WEST PALM BEACH (CBSMiami) – One of the most contentious and expensive Congressional campaigns went to the Democrats in the 22nd Congressional District that includes part of Broward and Palm Beach counties.

The district was redrawn in 2012 and became a battle between the Democrat Lois Frankel, a former mayor of West Palm Beach, and Adam Hasner, the Republican former Florida House majority leader.

“I’m proud to be your new Congresswoman,” Frankel announced to a roomful of enthusiastic supporters at the Democratic Party Victory celebration being held Tuesday night at the Embassy Suites in West Palm Beach.

Frankel said she received a gracious concession phone call from her challenger republican Adam Hasner.  The two had fought a contentious and costly race with nasty attack ads on both sides.

“He was a formidable and articulate opponent and we are fortunate to live in a country where differences are settled in the ballot box and not on the streets,” said Frankel.

Hasner a Republican,  had promised to reduce the national debt and work on reforming medicare, a message that did not resonate with the majority of voters.

At his campaign party in Delray Beach Tuesday night, Hasner’s mother said she was pleased with the campaign her son had conducted in Palm Beach and Broward County.

“I love my son.  I’m proud of the work he has done for the state of Florida,” said Judy Hasner.

Fresh off her victory, Frankel is looking to the work ahead. She says her first priority will be to work on solving the unemployment problem.

After that, Frankel says she will work on preserving Medicare and Social Security and having adequate funding for public education.

Even though she will have to work with a Republican controlled house Frankel says she’s willing to build bridges.  “I’m willing to work with anyone who will work with me, regardless of their party,” says Frankel.