Hartford — U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut is returning to Washington for a second six-year term.

The Democrat on Tuesday easily fended off a challenge from Republican Dan Carter, a state representative from Bethel.

This year’s race did not receive nearly as much attention as the 2010 contest, when Blumenthal faced wealthy former professional wrestling executive Linda McMahon. She spent about $50 million of her own money, deluging voters with television ads and mailers.

Carter has had few resources to wage such a battle. As of Sept. 30, he had $35,014 in cash on hand. Blumenthal had $4.7 million.

Blumenthal and Carter faced off in only one debate. While agreeing on some issues, including abortion rights, they differed on how best to address gun violence.