races in California and Oregon still being counted.

55.   But the dramatic turnaround rested on a half-dozen close races.

56.   But they failed to overtake Republican incumbents elsewhere in the state, including districts in eastern Long Island and Putnam County that were expected to have close races.

57.   But this will be a close race between Couch, Smith and Williams, one that seems destined to go to the final days.

58.   But with an extraordinary number of close races teetering on the edge, each party also has the possibility of control by a healthy margin.

59.   But, most predict a close race and a loss to right-wing opponent Ariel Sharon could scuttle any deal.

60.   By delivering that message, Gore is improving the odds of Democratic victories in the several states with close House races.