Say hello to your newest congresswoman. As most expected, Judy Chu has claimed the vacant Los Angeles-area House seat in yesterday's special election, becoming the first Chinese American woman elected to Congress: Democrat claims US House seat in Calif.
With 80 of 209 precincts reporting Tuesday night, the former state Assembly member had 10,686 votes, or 60 percent. Republican opponent Betty Chu -- Judy's cousin by marriage! -- trailed with 5,974 votes, or 34 percent. These numbers will obviously be updated later, but Judy Chu is the winner.
Chu's victory makes her Southern California's only Asian American in Congress. The seat was left vacant after Rep. Hilda Solis was named U.S. Labor secretary to the Obama administration.
Most residents in the 32nd Congressional District are Hispanic (64% Hispanic, 20% Asian, % white and 2% black), but Judy Chu assembled a diverse coalition and stressed her ability to work across racial and ethnic lines. More here: Judy Chu trounces rivals in congressional race.