The results of today's primary for Marty Meehan's vacant seat in the 5th Congressional district have been announced. Niki Tsongas has beat out the Democrats in a crowded field, while Jim Ogonowski, who has been surprising constituents with telephone calls, won for the Republicans.

The race between Niki Tsongas, widow of Paul Tsongas, and Eileen Donoghue, Lowell city councilor and former mayor of Lowell, was tight, as expected. According to the latest numbers, Tsongas edged out Donoghue with 36 percent of the vote, compared to Donoghue's 32 percent.

Turnout was predictably low given the post-Labor Day scheduling. One poll-worker understated the case: "Well, we have not been over-loaded."

The general election for the seat will be on October 16.

Images of Niki Tsongas and Jim Ogonowski from their respective websites.