The race drew heightened attention as it marked the first election since lawmakers redrew the state's congressional maps last October, adding Greene, Lenoir, Wayne, and Wilson counties to the district.
Smith, a former educator and combat veteran who previously represented Wayne and Sampson counties in the state legislature, capitalized on his high name recognition and deep community ties.
"Unfortunately, my opponent does not live in the district. She is not from the district and has nothing in common with the district. So being a native son of this district, knowing this district, having served this district, I feel is very important that the right candidate go forward - and the right candidate should be someone who has familiarity with the district," Smith said after polls closed.
With Wayne County now part of District 3, Smith is seen to have an advantage going into the general election, where he will face Republican incumbent Greg Murphy. Murphy, who has represented the district for seven years and is a supporter of President Donald Trump, has campaigned on reducing the cost of living and improving community safety.
The November matchup between Smith and Murphy is expected to be closely watched, as both candidates tout strong records of public service and deep connections to the region.
The Democratic National Committee applauded Smith's win.
"The DNC congratulates Raymond Smith, a fighter and a combat veteran who will never stop working to put North Carolinians first," said DNC Chair Ken Martin. "Smith ran a primary campaign speaking directly to what North Carolina families care most about, from the rising costs of groceries and utilities to the health care crisis unleashed by Donald Trump and North Carolina Republicans like Greg Murphy, to keeping North Carolinians safe, here and abroad. Under Donald Trump and Greg Murphy's leadership, North Carolinians in the 3rd Congressional District are in a crisis, with over 36,000 North Carolinians projected to lose health care coverage. Murphy doesn't care. From now until November, the DNC will be on offense, going all-in to support him to ensure North Carolina's 3rd Congressional District has a leader who will stand up for them."
SEE ALSO: Local Election Results