Delaware Sen. Thomas R. Carper comfortably won his Democratic primary Tuesday night, fending off a challenge from his left that had drawn some national attention in recent days. 

With 72 percent of precincts reporting, Carper led Air Force veteran and community activist Kerri Evelyn Harris 64 percent to 36 percent when The Associated Press called the race. 

Harris had picked up support from progressive forces, especially in the wake of two upsets of incumbent congressmen in Democratic primaries in New York in June and in Massachusetts earlier this week. 

Carper is well-known in the state, having served in the House and as governor before being elected to the Senate in 2000. He had a sizable cash advantage, ending the pre-primary reporting period with $1 million to Harris’ $51,000. 

Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rates the general election Solid Democratic. 

From the Archives: Carper Flies Drone, Rides a Quadski at August Recess Lab Visit