Victorious Kagen Pledges a "New Path in Iraq"

During his victory speech, political newcomer Steve Kagen pledged to join a Democratic majority in Congress that would help chart a "positive path to solve this crisis in Iraq."

"Tonight's election sends forth a message," Kagen said. "We don't want more rhetoric, or more political spin - like 'mission accomplished,' - although I'd like to use that phrase here."

Picking off a solidly Republican district in which George Bush won by 11 points just two years ago, Kagen assisted Democrats nationwide in their massive gains in Congress. With about 70 percent of the precincts reporting, Kagen defeated Republican Assembly Speaker John Gard by a 5-point margin, giving Dems a 5 to 3 edge in the state congressional balance.

He said ethical lapses and widespread corruption led to large Republicans loses. Throughout the campaign Kagen characterized Gard as a career politicial who would be a rubber stamp serving Republican bosses in Washington.

"We must find a better way to solve our problems here in America, because the professional politicians in Washington, their values are upside down," Kagen said.

He said he was anxious to go to work and try and solve some of these problems voters were concerned about. "I'll earn their trust and respect," he pledged.

The Appleton allergist touted his healthcare concerns as well, saying he'd work to find a way to guarantee access to affordable care for everyone in Northeast Wisconsin.

"I'm fiscally conservative and socially progressive - I'm exactly what this district needs right now," Kagen said.

-- By Tim Maylander and Alec Loftus