Supporters of Attorney General Martha Coakley are hailing her victory in the Democratic primary as a historic step for women.

Andrea Kramer of Cambridge was one of hundreds celebrating Tuesday after Coakley's decisive victory over her Democratic rivals.

"I am so elated. I didn't let myself believe all week that this was gonna happen. And I can't believe it's true," Kramer said.

"Martha is an outstanding candidate. She's gonna make an outstanding senator — and we've made history to boot."

Susanna Chase said she was especially moved to see Coakley join hands on stage with state Senate President Therese Murray and the state's first female U.S. representative, Niki Tsongas.

"It's time. And to see her up there with Therese Murray and Nicki — it was just great to see all the women finally making it in Massachusetts," Chase said. "She's gonna be an important voice in Washington for health care, for the people."

Coakley now faces Republican state Sen. Scott Brown in the general election next month.