LOWELL, Mass. -- Lowell Democrat Niki Tsongas edged out Republican Jim Ogonowski in the special election to replace Democrat Martin Meehan in the U.S. House.

NewsCenter 5's Todd Kazakiewich reported that Tsongas, the widow of 1992 presidential candidate Paul Tsongas, won 51 percent, or 54,363 votes, compared to 45 percent or 47,770 votes for Ogonowski, of Dracut.

"I'd like to thank all the residents of the 29 cities and towns and most particularly this great city of Lowell -- my hometown," Tsongas said.

The Tsongas political legacy lives on, as the Democrat was elected to fill the seat that was once held by her late husband, who went on to serve in the Senate. During the campaign, Tsongas emphasized the need to set a date for pulling out of Iraq. It was an issue that resonated with voters.

"I felt the issues were important with her. Mostly, it was about bringing the troops home and having a deadline for that," voter Christine Lazrack said.

Ogonowski, whose brother was killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, thanked supporters for their help during his campaign.

"For someone who just got into politics for the first time, I think we gave it a hell of an effort. We worked 18 hours a day from the day we announced on April 24 until today. I have to tell you, the support I received and the encouragement of the people throughout the district was overwhelming," he said.

Also on the ballot were Independent candidates Kurt Hayes, of Boxborough, and Patrick Murphy, of Lowell, as well as Constitution Party candidate Kevin Thompson, of Brockton.

Tsongas could be sworn in as early as Thursday.