Democrat Adam Hinds won a three-way primary Thursday for the Massachusetts state Senate seat that covers parts of the four western-most counties. He defeated Andrea Harrington and Rinaldo Del Gallo with more than 50 percent of the vote to move on to the November general election. And all you had to do was follow the money to find the winner.

Hinds raised almost $75,000, about four times as much as second place finisher Andrea Harrington, in the latest campaign finance reports. Hinds received contributions from more than 350 different donors. He said that was a great sign for his campaign.

“We’re proud of the fact that we have one of the largest numbers of individual contributions to a state Senate race and candidacy in this district, ever,” Hinds said. “To me, we’re very happy that it shows we put together a broad coalition with wide grassroots appeal.”

The three candidates agreed on many issues: an increased minimum wage, more green energy in Massachusetts and a higher tax for the wealthy. Harrington, a political newcomer, said she’s focused on party unity.

“I’m all in on helping make sure that a Democrat is elected in November,” Harrington said. “I’ve certainly let Adam know that and I’m proud of what we did and I’m really impressed by what he’s accomplished. He’ll be a great state senator.”

And Rinaldo Del Gallo, who came in third and raised just $500, says he too will back Hinds. He said he knew he was up against it going into the election, but decided to stick it out.

“One of the most difficult things to do is to have the political courage to stay in a race where you know you can’t win,” Del Gallo said. “I think I had a good effect on the race. I think I pushed everybody to the left.”

So the stage is set for the general election and Adam Hinds’ new opponent is Republican Christine Canning of Lanesborough. She says not having a contested GOP primary put her at a disadvantage since she hasn’t been able to spread her message. With Berkshire County’s strong Democratic roots, she says it’s like running against a machine. Canning said she agrees with her opponent on many issues, but called into question his campaign spending.

“When I look and see him spend $55,000 on a primary in Berkshire County…I think it sends a message, especially when we’re the poorest county,” Canning said.

The winner in November will replace Democrat Ben Downing, who is stepping down after a decade in office.