HOUSTON (AP) — Democrat Nick Lampson won the U.S. House seat long held by former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, trouncing a Republican write-in candidate in the state’s most closely watched congressional race.

With most precincts reporting, Lampson had about 53 percent of the vote, while Houston dermatologist Shelley Sekula-Gibbs held about 40 percent. Libertarian Bob Smither had about 6 percent.

Lampson’s victory marks the first time a Democrat had represented that district in more than 20 years. Many predicted Lampson would be a caretaker and the solid Republican district would replace him in two years.

As Democrats closed in on taking control of Congress for the first time since 1994, Lampson told supporters that the country was seeking a new direction.

“This country does indeed need and deserve and will get a new direction,” Lampson said. “To be able to go back and make that difference for our whole country, and addressing the issues that became important for us, that’s what you’ve asked me to do. That’s what we’ve done and that’s what’s brought us here tonight, ladies and gentlemen.”

Sekula-Gibbs had one small victory; she won a special election to finish the last two months of DeLay’s term. Her name appeared on the ballot in that race and Lampson didn’t participate.