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By Eagle Tribune Staff
NORTH ANDOVER — Democratic political newcomer Tram Nguyen unseated incumbent Republican state Rep. Jim Lyons Tuesday, turning one of Massachusetts’ rare red districts blue.
Lyons, of Andover, called Nguyen to concede shortly after 9 p.m.
“It’s phenomenal seeing all the hard work that we put in, and people are ready for someone to make their voices heard and that’s what I’m planning to do,” said Nguyen, an Andover lawyer.
Lyons ousted state Sen. Barbara L’Italien from the seat in 2010, and has held the 18th Essex District ever since. The district covers portions of Andover, North Andover, Tewksbury and Boxford.