In what might very well be the biggest upset in the history of the 116th Legislative District, if not the state, Republican political newcomer Tarah Toohil has won the seat held for seven consecutive terms by Majority House Leader Todd Eachus.

Just after 9 p.m., Eachus, 48, delivered a concession speech to a somber and silent crowd at Lobitz’s Catering Hall in Hazle Township.

Toohil’s supporters went wild with cheering and applause about 10 minutes before that at the Hazleton Elks Lodge when Channel 13 news commentators projected her the winner.

“The numbers just came in and we’re elated,” Toohil said. “We’re just trying to soak in the fact that we’ve had a victory here. It’s going to be a good thing for this area. The people of this area have spoken and we’re going to move in a new direction.”