Posted: Tuesday, November 6, 2012 --- 8:47p.m.

BROOKFIELD, Wis. (AP) -- Wisconsin's longest-serving congressman has been elected to his 18th consecutive term.

Republican James Sensenbrenner cruised to victory Tuesday over a token challenge by Democrat Dave Heaster in southeastern Wisconsin's 5th District. The reliably Republican district includes parts of Jefferson, Milwaukee and Ozaukee counties.

The 69-year-old was first elected in 1978. One of the wealthiest members of Congress, he's known for being tight-fisted with spending. During one campaign, his wife was quoted as affectionately calling him "the cheapest man I know."

Sensenbrenner made headlines last year for reportedly saying first lady Michelle Obama had a "big butt." He later sent her a personal note of apology.

Heaster, an information-technology worker for Kohler Co., didn't mount much of a campaign or try to raise funds.

Copyright 2012. The Associated Press.