Democratic Rep. Stephen Lynch has won renomination in the Massachusetts Democratic primary, defeating challenger Patrick Roath, a 39-year-old former aide to former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, according to NBC News projections. Lynch, 71, faced a competitive race as Roath, who is more progressive, had significant financial backing and endorsements, including from The Boston Globe editorial board and progressive activist David Hogg's group, Leaders We Deserve.
Roath's campaign focused on progressive measures such as 'Medicare for All' and abolishing ICE, while criticizing Lynch for his past votes against the Affordable Care Act and for the Laken Riley Act. Lynch emphasized his long-standing connections within the district and his experience in Congress, stating, "I got to know this district by living here and regularly attending hundreds of town meetings, not just to speak, but to listen and understand the needs and priorities of the people that I represent."
Lynch's victory comes amid a turbulent primary season where several incumbents have been challenged. He has now avoided the fate of 11 House colleagues, including seven Democrats, who lost their primary races this year. In another primary, Rep. Richard Neal also secured renomination, defeating teacher Jeromie Whalen, who campaigned on similar progressive issues. Neal spent over $1 million on campaign ads, significantly outspending Whalen.
In the open 6th District, Dan Koh won the Democratic primary to succeed Rep. Seth Moulton, who ran unsuccessfully for the Senate. Koh, a former aide to top Democrats, was the leading fundraiser in his race and received support from both former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris.