With 18 percent of precincts reporting, the Associated Press has declared Democratic Congressman Mike Capuano the winner of the reconfigured Seventh Congressional District.

Capuano, who is currently serving his seventh term representing the Eighth Congressional District, defeated Independent Karla Romero.

"I am honored by the support that voters have shown in sending me back to Congress," Capuano said. "Our country is facing great challenges and I will continue fighting to make sure that the voices of my constituents are heard."

Prior to his seven terms in congress, the Somerville native served as the mayor of his hometown.

Capuano is currently on the House Transportation Committee and Financial Services Committee.

Romero, his challenger, is the founding President and CEO of Mass Appeal International and a former Miss Boston in the Miss USA Pageant.

For more information on U.S. Rep. Mike Capuano, visit www.mikecapuano.com.