Massachusetts Primary Showdown: Markey vs. Moulton in Key Democratic Battle

POLICY WIRE — Boston, Massachusetts — Massachusetts Democrats are set to cast their votes in a crucial primary on Tuesday, marking another significant contest between the party’s progressive and moderate factions. This time, prominent progressives are rallying behind the incumbent, Sen. Ed Markey, as he faces a challenge from the more moderate Rep. Seth Moulton.

The primary will not only determine the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate but also for the U.S. House, governor, and various state and local positions. Markey, who celebrated his 80th birthday in July, is vying for his third full term in the Senate. He has held his seat since 2013, following nearly 37 years in the House.

Moulton, a six-term congressman and former 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, will turn 48 in October. The financial landscape of the campaign shows Markey with a slight edge, having raised and spent over $8 million compared to Moulton’s more than $6 million. However, Moulton had a marginal advantage in cash reserves as of August 12.

Despite a majority of state party convention delegates endorsing Markey in May, Moulton secured enough support to appear on the primary ballot. Markey’s campaign boasts endorsements from high-profile figures such as Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Sen. Bernie Sanders, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Moulton, on the other hand, has been backed by The Boston Globe and several Democratic House colleagues, including New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill.

The primary’s outcome will be influenced by the performance in key counties. Markey’s 2020 primary victory over Joseph Kennedy III saw him sweep all four counties, comprising about 61% of the total primary vote. Moulton will need to replicate or surpass Kennedy’s success in central and southeastern Massachusetts to challenge Markey’s stronghold in the Boston area.

In addition to the Senate race, the 6th Congressional District is hosting a competitive Democratic primary to replace Moulton. The contest features former Andover Selectman Dan Koh, financial technology executive John Beccia, and state Rep. Tram Nguyen. Koh, with endorsements from former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris, leads in fundraising with about $4.7 million in contributions.

The Associated Press will track and report on the results of contested primaries for various offices, including U.S. Senate, U.S. House, governor, and local positions. Massachusetts conducts elections at the city and town level, with 351 separate jurisdictions administering local elections. The AP will declare winners only when it is certain that a trailing candidate cannot close the gap.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)