Democrat Lauren Underwood gathered supporters at the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles.
She delivered her victory speech as final tallies came in for the Chicago suburbs. Underwood successfully unseated Republican incumbent Randy Hultgren, to represent the 14th congressional district.
"I aspire to be a bold representative for this community," Underwood said. "Someone who is wholly responsive and accountable to her constituents-- unbought and unbossed."
The district includes portions of Kane, McHenry, Lake and Will. Underwood’s main campaign focuses were health care and middle class family support.
Plainfield resident Judy Bigsby attended Underwood’s watch party.
"The current representative for the 14th district did nothing for me as an individual--as a woman," Bigsby said.
Bigsby said Underwood easily had her vote, in part because of her commitment to reform health care.
"I'm of the age where I rely on affordable health care, being retired, and this woman's gonna make it happen."
Underwood is not only the first woman to represent the district, but also the first African American.
Meanwhile, supporters of Republican Randy Hultgren gathered at Kennedy Pointe Restaurant and Bar just east of Yorkville in unincorporated Bristol to watch the results of the election. When the numbers came in, the four-term incumbent had lost the seat in the 14th Congressional district which covers seven counties west of Chicago.
In what he conceded was a difficult speech to give, Hultgren gave thanks to God, to his family, and for the opportunity to represent the people of the district.
"It has been the greatest honor of my life," Hultgren said. "We have accomplished so much, and I feel so honored to be given this privilege, a privilege I never expected to have."
Hultgren said he would do everything he could to ensure a smooth transition, in service to the needs of the district.