Headed into Tuesday’s election, the GOP targeted one incumbent Democratic Senator whose seat appeared vulnerable for an upset, but Louisiana Sen. Mary Landrieu has prevailed over GOP challenger John Kennedy.

Landrieu, who won by narrow margins in 1996 and 2002, survived another tight race in the Bayou State — even with the diminished Democratic base in the New Orleans area caused by Hurricane Katrina’s diaspora.

“Thank you Louisiana for a great victory tonight!” Landrieu told a raucous crowd in New Orleans, according to WDSU-TV.

Kennedy, who has now lost twice in Senate races, will return to the state Capitol to continue his third term as treasurer, the Times-Picayune of New Orleans reported.

During the campaign, Landrieu hammered Kennedy for changing parties to become a Republican and labeled him “one confused politician,” the paper reported. She touted her experience as centrist who can build bridges and work with Democrats and Republicans to get things done for Louisiana — including more hurricane-recovery money.