Republican Charles Djou said his victory in urban Honolulu's 1st Congressional District sends a message that voters will not stand for a government that overburdens them with taxes and spending.

Djou won 39.4 percent of the vote with two Democrats splitting 58.4 percent.

Djou said, "This is a momentous day."

"We have sent a message to the U.S. Congress, to the ex-governors, to the national Democrats, to the machine. We will not stand idly by as our great nation is overburdened by too much tax" and spending.

"We have sent a message that this congressional seat is not owned by any party," Djou said, noting that he is the first Republican to win the seat in 20 years.

Djou spoke at his headquarters. He was joined at the podium by Republican Gov. Linda Lingle and former U.S. Rep. Pat Saiki, who was the last Republican to represent Hawai'i in Congress. She left office in 1991.

Djou said the seat that for "20 year was held by one party is about to change hands."

Despite the victory, Djou faces an uphill battle in November when he will run against only one Democrat, following a Democratic primary.

"The voters gave us a short-term lease with an option to buy in November," Djou said.