Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has endorsed Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., as he faces a primary challenge from Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., in the Massachusetts Democratic U.S. Senate race. The endorsement highlights Markey's long-standing work on issues like the Green New Deal and his commitment to rejecting corporate PAC money.
"At a time when powerful special interests are making life harder for everyday Americans, Massachusetts working families need a champion in the U.S. Senate to stand up for them and fight corporate greed," Ocasio-Cortez said in a statement released by Markey's campaign. "Ed Markey has spent his career doing exactly that, from our partnership on the Green New Deal to running his campaign without accepting a dime of corporate PAC money. His work is an inspiration to many of us who are committed to building a better future for all, and that’s why I’m proud to endorse him."
Markey, who has served in the Senate since July 2013 after more than 36 years in the House, expressed his appreciation for the endorsement. "The toughest fights need the most inspiring leaders, and that’s Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She’s got vision, she knows what’s at stake, and she never backs down," Markey stated. "We introduced the Green New Deal to tackle the climate crisis, lower costs, and build an economy that works for working people, not corporations and billionaires. I am incredibly proud to have her endorsement and look forward to continuing to fight alongside her for the livable future we deserve."
Ocasio-Cortez previously backed Markey in his last election cycle.
Moulton, 47, has been a member of the House since 2015. Markey, who turned 80 this year, has a significantly longer legislative career.
The Massachusetts Democratic U.S. Senate primary is scheduled for September 1, with early voting taking place from August 22 to August 28.