From early statehood until after the 2000 census, the district covered only southeastern Minnesota. During the 20th century, it was generally considered solidly Republican, but it became more of a swing district in the late 20th to early 21st century. In 2004, John Kerry received 47% of the vote in the district.
For many years, the region covered by the district was confined to southeastern Minnesota. Throughout the 20th century, it tended to favor Republican candidates, but it began to shift towards being a more competitive area in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. In 2004, John Kerry secured 47% of the vote in the region.