LEXINGTON, Ky (AP) — Republican Andy Barr has survived a fierce fight from Democratic challenger Amy McGrath in Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District.

LEX 18 is projecting that Barr has beaten back McGrath’s challenge in one of the most hotly contested races nationally.

McGrath, a retired Marine lieutenant colonel and pilot, put up strong numbers in Fayette County, while Barr’s strength showed in the outlying areas.

McGrath jumped into the spotlight over a year ago with a splashy campaign ad based on her past as Marine fighter pilot. This was her first run at political office.

Barr touted the strong economy as he worked to keep the seat he has held since 2013.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell released the following statement, “I’d like to join with all of his supporters in congratulating my good friend Congressman Andy Barr on his reelection. Andy is a strong voice for Kentucky in Washington, and I am glad he’ll be back in the U.S. House of Representatives.”

House Democratic Leader Rocky Adkins released the following statement, “While I wish we had a better overall outcome, I am proud of the hard-fought victories we had in many districts. I saw first-hand that our candidates and their supporters put everything they had into their campaigns, but we faced an uphill battle because of a nationalized climate and the unfortunate rise of dark money and negative attacks. As we look ahead, the House Democratic Caucus will continue advocating for policies that benefit all Kentuckians, not just a select few, and policies that strengthen public education and working families, rather than undermine them. Our commitment to making Kentucky a better place in which to live, learn and work will never waver.”

Follow the rest of the election coverage on LEX18.com.