Sen. Ed Markey, 80, has won the Democratic primary in Massachusetts, defeating Rep. Seth Moulton, 47. Markey, a progressive seeking his third term in the Senate, overcame the challenge from the moderate Moulton.
The primary was characterized by some as a "generational showdown," with Moulton arguing for change in the state's political representation. "Massachusetts has a choice: settle for the status quo, or demand better," Moulton stated in a social media post on election day.
Earlier in the campaign, Moulton had gained traction in the polls, narrowing the gap with the incumbent. However, in the weeks leading up to the primary, Markey reasserted his lead, holding a significant double-digit advantage, according to polling data.
This is not the first time Markey has faced a younger challenger in a primary election. In his previous reelection bid, the then-74-year-old senator defeated Rep. Joseph Kennedy III, who was 34 years his junior, to secure his place on the general election ballot.