Cook Political Report tilts 18 House races toward Democrats

House races in Iowa, Pennsylvania, Washington, Michigan and more are shifting in Democrats' direction, according to a Friday update from the closely watched Cook Political Report.Why it matters: The GOP's midterm outlook was already bleak, anchored by an unpopular war and high fuel prices. But staving off a blue resurgence, despite heavy spending, is looking increasingly complicated as Election Day approaches.Driving the news: Cook's new moves put the likely midterm outcome at Democrats picking up nine to 19 seats, a range of 224 to 234. The shifts include:Five seats — in Iowa, Pennsylvania an