HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Voters in northwest Connecticut are sending U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty back to the House for a third term.

The Democrat on Tuesday defeated three-term Sherman First Selectman Clay Cope, a Republican.

Gun control was an issue that often divided the candidates in the 5th Congressional District, which includes Newtown. While Esty has pushed for background checks and other gun control measures, Cope has been skeptical about the need for additional laws.

Esty, who lives in Cheshire, said Cope is "woefully ill-informed" about gun violence and the victims who have died since the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Esty raised far more money for her campaign than her opponent. As of Oct. 19, she had $1 million cash on hand compared to Cope's $23,546.