Senator Ed Markey Wins Democratic Primary in Massachusetts Against Rep. Seth Moulton

Democratic Senator Ed Markey has defeated Representative Seth Moulton in the Massachusetts Senate primary, according to projections from NBC News. Markey secured approximately two-thirds of the vote with 69% of the expected votes reported as of September 1, 2026. Markey's victory is seen as a win for the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, especially as several long-serving Democratic lawmakers have lost to younger candidates in primaries this year. The 80-year-old senator emphasized his liberal record, including his role as an author of the Green New Deal and support for 'Medicare for All.' At a rally prior to the primary, Markey stated, 'It’s all about not just sending a Democrat to the Senate — it’s sending a progressive Democrat to the Senate from Massachusetts so there can be someone that reflects your values every single day.' Moulton acknowledged Markey's victory, expressing his support for Markey as the Democratic nominee and calling for unity to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election. Moulton's campaign had a financial advantage, spending $7.1 million on advertisements compared to Markey's $3.9 million. Despite this, Markey's win is considered significant for the progressive movement, bolstered by endorsements from prominent figures such as Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Moulton had campaigned for generational change, a theme that has resonated in other Democratic primaries this year. Markey's campaign also included criticism of Moulton's past positions on liberal policies and comments regarding transgender issues, which Moulton later apologized for. Markey reiterated his commitment to opposing President Trump, stating, 'It’s a moment in history where Trump is challenging everything that started right here 250 years ago.'