Markey backs super-PAC that attacks Moulton despite his anti-money stance

Senator Ed Markey has been a vocal advocate for a Democratic National Committee resolution that would prohibit super PACs from influencing primary contests, a move he helped promote with Senator Bernie Sanders. Despite this, the Commonwealth Together super PAC, which describes itself as representing Massachusetts workers and progressive leaders, has spent six figures on advertisements that criticize Rep. Seth Moulton’s wealth and policy record.

The campaign’s messaging includes accusations that Moulton’s net worth has risen to $13 million and that he supported ICE, claims that FactCheck.org and one outlet have labeled mostly false. Markey has so far refrained from denouncing the ads, and neither the PAC nor his campaign responded to inquiries. Former DNC chair Jaime Harrison and former Kamala Harris staffer Ammar Moussa have warned that party resolutions may be unenforceable and could allow Republican money to shape Democratic races. The dispute highlights tension within the party over the role of “dark money” in elections.