Ocasio-Cortez backs incumbent Ed Markey in Massachusetts Senate primary

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced her endorsement of Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey ahead of the September 1 Democratic primary, praising his long-standing advocacy for working families and his partnership on the Green New Deal. Markey, who has served in Congress since the Gerald Ford administration, is running for another Senate term against Rep. Seth Moulton, who presents himself as a more centrist alternative emphasizing generational renewal.

Moulton has attracted national notice for his comments on transgender athletes and has secured endorsements from several prominent Democrats, including New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and Representatives Derek Tran, Chrissy Houlahan, Seth Magaziner, and Pat Ryan. Polling conducted in August gave Markey a 28-point advantage, while other recent surveys placed Moulton trailing by between five and 17 points. The candidates are slated to debate on Thursday, just days before voters head to the polls. The endorsement could bolster Markey’s campaign as he seeks to fend off the intra-party challenge.